Goechala Trek—Sikkim Himalayas Trek
Total duration: 10 days (2 days traveling / 8 days trekking)
Best time for trekking: April—June & September—November
Grade: Difficult
Altitude: Goechala trek pass 1 is 4,750 meters, and Goechala pass 2 is 4,940 meters
The total Distance of Trekking Trails: 28 kms (Approx.) 90 km
Significant Description: 180-degree panorama of Kanchenjunga and other surrounding Himalayan peaks
How to reach Goechala:
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station and drive to Yuksom—trek to Sachen-Tshoka-Dzongri-Thangsing-Lamuney-Goechala Pass-Thansing-Tshoka-Yuksom—drive back to Baghdogra Airport and fly home.
Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Sikkim Himalayas, deep inside the heart of a pristine rhododendron forest, trekkers traverse some of India's most spectacular and untrampled trails while trekking to Goechala. The Goechala trek pass gives you an up-close view of the spectacular Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
It begins from Yuksom, a historic town in the region, and unravels through dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and stunning high-altitude terrains that appear to be frozen in time. The trail is a gradual and continuous climb, giving you enough time to acclimatize as well as some of the most mesmerizing views of nature. In between, you pass among calm mountain lakes, age-old Buddhist monasteries, and silent hamlets of native Lacha and Bhutia communities; all the way, it is cultural enlightenment along with the trekking circuit.
The trek's main attraction is the Goechala trek, the pass height at 4,940 meters, which offers trekkers a breathtaking 180-degree vista of the Kanchenjunga massif hulking overhead. At the natural amphitheater, surrounded by snow-capped peaks like Pandim, Rathong, Koktang, and Jopuno. The sunrise and sunset are enchanting places to capture for photographers and nature lovers.
The trek also passes through the gorgeous Dzongri Top that presents panoramic views of green valleys and high peaks. The flora is varied, with seasonal eruptions of rhododendrons, primulas, and orchids lighting up the landscape in shocking eruptions of color. Sightings of wildlife range from Himalayan monal pheasants and barking deer to the elusive snow leopard.
Goechala Trek Short Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Bagdogra/NJP—Drive to Yuksom 7 hrs. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2: Yuksom to Sachen (3-hour drive)—Overnight stay
Day 3: Sachen to Tshoka (8 km trek, 4 hours) Overnight camp.
Day 4: Tshoka to Dzongri (10 km trek, 5-6 hours)—Camp at night
DAY 5: Dzongri to Thansing 6 hrs. trek, 12 km overnight camp
Day 6: Thangsing to Lamuney, 3 km, approximately 4100 meters.
Day 7: Lamuney to Goechala Pass, 2.5 km approx. and 4750 meters approx. Get back to camp, have some lunch, and descend to Thangsing.
Day 8: Thansing-Tshoka (12 km, 5-6 hrs)—Camp overnight
Day 9: Yuksom to Tshoka (11 kms, 5-6 hours)—Overnight
Day 10: Yuksom to Baghdogra airport and fly to home.
Why choose the Goechala Trek?
Goechala is the best Himalayan adventure trek, known for an amazing combination of solitude with raw wilderness and unmatched views of the Kanchenjunga range, unlike other popular treks out in this area. It is ideal for adventurers looking for a tough and less commercialized trail of alluring natural scenery and a feel of local culture.
Not recommended for first-timers, beginners, or folks who are not in good physical preparedness, as this is a high-altitude and moderately strenuous trek. However, the payoff is well worth it—expansive mountain views, quiet campsites, and the satisfaction of climbing a high mountain pass.
The Goechala Trek is the perfect way into the untouched virgin wilderness of the Sikkim Himalayas for those tourists who long for it. Opt for the best trek of the Himalayas in the flawless spring or autumn seasons, and enjoy an ultimate adventure fiesta providing spectacular beauty mastery, offering spiritual peace.
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. The Goechala trek cost is INR 19,500, including accommodation from Day 1 to Day 9 with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For international trekkers, the cost is $450 per person, covering the trek from Yuksom to Yuksom. Both Indian and international trekkers will receive complimentary accommodation with breakfast and dinner in Yuksom, and during the trek, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, tea, etc.), tents, sleeping bags, and mats will be provided. Prices may fluctuate depending on offers available from time to time.
Transportation
We can arrange the transportation, like the pickup up and drop-off service provide by the customer request
And for the pickupcharge of the full vehicle reserve, it costs 8000 from the airport to Yuksom and NJP to Yuksom.
And another option: you may get the shared cab from the Junction and from SNP Sikkim National Transport. Otherwise, you may consult with your travel agent.
How do the travel arrangements work?
We will create a WhatsApp group one week before the travel date for participants. The group will provide detailed information and guidelines for reaching Yuksom, following the travel company’s instructions.
Can the Goechala trek be customized?
Yes, we can arrange a customized package based on the client’s dates and preferences. Please note that the price for customized packages may differ from fixed departures, and the level of service will be adjusted accordingly. However, rest assured, we always provide high-quality service, regardless of your budget. Our primary goal is to provide our trekkers with an unforgettable experience. Simply book your trek with us, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventurous journey.
Goechala Trek Cost Inclusion and Exclusion
Cost Inclusion
- Accommodation: Stay in Yuksom on a triple-sharing basis. Dinner and breakfast will be self-arranged at Yuksom.
- Equipment: During the trek, we provide A-shape/dome alpine trekking tents on a twin-sharing basis. We also offer pure down feather sleeping bags, thick camping mattresses, and other essential gear.
- Meals: We provide pure vegetarian meals throughout the trek, except for eggs.
- Yaks/Porters: Yaks and porters are available for carrying camping equipment, meals, and vegetables.
- Trekking Staff: A professional trekking guide and kitchen staff will accompany the group.
- Permits: Entry fees, permits, etc., are included.
- First Aid: A first aid medicine kit will be available. Oxygen: Oxygen cylinders are provided if necessary.
Cost Exclusion
- Transportation: Transportation from Siliguri (our main pick-up point) is not included in the trek cost. Participants coming to NJP and Bagdogra should reach the Siliguri pick-up point.
- Air Tickets: Any domestic or international flight tickets are not included.
- Personal Porter Charges: Charges for carrying personal items such as still/video cameras and luggage are not included.
- Other Personal Expenditures: Alcohol, soft drinks, bottled water, beverages, laundry, telephone calls, etc.Meals during travel:
- Meals taken while traveling in the car are not included.
- Emergency Costs: Costs arising due to disaster circumstances like landslides, roadblocks, or bad weather are not covered.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included.
- Bag Offloading: If you prefer not to carry your luggage during the trek and would like to use a yak porter for your bags, there will be an additional INR 3000 charge. This must be paid at the time of your trek booking. We do not accept requests for offloading bags at the last minute.
How To Reach Goechala
How To Reach Goechala.
To embark on the Goechala Trek, your journey begins and ends at Yuksom, a town in Sikkim. Yuksom is located approximately 150 km from the junction of Siliguri, New Jalpaiguri (NJP), and Bagdogra in West Bengal. You can reach these locations by train or flight, and the mode of transportation you choose will determine how you proceed from there.
By Flight.
The nearest airport to Yuksom is Bagdogra, which serves Siliguri. Bagdogra is well-connected by flights from major cities such as Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. If you're traveling from any of these cities, you can easily book a flight to Bagdogra and proceed from there.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Yuksom is NJP (New Jalpaiguri), located in Siliguri. Most trains to NJP depart from Kolkata, and there are also northeast-bound trains from Delhi that directly reach NJP without going through Kolkata. Be mindful that trains to NJP can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
By Bus.
If flights and trains are not viable options due to high costs or availability, you can opt for a bus. First, travel to Kolkata by train or flight, and from there, take a bus to Siliguri. The bus journey takes about 14 hours, and while it’s a long ride, it offers sleeper buses, and the roads are generally direct.
Once you reach Siliguri, here’s how to get to Yuksom:
From Siliguri to Yuksom.
You have two options to reach Yuksom from Siliguri:
Private reserve cab and Shared cab.
Private Cab.
Renting a private cab is the most comfortable and hassle-free option. The drive takes around 8 hours.
Shared Transport.
If you opt for shared transport, you’ll first need to travel to Jorethang:
Siliguri to Jorethang: Take a shared cab from outside the bus stand in Siliguri. The journey takes about 4 hours (87 km).
Jorethang to Yuksom: From Jorethang, you’ll catch another shared cab to Yuksom. The drive takes approximately 4 hours.
Important Note: The last shared taxi from Jorethang to Yuksom departs at 1:30 pm, so make sure to arrive at Jorethang by noon. To catch this taxi, plan to leave Siliguri by 7 am.
Key Details to Keep in Mind:
Jorethang has a large multi-level bus stand, and vehicles to Yuksom depart from here. Most of these vehicles leave by 2 pm.
If you’re traveling from Jorethang, you should expect to reach Yuksom by about 6 pm, assuming you depart on time.
Whether you choose a private cab or shared taxi, you will finally reach Yuksom, the basecamp for your trek to Goechala
Goechala Trek Package
The price for the Goechala Trek depends on the group size, with discounts available for larger groups. At Glacier Trek Adventures, we offer customized trekking packages tailored for different group sizes. The standard price per person is INR 19,000 in the group departure, and the cost for the customized private trip starts at Rs. 40,000 with an exclusive package for the Yuksom-to-Yuksom trek, but the cost can be reduced if you travel in a group.
Goechala trek Group Discounts:
- Group of 7–8 people: 10% discount
- Group of 8–10 people: 15% discount
As you can see, the larger your group, the more you save. This is because the costs for essential services such as porters, yaks, and guides are shared among the group, making the trek more affordable for everyone.
Why Travel in a Group?
Traveling in a larger group not only offers a cost-effective solution but also enhances your experience. Sharing the expenses allows you to enjoy the stunning beauty of Sikkim at a much lower cost. It’s an ideal way to connect with like-minded trekkers while reducing your personal expenditure.
Important Note on Safety:
While you might be tempted to go for a cheaper trek package, it’s important to prioritize safety and authenticity. Always choose a trek package from a trusted and experienced provider like Glacier Trek Adventures. Cutting corners for the sake of a lower price can compromise your safety, and trekking in such high-altitude regions requires well-maintained equipment, experienced guides, and proper support. Rest assured, our packages offer the best value for the experience, ensuring you enjoy the trek while staying safe.
Why do people take customized trips?
People want to explore and do trips for enjoyment and freedom from noise, and it will take better hospitality and service, and they want to do comfortable journeys and trips. But it is on a private trip to get more care than with a bigger group size. On a private trip, get more choices and independently customize the trip.
Goechala Trek Map
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Goechala Trek Map—The above map provides clear navigation to your destination
The Goechala Trek is one of the most beautiful and fun hikes in India. You can see the Kanchenjunga from here. It is the third-highest mountain in the world. If you want to go on this trek, a full Goechala Trek Map will be very helpful. The Goechala Trek Map shows hikers how to get through thick forests, meadows, and rocky areas so they don't get lost.
The journey begins in Yuksom, a small town in Sikkim. You'll see beautiful scenery along the way until you get to the amazing Goechala Pass. They can see the beautiful Kanchenjunga range and other high peaks, like Mount Pandim and Jannu, while they hike. Tsokha, Phedang, Dzongri, and the Goechala Pass, which is 4,940 meters above sea level, are all important places that a Goechala Trek Map usually shows.
The Goechala Trek Map can help you plan your trip and get around the different parts of the walk if you are going to Goechala on foot. It tells you exactly how far apart the campsites are, what the routes are, and how high they are. These things are all essential for staying safe and getting to know the area. The map can also help hikers find water, important places, and ways to get out in case of an emergency. Such information will make it easier and safer for them to walk.
The Goechala Trek Map is essential for both new and experienced trekkers. It helps people who are going on the Goechala Trek plan their trip so they don't miss any of the beautiful scenery and amazing views that make it one of India's best treks. Before you go, get a Goechala Trek Map so you can be sure everything goes well and you have a wonderful time.
Goechala Trek Route
Goechala Trek Route guide information
The Goechala trek is a thrilling adventure that takes you through dense forests, monasteries, mountain bridges, rhododendron meadows, and stunning views. Our team at Glacier Treks Adventure follows a well-designed route to make your journey both exciting and memorable. The route is as follows:
Yuksom
Our journey begins in Yuksom, a beautiful town that is the starting point of the trek. We take a scenic 8-hour drive (150 km) from Siliguri to Yuksom, along the Teesta River, introducing you to the enchanting landscapes of Sikkim. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed at a guest house, where you'll receive a briefing about the trek, the route, environmental conditions, and the rules to follow during the journey.
Sachen
The first destination of our trek is Sachen, located at 7,200 feet. This part of the trek takes around 6 hours to complete. You will pass through small villages and dense forests, where you’ll likely encounter yaks and mules. Along the way, you will cross pristine rivers, admire orchids, and take in the mesmerizing sight of the Tshushay Khola waterfalls.
Tshoka
The trek to Tshoka is 8 km long and takes approximately 5-7 hours, with a steep elevation gain. The path passes through the forested Bakhim region, plantations, and the crystalline waters of the Prek Chu river. This leads to the Tibetan refugee settlement of Tshoka, where you’ll experience the cultural touch of Sikkim's Tibetan community.
Dzongr
Waking up to the sight of the sunrise over the Himalayan summits is one of the highlights of the trek. The trek to Dzongri will take 9-10 hours, with a steep and rocky ascent. You'll need to carefully navigate over stones and pebbles, walking amidst thick, red rhododendron forests. The rest stop at Phedang is perfectly placed in the middle of the trek, offering a brief break. The final destination, Dzongri, presents an awe-inspiring view of snowy mountain peaks and small Buddhist worship sites.
Thangsing
The trek to Thansing offers stunning views of the magnificent peaks of Kanchenjunga, Kabru, Mt. Pandim, Koktak, and several other summits. Soak in these views before continuing towards Thansing. The descent to Kokcharang on the way to Thansing is beautiful and offers a clearer perspective of the mountains.
Lamuney
The trek to Lamuney is one of the easiest stretches, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude. The beautiful, peaceful trails pass through meadows and wide pastures. This is a day of rest and acclimatization as you prepare for the next phase of the trek.
Goechala
On the final day of the trek, we start early to avoid the harsh weather conditions later in the day. After crossing Samiti Lake, a steep ascent leads to the Goechala viewpoint, situated at an elevation of 15,100 feet. The views are worth every step—gaze at the breathtaking sunrise casting a reddish glow over the white peaks. The majestic Kanchenjunga and other towering mountains will captivate your heart and soul. This is the highlight of the trek.
Return to Yuksom
After reaching Goechala, we follow the reverse route back to Yuksom, where our journey initially began. The trek completes in 10 days, covering a distance of 4700 meters in elevation and returning to base camp. The entire trek is a fulfilling adventure that you will remember for a lifetime.
Some more information about the Goechala trek
Goechala Temperature and Weather
The Sikkim region is known for its moist weather conditions almost year-round. 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 those background details in mind, let's jump deeper into the weather of these two seasons.
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. Temperature downfall, moreover, in late October/November. In November, the temperature may fall as low as -5°C to -10°C at Dzongri, -10°C to -12°C at Lamuney, -10°C to -15°C at on the top of Goechala, But the temperature it is not stable all the time because it always depends on the weather, climate, and month. Do account for strong wind at times, which makes you feel even colder. The temperature inside the tent will be around 7 to 10°C warmer than that outside. During the daytime, the temperature will be calm and may vary from 5°C to 20°C depending upon altitude and weather.
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 happy trekking.
Why is Goechala Trekking So Extraordinary?
Before diving into the itinerary, it's important to understand why the Goechala Trek stands out among the many trekking experiences in the Indian Himalayas. This awe-inspiring trek in Sikkim offers unique features that make it truly extraordinary:
1. Proximity to Mount Kanchenjunga
Unlike other treks, Goechala brings you face-to-face with the mighty Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. The highest viewpoint of the trek offers an incredibly close view of its majestic south-west face, a sight that leaves every trekker in absolute awe.
2. Views of 14 Snow-Capped Peaks
Goechala provides a rare opportunity to witness panoramic views of 14 prominent Himalayan peaks, all soaring above 6,000 meters. This includes Mt. Pandim, Mt. Tinchenkang, Mt. Kabru, and of course, Mt. Kanchenjunga—making it a photographer’s and nature lover’s dream.
3. One of India’s Highest Altitude Treks
At an altitude of over 15,000 feet, Goechala is one of the highest trekking routes in India. This high-altitude adventure demands both stamina and acclimatisation, making it a favourite among seasoned trekkers seeking a true test of endurance and exploration.
4. Rich Cultural Start at Yuksom
The trek begins at Yuksom, a serene village in West Sikkim known for its historical significance and rich cultural heritage. As the ancient capital of Sikkim, Yuksom holds centuries-old Buddhist monasteries and traditions, adding a spiritual flavour to the expedition.
5. Natural Beauty Like No Other
Throughout the trail, you’ll be enchanted by dense rhododendron forests, ancient oak trees, and wildflower meadows. The vibrant landscape changes dramatically with the seasons, offering blooming flowers in spring and snow-laden paths in winter.
6. A Trek for the Experienced
Unlike beginner-friendly trails in the Uttarakhand Himalayas, Goechala demands prior trekking experience. The route is long and strenuous and includes steep ascents—making it ideal for those seeking a real mountain adventure.
7. Breathtaking Biodiversity
The Goechala trail takes you through Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, you may spot rare species of birds, butterflies, red pandas, and a wide variety of flora and fauna native to the Eastern Himalayas.
8. Spiritual and Local Interactions
As you move through the trail, you'll have the chance to interact with warm-hearted locals, listen to ancient folklore, and gain insights into the indigenous traditions and mythology of the Sikkimese people — enriching your trek with cultural depth.
In short, the Goechala Trek is more than just a high-altitude adventure—it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines natural grandeur, physical challenge, cultural heritage, and Himalayan spirituality. This is what makes it one of the most extraordinary treks in India.
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 you move smoothly.
- Trekking Shoes: Always invest in good quality trekking shoes. We recommend Forclaz 500 by Quechua or Woodland for the Goechala Trek. They are lightweight, have good grip, are strong, and are readily available throughout India.
Accessories to Carry:
- Trekking Pole
- Water Bottle (1 Ltr)
- Headlamp or torch with an 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+)
- Moisturizer
- Dark sunglasses
- Flip-flops
- Portable chargers
- A bag to keep wet clothes
- A 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 ask the travel expert.
What is the Goechala Trek total Distance?
The Goechala Trek is an approximately 86 km long trek that starts and ends at Yuksom. This trek takes you to an elevation of nearly 15,500 feet, and as you approach View Point 1 at 15,100 feet, you get an unforgettable view of the southwest face of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
Though the trek is demanding, reaching the highest point of the Goechala trek makes every step worth it, washing away all the fatigue from the journey. Below is a detailed breakdown of the distances you will cover each day during the trek:
Day 1:
Distance: 124 km (By road)
Details: Drive from NJP/Bagdogra to Yuksom, where you will be introduced to the trek and briefed about the route and necessary guidelines.
Day 2:
Distance: 6.7 km
Details: Begin your trek from Yuksom to Sachen. Along the way, you'll cross three suspension bridges, like Pa-Khola bridge, Chu-saay, Prek-chu River bridges, that swing above deep abysses, with the Prekchu River flowing beneath.
Day 3:
Distance: 5 km
Details: Trek from Sachen to Tshoka. The climb to Bakhim is steep, but the view from Tshoka is rewarding. You'll get a beautiful glimpse of Peiling village on this stretch.
Day 4:
Distance: 9 km
Details: From Tshoka, trek to Dzongri via Phedang. The trail takes you through a lush rhododendron forest, blooming in the spring. After Phedang, you'll get your first sight of the towering Mt. Pandim and Mt. Tinchenkang.
Day 5:
Distance: 8 km
Details: Trek from Dzongri to Thangsing. The journey takes you through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests. Cross the Kokchurang area, with the Prekchu River flowing beneath a wooden bridge before heading towards Thangsing.
Day 6:
Distance: 1.8 km
Details: This is your acclimatisation day. Trek from Thangsing to Lamuney to help your body adjust to the altitude. This short distance allows you to rest and enjoy the natural beauty. Be mindful of any symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness.
Day 7:
Distance: 12.5 km (3.3 km to View Point 1 and 9.2 km return)
Details: Start early and trek from Lamuney to ViewPoint 1 via Samiti Lake. This point offers the first rays of sunrise on Mt. Kanchenjunga. After taking in the breathtaking view, descend to Kokchurang via Thangsing.
Day 8:
Distance: 9.9 km
Details: Descend from Kokchurang to Phedang. From there, trek another 3.2 km through the rhododendron forest to reach Tsokha.
Day 9:
Distance: 11.7 km
Details: The trek today is mostly downhill. Descend steeply to the 4th suspension bridge, then continue to Sachen. After a short ascent, you'll complete the trek and return to Yuksom.
Day 10:
Distance: 124 km (By road)
Details: Drive back from Yuksom to NJP/Bagdogra, marking the end of your journey.
