Sandakphu, in Singalila National Park, is the highest point in West Bengal and is known for its view of Kanchenjunga and, on clear days, Everest. From Kolkata you reach it in two stages: a cab to Manebhanjan, the base village, and then a Land Rover or a multi-day trek up the Singalila ridge. A cab for the full road distance (about 630 km) costs around INR 11,400 one way in a Swift Dzire.
Quick facts
| Road distance | About 630 km to the Manebhanjan side |
|---|---|
| Base village | Manebhanjan |
| Last stretch | Land Rover or trek |
| Best season | October to December, March to May |
Stage 1: Kolkata to Manebhanjan
Many travellers take a train to NJP or a flight to Bagdogra and book a cab only from there to Manebhanjan, which saves a 13-hour drive. A full road trip from Kolkata is possible in two days. Either way, the Ertiga suits groups with trekking bags.
Stage 2: Manebhanjan to Sandakphu
Vehicles on the Singalila route are the local Land Rovers that operate from Manebhanjan; private cabs do not drive the ridge road. Trekkers walk the ridge over several days. Entry to Singalila National Park needs permits and fees, and trekkers need a registered guide; check the current rules at Manebhanjan before you start.
- Land Rovers from Manebhanjan
- Multi-day trek option
- Park permits and fees
- Registered guide for trekkers
When to go
October to December gives the clearest mountain views; spring brings rhododendron blooms. Winter nights are well below freezing, so pack accordingly. See the Sandakphu cab page and the Darjeeling guide to combine the trip.
Kolkata to Sandakphu fare
| Car | One way (INR) | Round trip (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Swift Dzire | 11,400 | 21,610 |
| Ertiga 7-seater | 13,950 | 26,420 |
Indicative fares at INR 18/km (Swift Dzire) and INR 22/km (Ertiga 7-seater). Tolls, parking, state permits and driver night allowance are extra. The final fare is confirmed when you book.
Frequently asked questions
Can a cab go all the way to Sandakphu?
No. Cabs stop at Manebhanjan. The ridge road is served by local Land Rovers, or you trek.
How do I reach Sandakphu from Kolkata?
Take a train to NJP or a flight to Bagdogra, then a cab to Manebhanjan, then a Land Rover or trek to Sandakphu.
What does a cab from Kolkata cost for the Sandakphu trip?
For the full road distance, indicative one-way fares are about INR 11,400 in a Swift Dzire and INR 13,950 in an Ertiga 7-seater. A cab from NJP or Bagdogra only costs much less.
When is the best time to visit Sandakphu?
October to December for clear views; March to May for rhododendrons.
Book your cab
Book online at Safar Kolkata, see the related page for more detail, or message us on WhatsApp for a confirmed quote. Call +91 80131 01523, available 24×7.
