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Sikkim
Location
Sikkim
Duration
11 days
Max Altitude
15100 ft
Trekking
76 km
Grade
Difficult
Monday–Saturday: 10 AM to 06 PM (GMT +5:30)
Location
Sikkim
Duration
11 days
Max Altitude
15100 ft
Trekking km
76 km
Grade
Difficult
Monday–Saturday: 10 AM to 06 PM (GMT +5:30)
The Goechala trek in Sikkim is counted as one of the most scenic Sikkim treks. The trek takes you closest to the Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. The trek begins in Yuksom, taking you through amazing and scenic landscapes, it gets you back into Yuksom. Covering a distance of around 90 km, the trek usually takes about 11 days, making it a perfect challenge for those seeking both beauty and endurance. During the trek you can enjoy the stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga, and a few other grand peaks of the Himalayas.
As you ascend through dense rhododendron forests, charming meadows, and rugged mountain trails, the journey unfolds like a magical story. The trek passes through Sachen, Tshoka, Dzongri, Thansing, Lamuney, and Samiti Lake, finally reaching the Goechala Viewpoint, where the sight of the mighty Kanchenjunga bathed in golden sunlight is nothing short of beauty. With a difficult grade, this trek demands good fitness and determination, while treating you with the best views, making every step worth it. What makes Goechala truly unique is its raw beauty, the peaceful solitude of the trails, the ever-changing landscapes, and the thrill of witnessing some of the world’s highest peaks up close.
During the Goecha La trek, you can expect amazing views, a variety of terrains and landscapes. The trek takes you through dense forests, mountain bridges, monasteries and rhododendron forests. Goechala Trek is situated very close to Mt. Kanchenjunga so you can witness the towering peak from a very close distance and it is not just Kanchenjunga that you get to witness but a lot of other prominent peaks too. When you stand at the Goechala viewpoint, you will be surrounded by Mount Pandim, Jopuno, Kabru, Rathong, Kokthang, Narsing, Simvo, Goecha peak and many more peaks. So, you can expect a stunning view of grand Himalayan peaks.
Taking you above 15,000 ft it is one of the highest Himalayan treks and as such you need to prepare your body for all sorts of altitude-related problems, it is best to follow the advice of your trek leader at all times. The overall weather of Sikkim is pretty moist year-round and as you get to higher altitudes, the moisture increases, adding to the natural cold conditions. While on the trails, you can expect the temperature to be at around 8 degrees C to 15 degrees C during daytime of spring/summer and it can dip to 0 to -7 degrees C at night. In autumn and winter, the temperature lingers between 8 to 10 degrees C in daytime, while at night it is around 0 to -10, making the trek even more challenging.
Also, while Sikkim trekking, keep in mind that the weather conditions at such high altitudes are perpetually unstable. A bright sunny day can turn cloudy in the blink of an eye or a gust of wind may come all of a sudden that knocks you off your feet, so always be prepared for unpredictable weather for a safe trekking experience. The trek takes you to a high altitude, and at times, the ascent is quite steep, increasing the chances of AMS. However, with proper acclimatization and the right precautions, you can avoid altitude sickness and fully enjoy the experience.
The best time to do the Goechala trek is during spring, summer, and autumn, specifically in March, April, May, September, October, and November. Each season offers a unique experience, so choosing the right time can make a difference in what you see and enjoy while on this Sikkim trek. If you love scenic trails bursting with fresh, colorful flowers, spring is the perfect time to visit. On the other hand, if you prefer clear, crisp views of the towering mountains, the post-monsoon months provide the most unobstructed sights of the peaks. No matter when you go, the trek remains stunning throughout the year, offering beauty in every season.
There are many opportunities for trekking in Sikkim but Goechala is considered to be one of the best treks. The scenic extravaganza and the thrill and adventure offered by this trek is unmatched. While the terrain of the trek is quite difficult, and mainly designed for seasoned trekkers, this experience will completely leave you in awe and wonder at what the world has to offer!
It is essential for everyone to arrive at New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP) (10:00 am)
Once you have reached New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), TTH will manage the rest of your travel arrangements, if you have opted for TTH's pick-up service, you can select this option during the booking process by adding it as an add-on.
Options to reach New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP) railway station.
1. Take a flight to Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, and take a cab to NJP railway station, it’s 20 km away and will take 40 minutes.
2. Take a train to New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP) that is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, Delhi and Mumbai.
( If you prefer to travel independently, you can either take a government bus or book a private cab. Your trek coordinator will provide guidance on how to arrange for the bus or cab booking. )
To request a cancellation, please email us at info@trekthehimalayas.com using your registered email ID.
Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip
Refund Options
Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
Refund Options
Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip
Refund Options
Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek.
Refund Options
Cancellation Policy (Emergency Cases):
In case of a death in the immediate family (parents, siblings, spouse, children) or if the trekker is hospitalized (min. 48 hours) or suffers a fracture (leg/arm) within a week before the trek, even if canceled a day before:
90% trek fee refund in cash & 10% as a voucher (valid for 1 year, for any India trek).
Valid documents required. We’re here to support you during tough times.
Note:
Booking and Payments
Itinerary and Modifications
Cancellations and Refunds
Force Majeure
Government employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when they join us for a trekking expedition. As per Pay Commission guidelines, up to 30 days of Special Casual Leave can be availed in a calendar year for trekking or mountaineering expeditions conducted through a registered organisation.
Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator with the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and the Ministry of Tourism (MoT), making your trek eligible for SCL benefits.
To apply, email us at info@trekthehimalayas at least 30 days before the trek departure date, with the following details:
This benefit is exclusive to Indian Government employees and is applicable only for treks within India.
To do the Goechala Trek, you need a Sikkim Inner Line Permit, which is mandatory for all trekkers. If you are a foreign national, you will also need a Restricted Area Permit.
For the Goechala Trek, pack warm clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, trekking poles, a first-aid kit, and personal toiletries. Also, bring along snacks and energy bars to keep your energy levels up during the trek.
Yes, the Goechala Trek has a risk of altitude mountain sickness (AMS) due to its high elevations. The trek involves long trekking hours, often taking you to altitudes above 15,000 feet, where the air gets thinner, and oxygen levels drop. To minimize the risk of AMS, it is crucial to acclimatize properly, which is why the itinerary includes acclimatization days. Staying well-hydrated, maintaining a steady pace, and listening to your body are also key to staying safe and healthy on this challenging trek. If you experience symptoms like headache, nausea, or dizziness, inform your trek leader immediately to avoid serious health risks.
Yes, a pair of trekking sticks is highly recommended for this long and challenging trek. You can rent trekking sticks from the Trek the Himalayas rental store for extra support and stability on the trail.
For the Goecha La trek, it’s essential to dress in layers. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, followed by insulating layers like fleece or down jackets, 2-3 trek pants, 4-5 pair socks, warm gloves, sun cap, hat, fleece cap, and thermal inners. Don’t forget to bring thermal innerwear, a hat, gloves, and a scarf or buff to protect against the cold.Improvise, use simple and similar words.
The best treks to do in Sikkim are Bajre Dara and Goechala.
The Goechala trek is located in Sikkim. It starts from Yuksom, a little town that serves as the gateway to Kanchenjunga National Park. The trek takes you through dense rhododendron forests, and meadows. After days of walking, the trek finally takes you to the viewpoint, where you will find the extremely mesmerising Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
Goechala trek is said to be a difficult trek and one needs to be physically fit and well to attempt it. It is a high altitude 90km trek, and covered in 11 days with many hours, sharp ascents and descents. The paths are uncivilized and stony with often uncertain weather topped by an even more challenging journey. To prevent Acute Mountain Sickness one has to properly acclimatize. This is an amazing journey in the Himalayas, which provides excellent scenery and awesome adventure once you are ready to give it a go and you are well prepared!
On Goechala trek, the maximum altitude gain is 15,100 ft. Due to high altitude, trekkers need to be aware of acclimatization and AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). The itinerary is designed to allow gradual acclimatization, with a proper rest.
The trek in Goechala provides the best scenery of a third world highest peak Kanchenjunga. You will go through a wonderful forest of rhododendrons with colors of the flowers varying; you may even encounter some exotic species of birds, which make the view even more beautiful on the way there. The trek also brings you to calm lakes high up on the mountains and allows you the opportunity to experience the distinct culture of distant Himalayan villagers.
Acclimatization is very important. Follow the itinerary carefully, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion in the first few days. Inform your trek leader immediately if you feel symptoms like headache, dizziness, or nausea.
This trek is more recommended to those trekkers who have done previous trek in high altitude already. It is severe high-altitude exposure, low temperatures and very long distances that give absolute novices a hard time. Nevertheless, when it is properly prepared and one is mentally ready, then it can be done.
The trek is very famous for its views.
You will find some of the most amazing sunrise views on Kanchenjunga from Dzongri and Goechala.
Walking through dense rhododendron forests, which turn into a carpet of red and pink in spring.
The beautiful Samiti Lake.
The experience of camping at Dzongri and Thansing, with Himalayan peaks all around.
The massive Kanchenjunga range and surrounding views
To maintain yourself comfortable at different temperatures, carry: Warm Clothing, Waterproof Jacket and Pants, Sturdy Trekking Boots, Sleeping Bag, Trekking Poles, Sunglasses, Sunscreen, and Lip Balm, Personal Medications and First Aid Kit.
You may begin fitness training at least a month early. You can involve cardio activities such as jogging, cycling, and climbing stairs. To build strength, work on legs, core, and back. Take long walks or hikes, train up the endurance to 6-7 hours of walking a day. Moreover, practice with a loaded backpack to get accustomed to it.
Goechala trek is one of the most famous and very safe treks. It is always recommended to do this trek with an experienced organization. In this trek, the biggest challenge is altitude, for which proper guidance is necessary. Acclimation and hydration are very important. In the Himalayas, weather can be unpredictable too, but with trained leaders, medical kits, and oxygen cylinders carried on the trek, safety is well taken care of.
During the trek, accommodation is mainly in tents set up at campsites. On the first and last day at Yuksom, trekkers stay in guesthouses. Campsites are set up in scenic locations like Tshoka, Dzongri, and Thansing. In these locations, you will experience the raw beauty of Sikkim.
The trek itself is very beautiful, and staying overnight in its beauty gives all the feel of nature, happiness of camping and adventure.
The trek takes 11 days, and the itinerary includes:
Day 1: Arrival at Yuksom
Day 2: Yuksom to Sachen
Day 3: Sachen to Tshoka via Bakhim
Day 4: Tshoka to Dzongri via Phedang
Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Dzongri
Day 6: Dzongri to Thansing via Kokchhurung
Day 7: Thansing to Lamuney
Day 8: Lamuney to Goechala via Samiti Lake back to Thansing/Kokchhurung
Day 9: Thansing/Kokcharang to Tshokha via Phedang
Day 10: Tshokha to Yuksom via Bakhim and Sachen
Day 11: Drive from Yuksom to NJP
Yes, here are a few convenient options located within walking distance of NJP Railway Station:
All these properties are suitable for short stays and provide quick access to the railway station for onward journeys.
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