Tinjure Trek

Tinjure Gangtok Trek

Tinjure Trek, Sikkim

The Tinjure Trek is one of the most rewarding one-day walking experiences in Sikkim, ideal for travellers who enjoy unhurried walks through forest landscapes with wide mountain views. Located within Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, this trek offers a quiet introduction to Himalayan walking without the commitment of a multi-day expedition.

 

At Darjeeling Walks, we have been organising the Tinjure Trek for nearly two decades. It is often chosen by international travellers looking for a nature-focused day walk, especially those combining cultural exploration in Gangtok with short treks and photography walks.

Where the Tinjure Trek Is Located

The trek lies inside Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, around 25 kilometres from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. The sanctuary covers approximately 52 square kilometres and protects a forested ridge system overlooking the Teesta valley and the Eastern Himalayas.

Despite its proximity to the city, the area remains largely forested and quiet, making it a good contrast to longer and more demanding treks such as the Green Lake Trek in North Sikkim.

Getting There

The day begins in Gangtok.

From the city, we drive for about 30 minutes to the trailhead, located roughly 10 kilometres from MG Marg, near the Tashi Viewpoint area. The drive itself offers early views of forested slopes and distant ridges.

This short transfer makes the Tinjure Trek an easy addition to a Gangtok stay.

 

Trek Duration and Difficulty

  • Total duration: Full day (morning to afternoon)

  • Walking distance: Approx. 5 km one way

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Suitable for: Walkers with average fitness

 

The trail involves a steady ascent through forest paths and does not require technical trekking skills. The pace is relaxed, with time for observation, photography, and breaks.

    • Starting Point : Pangthang Forest
    • Distance from Gangtok: 15 Km, 45 minutes drive
    • Trekking distance: 4.5 km (Approximate 2 to 3 hours one way)
    • Starting Altitude: 6300 feet
    • View point Altitude: 6900 feet
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Pick-up time from Gangtok: 8:00 AM
    • Return to Gangtok: 5:00 PM
    • Scenic Views: Stunning vistas of Mt. Kanchenjunga and the Eastern Himalayan range.
    • Flora and Fauna: Lush rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and sightings of rare birds like the red-billed leiothrix and Himalayan monal.
    • Water Sources: Small streams, springs, and freshwater sources along the trail for hydration.
    • Summits/High Points: The Tinjure Peak, known for its panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
    • Adventure Elements: Moderate ascents and ridge walks with occasional narrow trail

Walking Through Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary

The trail moves through a mixed forest of Magnolia, Maple, Bamboo, Pine, and Rhododendron, with a rich undergrowth of mosses, club mosses, and wild orchids. Seasonal changes strongly influence the walking experience, making each visit slightly different.

This sanctuary is known for its biodiversity. While sightings are never guaranteed, the forest is home to:

Mammals

  • Red Panda

  • Yellow-throated Marten

  • Barking Deer

  • Himalayan Striped Squirrel

  • Leopard Cat

  • Jungle Cat

  • Royle’s Pika

Birdlife

  • Satyr Tragopan

  • Hill Partridge

  • Scaly Laughingthrush

  • Rusty-fronted Barwing

  • Yellow-browed Tit

  • Chestnut-crowned Warbler

  • Rufous-headed Hornbill (rare but recorded)

For travellers interested in nature photography and slow observation, this forest section is often the highlight of the walk.

Reaching Tinjure Ridge

The trail gradually climbs to the Tinjure Ridge, the highest point of the sanctuary at approximately 2,433 metres (7,980 feet).

A watchtower marks the viewpoint. From here, on clear days, you can see:

  • Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world

  • Parts of Gangtok town below

  • Distant ridgelines towards the India–China border region

We usually spend time here for rest, photography, and quiet observation before beginning the return walk.

Return to Gangtok

The descent follows the same forest route back to the trailhead. By mid to late afternoon, we drive back to Gangtok, leaving the evening free for rest or exploration.

How the Tinjure Trek Fits Into a Himalayan Journey

The Tinjure Trek works well as:

  • A first Himalayan walk

  • A rest-day activity between longer journeys

  • A gentle alternative to demanding routes

Travellers often combine it with longer treks such as the Green Lake Trek, using Tinjure as a warm-up or recovery walk while still spending time in nature.

Planning Your Walk with Darjeeling Walks

At Darjeeling Walks, we focus on walking at a pace that allows you to notice small details—forest sounds, shifting light, and everyday life in the hills. Group size and cost depend on the number of walkers, and we share a detailed plan once we know your travel dates.

Call us or fill in the enquiry form at the bottom of this page to plan your Tinjure Trek or to discuss how it fits into a wider Himalayan walking holiday.