The Goechala trek exhibits the finest elements of nature in a symphony, with splendid views of the dense alpine and oak forests, the mesmerising trek journey with enchanting fragrance of blooming rhododendrons and other exotic flowers, especially during the spring season, which is much like each day of the trek journey unfolding surprises and new chapters like an epic and brilliant saga.
The Goechala Trek is a hidden gem in the lap of the mighty Himalayas. The trekking trail seems to whisper folklore and stories from the past and mystical legends, as one ascends through the dense green forests. The trekking trail is considered wondrous as it reveals an ever-changing scenery with snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes with shimmering crystal-clear water, like liquid sapphires, which lits up with the reflection of the sun. trekking through the Goechala trekking trail is more like discovering the doorway to the grandeur of Kanchenjungha, which allures trekkers with its majestic presence.
The eastern part of Sikkim boasts of the popular Goechala Trek, which in the Tibetan language translates to “pass” or “high mountain pass”, the Goecha Pass. this trek became popular in the later phase of the 20th century, which attracted many trekkers with its pristine and dramatic landscape and magnificent views of the mountain peaks. These trekkers are also gifted to witness rich biodiversity and majestic beauty. This has led to the rising fame of the Goechala Trek.
Difficulty level
Moderate to DifficultTrek Altitude
16,207 FTTrek Distance
78 to 90 kmTrek Duration
10N & 11DCost
₹ 16,000 per PersonHere is the basic description of the Goechala Trek. This trek is nearly 80 km long, from Yuksom to Yuksom and you reach the highest point to summit this trek at 15,100 ft, which is the top-most point of this trek, covered on human feet. Undertaking this trek is like stepping into a living masterpiece, in the heart of Sikkim, which reveals nature’s beauty secrets with each road winding throughout the journey into dense green oak and alpine forests, shimmering lake water and vibrant rhododendron and other flower forests.
It takes 11 days to complete this trek, which is termed difficult on the trek parameter and thus is ideal for those who are experienced trekkers. Every step on this trek journey seems like a journey through a dreamscape, captivating the mind and ensuring it remains an unforgettable memory. The Goechala trek is a trek through the Kanchendzongha National Park and the starting point is Yuksom, a small quaint village in the Western part of Sikkim.
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It is interesting to know why is the Goechela trek so famous. Here are some of the fascinating things about this trek which makes trekkers wishlist the Goechala Trek. the Himalayan range is considered a geological wonder, with its unique blend, which makes trekking a unique experience in India.
This trekking trail is also the camp base for trekking Mt. Kanchenjunga and the highlight of this Goechala Trek is the scintillating view of the sunrise and sunset. You will experience an amazing walk in the shadow of Mt. Kanchenjunga, which you trek from Thangsing. The entire Kanchenjunga range appears to come closer to your vision, as one nears the Goeche Pass. it is brilliant to watch the first ray of the sun hitting the mighty Kanchenjunga on its snow-capped peak.
The initial days of trekking Goechala involve ascending and descending through forests and crossing lakes with the help of a suspension bridge. Gradually, the trek starting from Tshoka takes you through the gorgeous rhododendron forest, which is an exquisite sight, especially during the spring season. Dzongri takes you through the expansive and soothing sight of the meadows, while from the last campsite, Lamuney, walking towards Goechala is a trek through rocky terrain. Thus, each day of the trek is filled with surprises with the landscape changing dramatically.
This trek is situated inside the Kanchendzongha National Park, which UNESCO lists as a “World Heritage Site”. This region brims with the exotic collection of flora and fauna, alongside the scope to witness the mysterious snow leopard. The Tshoka forest is covered with rhododendron trees and other unique flowers, which makes this trek journey very fascinating.
The Goechala Trek transverses you through trails that take you near Samiti Lake, which is situated at a staggering altitude of nearly 14000 ft, surrounded by magnificent dense alpine forests, a true visual delight. This Lake makes the view surreal with the crystal-clear reflection of Mt. Pandim on its shimmering water, making the surroundings so refreshing and amusing.
The Goechala Trek is filled with a trekkers hut, with basic amenities to accommodate trekkers. These huts are a comfortable stay for trekkers amidst bad weather in higher altitudes. To get the magical views of sunrise and sunset in Mt. Kanchenjunga, Lamuney and Thangsing are two of the most popular campsites.
To reach Goechala, the base camp is at Yuksom, which is just approx. 150 km away from Siliguri/NJP/Bagdogra, W. Bengal. You can reach Siliguri by train or flight. Most of the trains which are connected to NJP are from Kolkata and the Bagdogra airport is connected directly to most of the major Indian cities.
The best time for the Goechala Trek is between mid-March to May (spring season) and October to November (Autumn), when the weather conditions are at their best, with splendid views of the magnificent landscapes. The temperature during both these seasons varies between 7 to 15℃.
Summer (mid-March to May): terrific weather, rhododendron blossoms, the best time for bird watching and snow melting in most of the regions.
Autumn (Sept to Mid-November): slightly cold weather, safe for trek with minimal to no slippery trails, majestic panoramic clear visuals of mountains.
The monsoon and winter seasons typically make the Goechala Trek very difficult, due to either heavy rain showers during monsoon, or heavy snowfall during winter, with roadblocks which make the entire expedition almost impossible to complete.
Siliguri Yuksom Sachen Tshoka Dzongri Thansing Lamuney Goecha La via Samiti Lake Thansing Tshoka Yuksom NJP
The Goechala Trek is considered a moderate to difficult trek, and rates 7/10 on the physicality scale. This trek is strenuous as it has many challenging terrains and is thus considered ideal for experienced trekkers, as it requires immense physical and mental fitness.
Some of these factors make it a strenuous trek:
The Goechala Trek's total distance is nearly 78 to 90 km, which requires 11 days duration to complete this trek successfully.
Here are some of the key tips to ensure a safe trek to Goechala. Mental and Physical fitness is a must to cover nearly 12 km of trek each day for 7 long hours and experience a high altitude of nearly 16000 ft.
The Goechala Trek's total distance is nearly 78 to 90 km, which requires 11 days duration to complete this trek successfully.
It is essential to know about life-saving drugs like Diamox, Paracetamol 650, Dexamethasone and Nifedipine during this Goechala trek. Having the right knowledge will prove to be very good during this journey to prevent mountain sickness and fever.
Day 1: Siliguri to Yuksom
Day 2: Yuksom to Sachen
Day 3: Sachen to Tshoka
Day 4: Tshoka to Dzongri
Day 5: Dzongri to Dzongri top (Acclimatization)
Day 6: Dzongri to Thansing
Day 7: Thansing to Lamuney
Day 8: Lamuney to Goecha La via Samiti Lake and back to Thansing
Day 9: Thansing to Tshoka
Day 10: Tshoka to Yuksom
Day 11: Yuksom to NJP
The overall cost for the Goechala Trek is 16000/- per person, for an 11-day trek journey. This trek cost excludes the transportation cost. The transportation cost is 7000/- per vehicle. This is a 1-way transportation cost to Yuksom in a reserved cab. However, it will cost 800/- per person to Yuksom on a shared taxi or jeep, which will be a break journey through Jorethang, before reaching Yuksom.
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