Goechala Trek
The closest you can get to Mt Kanchenjunga without climbing it
Dates full? Here's another trek with striking views of the Kanchenjunga: The Sandakphu Phalut trek.
Meandering along the Indo-Nepal border, Sandakphu is a cultural treasure trove and a window to some of the highest mountains in the world.View the Sandakphu Phalut Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Difficult
TREK DURATION
10 days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
15,100 ft
TOTAL TREK DISTANCE
73 kms
BASECAMP
Yuksom
ACCOMMODATION TYPE
tents
PICKUP POINT
PICKUP TIME
10.30 AM
DROP OFF TIME
4:00 PM
The closest you can get to Mt Kanchenjunga without climbing it
The biggest reason to do the Goechala trek is the grand views of the big mountains you see. You don’t just see one summit — the Kanchenjunga — but 14 other big summits.
That’s a lot for any trek — especially as close to the eyes as on the Goechala trek. It is no wonder that trekkers consider Goechala to be the closest to the big mountain treks of Nepal.
Before we dive into the details about the Goechala trek, here is a little backdrop of why Goechala is well-known among trekkers all over the world:
Goechala - Complete Trek Information
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Goechala trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
A trek map of the Goechala trek
Day 1
Drive from 2 Mile Check Post, Bhakti Nagar Police Station to Yuksom
Drive Distance: 140 km | Drive Duration: 6-7 hours | Pickup point: 2 Mile Check Post, Bhakti Nagar Police Station | Pickup time: 10.30 AM
The cost is Rs.1500/- (additional 5% GST) per trekker (one-way). These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
Note: In cases of bad weather/ road conditions, the vehicle might have to go through Darjeeling, which will increase the total cost.
Day 2
Trek from Yuksom to Sachen
Trek Distance: 7.50 km | Trek Duration: 5.5 hours | Altitude Gain: 5,840 ft to 7,400 ft
Trek gradient is moderate-difficult. Gradual climb for 2.5 hours after which the trail becomes steeper up to Sachen. Carry 2 litres of water from Yuksom. You will cross streams intermittently where you can refill your water bottles.
Day 3
Sachen to Tshoka via Bakhim
Trek Distance: 6.50 km | Trek Duration: 5.5 hours | Altitude Gain: 7,400 ft to 9,790 ft via 8,640 ft
Moderate gradient with initial rolling terrain through the forests and 40 minutes of ascent from Bakhim in a series of long switchbacks after which the trail eases off into a gradual climb. Carry sufficient water from Sachen.
Day 4
Tshoka to Dzongri via Phedang
Trek Distance: 8.40 km | Trek Duration: 8-9 hours | Altitude Gain: 9,790 ft to 13,190 ft via 12,105 ft
Today is going to be a difficult day. It starts with 30 minutes of steep climb followed by a gradual ascent, after which the trail again climbs steeply for 20 minutes to reach Phedang. 1-hour ascent from here followed by a gentle descent brings you to Dzongri.
Day 5
Dzongri to Dzongri Top and back. Acclimatization day at Dzongri
Trek Distance: 2 km | Trek Duration: 2.5-3 hour | Altitude Gain and Loss: 13,190 ft to 13,670 ft and back to 13,190 ft
The day starts with a climb to Dzongri Top. Dzongri Top at 13,670 ft, is the highest point from where you get 180-degree panoramic view of the mighty peaks such as Kakthong, Rothang, Kabru South, Kabru North, Kabru Dome, Kanchenjunga, Pandim, and the Lama Lamini peaks.
Day 6
Dzongri to Thansing via Kokchurang
Trek Distance: 6.55 km | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Altitude Loss and Gain: 13,190 ft to 12,910 ft via 12,090 ft
Gentle descent for about 2 hours followed by a steep descent to Kokchurang. Continuous ascent from here to Thansing. Carry 2 litres of water from Dzongri. The only water source on the way where you can refill your water bottles will be at Kokchurang.
Day 7
Thansing to View Point 1 via Samiti Lake; and back to Thansing
Trek Distance: 16 km | Trek Duration: 12-14 hours | Altitude Gain and Loss: 12,910 ft to 15,100 ft via 14,120 ft; and back to 12,910 ft
The longest day of your trek. The distance is long, followed by continuous ascent to reach View Point 1. Stay well hydrated and carry 2 litres of water before beginning the summit climb as well as before the descent to Thansing. There will be no water source on either stretch.
Day 8
Thansing to Tshoka via Kokchurang and Phedang
Trek Distance: 13 km | Trek Duration: 9 hours | Altitude Loss: 12,910 ft to 9,790 ft via 12,090 ft and 12,105 ft
Continuous ascent till Kokchurang, followed by relatively flat trail to Phedang for about 4 hours, and a steep descent to Tshoka. Stay well hydrated and carry 2 litres of water from Thansing since there is no water source on the trail today.
Day 9
Tshoka to Yuksom via Bakhim and Sachen
Trek Distance: 13 km | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Altitude Loss: 9,790 ft to 5,840 ft via 8,640 ft and 7,400 ft
Continuous descent to Sachen, followed by an undulating trail to Yuksom. Carry sufficient water from Tshoka. You will cross a few streams where you can refill your water bottles.
Day 10
Drive back from Yuksom to 2 Mile Check Post, Bhakti Nagar Police Station
Drive Distance: 170 km | Drive Duration: 7-8 hours | Drop off point: 2 Mile Check Post, Bhakti Nagar Police Station | Drop off time: 4 PM
Transport will be arranged by Indiahikes. The cost is Rs.1500/- (additional 5% GST) per trekker (one-way). These are non-AC vehicles. Please pre-book your transport through the dashboard before your trek.
Please note: The distance between campsites may vary by 100 meters depending the weather conditions and the route you take. The altitude may also vary by 100 feet for similar reasons.
IMPORTANT POINTS
- It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo ID for entry at forest check posts on the trek.
- At the base camp, your stay will be arranged in lodges
- On the trek, you will be staying 2 in a tent
- We have a cloakroom facility at the base camp for excess luggage. Anything beyond one bag is chargeable at Rs 500 per luggage. Do not leave behind any valuables in the cloakroom.
A Note for foreigners: Foreigners have to register for the trek in a group of 2 and above. Along with that, there are different permits to be obtained for your trek.
- The ILP (Inner line Permit or Sikkim permit) for foreigners - Check this link for more details – http://sikkim.nic.in/homedept/ilpfaqs.htm. You can obtain these outside the Bagdogra airport or at the check post before entering Sikkim from Siliguri.
- Trek permit for all trekkers – Obtained at the forest check post at Yuksom. The fee varies for students (ID card required), regular Indian citizens (ID proof required) and foreigners.
- Special trek permit for foreigners - Foreigners need to obtain a special permit at Gangtok to trek in Sikkim. Indiahikes can help you obtain this permit. The charges for obtaining the permit will be Rs 2,500 per person and has to be paid to our representative who will meet you at Yuksom. Please make sure to send your ID (Visa and Passport) 10 days before to your Experience Coordinator.
- Citizens of China and Myanmar are not permitted to trek in this area.
Day 1 (Pick-up Day): Drive from 2 Mile Check Post to Yuksom
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours drive
Altitude: 5,840 ft
Driving Distance: 135 km
Highlights: Watch out for the Teesta river that keeps company till you cross West Bengal. Once you enter Sikkim at the Melli check post, the Rangeet river that joins Teesta at the border between two states is your constant companion.
The Goechala trek starts at Yuksom, a fairly large settlement in West Sikkim. It was once the capital of Sikkim – this shows in the culture of the town.
There are two things that you need to do at Yuksom before the trek begins. One, make an entry at the police station. For this, you need a photo identity proof with three photocopies. Two, you need to pay the permit fees at the forest check post (trekkers do this in the morning when they are starting the trek). The fee to be paid is broken down into small elements like tent, porter, yak and other charges. Camera charges are extra. It can get somewhat confusing, but the net amount will boil down to about Rs.700 per person. Your Trek Leader will help you with this.
The Goechala trek starts at Yuksom, a fairly large settlement in West Sikkim. It was once the capital of Sikkim – this shows in the culture of the town.
There are two things that you need to do at Yuksom before the trek begins. One, make an entry at the police station. For this, you need a photo identity proof with three photocopies. Two, you need to pay the permit fees at the forest check post (trekkers do this in the morning when they are starting the trek). The fee to be paid is broken down into small elements like tent, porter, yak and other charges. Camera charges are extra. It can get somewhat confusing, but the net amount will boil down to about Rs.700 per person. Your Trek Leader will help you with this.
Day 2: Trek from Yuksom to Sachen
Trek Duration: 5.5 hours
Altitude Gain: 5,840 ft to 7,400 ft
Difficulty: Moderate-difficult. Gradual climb for 2.5 hours after which the trail becomes steeper up to Sachen.
Highlights: Thick rain forest with a suspension bridge and a gushing stream called Pha Khola right at the entrance of the national park.
Water sources: Carry 2 litres of water from Yuksom. You will cross streams intermittently where you can refill your water bottles.
The trail, though passing through the fringes of the forest is exposed for about half-hour. Midway through the exposed trail, look for a shelter on your right. From here onwards it is a half-hour to the first bridge over the Pha Khola. By the time the trail gets to Pha Khola, you are well into the thick of the forest and the coolness envelopes you at all times. The gently undulating trail climbs gradually.
The next hour and a half is a pleasant walk through the moist jungle until suddenly on your left the Tshushay Khola falls in a series of mini-waterfalls joining the Prek Chu river below. 50 meters later a large iron bridge spans the Tshushay Khola. After the bridge, the trail begins to climb more noticeably.
An hour later, watch for another small cement bridge over the Mentogang Khola (you won’t find a board telling you the name). You are already at 7,100 feet and it is only twenty minutes from here to the log hut of Sachen.
The trail, though passing through the fringes of the forest is exposed for about half-hour. Midway through the exposed trail, look for a shelter on your right. From here onwards it is a half-hour to the first bridge over the Pha Khola. By the time the trail gets to Pha Khola, you are well into the thick of the forest and the coolness envelopes you at all times. The gently undulating trail climbs gradually.
The next hour and a half is a pleasant walk through the moist jungle until suddenly on your left the Tshushay Khola falls in a series of mini-waterfalls joining the Prek Chu river below. 50 meters later a large iron bridge spans the Tshushay Khola. After the bridge, the trail begins to climb more noticeably.
An hour later, watch for another small cement bridge over the Mentogang Khola (you won’t find a board telling you the name). You are already at 7,100 feet and it is only twenty minutes from here to the log hut of Sachen.
Sachen at 7,400 feet is a small clearing where a single log hut and a shelter on the trail exist. The log hut is a few meters below the trail. The hut has room enough for about 6-7 and a small area to cook. For a larger team, look for the clearing just above the trail opposite the shelter. The Prek Chu river runs below the campsite and is not visible, though you can hear it faintly rushing below.
Day 3: Trek from Sachen to Tshoka via Bakhim
Trek Duration: 5.5 hours
Altitude Gain: 7,400 ft to 9,790 ft via 8,640 ft
Difficulty: Moderate gradient with initial rolling terrain through the forests and 40 minutes of ascent from Bakhim in a series of long switchbacks after which the trail eases off into a gradual climb.
Highlights: The sight of Prek Chu river as you come out of the forest into clearings. Walk on two suspension bridges with the river rushing right below you. The monastery with its first sighting of snow-clad mountains from Tshoka.
Water sources: Carry sufficient water from Sachen.
Take the trail that begins to climb to the left of the bridge. The trail climbs sharply through a mixed oak forest until the wide switchbacks level somewhat half-hour later at the sight of the first rhododendrons. The altitude gain is rapid and the air gets cooler perceptively. Soon the trail climbs to the ridge and stays there until you get to Bakhim another half hour later. From the Prek Chu river, it takes an hour to get to Bakhim. The total distance is only a kilometre but feels a lot longer.
Bakhim has a Forest Rest House and some trekkers like staying at Bakhim – simply for its view of the Yuksom valley. Finding the caretaker is a struggle and most trekkers move on to Tshoka which is another hour away.
Bakhim has a lovely tea stall where the owner dishes out some snacks as well. With a well-deserved rest, start your climb to Tshoka. Follow the trail just behind the Forest Rest House. The trail again climbs in a series of long switchbacks, overlooking Bakhim until forty minutes later it dives around a ridge to move to the other side of the hill.
Take the trail that begins to climb to the left of the bridge. The trail climbs sharply through a mixed oak forest until the wide switchbacks level somewhat half-hour later at the sight of the first rhododendrons. The altitude gain is rapid and the air gets cooler perceptively. Soon the trail climbs to the ridge and stays there until you get to Bakhim another half hour later. From the Prek Chu river, it takes an hour to get to Bakhim. The total distance is only a kilometre but feels a lot longer.
Bakhim has a Forest Rest House and some trekkers like staying at Bakhim – simply for its view of the Yuksom valley. Finding the caretaker is a struggle and most trekkers move on to Tshoka which is another hour away.
Bakhim has a lovely tea stall where the owner dishes out some snacks as well. With a well-deserved rest, start your climb to Tshoka. Follow the trail just behind the Forest Rest House. The trail again climbs in a series of long switchbacks, overlooking Bakhim until forty minutes later it dives around a ridge to move to the other side of the hill.
At over 9,000 feet high, rhododendron trees abound everywhere. The trail gets dark from the overhanging trees and meanders for another ten minutes. It suddenly pops out to a plateau and the trekkers' hut of Tshoka. There’s also a flat camping area to the left of the trekkers' hut. The trekkers' hut is a pretty long wooden building that has four rooms – enough space to house more than 20 trekkers. Alternatively, trekkers can stay at the Forest Rest House slightly uphill.
Spend some time exploring Tshoka. Slightly uphill are the cafes run by the locals. Ask the cafe owners for the keys to the monastery.
Follow the trail as it leads out of Tshoka, cross the small wooden bridge over the pond and head to the monastery. It is a quiet place worthy of a quick visit. There are just a handful of Tibetan families living here.
What will take your breath away is the view of the snow-clad peaks of the Pandim range stretching right behind you – with Mt Pandim dominating the skyline. For most trekkers, this is the view of the day. You can climb a little higher to get wonderful panorama shots of the pond and the peaks.
Day 4: Trek from Tshoka to Dzongri via Phedang
Trek Duration: 6 hours
Altitude Gain: 9,790 ft to 13,190 ft via 12,105 ft
Difficulty: Difficult. It starts with 30 minutes of steep climb followed by a gradual ascent, after which the trail again climbs steeply to reach Phedang. A steep ascent from here followed by a gentle descent brings you to Dzongri.
Highlights: Canopy of rhododendrons and magnolias in Spring. Dark mossy rhododendron forests in Autumn. The thrill of a difficult climb and rewarding views of Mt Pandim and other ranges.
Water sources: Carry 2 litres of water from Tshoka. You will cross streams intermittently where you can refill your water bottles.
Like yesterday, climb up to the little pond leading to the monastery and then follow the trail that runs to its right. The trail begins to climb sharply and within minutes Tshoka is a tiny hamlet below you. Red rhododendron trees spring up everywhere. If you are in the season when the flowers bloom (May 1st/2nd week), then the entire slope lights up with fiery red colour. After a stiff climb for about 30 minutes, the trail evens out to a gradual climb.
The trail changes to the one paved over wooden logs. It is a delight with rhododendrons fanning the path. Little wooden benches line either side of the trail – which makes the trail look like it is in a park. Sometimes mist filters in surreally through the rhododendron trees. Even in this magical setting, the trail climbs throughout and trekkers feel the altitude. The log path gives way to a regular stony trail that climbs quickly to Phedang in 20 minutes.
Phedang, at 13,000 feet, is a large clearing with superb views of the snow-clad mountains. A log hut and a few wooden benches dot the landscape. Stop here for lunch and a well-deserved rest. The trail forks at Phedang with one that goes right, leading to Kokchurang.
Like yesterday, climb up to the little pond leading to the monastery and then follow the trail that runs to its right. The trail begins to climb sharply and within minutes Tshoka is a tiny hamlet below you. Red rhododendron trees spring up everywhere. If you are in the season when the flowers bloom (May 1st/2nd week), then the entire slope lights up with fiery red colour. After a stiff climb for about 30 minutes, the trail evens out to a gradual climb.
The trail changes to the one paved over wooden logs. It is a delight with rhododendrons fanning the path. Little wooden benches line either side of the trail – which makes the trail look like it is in a park. Sometimes mist filters in surreally through the rhododendron trees. Even in this magical setting, the trail climbs throughout and trekkers feel the altitude. The log path gives way to a regular stony trail that climbs quickly to Phedang in 20 minutes.
Phedang, at 13,000 feet, is a large clearing with superb views of the snow-clad mountains. A log hut and a few wooden benches dot the landscape. Stop here for lunch and a well-deserved rest. The trail forks at Phedang with one that goes right, leading to Kokchurang.
Take the trail to Dzongri that starts across the clearing. The trail starts to climb immediately along with the dwarf rhododendrons that line the slope. The views start getting better with every step but watch for a few muddy patches on the trail. After about of rain, you need to skip your way around them. It is a ridge climb, so the trail switches between the alternating sides of the hill. Watch for the view change between the Pandim range and the Kabru range. An hour later, they climb tops at a shrine with a multitude of prayer flags. This is the highest point of the day's trek at 13,080 feet.
Take a brief rest at the shrine and follow the trail that gently descends towards Dzongri. For most parts, the trail undulates with the first patches of snow lining the roots of the dwarf rhododendrons around you.
The Dzongri trekkers' hut appears suddenly at the bend in the trail. A gentle clear stream runs by the side of the hut. There are plenty of camping grounds around Dzongri but the hut itself can take in 30 trekkers at a time.
Dzongri is a welcome sight for trekkers after the hard climb from Tshoka. At 12,980 feet trekkers feel the effect of altitude at the Dzongri meadows. Dzongri is a large cauldron, mostly meadows, surrounded in all directions by the mighty peaks of the Kanchenjunga and Pandim ranges. In every direction is a snow peak to be looked at and admired. For most trekkers, Dzongri is a reward on its own. Many finish their trek at Dzongri and head back the way they came.
Day 5: Trek from Dzongri to Dzongri Top and back. Acclimatization day at Dzongri
Trek Duration: 1 hour
Altitude Gain and Loss: 13,190 ft to 13,670 ft and back to 13,190 ft
Difficulty: Moderate to Steep climb to Dzongri Top.
Highlights: The majestic view of the mountain ranges, including Kanchenjunga, Kabru, Pandim and many others.
Water sources: Carry 2 litres of water from Dzongri Base
The day starts with a climb to Dzongri top. Dzongri Top at 13,670 ft, is the highest point from where you get 180-degree panoramic view of the mighty peaks of the Singalila and Kanchenjunga ranges such as Kakthong, Rothang, Kabru South, Kabru North, Kabru Dome, Kanchenjunga range, Pandim, and the Lama Lamini peaks.
Dzongri top is a two hill climb from the Dzongri trekkers' hut. The trek from Dzongri to Dzongri top takes about an hour. The sun rises at 5 AM and you don’t want to miss seeing the first rays of the sun hitting Kanchenjunga. Start your trek at 4.00 AM with torch lights and you reach the top just as the dawn breaks.
As you climb up, the peaks of the Singalila range begin to open up and just at the bend before the top, the Kanchenjunga and its neighbours make their appearance. Witness an inspiring sunrise and spend time watching the mountains changing colours in the sun rays.
The day starts with a climb to Dzongri top. Dzongri Top at 13,670 ft, is the highest point from where you get 180-degree panoramic view of the mighty peaks of the Singalila and Kanchenjunga ranges such as Kakthong, Rothang, Kabru South, Kabru North, Kabru Dome, Kanchenjunga range, Pandim, and the Lama Lamini peaks.
Dzongri top is a two hill climb from the Dzongri trekkers' hut. The trek from Dzongri to Dzongri top takes about an hour. The sun rises at 5 AM and you don’t want to miss seeing the first rays of the sun hitting Kanchenjunga. Start your trek at 4.00 AM with torch lights and you reach the top just as the dawn breaks.
As you climb up, the peaks of the Singalila range begin to open up and just at the bend before the top, the Kanchenjunga and its neighbours make their appearance. Witness an inspiring sunrise and spend time watching the mountains changing colours in the sun rays.
Spot Thansing, the destination for the next day, Goechala peaks below you. On the other side, the green rhododendron slopes extend for miles.
Retracing your path to Dzongri takes 30 minutes.
Day 6: Trek from Dzongri to Thansing via Kokchurang
Trek Duration: 6 hours
Altitude Loss and Gain: 13,190 ft to 12,910 ft via 12,090 ft
Difficulty: Gentle descent for about 2 hours followed by a steep descent to Kokchurang. Continuous ascent from here to Thansing.
Highlights: Stark high altitude meadows with Mt Pandim constantly in the background. Dwarf rhododendron shrubs pave the way till Kokchurang. Arrive at the shores of Prek Chu river before moving on to Thansing.
Water sources: Carry 2 litres of water from Dzongri. The only water source on the way where you can refill your water bottles will be at Kokchurang.
In half an hour, rhododendron shrubs occupy the slopes again. The gentle to medium descent continues for over 2 hours. The rhododendron shrubs suddenly give way to the rhododendron forest. The descent becomes steep and you lose more than 500 ft. The forest is a good place to spot birds. Walkthrough silently and spot birds camouflaged in the browns and greens of the forest. Kokchurang springs up at the end of the descent. Just there, find a route through the forest going right. It goes to Phedang. Kokchurang has a trekker hut but no real place to pitch tents. The Prek Chu river flows next to the trekkers' hut 50 meters away. By the banks of the river, amidst the rocks, 4-5 tents can be pitched. The small campsite though feels lovely. In the evening, expect mist hanging over the river and the tents enveloped in the mist with the sound of the fast river below make it a great camping experience.
The trekker hut at Kokchurang has two big halls on the sides capable of handling 10-12 trekkers each and a central hall which can serve as the cooking area.
From Kokchurang, walk down to the bridge across the Prek Chu river. Spend some time on the bridge experiencing the cool breeze of the river. The water below looks icy blue. On the other bank, you have the rhododendron forest again. They flower in June but at any time, the moss-lined trees with their branches spreading out in all directions make it a fairy tale walk. There is a trekking trail but no lined path. The gradient increases and it is an ascent throughout. The distance between the bridge and Thansing is 2 km. By midway, the forests end and the landscape becomes rocky and barren. At the end of the climb is Thansing – a big meadow. There is a dilapidated trekker hut at the entrance of the flat meadow. The hut can be used as a kitchen but tents would be needed to stay. The open meadow can host any number of tents. You are right in front of Mt Pandim and the left wall of Kanchenjunga here. Thansing can be cold at the night.
In half an hour, rhododendron shrubs occupy the slopes again. The gentle to medium descent continues for over 2 hours. The rhododendron shrubs suddenly give way to the rhododendron forest. The descent becomes steep and you lose more than 500 ft. The forest is a good place to spot birds. Walkthrough silently and spot birds camouflaged in the browns and greens of the forest. Kokchurang springs up at the end of the descent. Just there, find a route through the forest going right. It goes to Phedang. Kokchurang has a trekker hut but no real place to pitch tents. The Prek Chu river flows next to the trekkers' hut 50 meters away. By the banks of the river, amidst the rocks, 4-5 tents can be pitched. The small campsite though feels lovely. In the evening, expect mist hanging over the river and the tents enveloped in the mist with the sound of the fast river below make it a great camping experience.
The trekker hut at Kokchurang has two big halls on the sides capable of handling 10-12 trekkers each and a central hall which can serve as the cooking area.
From Kokchurang, walk down to the bridge across the Prek Chu river. Spend some time on the bridge experiencing the cool breeze of the river. The water below looks icy blue. On the other bank, you have the rhododendron forest again. They flower in June but at any time, the moss-lined trees with their branches spreading out in all directions make it a fairy tale walk. There is a trekking trail but no lined path. The gradient increases and it is an ascent throughout. The distance between the bridge and Thansing is 2 km. By midway, the forests end and the landscape becomes rocky and barren. At the end of the climb is Thansing – a big meadow. There is a dilapidated trekker hut at the entrance of the flat meadow. The hut can be used as a kitchen but tents would be needed to stay. The open meadow can host any number of tents. You are right in front of Mt Pandim and the left wall of Kanchenjunga here. Thansing can be cold at the night.
Day 7: Trek from Thansing to View Point 1 via Samiti Lake; and back to Thansing
Trek Duration: 12-14 hours
Altitude Gain and Loss: 12,910 ft to 15,100 ft via 14,120 ft; and back to 12,910 ft
Difficulty: The longest day of your trek. The distance is long, followed by a continuous ascent to reach View Point 1.
Highlights: The toughest day of the trek, but with the grandest of views. Up close view of Kanchenjunga, Goecha, Pandim and 14 other big mountains. Samiti Lake at more than 14,000 ft is a delight.
Water source: Stay well hydrated and carry 2 litres of water before beginning the summit climb as well as before the descent to Thansing. There will be no water source on either stretch.
You may choose to trek further to Samiti lake and spend an hour there. The trail ascends from Thansing and it is a 45-minute stiff climb to the Samiti lake. Notice the terrain being rocky all through the ascent. The climb suddenly flattens out and the deep blue waters of the lake come into the picture. Move closer to the shore of the lake and the blue does not change.
If it is windy, the lake has waves too. Take a walk around the lake and sit beside its serene waters. The Samiti lakeshores are home to mountain goats and bluebirds which you are most likely to spot.
This is the longest day of the trek and so start your day early at midnight to give you multiple advantages:
You may choose to trek further to Samiti lake and spend an hour there. The trail ascends from Thansing and it is a 45-minute stiff climb to the Samiti lake. Notice the terrain being rocky all through the ascent. The climb suddenly flattens out and the deep blue waters of the lake come into the picture. Move closer to the shore of the lake and the blue does not change.
If it is windy, the lake has waves too. Take a walk around the lake and sit beside its serene waters. The Samiti lakeshores are home to mountain goats and bluebirds which you are most likely to spot.
This is the longest day of the trek and so start your day early at midnight to give you multiple advantages:
– A midnight start ensures that you reach the first viewpoint or the sunrise point right in time to see the first sun rays hitting Kanchenjunga.
– It also makes it easier to walk on the moraines that you find after the sunrise point as the snow is still hard.
– The probability of getting good views is higher in the mornings.
– Lastly, it gives you enough time to spend at ViewPoint 1 and returns to Samiti by 8 AM, where you get some more time.
The trail to ViewPoint 1 is a moderate ascent. You can break up the ascent into two sections. One, up to Samiti Lake and the next to ViewPoint 1.
The highlight of this day would be the spellbinding view of the sun rising on the Kanchenjunga range. The soft alpenglow on the mountain top is a sight that will stay etched in your mind.
Next, in the early morning reflection in the Samiti Lake. This crisp reflection of the surrounding mountains is something photographers should look out for. Try and time yourself to reach Samiti by 8 AM while returning from ViewPoint 1. This should allow you a good one hour to spend time by the lakeside.
From there, retrace your steps back to Thansing.
Day 8: Trek from Thansing to Tshoka via Kokchurang and Phedang
Trek Duration: 9 hours
Altitude Loss: 12,910 ft to 9,790 ft via 12,090 ft and 12,105 ft
Difficult. Continuous ascent till Kokchurang, followed by relatively flat trail to Phedang for about 4 hours, and a steep descent to Tshoka.
Highlights: Retrace your steps the same way till Tshoka. Watch out for Himalayan Monals and a variety of birds on your way back.
Water source: Stay well hydrated and carry 2 litres of water from Thansing since there is no water source on the trail today.
Take the diversion to the left inside the forest instead of climbing up to Dzongri. The trail remains mostly flat with small descents and ascents only to switch between mountains. Rhododendron trees line your way all along and the Prek Chu river flows below. Look left and at several places, you get lovely views of Mt Pandim and its neighbours. Phedang is 10 km away and this is one of the longest trails between two known campsites. It takes about 4 hours to reach Phedang.
The first phase is new and interesting. The trail goes on the flank of the mountain all along and you move from one mountain to another to another maintaining a constant altitude of 12,000 ft. Kokchurang, Phedang and most of the trail, are all at 12,000 ft!
From Phedang you retrace the descending trail to Tshoka. The day's trek takes about 8-9 hours on average.
Take the diversion to the left inside the forest instead of climbing up to Dzongri. The trail remains mostly flat with small descents and ascents only to switch between mountains. Rhododendron trees line your way all along and the Prek Chu river flows below. Look left and at several places, you get lovely views of Mt Pandim and its neighbours. Phedang is 10 km away and this is one of the longest trails between two known campsites. It takes about 4 hours to reach Phedang.
The first phase is new and interesting. The trail goes on the flank of the mountain all along and you move from one mountain to another to another maintaining a constant altitude of 12,000 ft. Kokchurang, Phedang and most of the trail, are all at 12,000 ft!
From Phedang you retrace the descending trail to Tshoka. The day's trek takes about 8-9 hours on average.
Day 9: Trek from Tshoka to Yuksom via Bakhim and Sachen
Duration: 6 hours
Altitude Loss: 9,790 ft to 5,840 ft via 8,640 ft and 7,400 ft
Difficulty: Continuous descent to Sachen, followed by an undulating trail to Yuksom.
Highlights: Trace your steps back to Yuksom by going through the suspension bridges, and into the forest by observing a variety of flora and fauna.
Water source: Carry sufficient water from Tshoka. You will cross a few streams where you can refill your water bottles.
Retrace your way from Tshoka to Yuksom. It's much faster and easier than your trek up. Sachen comes up quickly being a pure descent. From Sachen, the trail goes up and down generally losing altitude. The last stretch has a few climbs which make you wonder but it's soon over and you find yourself back in the friendly Yuksom neighbourhood.
Retrace your way from Tshoka to Yuksom. It's much faster and easier than your trek up. Sachen comes up quickly being a pure descent. From Sachen, the trail goes up and down generally losing altitude. The last stretch has a few climbs which make you wonder but it's soon over and you find yourself back in the friendly Yuksom neighbourhood.
Day 10: Drive from Yuksom to 2 Mile Checkpost
Drive Duration: 7-8 hours drive
Driving Distance: 170 km
Highlights: Confluence of Rangeet and Teesta rivers at the border of Sikkim and West Bengal.
Leave Yuksom early morning and 2 Mile Check Post, Bhakti Nagar Police Station by 4.00 PM. You can get shared transport here to Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station.
Leave Yuksom early morning and 2 Mile Check Post, Bhakti Nagar Police Station by 4.00 PM. You can get shared transport here to Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station.
Difficult
Suitable for Experienced Trekkers
You will cover a total of around 73 km in eight trekking days during which you will gain approximately 9,260 ft (5,840 ft to 15,100 ft). Every day will include ascents, descents and boulder sections on steep, uneven trails. Most days involve longer trekking durations
Terrain:
- Beyond the gradual climb continues into the rhododendron forests of Tshoka, you gain altitude rapidly. This section is on a wooden path. For 3 km you continue to trek uphill until you reach Phedang, where the tree line ends and the bush line starts.
- On Day 7 of the trek, you make your way from Thansing (12,910 ft) to View Point One (15,100 ft), via Samiti lake, and return to Thansing (12,910 ft). This day's trek has a lot of rocky sections, and boulders as well. Especially the section after Samiti Lake, there is little vegetation. You will also spot verglas early in the morning, which will be slippery due to the morning dew.
- Your summit day starts at midnight or around that time. The cold and darkness add to the difficulty of this day.
Please note: If you are trekking with Indiahikes, our Trek Leaders and Technical Guides will provide you with all necessary guidance, support, and technical gear such as micro spikes, gaiters, helmets, ropes, etc. wherever required.
Weather:
- On the Goechala trek, snowfall is a distinct possibility near Dzongri. Especially in the summer months or towards the end of the season in October. Snowfall can obstruct previously made paths. This means fresh tracks have to be cut on the snow.
- Rainfall or snowfall, lasting for hours, can change the entire trek dynamic. Rain can flood the trails or make them too slushy to walk safely on. Snowfall can obstruct previously made paths, requiring fresh tracks to be cut on the snow.
Please note: The safety of our trekkers is paramount. Our technical team, in conjunction with the Trek Leader, constantly monitors the weather conditions and makes informed decisions about proceeding with or aborting the trek. If the weather deteriorates, the team may need to turn back from any campsite to ensure the safety of all trekkers.
Altitude:
- From Tshoka (9,790 ft) to Dzongri (13,190 ft) via Phedang (12,105 ft) , there is a sudden altitude gain of nearly 3,500 ft. This itself can be extremely challenging. You will notice some difficulty in breathing.
- Phedang/ Dzongri are the points from where your trek leader can send a trekker back if he notices any symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness or lack of fitness.
- Overall, you gain about 4,000 ft in the first two days, and on the third day at Dzongri, you gain almost 4,000 ft more. This rapid increase in altitude, along with the strain of the tre,k makes trekkers very susceptible to AMS. At 13,190 ft at Dzongri on Day 3, you have climbed too high, too soon.
- At altitudes above 10,000 ft, the chances of being hit by Acute Mountain Sickness are real. Altitude sickness can happen to anybody - first-time trekkers as well as experienced trekkers. Fitness helps in making your trek easier. But do not forget that even a fit person climbing too high too soon runs an equal risk of developing AMS. Here’s a Complete guide to Acute Mountains Sickness, HAPE and HACE
Please Note: The Indiahikes team is equipped with high-altitude medical kits, oxygen cylinders, and stretchers to handle any altitude-related emergencies.
Emergency Exits:
- Goechala has only one exit point - at Yuksom.
Closest Hospital to the Goecha La Trek:
If a medical emergency occurs on the Goechala Trek, the nearest hospital is at Pelling. This is 30 km from the base camp, Yuksom. There is a small clinic in Yuksom, but this can be used only to register first aid. This is not a full-fledged hospital. If you need serious medical attention, it is best to head down to Siliguri for better facilities.
The Indiahikes team will ensure your safety throughout the journey. However, we believe that safety is a shared responsibility. We need your active participation and attention to safety protocols to ensure a safe and successful trek.
Goecha La trek involves long stretches of trekking on moraine and boulder sections. This can be strenuous and hard on your knees. Photo by Prasan Hegde. Trekking in snow can make the increase the difficulty of the trek by several notches. Photo by Abhijit Pan. From Tshoka to Dzongri via Phedang, there is a sudden altitude gain of nearly 3,500 ft. This itself can be extremely challenging. You will notice some difficulty in breathing. Photo by Abhishek Dang. Beauty and difficulty go hand in hand on the Goecha La trek. It offers stunning mountain views but also demands long hours of trekking, often through tough boulder sections. Photo by Krupa Vyas.
Please inform your Trek Leader about any pre-existing medical conditions or health concerns, no matter how minor they may seem. This will enable us to take the necessary precautions and ensure your safety throughout the trek.
There are two distinct seasons for the Goechala trek – April-May (Spring) and September-October (Autumn).
Witnessing this trek in only one season is like getting to know just a part of it. That’s because the trail is set in the Kanchenjunga National Park, which houses some vibrant varieties of flora amidst its mossy forest. And the forest changes colours in different seasons.
So, in different seasons, the entire colour palette of the trek changes. Even the way the trek lights up, changes with the seasons. While spring is known for its romantic, dreamy look, autumn is loved for its sharp views.
Goechala in Spring (April-May)
Day time temperature: Between 12 °C and 15 °C | Night time temperature: Will drop to temperatures between 0 °C and -3 °C.
Presence of snow: You will find snow as you get closer to Viewpoint 1. A bout of rain on the lower slopes would increase the chances of snowfall at higher campsites like Dzongri.
No. of warm layers required: 3 warm layers
The beauty of doing this trek in spring lies in witnessing the blooming rhododendrons, especially in April. In Spring, the misty forests on the Goechala trail come alive with varied shades of pink and scarlet.
The Rhododendrons start from around Bakhim. Their density and variety increase as you reach Tshoka and after that, you are in for a treat of a lifetime.
The trail from Tshoka (9,790 ft) to Phedang (12,105 ft) is the Rhododendron belt. The entire stretch has rhododendrons lined and laid out to form a rhodo tunnel under which you walk. Sunlight diffuses filtering in from the colourful rhododendron flowers, which add a magical touch to your experience.
Note: Unlike Deoriatal-Chandrashila, the famed rhodo trek of Uttarakhand, Goechala has a wider variety of flowers. So you will see Rhodos in various shades, from pink to scarlet to even yellow and white. The rich biodiversity of the Kanchenjunga National Park gives rise to such variety.
In spring, you may notice patches of snow at a higher altitude, but not as much as you would see on treks in Uttarakhand or Himachal Pradesh.
You may witness snowfall during this season. And when that happens, the entire upper reaches of meadows get draped in white.
Goechala in Autumn (October-November)
Day time temperature: Between 8 °C and 12 °C | Night time temperature: Will drop to temperatures between -5 °C and -10 °C.
Presence of snow: You will not find snow at higher campsites in autumn.
No. of warm layers required: 5 warm layers
In autumn, there are no Rhodos. But now, something else lends colour to the trek – it’s the dark, mossy forest under the brilliant blue autumn sky. The vibrant colours are inching towards deep reds and browns.
The air is washed clean of the haze. So when you step out of the dark canopy, you see sharp views from Tshoka, Dzongri, Thansing and ViewPoint 1 of the trek.
You also witness a piercing star-lit sky during this season. And it’s a great time to be on the Goechala trek, especially if you are interested in night-sky photography. (Read how Arjun Majumdar witnessed a meteor shower on the Goechala trek)
To get to Goechala you must first get to Yuksom in Sikkim. Your trek starts and ends here. Yuksom is about 150 km from the tri-junction of Siliguri, New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and Bagdogra in West Bengal.
Siliguri is the main city while NJP is the railway station of Siliguri and Bagdogra, its airport. The airport and railway station lie within 10 km of Siliguri.
You can reach NJP/Siliguri/Bagdogra by train or air. Where you reach depends on how you come.
By Train: You will reach NJP, which is the station area of Siliguri. Most trains to NJP come from Kolkata. The North eastbound trains from Delhi also come directly to NJP without touching Kolkata. The trains from both Kolkata and Delhi tend to get booked very quickly. It is best to book train tickets well in advance.
These are the train details to reach NJP from Kolkata:
- Darjeeling Mail (most convenient)
12343 - Sealdah (22:05) to New Jalpaiguri (8:00)
12344 - New Jalpaiguri (17:30) to Sealdah (5:30) - Padatik Express (12377 & 12378)
- Uttar Banga Express (13147 & 13148)
- Kanchan Kanya Express (13149 & 13150)
- Vande Bharat (Howrah - NJP) (22301 & 22302) - Day Train
- Shatabdi (Howrah - NJP) (12041 & 12042) - Day Train
- There are other Intercity Day Trains between Kolkata(Sealdah and Kolkata Stations) and NJP
These are the train details to reach NJP from New Delhi:
- North East Express - 12506 & 12505
- Brahmaputra Express - 15657 & 15658
- Dibrugarh Rajdhani (this reaches in the afternoon) - 12424 & 12423
By Flight: The closest airport to Yuksom is Bagdogra. Bagdogra is Siliguri’s airport. Bagdogra has good connectivity from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Hyderabad by air.
By Bus: If flights are too expensive and trains are full (which they usually are), you can fly to Kolkata and take a bus to Siliguri. The journey is long and takes almost 14 hours. The silver lining is that you get sleeper buses and the roads do not wind too much.
Once you’ve reached Siliguri, follow this guide to get to Goechala from there. Your journey will be divided into two parts, breaking up at Jorethang.
Siliguri – Jorethang – Yuksom
1. Siliguri to Jorethang
You can hire a car directly to Yuksom from Siliguri or go by shared vehicle. If you hire a full car, there is no hurry about timing. The entire journey takes about 8 hours. If you choose to take the shared cab, it will involve a change at Jorethang.
First, take a shared car to Jorethang from outside the SNT bus station at Siliguri. The 87 km drive takes about 4 hours. Then catch a shared cab to Yuksom from the SNT bus stand at Jorethang.
The last shared cab from Jorethang to Yuksom leaves by 1.30 pm. Ensure you reach Jorethang around noon to be safe. This means it is best to leave Siliguri around 7 am. Leaving Siliguri this early may only be possible if you have arrived in the city the previous day.
The journey from Siliguri to Jorethang takes you from the plains of Bengal to the hills of Sikkim. Once the dust and grime of Siliguri are behind, the road enters and cuts through the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. The lovely forest drive brings you to the banks of the Teesta river.
A half an hour drive along the Teesta brings you to the Sikkim entry point Melli. Melli has a small check post where entry permits of foreign nationals are checked. Melli marks the beginning of the climb too. The road now climbs to Jorethang.
2. Jorethang to Yuksom
Jorethang has a very large green building in the centre which is a multi-level bus stand. And vehicles are leaving from various platforms here.
The vehicles for Yuksom will leave from a higher platform, maybe the 3rd or 4th floor. Ask around to confirm this.
Note: All vehicles for Yuksom will leave before 2.00 PM.
Yuksom is about 4 hours from Jorethang. The roads are winding and may also be under construction in many places. Be prepared for a bumpy ride. Expect to reach Yuksom by around 6 pm if you have started by 1.30 pm.
As you get closer to Yuksom, the villages look remarkably Buddhist. Notice the houses, their window gardens and the flapping prayer flags.
Planning your hotel/stay
For stay, look for hotels in Siliguri on Day Zero and after your trek. There are quite a few options available online and it is not difficult to find last-minute hotel bookings.
Note: Avoid booking a stay in New Jalpaiguri (around a 1km radius of the railway station) as the places here are poorly maintained.
Hotel options in Siliguri
➤ Hotel Debjyoti: Set in a bustling commercial area, this modest hotel is an 8-minute walk from Siliguri Junction Railway Station. The average cost is Rs 800 – 1500 per bed. Rooms start at about Rs 1,200 (for online booking).
Booking online at least before 2 days.
Ph: 0353 251 1201
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/b4X5eBxfrHR1JxtN8
➤ Shivanand Lodge: Situated in the best location, it’s 11km away from the Bagdogra Airport. It has all the basic facilities Free wifi, AC, and Room Service. This is a budget option with an average cost of Rs. 500 – 1000 per room.
Book online at least before 2 days. Off-season you get rooms on the spot.
Ph: 085840 75074
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/wva4Vb63mwadiGzX
➤ Anjali Lodge: Located in a quiet place, the rooms are neat and pretty decent. Room rates are nominal Rs. 1000 – 1500 per room.
You can get on the spot rooms here as this hotel is not listed on online platforms.
Ph: 089428 44715
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/zcjccwpVithwUqHW9
➤ Lemon Tree Hotel: If you are looking for a fancy stay, go for this one. It’s a 3-star hotel with all amenities. Rooms are very clean, hotel service is prompt. This will cost you around Rs. 4000 – 6000 per room.
Reserve in advance at least before a week or you won’t get rooms.
Ph: 0353 395 2600
Location: https://g.page/Lemon-tree-hotel-siliguri?share
There are quite a few Airbnb options in Siliguri (and Darjeeling)
Some Airbnbs that trekkers recommend:
➤ Sang Cottage: Good ambience, comfortable for 4 guests. It’s a bit far from the city, but it’s a place with a good ambience. The Bengal safari is 10min away. Also, a lot of monasteries in the vicinity to see. Costs Rs. 1500-1800
Trekkers often ask us for hotel recommendations before or after their treks. Finding a good place using online listings can be tedious and tricky. So, through our network of trekkers and trek leaders, we have put together the best hotel recommendations in the major cities near our treks.
These are tried-and-tested recommendations—places we trust for comfort, cleanliness, and convenience. They’re also located near town centers and your pick-up points. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay or something a little more premium, you’ll find an option that suits your needs below.
Given below is a list of all the gear you need for the Goechala trek:
If you don’t have certain items, you can rent high-quality gear like trekking shoes, backpacks, and jackets from the Crosstrek Rental Store by Indiahikes. It costs less than Rs 2000 for the entire trek. We highly recommend renting gear since it is both more affordable and environmentally friendly.
Additionally, you’ll notice a small medical kit in the list. While our trek leaders carry medical kits with 17 medicines including life-saving drugs, you must bring your personal medical kit as well. We are already equipped with BP machines, oximeters and canned oxygen, but your medical kit is for quick access to you, especially while travelling.
Most importantly, you must digitally upload and carry mandatory documents to get government permits for the trek - your ID card, medical certificate, and disclaimer certificate. Keep them in a plastic bag to keep them safe in your backpack. There are no printing or photocopy facilities at the basecamp.
Here is a list of everything you need for your trek.
Shoes and backpack
- Trekking shoes with ankle support (Available on rent)
- Backpack with rain cover (Available on rent)
Warm Layers and Clothes
- Warm layers (Padded jackets available on rent)
- 3 layers if you're trekking in spring, summer and monsoon (1 woollen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 4 layers if you're trekking in autumn (1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 5 layers if you're trekking in winter (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket) - 3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
- 2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)
Accessories
- Sunglasses (Available on rent)
- Sun cap, preferably with flaps
- Waterproof gloves (Available for purchase)
- Balaclava
- Woollen socks (2 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)
- Headlamp (Available on rent)
- Trekking pole (Available on rent)
- Rain jacket + pants / poncho (Rain Jacket is available on rent)
- Leech-proof socks: There can be leeches on the trek and hence either carry salt with you or leech-proof socks.
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen
- Moisturiser
- Light towel
- Lip balm or vaseline
- Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on our treks)
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
Cutlery:
- Steel lunch box, spoon and a coffee mug (Lunch box is available on rent)
- Two water bottles or Hydration Pack (Water bottles are available on rent)
Once you run through this list, don't miss this ultimate guide on what gear to take on a trek. It contains tips on what gear to choose, where to get it from and how much to spend on it.
Our only tip: Keep your backpack light. Indiahikes practices low impact sustainable trekking in every aspect of the trek. Carrying your own personal backpack reduces your impact on the mountains by 20%. We expect all our trekkers to carry their own backpacks unless they have a justifiable reason not to.
PRO TIPS
Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet. Please note there is no facility to get print outs and photocopies at Yuksom.
Please carry the below documents. Documents need to be downloaded (PDF), filled in, signed and handed over to the trek leader at the base camp. Please note there is no facility to get printouts and photocopies at Yuksom.
Indians:
You have to bring 3 copies of your documents:
- 3 copies of your ID proof - Aadhaar(for Indians)/Passport(foreigners) along with the original.
- 3 passport size photos coloured
- Disclaimer Certificate: You don't need to print or carry the disclaimer form. Your Trek Leader will give it to you at the base. Just sign and hand it over then and there.
However, if you are a minor unaccompanied by your parents, please download this disclaimer, print it, get it signed by your parents/guardian and carry it to the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate - 3 copies of your Medical Certificate (the original and 2 photocopies): The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate
Foreigners:
- 5 copies of your ID proof - Passport(foreigners) (One extra is for ILP)
- 3 passport size photos
- Original and 3 copies of Passport
- Visa in Original and 5 copies of your Visa (One extra is for ILP)
- 4 copies of Medical Certificate (to be filled by a doctor) – Download PDF
- You don't need to print or carry the disclaimer form. Your Trek Leader will give it to you at the base. Just sign and hand it over then and there.
However, if you are a minor unaccompanied by your parents, please download this disclaimer, print it, get it signed by your parents/guardian and carry it to the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate
Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.
Consultation fee: Rs 300
If you are a foreigner, you will have to stop at Melli and get the ILP stamp on your passport. If you have booked your pick-up with Indiahikes, the cab will stop at the office and you can get your ILP. The driver will help you out with the same. Without ILP you will not be able to enter the National Park and will be sent back down. So it is a mandatory requirement.
Note: KNP has stopped issued single permits for solo trekker, so if you are the only foreign trekker in your group, you will have to pay Rs. 5000 instead of Rs. 3000. If there is another/multiple other foreign trekker(s) in your group (even if they are from a different country) you will have to pay only Rs. 2500.
Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.
- Diamox (1 Strip): Be on a course of a half tablet of Diamox starting from Delhi every 12 hours (125 mg). Carry on the medication until you descend to Yuksom. Being on a preventive course of Diamox greatly reduces the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness on the Goechala trek.
- Dexamethasone (1 Strip): This is part of the Live Saving Drugs kit. Do not take this on your own. Your trek leader will inform you in case the need arises.
- Nifedipine (5 tablets): Again part of the Live Saving Drugs kit. Do not take this on your own. Your trek leader will inform you in case the need arises.
- Dolo 650 (5 tablets): This is a paracetamol. It helps to tackle fever and mild pain.
- Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.
- Combiflam (5 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol.
- Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food that you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your trek leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS.
- ORS (6 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually aid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking. Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.
- Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known issues of knee pain.
Our trek leaders carry a high altitude medical kit with them which also consist of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines listed here.
Pro Tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.
We recommend walking/jogging/running as the best routine to get fit for any trek. It works on the same muscles you use while trekking—your calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. It also mimics your foot movement so you are better prepared for sudden twists and turns they may go through on uneven terrain.
It helps increase your stamina gradually if done consistently. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness Target
To do the Goechala Trek comfortably, you must be able to walk, jog or run 10 km in under 60 minutes. This is the minimum recommended fitness level that you must aim for.
Trekking is a sport that primarily uses your lungs, core, calves, glutes, quads and hamstrings. Being fit will help you enjoy the trek and will keep you safe.
To reach any fitness target, there are two things you must work on:
- Cardiovascular endurance
- Muscle strength
If you are not currently active, follow the below schedule to get trek fit in 6 weeks!
A 6-Week Plan to Help You Get Trek-Fit for the Goechala Trek
Pro Tip: Warming up and cooling down before and after your workout is important. Do not miss that.
| Note: If you are not a regular runner, do not start running all of a sudden.
Strength Training Schedule:
Note:
- Alternatives to 60 Standard Pushups = (4 x 25 = 100 knee pushups) = (4 x 50 = 200 wall pushups)
- Alternative to 80 full squats = (4 x 40 = 160 half squats)
- Alternative to jumping lunges = forward lunges (same count)
- If you are not able to complete 1 full set of any plank, divide it into 2 halves and complete it with a rest break in between. For example: If you are not able to complete 1 minute of a standard plank, divide it into 2 sets of 30 seconds each.
- After completing a few weeks of training, if you can progress, you may increase the number of sets or reps for desired results.
Important note: We accept only running, jogging, or walking workout screenshots as fitness proof. Screenshots of cross-training workouts will not be considered valid. We've suggested cross-training options to help keep your fitness journey engaging and fun, allowing you to explore activities you enjoy and avoid inconsistency.
Note: Use apps like Nike and Strava to record your runs.
What happens if you are not fit:
- You do not enjoy the trek
- You struggle to be a part of the team because you’re slow.
- You miss out on a deep, transformative experience that Indiahikes specially designs for you.
The good part is it is not difficult. All you need to do is start following the fitness routine 6 to 8 weeks before your trek begins.
We are here to help you in this fitness journey. Just start slow and as long as you are committed and consistent with your routine, you are in for an unforgettable trek experience.
How to Get Fitness Approval from the Indiahikes Team:
Every trekker needs fitness approval from the Indiahikes team 20 days before the trek date. Without this, you will not be allowed on the trek.
Note: Use apps like Nike and Strava to record your runs.
What to upload?
- A minimum of 3 screenshots of your runs/jogs/walks/cycling
- Monthly summary of your routine
Goechala is a mountain pass at 16,207 ft in West Sikkim. It is around 60 km from Jorethang which lies on the border of West Bengal and Sikkim.
The trek snakes through the Kanchenjunga National Park. But it is no longer allowed to trek till the pass. So when you are on the Goechala trek, you can go till ViewPoint 1, which is at 15,100 feet and takes you close to the southwest face of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.
The Goechala trek is 73 km long from Yuksom to Yuksom. And you gain close to 10,000 ft in while covering this distance. During this trek, as you reach ViewPoint 1 (15,100 ft), you come close to the south-west face of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.
Spring (end of March to mid-April) and Autumn (September end to the start of November) are the best seasons to experience Goechala. And both seasons expose a different flavour of the trek.
In Spring, the oak and rhododendron forest on the trek is shrouded in a mist. That lends it a romantic air as a variety of rhododendron flowers bloom on the trail.
It is also a time when you will find hardened snow patches at higher altitudes. But this is the receding snow. And temperatures are warmer than autumn in this season. They dip to a minimum of -2 °C.
In autumn, the mist has lifted and rhodo flowers would have wilted. But that accentuates the dark, mossy forests under the brilliant blue autumn sky.
You will also witness sharp mountain views in autumn, as you pop out of the forest at Phedang.
Although there is no snow on the trail and the weather is dry, the temperature gets cold and dips to around -7 °C.
It becomes very difficult to trek here after the first week of November or later as it gets increasingly cold. And exertion at a high altitude with such a low temperature exposes you to the risk of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE).
Goechala trek has long trekking days and climbs quickly. So, it is rated as a difficult trek because it requires a lot of endurance and exposes you to the risk of AMS. There are also no easy exits after Dzongri.
Getting to the details, this 11-day trek climbs from 5,840 ft to 15,100 ft. That’s almost an altitude gain of 10,000 ft. This climb is one of the major challenges on the trek. It exposes you to the risk of altitude sickness if you are not careful. When on this trek, be very cautious of how your body is responding to the altitude.
Goechala trek requires an extremely good fitness level. The trek has long climbs and steep descents daily. As a measure of your fitness, we need you to:
Run at least 10 km in 60 minutes before your trek. Consistency of your workout also matters, so aim to jog 25 km a week or 100 km in a month. It's a minimum mandatory requirement if you wish to trek with us
You will find it at Jorethang Town. If needed, withdraw emergency cash from here. But do not bank upon the last ATM, they too run out of cash. Withdraw cash before you begin your road journey to Yuksom.
There is no electricity throughout the trek. The only place you’ll find a plug to charge your phone or camera batteries will be Yuksom before and after the trek.
Therefore use your electronic equipment wisely. Fully charge your batteries before leaving your hotel and use your electronic equipment minimally.
Another thing to note the cold temperatures drain the batteries faster. Having extra batteries or a power banks helps.
You will find Airtel and Vodafone connectivity at the base camp Yuksom. You may get 4G at the base camp. Except this, there will not be any internet reception.
Before leaving Yuksom, call your family and friends and know that you won’t be available for them until you get back to the base camp on Day 9.
Before you register for the trek, we would like you to understand the challenges, and the fitness required.
On Difficult treks, you’ll walk for about 8-12 km each day. Gradual to steep ascents and descents are common on all days. Expect to reach high altitudes of 15,000+ ft. There will also be technical sections (such as rockfall zones, near-vertical sections, glacier walks), which our technical teams will help you navigate.
If you are above the age of 58 years, your Experience Coordinator will need a detailed account of your health. If you have done a Himalayan trek in the past or they have an active fitness lifestyle (marathons/cycling expeditions), we’ll need to see your Treadmill Test and fitness proof (Fitness proof: 10 km in 65 mins).
But if you do not have any experience, we strongly advice you to start with an easy-moderate trek.
Having more footprints through porters or mules on any trail isn’t good for the ecosystem. Keeping this and the spirit of trekking in mind, there will be no offloading available on this trek. However, if for some medical compulsions you had to offload, the offloading fee for the entire trek is Rs 6,400 pre-tax.
Foreigners have to register for the trek in a group of 2 and above.
Permits required for the Goechala trek
- The ILP (Inner line Permit or Sikkim permit) for foreigners - Check this link for more details – http://sikkim.nic.in/homedept/ilpfaqs.htm. You can obtain these outside the Bagdogra airport or at the check post before entering Sikkim from Siliguri.
- Trek permit for all trekkers – Obtained at the forest check post at Yuksom. The fee varies for students (ID card required), regular Indian citizens (ID proof required) and foreigners.
- Special trek permit for foreigners - Foreigners need to obtain a special permit at Gangtok to trek in Sikkim. Indiahikes can help you obtain this permit. The charges for obtaining the permit will be Rs 2,500 per person and has to be paid to our representative who will meet you at Yuksom.
- Citizens of China and Myanmar are not permitted to trek in this area.
Photo Gallery
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Expert Speak
Sandhya UC, Co-Founder, COO
Sandhya UC, Co-Founder, COO
Sandhya is a founding partner at Indiahikes. Over the past ten years, she has explored and put on the map a few of the greatest Himalayan treks in India, including Kashmir Great Lakes and Kedarkantha. She is a TedX Speaker and has been awarded the "Women of Worth" Award by Outlook Business in 2017. She believes in sustainable living just as she believes in sustainable trekking.
Here’s Sandhya talking about one of the well-known treks in our country.
What I Like and Don’t Like About the Goechala Trek
What I Like About the Goechala Trek
Sandhya UC, Co-Founder, COO
Sandhya is a founding partner at Indiahikes. Over the past ten years, she has explored and put on the map a few of the greatest Himalayan treks in India, including Kashmir Great Lakes and Kedarkantha. She is a TedX Speaker and has been awarded the "Women of Worth" Award by Outlook Business in 2017. She believes in sustainable living just as she believes in sustainable trekking. Here’s Sandhya talking about one of the well-known treks in our country.
1. Dense jungle at 12,000 feet
There are very few treks with tree lines at such a high altitude. If you compare it with treks from Uttarakhand or Himachal Pradesh, the tree line skirts around 10,000 ft. But not on this trek which snakes through the Kanchenjunga National Park. And I found that exceptional. This is also one of the Best Himalayan treks for Bird Watching.
Especially the thick canopy of Rhododendron trees which flower during the misty spring and are dark and cold during autumn.
Trekking through thick rhododendron forests is a walk you will remember for a long time. Picture taken by Vishal Gupta
2. Three suspension bridges
You will cross these suspension bridges over three deep gorges – Pha Khola, Tshushay Khola and Mentogang Khola – through which the Prekchu river flows. I was taken aback by how suddenly the bridges appeared. And the experience of staring into the deep gorge from these suspension bridges is rare.
Kanchenjunga National Park is blessed with dense jungles, through which you trek the initial 3 days. You will also cross suspension bridges on your first day of the trek. Picture by Sarth Rastogi
3. A monastery at Tshoka
This happens on the second day. Now you are almost at 9,500 ft and there is a monastery here! Can you believe that?
The monastery is not exactly at Tsokha. You will need to take a trail that goes out of the campsite and cross a wooden bridge over a pond. It’s such a peaceful setting. I’ve always seen mountains as a place where you can meditate. And so I was elated to find this monastery plonked into the Goechala trek.
Tshoka is a unique campsite with a monastery at almost 10,000 ft, and a small pond close by. Picture by the Indiahikes team
4. Dramatic changes in scene
The first one is from Tsokha to Dzongri. Initially, the trail meanders through rhododendron and pine trees. But on reaching Phedang, the dense forest cover suddenly gives way to a barren terrain. The change is startling.
Another dramatic change in scenery is from Kokchurang to Thansing. Here the Prekchu river, which you had seen flowing deep in the gorges, suddenly cuts through the jungle. Yes, now you are with the river.
And it lends such a mystical ambience to the setting. The shift in scene, with a wooden bridge going over the river, was surprising.
The wooden bridge that connects the trail from Kokchurang over the Prek Chu river gives you an eerie feeling when the clouds sweep low. Picture by Bhaskar Debnath
5. First sunrise on Kanchenjunga from Dzongri Top
This is the acclimatization day where you stay at Dzongri. Early morning, wake up at 4.30 am and head to Dzongri top at 13,670 ft. It is a steep climb. But worth it.
I still remember the first time I saw the morning rays lighting up Mt. Kanchenjunga. The mountain changes colour as the morning progresses. And you get a panoramic view from the Dzongri top. It was a different feeling altogether. An unforgettable sight that has stayed with me.
The first light of the sun on Kanchenjunga makes it up for all the hard work you have done to reach Dzongri Top Picture by Prasath
6. Camping at the foot of Mt Pandim
Thansing is the most picturesque campsite on the trek. It is a stark meadow on the riverbed of Prekchu. And it lends itself to a unique experience. At Thansing, I pitched my tent just at the foot of Mt. Pandim, right next to Prekchu. Sitting next to the river, watching Mt Pandim for long moments was a magical experience for me altogether.
Thansing campsite lies right at the foot of Mt Pandim, with the view of Mt Kanchenjunga far ahead in the valley. Picture by Sourav Mukherjee
7. A perfect challenge for endurance
I have always leaned towards treks that test my endurance. And Goechala does that beautifully. On this trek, you cover 65.7 km in 10 days. And that too with a considerable ascent. Here, although the trails are well-laid, the altitude gain and long days put your endurance to the test.
The approach to Viewpoint 1 is one of the longest and hardest of all our treks. Doing the trek requires solid physical preparation. Picture by Nikhil Agarwal
8. The sunrise on Kanchenjunga from View Point 1
Finally, my favourite memory of the treks begins with waking up at 1 am for ViewPoint 1. Initially, I was grumpy about the unearthly hour start. But once we got to ViewPoint 1, everything changed.
Watching the first rays fall on Kanchenjunga is an ethereal experience. It lights up the world’s third-highest mountain along with others with a magical light. I was spellbound. My eyes welled up with tears, just watching the magnificent sight.
And then, on the way back I saw the beautiful Samiti lake. That lake, with its deep turquoise waters, was the perfect finish to the summit day.
The view of sunrise on Kanchenjunga stays with you for a very long time. Picture by Ashish Bhatt
What I Don't Like About the Goechala Trek
1. The cramped campsite at Sachen
The campsite on Day 1 of the trek, Sachen is a really small flat land in the middle of the forest inside the Khangchendzonga National Park. There is enough space for just 5-6 tents at a time.
This makes it extremely cramped when compared to the campsites on our other Himalayan treks.
While the lush green atmosphere gives you a feeling that you're somewhere inside a thick rainforest, the lack of space can be a bummer at times.
Trek Trivia
Things Nobody Tells You About Goechala
Did You Know about the Chogyal Community of Sikkim?
Yuksom is known as the meeting place of three monks. A long time ago, three monks travelled down here from Tibet. They crowned the first king of that region and named the community ‘Chogyal’. Since then, all those who were crowned kings belonged to the Chogyal community. In 1642, the first Chogyal king, Phuntsog Namgyal established Yuksom as the first capital of Sikkim. The Chogyal dynasty ruled there for over 300 years.
The Chogyal community, today too, plays an important role in their society. They banned any expedition in the mountains in the region from the Sikkim side. They considered it a dishonour to their Gods. After putting pressure on the government for some time, the central and state government both finally banned climbing from Sikkim in the early 2000s. That's why Kanchenjunga cannot be climbed from Sikkim and has to be climbed from Nepal.
Kanchenjunga, a Treasure Trove
Kanchenjunga in Nepali translates to ‘five treasures of snow, as it has five peaks in total. Three of them can be seen from India and two from Nepal.
The Goechala trek takes us through the Kanchenjunga National Park. The significance of this is that it is the first and one of the rarest UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is selected under the Mixed Category (Cultural and Environmental Significance). It has high cultural as well as environmental importance.
Some communities here, like the Lepchas, have traditional practices which are still maintained. The indigenous community of the Lepchas have deep knowledge of medicinal plants. They, along with many other local communities, consider mountains to be their gods. These mountains are seen as sacred and are worshipped. Dense vegetation and myriad flora and fauna can be found here. It is also the home of snow leopards.
The Myths of Kanchenjunga
A myth of this region is that there is supposed to be a valley to paradise somewhere in the lower reaches of Kanchenjunga. Once, a monk in Sikkim took many followers down this valley, and the whole lot of them were never found again.
Another story from local mythology tells us how Kanchenjunga is said to be the home of Yeti. It is a mythical creature that has never been seen. But folklore has identified massive footprints seen in the Himalayas as those of Yeti. This Yeti is said to be found in the lower reaches of the mountain.
There are stories of the war between the Lepcha community and Yetis too. If you catch hold of people from the Lepcha community, don't forget to ask them about this mythical war.
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