Sandakphu and Gurdum are two beautiful places located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. Sandakphu is the highest peak in West Bengal and offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including the famous four tallest peaks: Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. Gurdum is a serene and picturesque village known for its natural beauty and tranquility. Here’s a suggested 5-day itinerary to explore these two places:

Day 1: Arrival in Darjeeling

• Arrive in Darjeeling, the nearest major town to Sandakphu and Gurdum.
• Spend the day exploring Darjeeling’s local attractions, such as the Darjeeling Mall Road, Himalayan Zoo, Japanese Peace Pagoda, and the picturesque Batasia Loop.
• Enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea in one of the local tea houses.

Day 2: Darjeeling to Sandakphu (Approx. 4-5 hours drive)

• Start early and drive to Manebhanjan, the base for the Sandakphu trek.
• After obtaining necessary permits, begin the trek to Sandakphu. The trek is moderately challenging but incredibly rewarding with breathtaking views along the way.
• Reach Sandakphu and check into a local lodge or guesthouse.
• In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the Sandakphu viewpoint.

Day 3: Sandakphu Exploration

• Wake up before dawn and trek to the Sandakphu viewpoint to witness the stunning sunrise over the Himalayan peaks. This is one of the highlights of the trip.
• After breakfast, explore Sandakphu’s surroundings, enjoy the panoramic views, and take plenty of photographs.
• If time permits, you can hike to Phalut, another high-altitude viewpoint near Sandakphu, which offers even more magnificent vistas.

Day 4: Sandakphu to Gurdum (Approx. 5-6 hours trek)

• After breakfast, start your trek from Sandakphu to Gurdum.
• The trail will take you through beautiful forests, small villages, and peaceful landscapes.
• Reach Gurdum and check into a homestay or guesthouse.
• Spend the evening enjoying the tranquility of Gurdum and interacting with the locals.

Day 5: Gurdum to Darjeeling and Departure

• After breakfast, bid farewell to Gurdum and start your trek back to Manebhanjan.
• From Manebhanjan, drive back to Darjeeling.
• If time allows, you can explore more of Darjeeling or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
• Depart from Darjeeling with wonderful memories of your Sandakphu-Gurdum adventure.

Please note that the itinerary may vary depending on the weather conditions, your physical fitness, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to check with local guides or tour operators for the most up-to-date information and to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.