Mane Bhanjang Travel Guide – Gateway to Sandakphu and Singalila

If you're planning a trek to Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal, your journey begins at Mane Bhanjang—a rugged mountain village perched at around 2000 metres, straddling the Indo-Nepal border. Just 28 km from Darjeeling, this tiny settlement is far more than a transit stop; it's the pulse point of trekking culture in North Bengal and a stronghold of Buddhist heritage surrounded by rhododendron forests and Himalayan legends.

History and Meaning

The name “Mane Bhanjang” (also spelt as Mane Bhanjyang) is deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions. “Mane” refers to Buddhist stupas or prayer wheels, and “Bhanjang” means a mountain pass or junction. Put together, the name means the Junction of Stupas, a fitting title for this peaceful crossroads of trekkers, pilgrims, monks, and locals.

The settlement has grown organically along the open India-Nepal border, with most of the town falling on the Indian side. However, the informal and seamless border allows easy crossover, and life here flows across both countries as naturally as the clouds that sweep through its slopes.

Geography and Location

Mane Bhanjang lies at the eastern edge of the Singalila National Park, right where the high ridges of West Bengal meet the lower valleys of eastern Nepal. It’s part of the Darjeeling Himalayan foothills, and it marks the official start of the Singalila Ridge Trek, one of the most iconic hiking trails in the Indian Himalayas.

On clear days, the village offers glimpses of Mount Kanchenjunga and its sister peaks—just enough to fuel your trekking ambitions.

How to Reach Mane Bhanjang – Accessibility

Despite its elevation and remoteness, getting to Mane Bhanjang is fairly straightforward thanks to Darjeeling’s proximity and well-connected transport routes.

From Darjeeling

The hill town of Darjeeling is just 28 km away via Sukiapokhari (the nearest market town, about 7 km from Mane Bhanjang). Taxis, shared jeeps, and reserved vehicles are available throughout the day from Darjeeling Chowk Bazaar, especially in the morning hours.

From Siliguri / NJP / Bagdogra

For those coming from outside the region:

• New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) – 4 to 4.5 hours by car

• Bagdogra Airport (IXB) – Similar duration, depending on road conditions

From Siliguri, travellers typically head towards Mirik or Ghoom, eventually passing through Sukiapokhari before arriving at Mane Bhanjang.

If you're booking through a travel operator like NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd., you can arrange private transport, homestay bookings, and trekking logistics ahead of time.
Call for bookings: 9733300696

Trekking and Sightseeing in Mane Bhanjang

Gateway to Sandakphu and Phalut

Mane Bhanjang is best known as the base camp for the legendary trek to Sandakphu (3,636 m) and Phalut (3,600 m), two of the highest accessible points in West Bengal. This trek is famous for its panoramic views of four of the five highest peaks in the world—Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu—visible on clear days from Sandakphu’s ridge.

Trekking permits, guides, and Land Rover safaris (yes, the original vintage Land Rovers still ply this route) all originate from Mane Bhanjang.

Chitrey – The First Stop on the Trail

A short but steep trek of about 2 km uphill leads you to Chitrey, a scenic mountain hamlet known for its Buddhist monastery, fluttering prayer flags, and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range. Even if you're not heading to Sandakphu, Chitrey is worth the hike. No permits or guides are needed to reach here.

Simana Viewpoint – A Glimpse into Nepal

Walk a few kilometres in the opposite direction (towards the Mirik–Darjeeling road) to reach Simana, a viewpoint right on the Indo-Nepal border. This is a popular stopover for tourists exploring the Mirik circuit. The viewpoint offers an excellent vista of the Nepalese valleys, tea gardens, and distant snow peaks.

Where to Stay

Mane Bhanjang caters mostly to trekkers and hikers, so accommodation here is basic but functional.

Trekkers’ Huts and Lodges

Several family-run lodges and trekker hostels offer dormitory-style accommodation for groups and individual backpackers. These are located mostly near the trekking registration office and the Land Rover stand.

Homestays on the Outskirts

A few homestay options have come up in recent years, located slightly away from the main town area. These are more peaceful, often surrounded by farms and pine forests. While the facilities remain simple, you can expect authentic local meals, warm hosts, and a firsthand experience of life in the Himalayan foothills.

Meals are generally home-cooked, with rice, lentils, local vegetables, and sometimes momos or thukpa. Food is usually vegetarian, unless arranged in advance.

For updated information, pricing, or to book your stay, feel free to reach out to us.
NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd. – 9733300696

Permits, Guides, and Trek Logistics

Since the Sandakphu–Phalut trail passes through Singalila National Park, all trekkers must:

• Register at the Forest Check Post in Mane Bhanjang

• Hire a registered guide (mandatory from Mane Bhanjang onwards)

• Pay entry fees for the park and camera charges

You can trek independently, but hiring a local guide not only helps navigate the trail safely but also supports the local economy. If you're not up for trekking, Land Rover tours all the way to Sandakphu are available too.

NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd. offers full trekking support, including guide services, permits, transportation, and meal logistics.

Local Life and Culture

Mane Bhanjang is a Lepcha–Sherpa–Gorkha settlement with strong ties to both India and Nepal. Most residents speak Nepali, Hindi, and basic English, especially those involved in tourism.

Life here revolves around:

• Agriculture

• Trekking tourism

• Small trade with Nepal

Religious life is centred around Buddhist monasteries, and you'll often hear the deep resonance of prayer chants in the evenings. The village is also home to several Land Rover mechanics, who maintain the fleet of vintage vehicles—many over 60 years old—that still serve trekkers with roaring reliability.

When to Visit Mane Bhanjang – Best Time for Trekkers and Tourists

• Spring (March to May) – Best for rhododendron blossoms, clear skies, and moderate trekking temperatures

• Autumn (October to November) – Crisp weather, clear Himalayan views, perfect for serious trekkers

• Winter (December to February) – Snowfall is possible at higher altitudes; less crowded but colder

• Monsoon (June to September) – Not advisable due to landslides and slippery trails

Final Words – Should You Visit Mane Bhanjang?

If you’re someone who likes waking up with clouds in your window, tea in your thermos, and a trail ahead of you, Mane Bhanjang is your kind of place. It’s not touristy in the Darjeeling sense, and that’s exactly the charm. Whether you're trekking to Sandakphu, strolling to Chitrey, or just passing through on a Land Rover, Mane Bhanjang is a humble little town with big Himalayan dreams.

Plan Your Trip with NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd.

We offer end-to-end tour support for Mane Bhanjang, Sandakphu, and the Singalila region, including transport, accommodation, trek guides, permits, and cultural experiences.

Call: 9733300696
Customised packages are available for both Indian and International tourists.