Introduction to Goechala Trek:

The best trek in all of Sikkim, the Goechala trek takes one through the rugged steep terrain of the eastern state that includes the glimpse of the world third highest peak – the Kanchenjunga. The trek is for individuals who want the closest look at the unexplored mountain beauty and the ethnic population of this area. The trek is exhausting, but the route is scenic with mountain cliffs, rocky terrain as well as thick forests.

Goechala Trek Map

A very specific map is greatly needed in the Goechala Trek as the trek runs through numerous climatic zones. The trek, which generally runs through the places such as Yuksom, Sachen, Tshoka, Dzongri, Thansing, Lamuney and finally Goechala Pass. Some of the places in the map of the trek consist of numerous camp sites, places of interest and view points from which the trekkers can enjoy scenic and imposing view of himalayas range.

Best Time to Take Up Goechala Trek

The most favorable time for trekking the Goechala is in the early spring, that is, from April to June and in the late monsoon period in mid September to mid November. These periods offer a more favorable climate with less rainfall and rough weather conditions so it is more favorable for trekking. The rhododendron is in the Nepalese mountainous region and blooms in spring time adding a touch of colours in the landscape.

Cost for Goechala Trek:

Hence, the cost of Goechala Trek can also be gauged by the distance that is traveled and the travel package that is offered and the level of accommodation. Generally, the budget packages cost from as low as $300 and go up to $600 and more for encyclopedic packages that include guides, porters, food, accommodation, and park charges.

Height of Goechala Trek:

The trek goes up to the Goechala Pass, which is at 5,200 ft above sea level, that is, 4,940 meters above sea level. It is at a very high altitude which comes with all the attendant problems such as low temperatures, lack of oxygen etc; but the vistas that you enjoy seeing of the other peaks is breathtaking.

Distance of the trek:

The distance is approximately 90 km round trip and the highest point in the Goechala Trek is at 5000 meters. The trek is generally around 10 to 12 days, but this will be depending on the trekker's speed and weather conditions among others. Varying terrains and the level of steepness that is varied from stop point to stop point is what all parts of the trek provide.

Goechala Trek Package

Trek packages generally consist of valid permits, accommodation and food for the trek duration, qualified guides and porters for the convenience of carrying. There are tour operators with various treks as their theme with slight variations like photography, wildlife and one that gives adequate time for acclimatization.

Goechala Trek in December:

Goechala is best climbed in December and the climate is extremely cold most of the times and the trails could be snowed in. But, for the adventurous trekker, it is a beautiful and pristine trail that is free from tourist invasion. Winter is particularly risky, so the right gear and experienced tour operator is a must for survival.

Goechala Trek Images

Any photographer heading out for the Goechala Trek would be blessed with breathtaking views of snow-clad mountains, forests, wildlife et al. The most striking images that can be shot include the mountain sunrise over Mt Kanchenjunga and the panorama of the landscapes from the Dzongri Top.

Goechala Trek Difficulty Level:

It is moderate to challenging with long trekking days in sequences with (Rocky and Mountain) Terrains, steep climbs, and rise heights. There is a need for extra acclimatization days since the area is in a high altitude area. Trekking in/ubuntu is best suited for people who have done long distance walks in the past at least once.

Goechala Pass Trek

The most rewarding segment of the trek is the climb up to Goechala Pass in which one is rewarded with breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga and the other snow-giant mountains. The last section of the trek up to the pass is a little more challenging than the initial, and that is the reason that treks set out early in the morning and sometimes the trails become steep.

Goechala Trek in January

It is also practically impossible to hike the trail in January owing to the heavy snows and winter in most areas. Tour operators in most areas do not operate during this period since it is unsafe.

Goechala Trek in May

The most favorable time for the Goechala Trek is in May when the weather is pleasant and the skies clear nicely for trekking. The surroundings are colorful and the path is less populated as during the autumn season.

Goechala Trek Sikkim

The Goechala Trek in Sikkim is a trek more than just a trek, it is a long journey in the cultural and geographical landscape of the place. It traverses through villages and monasteries of various ethnic groups; thus, it gives the trekkers a glimpse of the ethnic civilization and religious way of people.

Read this preview in order to discover more about what the Goechala Trek will be like; it is a must-do trek in the Eastern Himalayas that promises physical challenge, breathtaking views of nature, and cultural interaction.