Introduction
October at sandakphu in October is one of the most enchanted moments to go and see this highest peak in West Bengal, India. Sandakphu at 11,930 feet, provides stunning sceneries of the four out of the five world highest mountains including the Mount everest and Kanchenjunga mountains. The month of October is also the start of the post-monsoon season and the weather is clear and the mountains are crisp making it the ideal season of trekkers and nature lovers.
The change in weather during the month of October would make the landscape a living paradise, hence the month is the best month to visit when one wants to see beautiful sunrise and clear mountain scenery.
The reason why one should visit Sandakphu in October?
There are a number of reasons why October is thought to be one of the best months to make a trek to Sandakphu. The dust has been swept away by the monsoon rains and clear scenery and greenery is the result. The beauty of the rhododendron forests is after a rain and the air is at its best, and one can see as far as 200 miles on a clear day.
The weather is just right this month neither too cold as during winter, but cool enough to make trekking pleasant. This is the time of the year when adventure lovers all over the world would love to come and see the Sleeping Buddha structure of Kanchenjunga range in all its splendor.
Weather Expectations in October
In October, the weather is expected to be cloudy and rainy.
A Climate and temperature Table
| Time of Day | Temperature Range | Conditions |
| Morning (5 AM – 10 AM) | 2°C to 8°C (36°F – 46°F) | Clear cold mornings good to come up with the sun. |
| Afternoon (11 AM – 4 PM) | 10°C to 15°C (50°F – 59°F) | Summer sunny, lovely, good to hike in. |
| Evening (5 PM – 10 PM) | 4°C to 7°C (39°F – 45°F) | Chilly, clear views of stars |
The climate of Sandakphu in the month of October is one of stable weather conditions. Rainfall is also scarce and there are light rains in some cases. The dampness rises considerably and the walk becomes less tiring than during the summer seasons.
According to the article, “October at Sandakphu provides the best views of the Himalayan giants, and the visibility is the yearly dream of photographers and hikers.
Best Time for Sunrise Views
Sandakphu sunrise cannot be described otherwise as amazing. In October the sun comes out between 5: 30 AM and 6: 00 AM and the snow-topped mountains are tinted with gold, orange, and pink. Kanchenjunga, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu are spectacularly lighted by the golden hour light.
Early Morning Preparation
To have the most enjoyable experience, one has to get up before 5:00 AM and be in the area of the viewing point close to the hut of the trekker. The morning sunrise can have a temperature of about 20C to 40C (36F -39F) and hence go in layers with:
- Thermal innerwear
- Fleece jacket
- Windproof outer layer
- Warm gloves and cap
The View of Kanchenjunga in October.
The third-highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga, at 28,169 feet, towers above the Sandakphu skyline. No clearer views of this great peak are afforded than on October. The climate in the post-monsoon seasons is such that there is a lack of haze and you will get to see the finer details of the mountain ridges and glaciers.
Monthly Weather Comparison
| Month | Visibility | Temperature | Crowd Level |
| September | Good (recovering from monsoon) | 8°C – 18°C | Moderate |
| October | Excellent | 2°C – 15°C | High |
| November | Very Good | -2°C – 10°C | Moderate |
The Sleeping Buddha formation, the Kanchenjunga and the mountains in the area impressing as a reclining figure, can be best observed in the early morning in October.
Sandakphu Packing List October.
The correct preparation of the Sandakphu trek in October is so that it is packed in such a way that it is comfortable and safe:
- Warm upwear: Thermal, down jackets, woolen socks.
- Hiking equipment: Hiking poles, hiking boots and a backpack.
- Sun clothes: Sunglasses, sunscreen (UV rays are intense on the mountain)
- First aid kit, flashlight, water purification pills are on the list of emergency supplies.
- Photography equipment: Camera with additional batteries (they are cold, so they deplete more quickly)
Trek Difficulty and Route
The Sandakphu trek is a 6-7 days trek, which is about 32 miles round trip of Manebhanjan. The trail conditions are also favourable because of the stable weather in October, but some parts are also difficult because of steep ascents.
The path will go through Singalila National Park, where red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and other birds may be seen. The forests of rhododendron and magnolia make beautiful scenery on the way.
Conclusion
October Sandakphu brings out the finest Himalayan experience in terms of weather, amazing sunrise and clear crystal views of the Kanchenjunga and other peaks. Weather is very comfortable, the rainfall is low and visibility is excellent, thus the ideal period of the year to see both the inexperienced and experienced trekkers. You are trying to get the ideal sunrise shot or just wish to experience the splendor of nature, October gives you an experience that will remain with you forever on the summit of West Bengal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sandakphu safe during the month of October?
Yes, Sandakphu is quite safe in October. The climate is predictable and has little rainfall and the trails are maintained. But, there are trekkers who may succumb to altitude sickness hence it is necessary to allow time to acclimatize.
Which is the most appropriate time of the day to have a glimpse of Kanchenjunga at Sandakphu?
The best times of Kanchenjunga are in early morning between 5.30 AM and 7.00 AM. The light of the sunrise and the clear atmosphere give the best visibility and the gorgeous color on the peaks.
What is the temperature of Sandakphu in October?
During October in Sandakphu, the temperature varies between 2 0 -15 0 ( 36 0 -59 0 ). The mornings are the coldest and afternoons are cool and perfect for trekking.
Am I supposed to have a permit to trek to Sandakphu in October?
Yes, you do require permits to visit Singalila national park. They can be acquired at Manebhanjan or they can be organized by trekking agencies. The foreign nationals will need more permits.
Is it possible to pursue Sandakphu trek in October by beginners?
Yes, amateurs in reasonably fit conditions can go all the way through Sandakphu trek. The weather in October is less painful than in winter months, however, it should be properly prepared and gradual acclimatization is significant in this case.
