Sikkim Goechala Trek

Goechala Trek: A week long Trek Package in the Kanchenjunga Range in Sikkim.

The Goechala Trek is an 81 km moderately strenuous trek in Sikkim that takes hikers to Dzongri and Goecha la Pass, the two highest viewpoints in the Kanchenjunga range in Sikkim. A week long popular trek package in Sikkim that strikes a perfect balance between nature and endurance. So, if you are planning a week-long trek in Sikkim, then you should try out the Goechala trek inside the Kanchenjunga National Park, and I know you will not regret your decision.

The Sikkim Kanchenjunga Goechala Trek, as it’s also known, is a full-on adventure, and a great trek in Sikkim if you have eight-days to spare. The allure of this trek is its solitude, ruggedness of the landscape, and the majestic peak of Kanchenjunga looming in front of you within touching distance at Goechala pass.

But be warned, the Goechala trek is a rugged camping trek in Sikkim with fundamental facilities, and is not for those seeking the comforts of the civilised world. In the absence of modern facilities, be prepared for sub-zero temperatures once you trek into Dzongri and closer to Kanchenjunga. The only warm place you will find on the Goechala trek is your sleeping bag and the kitchen tent.

But after you finish this trek, I know you will sing its praise, due in part to the million-dollar view that the Sikkim Kanchenjunga Goechala Trek presents from Dzongri and Goechala Pass. On a clear morning, the views of Mount Kanchenjunga and its range are unforgettable.

Trek Grade & Why Should You Do This Trek?

The Goechala Trek is a challenging eight-day trek in Sikkim, because of its elevation and difficulty. It’s a rugged camping trek inside the Kanchenjunga National Park in Sikkim that will test your physical and mental endurance. The continuous ascent from Yuksom to Dzongri for two simultaneous days is strenuous, but the view of Mount Kanchenjunga from Dzongri and Goechala pass viewpoints is spectacular.

But, this trek is not meant for every hiker because trekking to Goechala Pass that lie at the foot of Kanchenjunga needs stamina, and experience, and you also have to be mentally fit to accomplish this trek in Sikkim, as there are variations in altitude from the first day of the trek.

Therefore, the Sikkim Goechala Trek ought to be at the top of your list if you’re an enthusiastic traveler looking for a trekking experience in India. This trek is sure to make an impression because of its breathtaking scenery and exhilarating high-altitude trekking trail.

Put this on your bucket list if you intend to trek in Sikkim soon, because trekking to Goechala Pass at the foot of Mount Kanchenjunga is a worthwhile experience.

Highlights: Spectacular View of Mount Kanchenjunga:

Dzongri View Point: Also known as Dablakhang (4171 m), the view of Kanchenjunga, and nine other peaks more than 7000 m tall that the Dzongri View Point presents is synonymous with the grandeur of this trek in Sikkim.

Goechala Pass View Point (4719 m): As hikers make their way up to Goechala Pass, the majestic Kanchenjunga and its peaks emerge in all their splendour, providing a captivating background to the whole area. As you get nearer to Goechala pass, each step offers an unparalleled 180-degree view of the snow-clad Kanchenjunga and its range.

Samiti Lake: Situated at an altitude of 4210 m above mean sea level, it is a glacial lake at the foot of Mount Pandim, en route to Goechala Pass viewpoint, and is also a holy lake for the locals of Sikkim. As the rising sun reaches its climax, the reflection of the mountain range on its icy surface is genuinely excellent.

The Starting and Ending Point

The Goechala Trek starts and ends in Yuksom, a historical village located in West Sikkim. Yuksom is a little out of the way, and getting there isn’t easy. But if you are looking for a week long trek in Sikkim, then it is worth the drive as the entire trekking route is stunning.

Yuksom is a four-hour drive from the state capital, Gangtok, and a six-hour drive from the nearest airport or train station, Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri. Yuksom is well connected by road, but does not have regular bus or taxi service either from Bagdogra Airport, New Jalpaiguri Railway station, nor Gangtok either. Yuksom is the old capital of Sikkim, and it also serves as the trek head to the Goechala trek.

Best Season

There are two best seasons for the Goechala Trek in Sikkim—the spring season from March to May and the Autumn season from September to November.

During the Spring season, the weather is crisp and cool, with mild temperatures making it suitable to trek to Goechala pass, and the landscape around the Kanchenjunga National Park will be decorated with multi-coloured Rhododendrons and wildflowers in bloom, creating vibrant, scenic views. Nighttime temperature will drop to freezing once you reach the Dzongri area.

But remember, as May approaches, the clouds from the approaching monsoon season surround the hillsides, and the weather during this month can be volatile.

The weather conditions during the autumn season in Sikkim are pleasantly cool with clear skies and minimal rainfall. The temperature around the Dzongri area will drop below freezing at night. However, planning the Goechala Trek from mid-October to mid-December is recommended.

During these months, the sky remains clear, and the view of the Kanchenjunga Range is the most panoramic, clear, crisp, and vibrant after the three months of monsoon rain. The excellent weather conditions and crystal-clear views of the Himalayas during the autumn season in Sikkim are ideal for photography and enjoying nature at its best.

Goechala trek in the winter months from December to February, the weather will be cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. However, the snow-covered trekking trail and landscapes provide a serene trekking experience.

For an adventurer looking for a challenging winter trek in Sikkim, then the winter season offers the Goechala trek a magical setting. However, trekking to Goechala pass during the winter months is more difficult due to heavy snow and cold temperatures after Dzongri.

The monsoon season starting from June to mid-September is not ideal for trekking inside Sikkim because of heavy rainfall.

Accommodation on the Trek

Accommodation on the Goechala Trek is limited to camping. There is only one basic trekkers hut each at – Tchoka, Dzongri, and Thansing. These huts provide very basic facilities with dormitory style accommodation with common bathroom.

Additionally, there are two small lodges in Tchoka that are run by the tourism department. However, these are also quite basic and can become overcrowded during the peak trekking season.

We offer twin-share tent accommodations, complete with three-inch foam mattresses for each trekker, due to the dearth of suitable lodging options on the Goechala trek route. To support the group, there will also be a separate dining tent, a kitchen tent, and a restroom tent.

The most sensible and cozy option for travelers starting the Goechala trek in Sikkim is this camping-style lodging. Despite being accessible, the trekkers’ huts are just too basic to offer most hikers a comfortable place to spend the night.

Food

The Goechala Trek in Sikkim in the absence of tea house on the trek route offers limited food options. A camp cook and their team will provide hikers hot, local meals throughout the trekking period.

Breakfast includes porridge, pancakes, bread with butter and jam, eggs, or the traditional Tibetan bread and puri (a type of fried flour bread).

Lunch offers hearty choices, such as macaroni, chapatis (flatbread) with vegetable curry, noodle soup, or chow mein, accompanied by boiled eggs or potatoes.

And to keep trekkers energized, evening tea or coffee with biscuits will also be provided on arrival at the campsite.

Dinner is mainly rice, dal (lentil soup), and vegetable curries, finishing with a cup of hot chocolate or tea.

While the menu may be limited, the camp cook and their team ensure that the food is freshly prepared, nutritious, and tailored to the needs of the trekkers. This attention to detail and the use of local ingredients contribute to a truly authentic Sikkimese dining experience on the Goechala Trek.

 Goechala Pass and Dzongri: The Two Crown Jewels

Positioned at an elevation of over 16,000 feet, the Goechala Pass stands as the manifestation of this trekking odyssey in Sikkim. Here the air becomes thin and the terrain rugged, but the reward that you reap on this trek in Sikkim is monumental. However, it’s the enchanting panorama of the Kanchenjunga Range from the Dzongri and Goechala Pass viewpoints that truly steals the show.

As you stand at Goechala Pass and gaze upon the glacial circle crafted by Kanchenjunga’s icy embrace, you can’t help but feel humbled by nature’s raw power and beauty. It’s moments like these that transcends words and lingers in the memory of the hiker forever.

The Dzongri viewpoint, at 4171 m, is one of the most beautiful spots on the Sikkim Goechala Trek, and reaching it is a great achievement. Here, a celestial semicircle of peaks unfolds before your eyes, each peak telling its story of grandeur and resilience.

From Janu to Kabru, and from Mount Kanchenjunga to Pandim and Narsing, every mountain shares a piece of its soul with those who dare to explore this trekking route in Sikkim. Mount Kanchenjunga, towering above the clouds at more than 8500 meters above the ground, is not to be underestimated. Bowing to Everest by only 300 m, the view of the Kanchenjunga Range on the Goechala Trek in Sikkim reveals what the Himalayas look like.

Religion

Sikkim is a unique state in India where different religions coexist in harmony. While Buddhism is the predominant religion, Hinduism and Christianity also have a significant presence.

The Buddhist influence in Sikkim is undeniable, with numerous monasteries and shrines dotting the landscape. The Tibetan Buddhist tradition is deeply rooted in the state’s culture, and the monasteries serve as centers of spiritual learning and community life.

However, Sikkim is also home to a sizeable Hindu population, who have their own temples and traditions. The two religions often intersect, with shared festivals and cultural practices. This religious diversity is a testament to the state’s inclusive and tolerant nature.

Furthermore, Sikkim has a growing Christian community, with churches and missionary activities present in various parts of the state. This religious pluralism is a defining feature of Sikkim, where people of different faiths live side by side, respecting each other’s beliefs and traditions.

The harmonious coexistence of these religions is a remarkable aspect of Sikkim’s social fabric. It is a shining example of how diverse faiths can thrive together, fostering a sense of unity and community in the state.

Power WIFI and Mobile Connectivity

After leaving Yuksom, electricity and cellular networks is non-existant. Therefore, charge your camera and phone batteries before departing Yuksom. You can also bring along a solar charger to help you charge up your phone battery, but relying solely on it is not recommended, as weather conditions can be unpredictable in the mountains. Bring along high capacity battery banks too so that you do not go out of juice for your camera phones.

As for free WIFI, hotels in Gangtok or in other major towns in Sikkim provide free WIFI to their in house guests. While in Yuksom some lodges and a few restaurants provide free WIFI provided you use their services.

Except for the trekking trail inside the Kanchenjunga National Park, Sikkim is well connected by mobile network. So if you have a sim from your country, and have activated International roaming then you can make calls from your phone.

It’s also important to note that the use of satellite phones is prohibited in India. Attempting to bring one on the trek could result in legal issues, so it’s best to leave these devices at home.

Language

Sikkim is a multilingual state, with the most prominent language spoken, written, and understood by all is Nepali. Additionally, English and Hindi, the national language of India, are widely spoken and understood as well. So, you need not worry if your Nepali skills are lacking or if you don’t know the local language. The grocery shop owners, tea sellers, taxi drivers, and even the support team on the Goechala Trek will all be able to understand and assist you.

However, learning a few basic Nepali words and phrases can greatly enhance your experience in Sikkim. Words like “Namaste” (hello), “Dhanyabad” (thank you), “Ramro Cha” (very nice), “Khanchu” (I will eat), and “Dammi” (very tasty or nice) can go a long way in connecting with the local people. While Bhutia, the language of the majority Sikkimese people, is also spoken, it is more restricted in usage.

What power connector is used in India? Do I need an adapter while travelling in Sikkim, India?

In India, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type C, type D and type M are used. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz. Yes, you need a power plug travel adapter for sockets type C, D and M in India.

The Type D connector is the most common and features a unique three-pin configuration, with two flat parallel pins and a round grounding pin. Its widespread use makes it essential to have the right adapter or converter to seamlessly integrate your devices into the Indian electrical system.

Does a two-pin mobile charger with an EU plug suit Indian sockets?

Yes. EU two-pin plug will definitely fit, even a three pin socket will also fit. But remember, it will not be grounded, because the ground pin on the EU pin is just opposite. Even the Italian two-pin will fit but not the three pin.

If you live in the United Kingdom, you need a power plug travel adapter for sockets type C, D and M in India. The plugs of your electric devices don’t fit without.

If you are visiting India from the US then you will need to bring a suitable plug adapter to fit a US plug into an Indian power outlet. As the voltage is different in India use a power converter if your device or appliance isn’t dual voltage and ensure that it can work with a 50hz power outlet.

The United States have plugs A and B. You need a power plug adapter in India for sockets type C, D and M.

What should I carry for this trek?

For the convenience of the porters or the ponies who will be carrying your luggage, we recommend you to bring a haversack of capacity 50 l–55 l with waterproof covers, or a water proof duffle bag. Put in all your clothes that you will require for eight days Goechala Trek, and a down sleeping bag that can withstand a temperature of minus 15 degrees Celsius, along with a thermal inner. This will ensure that you will have warm nights.

Also include a small bag with a lock. Put in this bag clothes and things that you do not need for the trek and pass it on to us. We will keep this with us in safe custody, and will pass it on to you after you return to Yuksom at the end of the Goechala Trek.

Day Pack

Also, bring a daypack for your personal use for day time trekking. The day pack should be large enough to hold a water bottle, a raincoat or umbrella, a windbreaker, a light fleece jacket, your personal items, dried fruits or energy bars and a personal medical kit, sun-shades, Dark glasses.

Include in your medical kit tablets for fever, dysentery, anti-acid tablets, Electral powder, and painkillers. Include in it Crepe Bandages for sprains, Antiseptic Ointment for cuts and bruises, Band-Aids for small cuts and toe blisters, water-purifying tablets, sunscreen lotion, and Vaseline for chaffed skin.

Clothing for the Trek

As you will be ascending to high altitude, the temperature in the evening and night will vary from 0 to 5 degrees. Therefore, carry warm clothing with you. Include a down jacket, a couple of fleece jackets, woolen socks, gloves, a balaclava, and thermal inner wear for evening and nighttime use.

Daytime temperature will remain between 5 and 18 degrees Celsius. Therefore, light and loose trekking pants and fast-drying T-shirts should be included in your pack.

Get proper, supportive socks. Get socks that are designed for trekking and hiking long distances. These socks are well worth investing in to give your feet extra protection.

Hiking Boots

A pair of ankle-length sturdy but light trekking boots is a must on this trek, as the route is rough and uneven. If it is a new purchase, then it is essential to break into them before using them on the trek to ensure that it is comfortable. Carrying an extra pair of trail running shoes is also a good idea in case of discomfort.

ATMs

There are no ATMs in Yuksom neither are there any Banks. Pelling 41 km & 1:30 hour drive from Yuksom is the nearest town which has an ATM and a Bank where you can withdraw Indian currency using your Master card or Visa Credit or Debit Card. Do not depend for your currency needs on this ATM. Gangtok has numerous ATMs, therefore withdraw enough trek funds here rather than regret later. You can withdraw Indian Rupee Forty Thousand a day on your Visa or Master Card Credit or Debit Card.

What is the booking procedure?

You will have to deposit an advance amount to book and confirm your place in the Goechala Trek. Once we receive the advance amount, we will consider the trek booked and confirmed. Once you decide to join this trek with us, we will send you bank information to make your deposit.

Cancellation Policy 

• Minimum Charge: (The deposit amount will not be refunded if the trek is canceled due to government policy, closure of national parks, etc., or canceled by the depositor himself.).
• Less than 7 days of trek date: 50% of trek cost.
• On or after the trek start date: No refunds if the trek is aborted or shortened for any reason.

Formalities for Entering Sikkim

Foreign visitors wishing to enter Sikkim for trekking and hiking will have to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP). The Inner Line Permit is readily available at Sikkim House in all major cities in India and also at the entry points at Melli Check Post and Rangpo at the border with West Bengal.

You will need to fill out a form with the visitor’s details and a xerox copy of the passport and Indian visa, along with two passport-sized photos that have to be submitted.

ILP will be granted for 30 days. However, we will assist you in this matter.

Trekking Permit

Hikers and trekkers wanting to do the Sikkim Goechala Pass Trek will have to go through a registered travel agency in Sikkim.

A trekking form along with the xerox copy of the passport, Indian visa, and ILP, accompanied by four passport photos, will have to be submitted to the Tourism Department, and then the trekking permit will be granted. But you do not have to worry; that is our responsibility.

I am a single trekker; what should I do?

We have fixed group departure dates for Solo Hikers, and can join a group of trekkers leaving for the Goechala Trek. The itinerary can also be customized for a minimum of two people on a date of your choice.

Talk to us if you have any doubts. Our experienced outdoor adventure team is always ready to help you plan your treks and tours in Sikkim. Our team will assist you throughout the whole process, from the moment you decide until you return from the trek.

How to reach Yuksom?

To reach Yuksom in West Sikkim, a historic town and the gateway to the popular trek like the Goechala Trek, the following transportation options are there based on your starting point:

By Air: The nearest airport to Yuksom is Bagdogra Airport, located near Siliguri in West Bengal. From Bagdogra Airport, you can reserve a taxi from the pre-paid taxi booth to reach Yuksom, and will cost around US$85 for a luxury taxi which can fit around three or four people comfortably.  The distance by road is 150 km and takes approximately 6-7 hours, depending on the traffic and the condition of the road.

By Train: The nearest major railway station to Yuksom is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station, near Siliguri. From NJP, you can reserve a taxi directly to Yuksom, and cost around US$85 for a jeep or a luxury vehicle which can easily fit three to four people comfortably. You can also take a shared jeep to travel to Jorethang, which is mid-way between NJP and Yuksom, and will cost US$5 per person. From Jorethang you can take a shared jeep to Yuksom (US$5 per person). The road journey from NJP to Yuksom takes about 6-7 hours.

Shared jeeps and Bus services are a common mode of transportation in Sikkim and provide a cost-effective way to reach Yuksom. But do remember, there are no direct shared taxi or Bus services to Yuksom from Siliguri, New Jalpaiguri Station or from Bagdogra Airport. There are very limited shared Jeeps operating between Yuksom to Jorethang and Gangtok.

Places to visit in Yuksom

If you can spare some time in Yuksom, there are a few must-see attractions that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim. One of the most significant sites is the Coronation Monastery, where the first king of Sikkim was inaugurated, presided over by three holy monks. This historic event makes the monastery a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Sikkimese history.

Another important monastery to explore is the Dubdi Monastery, one of the oldest and holiest in Sikkim. Situated on a hillock above Yuksom, about three kilometers from the town, this monastery is a testament to the region’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions.

As you make your way out of Yuksom, be sure to visit the Tashiding Monastery, located fifteen kilometers away. Built in the 17th century, this is one of the most important and holiest monasteries in Sikkim. Every year, during the Tibetan New Year, the Bumchu festival is held here, attracting devotees from Bhutan, Nepal, and India.

Exploring these remarkable religious sites will not only provide you with a deeper understanding of Sikkim’s cultural heritage but also offer a chance to immerse yourself in the serene and contemplative atmosphere that permeates these sacred spaces.

Tips to make your Goechala Trek a success.

Train well before embarking on this trek. You’ll be hiking to high altitudes, covering about 10 km of distance per day. So, it’s essential to work on your stamina and fitness by indulging in activities like long walks, running, cycling, swimming, or any other physical activity.

Train on a range of terrain, as you will need to tackle a variety of terrain while trekking from Yuksom to Dzongri and further on to Goechala Pass View Point. From riverside trails to steep paths up a mountain trail filled with snow, therefore, mix up your training with long walks on a variety of terrain.

Also, remember to keep your muscles in good shape. Remember to stretch after your long walks. You should focus on your calves, quads, hamstrings, hips, and back.

Another important pont to keep in mind is acclimatization. You’ll be trekking to higher altitudes, so it’s crucial to take regular breaks and spend extra nights at higher altitudes to prevent altitude sickness.

Remember to respect the local culture and the people of Sikkim, who have their own culture and traditions. Be mindful of the impact you may have on their environment.

Stay hydrated throughout the trek to avoid altitude sickness. So, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine.

Please remember, the Sikkim Goechala Trek is not a race, so take your time, enjoy the scenery, and don’t push yourself too hard.

Be prepared for the unpredictable weather in the mountains. So, pack accordingly for rain, snow, and cold weather. And lastly, be flexible with your plans, as weather and other conditions in the mountains in Sikkim can change very quickly. I hope these tips help you have an incredible experience on your Goechala Trek!

Practice with your backpack. Your main baggage will be carried by porters or pack animals. But you will need to carry a day pack with you to put in all your essential items, like a camera, a water bottle, your personal medical kit, an umbrella, a light fleece, and a wind stopper.

Goechala Trek Route and Itinerary

The Goechala Trek route is known for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the trek route:

Overview

• Location: Sikkim, India
• Total number of days: 13 days
• Trekking Duration: Typically 8 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
• Maximum Altitude: 15, 478 feet (4,719 meters) at Goechala Viewpoint 1
• Best Time to Visit: Late March to May and September to November
• Accommodation on the Trek: Tent
• Minimum Number of Participants: 2 Persons.
• Highest Camp Site: Lamunee (4164 m).
• Starting and Ending Points of the Trek: Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Rail Station
• Trek Availability For Solo hikers: We have group departure trek dates shown below. Solo Hikers can join a Group Trek to Goechala.
• Customized private treks can also be arranged for a minimum of two people on request on a date of your choice.

Day By Day Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Bagdogra Airport/NJP Rail Station/Nepal Border. Drive to Gangtok (1622 m) on the 5-hour drive. Overnight Hotel.

Day 02: A day in Gangtok. Overnight Hotel (B/B only).

Day 03: Drive to Yuksom (1760 m/5 hours). Overnight Hotel/Lodge (B/B only).

Day 04: Goechala Trek Starts. Trek Yuksom to Bakhim (2744 m). Overnight Tent.

• Distance: 10.35 km
• Trekking Time: 6 Hours
• Elevation Gain: 984 m
• Max Elevation (Bakhim): 2744 m

• Yuksom to Sachen: (2185 m/7 km)-Gradual Trek with a little up and down at places.
• Sachen to Bakhim: (2744 m/3.35 km)-First 2 km is a gradual trek, after crossing the suspension bridge over the river Prekchu is a steep uphill trek of 2 km till Bakhim.

The Goechala Trek is a great way to experience the beauty of Kanchenjunga National Park in Sikkim! The journey starts gently from Yuksom and takes you through dense forests and steep uphill climbs until you reach Bakhim, your first camping spot for the night. For the average trekker, this eleven-kilometer trek from Yuksom to Bakhim can take up to six to seven hours. But trust us, the views and the experience of setting up camp in the middle of this amazing landscape make it worth every second. So, come join us for the Goechala Trek in Sikkim and explore the beauty of this incredible region!

Please Note: In order to get acclimatized properly, it is also advisable to halt for the night at Sachen (2189), seven kilometers from Yuksom.

Day 05: Trek Bakhim to Dzongri. Overnight Tent.

• Distance: 11.27 km
• Trekking Time: 6 Hours
• Elevation Gain: 1286 m
• Max Elevation (Dzongri): 4030 m

• Bakhim to Tchoka (3000 m/2 km/1 hour)-Gentle uphill Trek.
• Tchoka to Phedang (3496 m/3.27 km/3 hours): Steep uphill on a very rough trail.
• Phedang to Derali Dara (3920 m/2 km/2 hour): First 45 minutes through Rhododendron Forest on level track. Then a steep uphill on a barren hillside till Deorali Dara.
• Deorali Dara to Dzongri Hut (3950 m/2 km/1 hour): easy trek on a wide trail.
• Dzongri Hut to Dzongri Camp Site (4030 m) – 2 km: Easy Trek till the camp site.

Trekking to Dzongri from Bakhim is a 11.2 km uphill hike amidst the magical oak, rhododendron, and Magnolia forests of Kanchenjunga National Park. Starting with a gentle two-kilometer uphill trek till Tchoka, a former Tibetan settlement with a trekker’s hut, a monastery, and two small lodges.

The trail from Tchoka then ascends steeply on a rough 6-kilometer track to Phedang and then continues the uphill climb right up to Deorali Dara.

From here on, the trek to Dzongri is a gentle one with no uphill and with spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga Range and the Silver Fur and Rhododendron forests being replaced by small Cryptomeria bushes.

Day 06: Rest Day at Dzongri. Early morning climb to Dzongri View Point for the morning views of the mountain range. Optional day hike to Dzongrilla Pass or Laxmi Pokhari. Overnight Tent.

The early morning trek to Dzongri View Point, or Dablakhang (4171 m), is worth the one hour of the climb as you get to witness the most beautiful sight of some of the tallest mountains in the Himalayas, all above 7000 m in height. This is what the Goechala Trek is all about: getting intimate with some of the highest mountains in the world.

Day 07: Trek Dzongri to Thansing (3932 m). Overnight in tents.

• Distance: 7 km
• Trekking Time: 4 Hours
• Elevation Loss: 98 m
• Max Elevation (Thansing): 3932 m
• Min Elevation (Kookrochoong): 3658 m

• Dzongri to Kookrochoong (3658 m/4 km/2 hours): first 2 km on a slightly downhill trail. Then a steep downhill trek on a loose stone trail to Kookrochoong.
• Kookrochoong to Thansing (3932 m/3 km/2 hours): 1 km is beside the river, and then a slight uphill till Thansing.

Trekking from Dzongri to Thansing is a wonderful experience. This trek route winds through the Cryptomeria shrubs and provides an awe-inspiring view of the surrounding mountains. The trek from Dzongri to Lamune is undoubtedly the best part of the Goechala Trek. With the Himalayan peaks in the background, the trek provides an opportunity to be close to these majestic peaks.

The only difficult part of this trek is the 2 KM downhill trek till the riverbed at Kookrochoong. Other than that, the route is quite easy and can be navigated with ease. The whole Thansing valley is situated at the foot of Mount Pandim and surrounded by high mountains on all sides. Trekkers can enjoy all the natural beauty of the mountains and the lush greenery in the region. Overnight stay in tents in the Thansing Valley at the foot of Mount Pandim is another major highlight of the trek.

Day 08: Trek Thansing to Lamune (4164 m/3.8 km/2-3 hrs). Overnight Tents.

• Distance: 3.8 km
• Trekking Time: 2 Hours
• Elevation Gain: 239 m
• Max Elevation (Samiti Lake): 4210 m

• Thansing to Lamune (4164 m/3.8 km/2-3 hours): easy trek on a wide trekking trail with no uphill trek till Lamune.
• Elevation Gain: 217 m

Day 09: Trek to Goechala Pass View Point 1 (4719 m). Return Trek to Kookrochoong (3658 m/14 km). Overnight in the tent.

• Total Distance: 14 km
• Trekking Time: 8 Hours
• Elevation Loss: 503 m
• Max Elevation (Goechala Pass View Point 1): 4719 m
• Min Elevation (Kookrochoong): 3658 m

• Lamune to Samiti Lake (4210 m)-2 km-Slight uphill on a rough moraine.
• Samiti Lake to Goechala Pass View Point 1 (4719 m approx)-2 km uphill Trek.
• Lamunee to Thansing- 3.8 km-Easy slightly downhill trek
• Thansing to Kookrochoong-3 km- Downhill Trek

Trekking to the Goechala Pass View Point is one of the most thrilling experiences you can have. This trek starts at 4 a.m. and is the longest, with almost 14 km to cover (Round Trek). The Goechala Pass view point is situated at an altitude of 4719 m ( 16,000 feet) and offers spectacular 180 degree view of the Kanchenjunga Range, and that of the Onglathang glacier.

The trek is filled with adventure, as you have to cross the sacred Samiti Lake at 4210 m before reaching the Goechala Pass view point. The trek is a little strenuous and requires a certain level of physical fitness. From the view point, you can witness the mesmerizing sunrise on the snow-clad peaks of the Kanchenjunga Range.

After spending some time soaking in the breathtaking views, you will make your way back to the campsite at Lamunee for breakfast. After a well-deserved rest, you will head down the Thansing valley in a leisurely manner and camp for the night at Kookrochoong.

Day 10: Trek Kookrochoong to Tchoka (2975 m/9.55 km).  Overnight in tents.

• Distance: 9.55 km
• Trekking Time: 6 Hours
• Elevation Loss: 683 m
• Max Elevation (Kookrochoong): 3658 m
• Min. Elevation (Tchoka): 2975 m

• Kookrochoong to Phedang (6 km/4 hours): easy trek through the forest.
• Phedang to Tchoka (3.55 Km/2 hours): Steep Downhill Trek on a rough track till Tchoka

The trek to Tchoka from Kookrochoong is perhaps the easiest part of the Goechala Pass Trek in Sikkim. This trek route, the best trek route in India, is a paradise for nature lovers, boasting thick rhododendron and pine forests. With only a few uphill stretches until Phedang, where lunch will be served, the day’s trek is a great way to enjoy a leisurely hike in Sikkim.

After lunch at Phedang, the trek to Tchoka is a downhill journey, retracing the same path we took while climbing up to Dzongri. The downhill trek is a great way to relax and appreciate the nature around you as you make your way to the campsite at the end of the day. This part of the trek route gives a great opportunity to observe the lush green forests and vivid fauna of the Sikkim Himalayas.

Day 11: Trek Tchoka to Yuksom (1760 m). Lodge (B/B only).

• Distance: 11.27 km
• Trekking Time: 6 Hours
• Elevation Loss: 1215 m
• Max Elevation (Tchoka): 2975 m
• Min Elevation (Yuksom): 1760 m

Trek back to Yuksom on the same trail that you took while going up.

Day 12: Drive to Kalimpong (1200 m/4-5 hour drive). Hotel (B/B only)

Day 13: Drive to Bagdogra Airport, NJP Rail Station, or Nepal for the final departure. End of Sikkim Goechala Trek: 3 Hours Drive. The extension can be made to Darjeeling, Bhutan, and Nepal.

How much does this trek cost?

• Cost: US$1040/Person
• Cost for Indian Nationals: Kindly request for quote in Indian Rupee

Kanchenjunga National Park Fees (Extra applicable):

• Fee for Foreign Nationals: US$68 per person for 8-Days Trek
• Fee for Indian Nationals: Rs.1700 per person for 8-Days Trek

Fees for Camera and Filming:

• DSLR Camera: Rs.200 per entry.
• Video Camera (GoPro): per entry: Rs.1500
• Drone Camera: per entry: Rs.2500
• Filming (Domestic): Rs.20,000
• Filming (Foreign): Rs.30,000

What is Included and Excluded in the Goechala Trek Cost?

GOECHALA TREK COST INCLUDES:

• Twin-share tent with a mattress during camping or trekking.
• Hotel accommodation: twin share, including breakfasts.
• Fully organized trek services with a guide, porters, and camping equipment.
• All fixed three meals every day during trekking or camping.
• All road transport is as per itinerary by luxury vehicle with a maximum of three persons in one vehicle.
• Service of an English-speaking guide.
• Entrance fees to monuments visited.
• All Permits for Darjeeling and Sikkim.

DOES NOT INCLUDE:

• Kanchenjunga National Park Entrance Fees
• Sleeping bag; personal clothing or equipment.
• Lunches and dinners during hotel stay
• Bottled or alcoholic drinks.
• Tips, client insurance, and evacuation costs.
• Any expenses of a personal nature.

Note: The above given Goechala Pass trek itinerary is a sample, intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors, such as weather, road conditions, the physical ability of the participants, etc., may dictate itinerary changes either before departure or while on the trail. We reserve the right to change this schedule in the interest of the trip participant’s safety, comfort, and general well-being.

A customized itinerary can also be prepared as per your convenience.

(All relevant terms and conditions apply).