Glacier Trek & Adventure

Duration
9Night / 10Days

Maximum Altitude
4943 Meter

Goechala trek distance
90Kms

Goechala trek Grade
Difficult

Region
Sikkim Himalaya

GOECHALA TREK UPCOMING 2024

March-24

April- 7,10, 13, 14, 20, 21, 25, 27, 28

May-4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25,26

June-1,2,9

Best Time to go

First season March-to-May,

Second Season- September- to-December

Best Month April,May and September to December

Available offers

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Here is the quick guide to navigate through Goechala Trek page

The best route to get maximum adventure and tranquility of the place.
The best route to get maximum adventure and tranquility of the place.

Goechala Trek Map

There are quite a couple of routes that the trekkers might take to reach the highest point of the Goechala trek. Depending upon our expertise, feasibility, and convenience, we will take the one that takes you through Dzongri via Phedang, all the way to Thangsing, and up to Goechala.

The trek starts from Yuksom, the basecamp from where you start this trek on foot. Once you are onto the tracks, your next stop is Sachen, and you will pass through many mountain bridges on your route to Sachen, where you can spot animals like mule and yak.

Our next destination is Tshoka via Bakhim, and this way is a slight challenging climbing. There are dense forests full of rhododendrons and alpine berries to lighten up the way and get your trek more lively.

The following stop is Dzongri which is a significant milestone of this trek. Here you can explore the magnificent sun rise in the morning. Later you cross through Thangsing, Lamuney, Samiti Lake, and then eventually reach Goechala, your summit.

One also cannot go to Dzongri and trek uphill from Phedang, but that would lose the essence of the whole trek. So when we chose the Gochala trek map, we strongly follow the mentioned roadmap to provide the ultimate happiness to our trekkers.

Goechala Trek Best Time

Obviously, when you plan traveling Goechala, all you want is to enjoy the trip to the optimum. To start the quintessential journey, all you need is the best season to enjoy the trek and keep yourself safe. As with most of the high altitude treks, there are two main seasons for the Goechala trek.

  • Spring season
  • Autumn Season

One cannot choose any particular season because choosing a season allows you to visualize just a part of it. While spring is more romantic, early winters are vibrant with lots of sharp colors. So it is upto you to decide the Goechala Trek best time that suits your preferences. From late June to early September, it is smarter to dodge the trip due to heavy storms. During January and February, the temperature is occasionally below 21 degrees Celsius. Therefore, the trip occurs occasionally under the supervision of specialists. During summers, the temperature is between 14 and 23 degrees Celsius; that can drop to 6 to - 2 degrees Celsius after sunset.

Goechala Trek In December

The best month to visit Goechala Trek is from September to December. You get the best perspective of the mountains with a beautiful sunrise and sunset. The freshness of the trip increases more during winters as the Sikkim Goechala hike turns out to be exciting with magnificent views. The winters are mainly known for their crystal clear views of the mountains. From the end of November, it becomes freezing at Dzongri and higher. Also, being at a very high altitude, the chances of snowfall is high. The trek almost looks like the misty, mossy forest under the dazzling blue winter sky.

There are two main seasons to visit Goechala, one is spring to witness the flowers blooming every where. The other is Autumn or early winter to enjoy the freezing temperatures with white mountains.

Goechala Trek In April

April and May is springtime or flower blooming time. Flowering starts as early as March in the lower elevation and gradually towards the higher altitude at the end of spring. Rhododendron and Giant Magnolia are the two most famous species of flowers, along with several other wildflower species. A cloudy or misty atmosphere is a typical phenomenon that we experience during spring. However, clear mountain views are not uncommon, especially during the morning.

For bird watching, this is undoubtedly a better season to visit. Snow lovers can see snow there until May at a higher altitude. You may witness occasional snowfall during this season. When that happens, the complete upper reaches of meadows get wrapped in white snow to glorify the beauty.

Goechala Temperature and Weather

Sikkim region is known for its moist weather condition, almost round the year. As the altitude increases, dampness adds on top of the natural cold conditions. The Sikkim Goechala Trek can be done throughout the year, though it's much more pleasant in some weather conditions than others. The weather prevailing at the Goechala Trek depends upon the season.

Usually, the minimum temperature of a place is attained early in the morning, from 3 to 5 am. There are a few days during the Goechala trek (one being the Dzongri top and another to Goechala) when you have to leave camp early in the morning.

As discussed in the previous section, there are two main trekking seasons, and we have discussed the temperature conditions of the same. Keeping that background details in mind, let's jump deeper into the weather of these two seasons.

About Goechala Temperature and weather
Goechala Temperature and Weather

  • The temperature in spring/summer: Expect the minimum temperature to be around 0°C at Dzongri and Lamuney. At Goechala ViewPoint 1, also known as Sunrise Point, expect colder temperatures, especially in the morning. Temperature can dip to – 5°C. Earlier in the season will lead to lower temperatures.
  • In summer temperature: Minimum: 0°C Maximum: 20°C

    In spring temperature: Minimum: -5°C Maximum: 15°C

  • The temperature in autumn/winter: The environment becomes colder, and the temperature will go down. Temperatures fall moreover in late October/November. In November, the temperature may fall as low as -5°C to -10°C at Dzongri and -10°C to -12°at Lamuney. Do account for strong wind at times which makes you feel even colder. The temperature inside the tent will be around 10°C warmer than that of outside. During the daytime, the temperature will be calm and may vary from 5°C to 20°C depending upon altitude.

In summer temperature: -10°C Maximum: 10°C

In spring temperature: Minimum: -12°C Maximum: 7°C

Keep in mind; the Goechala weather is perpetually unstable. With the blink of an eye, a cloud can come and take away a mountain view, and a blow of wind can nearly knock you off your feet on a high pass. It just adds a little more adventure to the trek. Despite the season, you should always pack an extra pair just in case. We always try to keep our team updated with the current Goechala temperature and weather conditions to continue happening and safe trekking.

Goechala Trek Cost
Goechala Trek Cost

Goechala Trek Cost

Glacier Treks Adventure is committed to offering exceptional value, ensuring that our pricing reflects the quality and comprehensive nature of the experiences we deliver.Goechala trek cost is Inr.18,000 per person for the Indian trekkers including transportation pick and drop and for the International trekkers cost is $300 per person including only Yuksom to Yuksom, and both for Indian Trekkers and international trekkers complimentary accommodation with break fast and dinner at Yuksom, and during the trek, all like breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, tea, etc., and all tents, sleeping bags, mats, etc., which can further fluctuate in the offers that we provide from time to time. In our package, transportation is include, and we can accomodate in one car 7-8 person cab type Sumo Gold and Mahindra Bolero.like travel from NJP railway station to Yuksom pick-up and drop-off at the railway station.How to travel arrangement by travel company?. We will create a WhatsApp group before one week of the travel date of participant, and according to travel company guideline following the information and reach to Yukdom.

What it is possible this custom trek? Yes We can arrange a customised package based on the client's dates and time, so the price is different than a fixed departure, and of course, the service is also different, but service is always provided regardless of budget. Our main goal is to provide our trekkers with an unforgettable experience. Simply leave your worries behind. book your trek with us and pack your bags to start an adventurous and breathtaking journey.


Cost Includes

  • Accommodation: In Yuksom room-stay on a triple sharing basis. dinner and breakfast by self at Yuksom
  • Equipements: While on the trek, we will provide you with A Shape/Dome tent /Alpine trekking tents on twin sharing basis. We would provide a pure down feather Sleeping bag with some thick Camping mattresses and other essentials.
  • Meals:We provide pure veg meals during the trek except for the egg.
  • Yaks/Porters: For carrying camping equipment, meals, vegetables.
  • A professional trekking guide and kitchen staff would follow the group.
  • Entry fee and permit fee etc., included.
  • First Aid medicine kit
  • Oxygen cylinder

Cost Exclusion

  • Transportation: Transportation like travel pick up and drop from Siliguri, those person taking service of Transportation from us like pick up and drop and mostly our Main pick up point is Siliguiri Junction. those participent come to in NJP and Baghdogra should be come to our pick point Siliguri.
  • Air ticket any domestic or international flight ticket.
  • Any charges for carrying personal porter for still/video cameras and personal luggage etc. Alcohol, soft drinks, bottled water, beverages, etc. Personal expenditures like handouts, telephone calls, laundry, etc.
  • Any meals/during your travel in the car.
  • Any costs arising cause of disaster circumstances such as landslides, roadblocks, bad weather.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Transportation
  • Bag off loading
  • Please note who will not carry the luggage byself in trekking and thos want to put luggage on yak porter and for this things you will be pay additional Inr 2800 at time of your trek booking.we do not accept in the last moments.

Goechala Trek Route

From covering dense forests, monasteries, mountain bridges, rhododendron flower meadows, our team travels through the best Goechala trek route. The route that Glacier treks adventure follows to make your trip more exciting and memorable is as follows:

  • Yuksom

    Our journey begins from here. Take a drive to Yuksom (150km). The 8-hour drive runs parallel to the Teesta river, beginning a beautiful relationship with Sikkim. You will be welcomed in a guest house and instructed about the tour, trekking route, environmental conditions, and other rules that you need to follow during the trek.

  • Sachen

    The first destination of our trek, Sachen at 7200 ft and taking approximately 6 hours. The valleys will lead you through tiny villages and dense forests where trekkers ordinarily spot yaks and mules. The path takes you through pristine rivers, orchids, and the enthralling sight of Tshushay Khola waterfalls.

  • Tshoka

    the 8km trek to Tshokha takes about 5-7 hours due to a steep elevation and challenging hike. The forested Bakhim region, plantations, and the Prek Chu river's crystalline waters take you to the Tibetan refugee settlement of Tshokha.

  • Dzongri

    Waking up to the sunrise peeking through Himalayan summits, which will already give you the breathtaking sight. Today's trek will take 9-10 hours. Within minutes the trail moves to a steep and rocky ascend, so step cautiously over stones and pebbles. The trekkers walk ahead amidst thick, red rhododendrons. The rest-stop at Phedang is precisely in the midst of today's trip. The trekkers reach Dzongri with the backdrop of snowy mountains and little Buddhist worship places.

  • Thansing

    The pictorial view of resplendent peaks of Kanchenjunga, Kabru, Mt. Pandim, Koktak, and a host of other summits will give you chilling vibes. Soak in this picturesque view before trailing forward to Thansing. Beautiful and clear descend to Kokcharang on the way to Thansing.

  • Lamuney

    Lamuney and is the easiest trek in this adventure. The leisure tracks today help your body to rest and get habitual to the altitude. The beautiful trail takes you through meadows and overstretched pastures on both sides.

  • Goechala

    Start the day early to avoid the harsh climate later. Crossing Samiti Lake, you will start a steep ascent to the Geochala viewpoint to elevate 15,100ft one hour into the trek. Give some time and gasp in the sunrise as it casts a claret hue atop the white peaks. Once again, the picture of Kanchenjunga and other summits will fascinate your heart and soul.

Note: We follow the reverse route to reach our Basecamp, Yuksom from where we initially began our journey. The trek completes in 10 days and in these you will climb 4700 meters and return back.

Goechala Trek Height

Goechala is a high-altitude mountain pass that offers a beautiful panorama of the southeast face of the mighty mountain Kanchenjunga. The Goechala pass is the base camp of various neighboring mountains as well. Trek to Goechala is waved off from Yuksom and travels through untamed lands coupled with the huge mountain peaks. The trek is frequently entitled 'Walking in Paradise.

Accessible Goechala trek height is 4700 meters, also known as Goechala viewpoint 1 or sunrise point, and it is the last point where the trekkers are allowed.

With effect from spring 2017, trekkers are NOT allowed to go ahead of Goechala Viewpoint 1, i.e., Goechala Sunrise Point. In the past, trekkers have reached View Point 2/Goecha Lake, situated at an altitude of 5000 meters. However, this is NOT a possibility anymore. This limitation is seemingly due to Snow Leopard's presence captured through night vision camera traps in recent times around ViewPoint.

Goechala Trek Height
A big shout out to the world from the altitude of 4700 meters

How To Reach Goechala?

To reach Goechala, you must initially reach Yuksom in Sikkim. Your trek begins and concludes here. Yuksom is around 150 kms from the conjuncture of Siliguri, New Jalpaiguri (NJP), and Bagdogra in West Bengal. You can arrive at NJP/Siliguri/Bagdogra by train or air. The place you reach decides on how you proceed.

By Flight

The nearest airport to Yuksom is Bagdogra. Bagdogra is Siliguri's airport. Bagdogra has decent connectivity from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad by air. If you reside near any of these cities, you can easily arrive in Siliguri by flight.

By Train

You will arrive at NJP, which is the station area of Siliguri. Utmost trains to NJP depart from Kolkata. The North eastbound trains from Delhi also reach directly to NJP without visiting Kolkata. The trains from both Kolkata and Delhi manage to get booked very hastily.

By Bus

If flights are too costly and trains are crowded, you can fly to Kolkata and catch a bus to Siliguri. The journey is lengthy, and it takes almost 14 hours. The only benefit is that you get sleeper buses, and the roads do not deviate too much.

Once you have reached Siliguri, comprehend this guide to arrive in Goechala.

You can either rent a private cab directly to Yuksom from Siliguri or go by shared transports. If you hire a car, there is no hustle concerning time. The entire journey demands approximately 8 hours. If you prefer to get the shared cab, it will require a switch at Jorethang. Your trip will be divided into two parts, splitting up at Jorethang.

Siliguri to Jorethang

First, catch a shared cab to Jorethang from outside the bus stand at Siliguri. The drive takes around 4 hours to cover 87kms. Then catch a shared cab to Yuksom from the bus station at Jorethang.

The last shared taxi leaves by 1.30 pm from Jorethang to proceed towards Yuksom. Ensure you reach Jorethang around noon to be safe. You must depart from Siliguri at 7 am to catch the bus. It is only possible if you have come to the city the earlier day.

Jorethang to Yuksom

Jorethang has a very large green structure in the center which is called a multi-level bus stand. Vehicles are leaving from various platforms here.

Note: All the vehicles for Yuksom will depart ahead of 2 pm.

Yuksom is roughly 4 hours from Jorethang. The roads are coiling and may further be under construction in multiple sites. Assume to arrive Yuksom by about 6 pm if you have begun by 1.30 pm. You can reach the basecamp Yuksom from either a private cab or a shared taxi from Siliguri. To reach Siliguri you can either opt for train, flight or bus depending on your preference.

Glacier Trek Adventures have customized packages
Glacier Trek Adventures have customized packages

Goechala Trek Package

For the Trek package, the price depends on the group size. We would like to inform you of one thing, the more the persons in the group, the price will be less get some discount.

We at Glacier Trek Adventures have customized packages for different groups varying in size. Instead, the amount we take per person is INR 18,000, service from NJP to NJP, but when you are in a group of Seven to Eight persons, you get an instant discount of 10 percent. Similarly, when you are in a group of 8-10 persons, the allotted discount is 15 percent.

You can now imagine how important it becomes to travel in a group when you are planning for this trek in Sikkim. Basically, when you are in a bigger group, the amount for porter, yak, guides, etc., gets distributed. It gives us a chance to let you enjoy the picturesque beauty at a much lower cost.

When you plan to visit Goechala, do not aim to take a cheaper Goechala trek package; instead, opt for the safer and authenticated one. After all, you could not risk your life just to save some penny. You are there on vacation to enjoy, so be rest assured of our packages as no one can match the facilities we provide at the given price.

Goechala Trek Distance

The Goechala trek is a 92Km Approx long trek from Yuksom to Yuksom. You reach close to 15,000 feet Appro in a while, covering this distance. During this trek, as you get ViewPoint 1, situated at an altitude of 15,100 ft, you come close to the southwest face of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.

As soon as you reach the topmost point of the Goechala trek, you forget all the tiredness you got while covering the Goechala Trek distance. Here is the day-wise distance you cover on this journey.

  • Day 1:

    You transfer yourself from NJP or Bagdogra to Yuksom, covering approximately 124kms.

  • Day 2:

    The trek begins today. You will cover 6.7 kms on your walk from Yuksom to Sachen, where you come across three suspension bridges swinging over deep abysses. River Prekchu flows through these abysses.

  • Day 3:

    Cover a distance of 5 kms on your trek from Sachen to Tshoka. On this day, you have a steep climb to Bakhim from the 4th suspension bridge on your way and then to Tsokha. From there, you get a fabulous glimpse of Peiling village.

  • Day 4:

    On this day, you walk for 6.3 kms and reach Dzongri from Tshoka via Phedang. Till Phedang, you travel through the forest. It is the blooming rhododendron belt in spring. After Phedang, you get to see the mountains, and you get the first sight of Mt. Pandim and Mt. Tinchenkang.

  • Day 5:

    Dzongri - Exploration and Acclimatization.

    To ensure a secure and pleasurable trip, acclimatize to the higher altitude in Dzongri. Utilize the day to discover the neighboring areas, see the sunrise color the mountain peaks golden, and take in the calm of the Himalayas.

  • Day 6:

    You will cover 6.4 kms on your walk from Dzongri to Thansing.Today you will move through the alpine meadows and rhododendron forest to arrive at Kokchurang; here, you will be at the level of River Prek; it will flow alongside beneath a wooden bridge. From there, you start climbing again and reach Thansing, the gregarious and firm meadow.

  • Day 7:

    Today is the acclimatization day. Pay attention to your body and stay alert for any symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness. It’s also an excellent time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty at Lamuney. Early in the morning, when the sun rises, we move from Thansing to Lamuney and cover a distance of 1.8kms.

  • Day 8:

    Today, you will trek from Lamuney to ViewPoint 1 via Samiti lake and witness the first sun rays on Mt. Kanchenjunga. To reach viewpoint 1 you travel 3.3 kms. Later you will descend all the way to Kokchurang via Thansing, covering a distance of 9.2kms. It means you walk 12.5kms on this day.

  • Day 9:

    You cover a distance of 9.9kms. As you slide from Kokchurang, you will reach Phedang, from where you stoop 3.2 km more in the thick Rhododendron forest and arrive at Tsokha.

  • Day 10:

    You will descend for the maximum part today. It’s a steep slide till the 4th suspension bridge. Then, you steadily descend to Sachen and, after a sharp ascend, descend to Yuksom after a long walk of 11.7kms.

  • Day 11:

    Drive for 124kms from Yuksom to NJP or Bagdogra as per your convenience.

Why is Goechala trekking so extraordinary?

Before heading towards the itinerary, it is imperative to recognize the reason behind choosing the Goechala trek.The astounding Goechala trek in the Himalayas has some characteristics that make it even more enthralling such as:

  • It is not the same as other trips since it is too close to Mount Kanchenjunga, which makes the highest point of Goechala.
  • The Goechala trek will provide you the opportunity to have a perspective of the culminations of 14 peaks.
  • And all of the above 6000 meters, Goechala trek is one of India's highest trek, so it is for its prosperity.
  • The trek starts from Yuksom city, which is a small village in the state of Sikkim. This place is loaded with conventions and culture.
  • This trip is packed with common magnificence; travelers will see many oak trees, dense rhododendron forests, and wildflowers.
  • The Starting trail is not that short and smooth as compared to other treks. So this trek is not for beginners, unlike various treks in Uttarakhand Himalayas.
  • You get to witness so many heavenly bodies in one place, like the panoramic view of the Sikkim Himalayan ranges, meadows, beautiful forests, waterfall, snow-covered mountains, different species or wildlife, diversity of flora and fauna.
  • Interact with locals and get to know about some of the ancient tales of Indian mythology or the village's local cultures.
Why is Goechala trekking so extraordinary?
A big shout out to the world from the altitude of 4700 meters

Goechala Trek Itinerary

Day1: (Arrival in Siliguri Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway station (NJP) and drive to Yuksom)

Arrive at NJP and get a vehicle to reach Yuksom; it will be a journey of 8-9 hours covering 150 kms. On the way to Yuksom, witness the beauty of nature; you should carry at least two passports sized photos and valid Identity proof. As you reach Yuksom, the old village of Sikkim and the starting point, check into the camp, take some rest, freshen up from a long journey of 8 hours, and get ready for the next day's trek. In the evening you can explore the local market and location, you can also visit local temples on your own.

Day 2: (Trek-Yuksom to Sachen 8km 2300 meter)

You will start your Goechala trek from Yuksom town, which is behind the Forest checkpoint. At the start of the journey, you will walk through the eye-catching fields of Yuksom, and after that, you will cross the majestic Rathong river valley. Most of the trek will be through dense forest where partially sunlight will be visible in the form of rays. One of the attractions of today is the TshushayKhole waterfall, which joins the Prek River. There is river Prek right near your campsite. Overnight stay at camp alongside the gurgling sound of Prek.

Day 3: (Trek-Sachen to Tshoka 8-9Km)

On this day is a steep trek; in the first part of this trek, you will cross a bridge built over river Prek. The whole bridge is tied with Buddhist wishes, swings, and flags. As the bridge is crossed, you will enter the forest of Rhododendron and Oak. You will find the cafes of local popular malt Tumba. You will get a beautiful view of the full Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Pandim. Overnight stay at camps.

Day 4: (Trek-Tshoka to Dzongri 13Km 4200meter)

Today is the most remarkable part of the Sikkim Goechala trek. You will proceed towards Dzongri that is a steep trek. If your trekking season is spring, then your eyes will witness beautiful blooming Rhododendrons. The next point will be Phedang, where you get a clear and clean view of the mountains. Keep on the trek and reach Dzongri, which is full of natural beauty. It is a vast meadow that is walled by snow-covered mountain ranges of Kanchenjunga. Your guides will tell you the names of the peaks and explain the essential points wherever required. Reach Dzongri and overnight stay at wooden cabins.

Day 5: (Trek-Dzongri to Thangsing)

Wake a little early and start your hiking so that you can get a majestic view of the sunrise at Dzongri top. From this point, you will get 180 views of mountains Kanchenjunga and Singalila. You can also get a panorama of Thansing from the top. Prekchu rivers flow along your trek. As you cross the bridge, the Thansing will remain only 2 kms far. You need to cross boulders and rocks to reach the campsite. Nights are freezing there, overnight stay at camp.

Day 6: (Thansing to Lamuney - An Untouched Beauty Walk)

Your destination for this leg of the explore is the picturesque Lamuney valley. Be ready to be mesmerized by the beautiful Samiti Lake and the majesty of the surrounding mountains. You'll feel more in one with nature than ever at Lamuney's pristine peacefulness.

Day7 : (Lamuney to Goechala and back to Kokchurung—The High Point of Adventure)

The trek's completion, in Goechala, comes today, therefore it's the most anticipated day of the adventure. Take in the breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga massif as the mystical daylight sends its golden color over the snow-capped summits. Following your enjoyment of this wonderful time, return to Kokchurung for a well-earned rest. Trek Begin from morning 2am from lamuney-today it is your last challanging day as compare other day and please do no not neglegence for the success of your acchievement.

Day8: (Trek-Thangsing to Tshoka 17Km downhill mostly)

The trail is primarily flat, along with slight elevations and slopes; you will trek through dense forest. It is always suggested to trek slow whenever there are descends. You will find the Rhododendron tree all long the trek by the side of Prekchu river. Overnight stay at Tshoka.

Day 9: (Trek - Descent Tshoka to Yuksom 17Km.)

Covering up all trek again, you will come back to the base camp. It will be an easy trek; you can take a rest at Sachen, from there, most of the trek is descends. It will be your farewell day and the end day of the Goechala trek. Meet your guides and companion, have a healthy discussion and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 10: (This day may go anywhere from Yuksom back to Bagdogra airport 0 NJP Siliguri station)

The Trekking in the Himalayas ends today. Book your cab from Yuksom to NJP and get ready for your next journey, along with lots of memories.

Why choose glacier trek and adventure?
Why choose glacier trek and adventure?

Why choose Glacier Trek And Adventure?

 

  • Government Registered: Glacier treks and adventure company is a leading Trekking Base company in Sikkim that is registered under the department of Sikkim tourism.
  • Eco-friendly practices: When we are on a trek, we follow every practice to keep our environment clean and beautiful. We are constantly working on the trail to reduce the garbage in the route.
  • Safety: We ensure the safety of our trekkers; we not only believe in taking you up to the highest point but bringing you back to basecamp safely with full excitement.
  • Experience: With years of experience, we work full-fledged as a company that deals in mountain climbing and trekking guide. When you book with us, you will just enjoy the trip with no worries.
  • Hospitality: Though we do not have electricity in the campsites we ensure to provide you with a comfortable stay for a fresh start the next day.
  • Trek Guarantee: Once you book with Glacier treks and adventure, then we are sure to take you on the trek until any natural disaster or Government circular overrule the trek.

What To Pack For Goechala Trek?

When you are packing the essentials, we are here to help you jot down some of the compulsory and suggested items you need to carry.


Compulsory Things to carry:

  • Backpack (Min 55 Ltrs): We recommend a genuine quality backpack from a reputed brand; try it before buying.
  • Floaters or Sandals: When you are at the campsite, they will help to move smoothly.
  • Trekking Shoes: Always invest in good quality trekking shoes, we recommend Forclaz 500 by Quechua or woodland for Goechala Trek. They are lightweight, have good grip, strong, and are readily available throughout India.

Accessories to carry:

  • 1 Trekking Pole
  • Water Bottle 1 Lt
  • Headlamp or torch with extra pair of cells
  • Personal Toilet Kit and toilet paper

Suggested items to carry on the trek:

  • Lip Balm
  • Cold Cream and Sunscreen (SPF 40+)
  • Moisturizers
  • Dark Sunglasses
  • Flip-flops
  • Portable chargers
  • A bag to keep wet cloths
  • Little extra cash for the meals not covered in the package
  • A fully charged camera with a colossal memory card and extra batteries

Personal Medicine Kit to Carry

For the medication information please ast to the travel expert

Fitness Required For Goechala Trek

Goechala has been rated as an arduous trek. On most days, you are traveling 20 kms at a high altitude. Trekking for 20 kms every day with a backpack on can exhaust the hardiest trekkers as well. This trek requires you to be in your top bodily fitness.

How to get fit for a trek?

Although walking is something utmost people do every day, we firmly request you to train yourself for the trek. You should begin training multiple months before your trek, and we're here to assist you in understanding and guiding you on achieving optimum fitness. You will enjoy this request considerably more if you are physically fit. If you walk daily and have a good fitness level, you will need to train for this type of long-distance walking at higher altitudes.

Why fitness regime?

Three months before the trek, you need to develop a solid framework of fitness for the mountains. Concentrate on dedicating these months for your fitness with a personalized training schedule as specified here for difficult treks.

Here are some reasons why you should obey a fitness regime before the trek:

  • As we reach a higher altitude in a trek, the air becomes diluted. To meet up with the decreasing oxygen level, we need to strengthen aerobic fitness.
  • When we oppose gravity and walk for a sustained duration on a steep slope with a backpack, the situation demands moderate strength and persistence training.
  • Carrying a backpack, however, light can become an exertion after a while. A fitness regime will help you to be in a safe place before the trek.

Some suggestions you must follow for your fitness schedule:

Boost your aerobic fitness:

It stimulates your heart, decreasing the chance of heart stroke.

  • It improves circulation, breathing, and endocrine functions.
  • It tones muscles and strengthens bones.
  • It makes your lungs healthy.
  • It gives the ability to attend less air for more work.
  • It also aids the body to acclimatize better to the colder weather at the trek.

The quicker you move, the better is your cardiovascular workout. But try to keep an even pace and maintain a steady velocity.

To walk faster:

  • Quicken your arm movements.
  • Take smaller and quicker steps.

Strength Training

Concentrate on developing strength in your legs, back, shoulders, arms, and abdominal muscles. Besides, you need to add some strength and flexibility training to your workout schedule.

Why stretching?

  • Flexibility is the capacity of muscles and tendons to rest and stretch easily.
  • It defines the amount of shift your bones can make in any direction around joints such as shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees.
  • It corrects your posture and helps to stop low back pain.
  • Stretching your hamstrings, quadriceps, hip flexors, and low back muscles repeatedly encourages relaxation in the tissues decreasing the strain on your back.
  • On your trek, you must arrive on the slopes with your muscles relaxed.

Stay Hydrated

Going low on fluids reduces your strength, adds to tiredness, and makes you more sensitive to getting altitude illness. Focus on staying well hydrated throughout your training.

Focus on optimizing sleep

Try to get atleast eight hours of sleep at night throughout your training. People usually have trouble sleeping at higher altitudes, and reduced sleep will make your excursion much more difficult.

Main Attraction Of The Place

Whenever a visitor thinks of visiting a place, the first thing that comes to mind is what is so special about that place? What are the main attractions of that region? So In this section, we have described some of the main attractions of the Goechala trek that attract trekkers from around the world.

  • Sunrise on the Kanchenjunga Range:

    One of the most prominent highlights of the Goechala trek is the sunrise scene on the Kanchenjunga range. Even though trekkers are not allowed to the actual Goecha Pass, the view from ViewPoint 1 and Dzongri is worth the time and effort.

  • Rhododendrons in April and May:

    Rhododendron forests cover the complete Goechala trail. In spring and summer or in April and May, they burst to life with pink and red flowers! It's a delightful walk through the wooden-log trails of these jungles.

  • The Samiti Lake:

    The Samiti Lake is another prominent attraction on the Goechala trek. The view of the still waters, and the shadow of Mt Pandim in the lake, especially in the early morning hours, is a treat to the eyes.

  • Dense jungle at 12,000 feet:

    There are very few treks in India with treeline at such a higher altitude. The treeline is about 10,000 ft. And I found that extremely uncommon, especially the thick canopy of Rhododendron trees which blooms during the misty spring and are dull and cold during autumn.

  • Three suspension bridges:

    You need to cross these suspension bridges over three deep abysses – Pha Khola, Tshushay Khola, and Mentogang Khola, through which the Prek chu river flows. The experience of gawking into the deep abyss from these suspension bridges is precious.

  • A monastery at Tsokha:

    You are almost at 9,500 ft, and there is a monastery! The monastery is not precisely at Tsokha. You will need to take a trail that goes out of the campsite and cross a wooden bridge. It is such a peaceful setting where you can meditate in the middle of the mountain.

  • Camping at the foot of Pandim:

    Thansing is the most pictorial campsite of the trek. It is a stiff meadow on the riverbed of Prekchu. At Thansing, you will have to stay in a tent just at the foot of Mt. Pandim, next to the Prek chu river. Sitting next to the river, watching Mt Pandim for long moments will be a magical experience altogether.

Cancellation Policy

  • 90% of the total booking amount is not refundable under any circumstance.
  • If you cannot make it to the trek on a given date due to unavoidable causes, we provide you with a very flexible choice of changing to another trek within the next 365 days. 365 days is counted from the starting date of the trek you initially scheduled with us.
  • In case you postpone your trip, you need to inform it prior to 15 days before the trek start date. For modifying any trip, you need our approval first. You must write your request through your registered email with us.
  • If you Cancel a trek from14 days to 7 days before starting date, your Booking Amount is 30% Refundable. You can opt for the trip within the next 365 days, but the amount of 30% will be deducted and non-refundable on any merged trips.
  • If you cancel a trek 6 days before starting date, 90% of the charges are non-refundable.
  • In case of any unforeseen incident,during on trek, including natural disasters, like flood, earthquake, landslide, forest fire or physical unfit in this kind of case we do not get back any refund.

Is Goechala Trek Safe?

Goechala is a high-altitude trek that takes you ahead of 16,000 ft. The trail escalates rapidly, and your safety depends a lot on the training you put in for the hike.

Goechala is safe as the tracks are concerned. The whole trail is well designed and wide, where you do not require any particular skill for navigation.

The trek is, though, challenging and tedious. If you have previous trekking experience in the Himalayas, it benefits in accustoming you to the hardship. Knowing about Acute Mountain Sickness helps in dealing with altitude problems you may encounter on the trek.

Here are some of the risks that you might face on your trek with a solution to overcome them.

Risk: "Altitude"

Before you commence the trek, it is essential to understand your body's effect on high altitude. Be familiarized with AMS symptoms (Acute Mountain Sickness) like mild headache, nausea, and prevailing distress.

Response:

If you feel any of these symptoms, inform the trek guide on precedence and follow his directions. Every campsite has a stretcher, a fully equipped first aid kit, oxygen cylinders to attend to such situations.

Risk: "Weather"

It is always unpredictable in the Himalayas. Though we constantly observe the uncertain weather, no one can guarantee a snowfall, rain, or sun. Do comprehend that your security is of utmost importance to us and we will not continue any further from the campsite if the weather is not favorable.

Response:

The Trek Leaders and Guides' decision to proceed or wait for the weather to get better will be final.

Risk: "Often Injuries"

while trekking over rugged grounds, you might suffer minor injuries like leg twists, bruises, etc. Severe injuries like fractures or significant cuts are sporadic.

Response:

All our Trek guides are Certified Wilderness First Aid responders. They are taught to manage emergencies and tackle minor wounds with a well-equipped first aid kit. In case of serious injuries, the patient is admitted to the nearest medical center.

Risk: "Lack of communication devices"

In the isolated areas of the Himalayas, mobile networks do not reach. On a trek, one is entirely away from the world of calls, SMS, or whatsapp.

Response:

We rely on walkie-talkies and sprinters to interact among the campsites and the base camps.

Connectivity On The Goechala Trek

Last ATM: You will discover it at Jorethang Town. If required, withdraw cash from here. But do not depend upon the last ATM; they too move out of cash. Withdraw cash before you commence your road journey to Yuksom.

Electricity: It is available at the base camp of Yuksom.

Mobile Phone Networks: You will get Airtel and Vodafone connectivity at the base camp.

Network Hotspots: You may get 4G at the base camp. Except for this, there will not be any internet connectivity.

About image
A big shout out to the world from the altitude of 4700 meters

Documents required for the trek by Indians and foreigners

Sikkim is a permit-intensive state to travel. There are different permits required, be you are an Indian or a foreigner, whether you trek or go for a sightseeing car tour. If you are a foreign resident, then you will require extra permits.

Please carry the below-mentioned documents. Documents need to be handed over to the trek leader at the base camp. Please note there is no amenity to get printouts and photocopies at Yuksom.

Indians:

  • Original and three photocopies of government photo identity card(Aadhar card, Voter Id, Pan Card, etc.)
  • 3 passport size photographs
  • Original and three photocopies of Medical Certificate (first part to be filled by a doctor and second part by the trekker)- You will get the form after complete bookings in your email ID.
  • Original and three photocopies of Disclaimer form (to be filled by the trekker) – You will get the form after complete bookings in your email ID.

Foreigners:

  • Original and four xerox copies of Inner Line Permit (ILP)
  • Four passport size photos
  • Original and four photocopies of Passport
  • Visa in Original and four photocopies
  • Original and four photocopies of Medical Certificate (first part to be filled by a doctor and second part by the trekker) – You will get the form after complete bookings in your email ID.
  • Original and four photocopies of Disclaimer form (to be filled by the trekker) - You will get the form after complete bookings in your email ID.
FAQ about Goechala Trek
FAQ

Frequently Questions About Goechala Trek

 

  • What kind of shoes Can I carry? We do not prefer Sports shoes during the trek; you need to carry ankle shoe, for example, Forclaz 500 or Woodland.
  • How much can weight I carry along with me during the trek? It depends on your requirements, but it is always advised to have a low weight bag with all essential things.
  • What will be the weather of Goechala trekking? It depends on which month you are coming to trek because during summers; the temperature is in the daytime is above 19 degrees Celsius. In winters, it sometimes even falls below -19 degrees Celsius.
  • Is first aid required to bring during the trek? Yes, of course, it is mandatory to bring essential medicines and first aid with you during even a small trek.
  • Can we go on a solo trek to Goechala? It is always preferred to go in a group to trek. But if you wish to go alone, you can either be included in another group or get a personalized package to have a solo trek.
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