The Sandakphu Trek is known for its legendary views of the Sleeping Buddha, the Everest cluster, and the endless rhododendron forests. Thousands of trekkers walk the route every year, but very few notice the hidden gems quietly tucked between the popular stops.
If you want to experience Sandakphu beyond the usual tourist trail, here are five lesser-known spots that most trekkers unknowingly walk right past. These places offer solitude, stunning views, and a deeper connection to the trail.
1. Chitre Monastery – A Serene Start Before the Climb
Just a short diversion before the steep ascent to Chitre, you’ll find a small but incredibly peaceful Buddhist monastery surrounded by prayer flags.
Most trekkers begin the trek focusing on the climb and skip this cultural gem. But if you walk just a few minutes off-track, you’ll find a quiet courtyard, a small shrine, and locals offering butter tea to early morning hikers.
Why Visit:
- Perfect for a peaceful break at the very beginning
- Beautiful photography spot without any crowd
- An authentic cultural experience that sets the tone for the trek
2. Tonglu Cliff Viewpoint – The Panorama Everyone Misses
As trekkers rush towards Tonglu’s main rest point, they often miss a small cliff on the ridge just before the settlement. This unnamed viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama of the entire trail, stretching all the way from Darjeeling to Nepal.
On a clear day, the morning light makes this one of the best sunrise viewpoints on the entire route.
Why Visit:
- Incredible views of the Kanchenjunga range
- A far quieter viewpoint than Tonglu
- Great spot for time-lapse or long-exposure photography
3. Tumling Forest Trail – The ‘Alternate Route’ Few Take
Most trekkers follow the main gravel road from Tonglu to Tumling, unaware of a beautiful forest trail that runs parallel. This hidden footpath takes you through moss-covered trees, filtered sunlight, and absolute silence.
It is one of the most magical sections of the trek, but gets ignored because it isn’t marked prominently.
Why Visit:
- Dense forest beauty that’s missing on the main road
- Better chances of spotting red pandas or Himalayan birds
- Soft terrain that’s easier on the knees
4. Kalipokhri Lakeside – More Than Just a Scenic Pond
Trekkers usually stop at Kalipokhri for lunch or an overnight stay, but few explore the peaceful backside of the black lake. Taking a five-minute stroll around the lake brings you to a quiet ridge with open views of Nepal’s rolling valleys.
The lake itself appears darker due to the peat content, and locals consider it sacred.
Why Visit:
- A calm, spiritual atmosphere
- A beautiful ridge walk that no one notices
- Chances to interact with friendly Nepalese villagers nearby
5. Sabargram Ridge – A Breathtaking Stop Before Sandakphu
With Sandakphu in sight, most trekkers hurry to reach the destination and miss one of the most spectacular ridges on the entire route. Sabargram sits silently a little off the main trail, offering clear views of Kanchenjunga, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu all together.
In winter, this ridge is covered in layers of snow, making it look like a silent white desert.
Why Visit:
- One of the best viewpoints before Sandakphu
- Ideal for photographers and drone enthusiasts
- Offers complete 360-degree mountain views on clear days
Final Thoughts
The Sandakphu Trek is more than just a route; it’s a journey through forests, villages, hidden ridges, and Himalayan silence. By taking a few extra steps toward these lesser-known points, you’ll experience a richer, more peaceful, and more memorable trek than most travellers.
If you’re planning a Sandakphu trek soon, keep these hidden stops in mind—you’ll see a side of the trail many trekkers miss.
For well-planned itineraries, comfortable stays, and local guidance, plan your Sandakphu Trek with Tripoventure.
