What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: TIMS Card, Singalila National Park Entry Permit (India side), Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit (Nepal side). We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 3636m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Permits Visa From Nepal.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Guided Remote Trek Eastern Nepal Safety, Limi Valley Remote High Altitude Nepal Safety.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Island Peak Technical Gear And Rental In Nepal.

What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: TIMS Card, Singalila National Park Entry Permit (India side), Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit (Nepal side). We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 3636m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Permits Visa From Nepal.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Guided Remote Trek Eastern Nepal Safety, Limi Valley Remote High Altitude Nepal Safety.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Island Peak Technical Gear And Rental In Nepal.

Singalila Ridge Trek

Transportation
Flight + Private Vehicle
Group Size
Max 12
Maximum Altitude
3636
Accomodation
Star Hotel, Tea House
Fitness level
Moderate to High
Arrival on
Kathmandu
Departure from
Kathmandu
Best season
Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.
Guiding method
Live Personal Trekking Guide
Tour type
Trekking
Language
English
Meals
Includes (BLD)
Permits
TIMS Card, Singalila National Park Entry Permit (India side), Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit (Nepal side).
Destinations
Eastern Nepal Region
Activities
Hiking, Trekking
Trip Type
High Altitude, Nature Friendly
Difficulty
Medium

Map

The Singalila Ridge Trek is a 14-day moderate trek along the Singalila Ridge, which forms the border between Nepal and India in the eastern Himalaya. The ridge offers some of the most spectacular mountain panoramas in Nepal, with views of four of the world’s five highest peaks: Everest (8,849m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Makalu (8,485m), all visible from the same viewpoint at Sandakphu (3,636m). The trek traverses the Singalila National Park (India side) and the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (Nepal side), with rich flora including 28 rhododendron species, magnolia, and over 300 bird species. The route passes through Limbu, Sherpa, and Tibetan villages, and includes an optional day hike to Phalut (3,600m) for sunrise views of the entire eastern Himalayan range. The trek passes through traditional villages including Taplejung and offers views toward the Kanchenjunga massif. Starting from Basantapur, the route follows the ridge through dense rhododendron forest before reaching the viewpoints at Sandakphu and Phalut.

Highlights

See four of the world's five highest peaks (Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu) from Sandakphu.
Walk along the Nepal-India border ridge with spectacular sunrise viewpoints.
Trek through the Singalila National Park with 28 rhododendron species.
Visit Limbu, Sherpa, and Tibetan villages with rich cultural traditions.
Optional sunrise hike to Phalut (3,600m) for 360-degree Himalayan panorama.

Things to Carry for Singalila Ridge Trek

Headwear

Warm fleece or wool beanie hat (essential for cold mornings)
Sun hat with wide brim for UV protection
Neck gaiter or buff (multi-purpose for dust, wind, cold)
Sunglasses with UV protection (Category 3 or 4)
Ski goggles for high-altitude passes and snow

Upper Body Layering

2x merino wool base layers (long sleeve)
1x mid-layer fleece jacket
1x soft shell jacket for wind and light rain
1x hard shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex)
1x down jacket rated to -25C (we provide rental for USD 20)

Lower Body

2x trekking pants (quick-dry, one convertible)
1x thermal bottom layer for cold nights
1x rain pants (Gore-Tex)
2x merino wool underwear
1x swimwear (for hot springs)

Hands

1x thin liner gloves (merino or fleece)
1x insulated waterproof gloves

Footwear

1x sturdy trekking boots (broken in for 50+ km, waterproof)
1x camp shoes or sandals for evenings
4-5x pairs merino wool trekking socks
2x pairs liner socks
Gaiters for snow, scree, and mud

Sleeping Gear

1x 3-season sleeping bag rated to -15C (we provide rental for USD 30)
1x sleeping bag liner (silk or fleece)

Trekking Equipment

1x trekking poles pair (essential for descents, we provide rental for USD 15)
1x headlamp with spare batteries (200+ lumens)
1x 20-30L day pack
1x large duffel bag 80-100L (we provide free)
1x dry bag for electronics
1x water bottle or hydration bladder (2L minimum)

First Aid & Health

Personal prescription medications (with doctor’s letter)
Diamox for altitude sickness (consult your doctor)
Ibuprofen and paracetamol
Imodium for stomach issues
Rehydration sachets (ORS)
Blister treatment (Compeed, moleskin)
Antiseptic wipes and bandages
Lip balm with SPF 30+
Sunscreen SPF 50+ (bring 2 tubes)
Insect repellent (DEET 30-50%)
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper and wet wipes

Electronics

Camera with extra batteries (cold drains fast, bring 2-3 spares)
Power bank (20,000mAh minimum)
Universal power adapter (Nepal 220V, Type C/D/M)
Headphones
eReader or book

Documents

Valid passport (6+ months validity, 4 extra passport photos)
Travel insurance certificate (covering trekking to 3636m)
Flight tickets
Credit cards and USD cash
Emergency contacts

What We Provide (Rental)

4-season sleeping bag (rental USD 30 with deposit)
Down jacket (rental USD 20 with deposit)
Duffel bag for porter carriage (free, you keep it)
Trekking poles (rental USD 15)
First-aid kit, pulse oximeter, emergency oxygen
Water purification tablets
Satellite phone on remote treks

Related Packing Guides

Read our detailed packing guides: Island Peak Technical Gear And Rental In Nepal, Island Peak Technical Gear Rental Nepal, Nepal Trek Packing List 14 Days, 6000M Summit Boots Gloves Nepal.

Note: Pack light. Porter weight limit is 15kg per trekker. Layers are key for mountain weather. We send a detailed seasonal packing list after booking.

Know Before You Book – Singalila Ridge Trek Information

Trip Name: Singalila Ridge Trek – 14 Days
Duration: 14 days
Difficulty: Medium
Maximum Altitude: 3636m
Group Size: Max 12

Difficulty & Fitness

This trek is rated Medium. Medium treks involve 5-7 hours of walking daily with significant elevation gain. Suitable for fit trekkers with some experience. The maximum altitude is 3636m. You need a fitness level of Moderate to High – cardio training 3-4 times weekly for 8-12 weeks before departure, hill walking with a day pack, and core strength exercises.

Read our difficulty guides: Mohare Danda Difficulty Vs Beginner Treks Nepal, Arun Valley Trek Operator Eastern Nepal Experience.

Best Time to Go

Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.

Read our seasonal guides: Best Season Climb Island Peak Nepal, Nepal Peak Climbing Cancellation Terms Weather Illness.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. Luxury lodges (where available) offer heated ensuite rooms. 3-star or higher hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) included during treks with tea and coffee. Vegetarian options widely available.

Food and water guides: Community Eco Lodge Trek Nepal Mohare Danda, Teahouse Vs Camping Treks Remote Nepal.

Transportation

Transport: Flight + Private Vehicle. Domestic flights (where applicable) are weather-dependent – build 1-2 buffer days into your schedule. Private ground transport uses comfortable AC vehicles.

Flight and transport guides: Australians Buffer Days Nepal Lukla Flights Trek, Nepalgunj Simikot Flight Reliability.

Required Permits

TIMS Card, Singalila National Park Entry Permit (India side), Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Entry Permit (Nepal side). We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos after booking. Permit fees are included in your trip cost.

Permit guides: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Permits Visa From Nepal, Remote Nepal Trek Permits Guides Transport.

Altitude Safety

Maximum altitude is 3636m. Above 3,500m, altitude sickness is a real risk. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen. Walk slowly, stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily), avoid alcohol above 3,500m, report symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory.

Altitude safety guides: Guided Remote Trek Eastern Nepal Safety, Limi Valley Remote High Altitude Nepal Safety.

Training & Preparation

Read our training guides: Nepal Regions Fog Snow Monsoon Conditions, Nepal Treks Mixed Fitness Adventure Group.

Insurance Requirement

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our treks and tours. Your insurance must cover trekking to 3636m altitude (for treks), emergency helicopter evacuation up to USD 10,000, emergency medical treatment, and trip cancellation. We recommend World Nomads, IMG Global, or Allianz Adventure plans. Bring a printed copy of your insurance certificate.

Insurance guides: Nepal Trekking Travel Insurance, Nepal Peak Climbing Travel Insurance Australians Check.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temple sanctums. Walk clockwise around stupas and chortens. Ask permission before photographing people. Use your right hand for eating and passing items. Say namaste (palms together) as a greeting.

Culture guides: Remote Nepal Treks Culture Fewer Crowds, Nepal Treks Mountain Views Village Culture.

Booking & Payment

To confirm your booking, a deposit is required (50% for helicopter tours). The balance is due 30 days before departure (7 days for helicopter tours). We accept bank transfer, credit card (4% surcharge), PayPal. Free cancellation up to 60 days before departure. We strongly recommend travel insurance covering trip cancellation. Contact us for current pricing and availability.

What is Not Included

International airfare to/from Kathmandu, Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days), travel and rescue insurance (mandatory), personal trekking gear and clothing, hot showers and device charging on trek, alcoholic beverages, lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, tips for guide/porter/driver (recommended 10-15% of trip cost), and any costs from unforeseen events like weather delays.