Sikkim Goechala Trek - 11 Days

Watch Video
  • Duration11 Days
  • DestinationIndia
  • Difficulty LevelModerate to Strenuous
  • Max Altitude15,100ft. 4,940,m.

About Trip

From the forested hills of Yuksom to the alpine meadows of Tshokha, and finally to the Goechala Pass (4940 meters), where you are confronted with a jaw-dropping view of Kanchenjunga’s (8586 meters) south face. In all directions, sheer rocky mountains surround you. You will gain a true sense of perspective as you stand in awe in front of these monumental peaks.

After you meet with our representative we begin our mountain adventure. Trek up through lush semi-tropical forests, crossing crystal-clear streams and rivers along the ascent. Listen to the peaceful flowing waterfall just below Prek Chu. Continue moving through the highlands from Tshoka to Dzongri, taking an exploration/acclimatization day. You’ll be amazed by the rugged terrain surrounding these points.

From Dzongri, keep climbing through Pandim’s shadow before ascending even further to Goechala (5002 meters/16,410 feet). Look below at the glaciated lake, with snow and ice covering the mountain ridges around it. Then look up and out and at Kanchenjunga (8586m), Talung (7349m), Kabru (7353m), and a dozen other peaks. You will never forget the moment of being at the top of Goechala Pass.

Begin the descent, first through the high alpine landscape and then again through marvelous lowland terrain. Each day on the Sikkim Goechala Trek  is unique from the day before and the following day. You will be constantly surprised by the view that awaits behind each corner. The trek ends where it began, in Yuksam. Our vehicle awaits to take you to Gangtok and for a lovely sightseeing tour of Sikkim’s capital and largest city.

There is something truly special about the Himalayas. It does not take long after trekking around and through them to realize this. We would love to be a part of this exploration with you. Join us on this once in a lifetime Sikkim Goechala Trek!

Highlights

  • Stand at the top of Goechala (5,002 meters) with eye-popping mountain views Kanchanzonza
  • Enjoy a range of sceneries throughout the trek
  • The trekking thrudht rhododendron forests on the trail
  • Up-close views of Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world
  • Trek with local people learning local language
  • The trail to Goechala is blessed with rhododendron forests during April and May
  • Samiti Lake is another big attraction on the Goechala trek

Itinerary

Expand all +Collapse all -

Dear Guest This is our regular Itinerary and most people have done this itinerary. So If you have any special request on this itinerary you can contact us via email. We can Customize this trip with your request. If you want to make it shorter or longer or want to add some other tours with this package please mention on your email, we will work out on your request.

Drive Distance : 159 km | Drive Duration : 7 hours | Pick up point for Ashmita trekkers : NJP railway station / Bagdogra airport.

Our assistant will welcome you at Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri and bring you to Yuksoom Pass Assam tea plantations and tiny villages along the way The road goes via Teesta, Malli, Jorethang and Tashiding.

Yuksoom is a the historical town is a gem in West Sikkim. Established in 1642, Yaksum used to be the capital of Sikkim. The long, rich history is being continued by the culturally distinct Bhutias, who make up the majority of Yaksum’s population. For trekkers and adventure lovers, the town is notable because it is the gateway to Kanchenjunga National Park.

Important Note :

You need to reach latest by 10 am on Day 1 at NJP/Bagdogra. You will return to NJP/Bagdogra in 6/7 hours drive from Yuksoom/Pelling on Day 10, around by 12noon if you start early by 5-6am . Arrange your tickets accordingly.or we advice to stay in Siliguri.

  • Home Stay
  • Dinner
  • 1,780 Mt
  • Rest day

Trek Distance : 7.50 km | Trek Duration : 5.5 hours | Altitude Gain : 1,780 Mt to 2,255Mt

Today marks the beginning of our Sikkim Goechala Trek. Walk gently uphill along the Rathong river gorge, through a lively jungle of magnolia, rhododendron, fern, and several varieties of orchids. Listen to the chirping birds, occasional monkey, and the sound of the wind in the trails – the ultimate feeling of peace. After ascending a bit more, reach Sachen, a Tibetan refugee settlement. Overnight in tent camp.

Recommended to Carry 2 litres of water from Yuksom. You will cross streams intermittently where you can refill your water bottles.

  • Camping
  • 8am
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 2,255Mt
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 6.50 km | Trek Duration : 6 hours | Altitude Gain : 2,255 Mt to 2,983 Mt

Take a steep climb after leaving Sachen through vibrant rhododendron forests. The trail is very well-maintained. Take a rest in Phedang, and continue, progressing past the 4,000-meter mark. The lush vegetation gets sparser throughout the day. We set up our camp in Tshoka overnight Camping.

Recommended to Carry sufficient water from Sachen.

  • Camping
  • 7am
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 2,983 Mt
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 8.40 km | Trek Duration : 8 -9 hour | AltitudeGain : 2,255 Mt. to 4,020 Mt.

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. We set up our camp in Dzongri in the afternoon and, if you have the energy, we continue climbing briefly up to a meadow with crisp views of Koktang, Rathong, Kabru, Kanchenjunga, Simvo, and Pandim. This quick hike helps our bodies prepare for the following days. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 8am
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 4,020 Mt
  • Trekking day

Trek Distance : 2 km | Trek Duration : 2.5-3 hour | Altitude Gain and Descend: 4,020 Mt. to 4,116 Mt and back to 4,020 Mt.

Dzongri is a perfect place to spend an extra day acclimatizing. There are smaller peaks within walking distance of our campsite, so we can climb those to help our bodies acclimatize. We keep going high throughout the following days, so we want to be as prepared as possible for that. If you have interest in making the hikes for the sunrise and/or sunset views, this is the best time to do it! Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 8am
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 4,020m
  • Acclimatizing day

Trek Distance : 10 km | Trek Duration : 6 hours | Altitude Descend : 4,020 Mt to 3,500 Mt

Take breakfast and begin another day of ascending through gorgeous landscapes. Reach a ridge at about 4,115 meters (13,500 feet) for unreal views of Kanchenjunga and Pandim while experiencing the charming chhortens and prayer flags – signs of Tibetan Buddhism. Take some photographs and descend towards Pandim and even further through rhododendron forests to the Prek Chu River at 3,749 meters. Take lunch in the peace and quiet and take a deep breath. Enjoy the splendid scenery of the Sikkim Kanchenjunga Goechala Trek. After lunch, cross a river and slowly ascend for an hour and a half through pine trees to a nice camping spot. Above us lies the majestic, unclimbed Pandim peak. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • 8am
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 3,500m
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 2 km | Trek Duration : 2 hours | Altitude Gain : 3,500 Mt to 3,962 Mt

It’s an easy hike today, though the high altitude wear on us a little bit. We must not overdo ourselves, as tomorrow will be the most difficult (but rewarding) day of our trek. Walk alongside the Prek Chu River. Soon, we reach the sacred Samiti Lake, an emerald-green body of water nestled amidst the brightly colored, wind-town prayer flags. Overnight in tent camp. 

  • Camping
  • 8am
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 3,962m
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 13 km | Trek Duration : 12-14 hours | Altitude Gain and Descend : 3,962 Mt to 4,940 to 3,685 Mt

Today is the big day! To maximize the changes of good weather, we leave early in the morning. Besides, the views are best during this time. Ascend the hill behind the lake and then traverse the glacial moraine. Above Samiti Lake, the area that we are trekking on, is called the Zemathang Plateau. Hike across the plateau under the shadow of Pandim, and climb up to a height of 15,700 feet. Look down at a majestic snowy and icy glaciated lake. From here, it’s an hour to the Goechala Pass. Traverse the well-trodden path to the pass, which is decorated with bright-colored prayer flags. Sit in awe at the view of the world’s highest mountain range, and glacial valleys in the distance. Descend all the way to Kokchurang , today’s destination. Overnight in tent camp. 

  • Camping
  • 4am
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 4,940m to 3,685m
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 14 km | Trek Duration : 6-7 hours | Altitude Gain : 3,685 Mt to 2,983 Mt

Get up in the early morning and check out the sunrise view from a ridge behind our campsite. Here are awesome views of Kanchenjunga and behind us is the Goechala Pass. Departing our campsite, we take a fresh route back towards the trailhead. Hike down to the Prek Chu and weave around the jungle to arrive to Phedang. Stop for a lunch of snack before steeply descending to Tshoka. It’s a long day so take it easy in the evening. Overnight in tent camp.

  • Camping
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 2,983m
  • Trekking

Trek Distance : 12 km | Trek Duration : 5-6 hours | Altitude Descend : 2,983 Mt to 1,780 Mt

Make the final day of the trek a memorable one! Be present as you hike through the lush landscape. It’s the same route as we took on the first day of the trek, but after many days, it seems fresh. Enjoy any scenery you missed on the first time around. In Yuksam, we check into our hotel and rest or explore the rest of the day. Overnight in hotel. 

  • Home Stay
  • 8am
  • Breakfast Lunch Dinner
  • 1,780m
  • Trekking

After breakfast, our team transfers you to Bagdogra airport or NJP Train station for your next destination. Thank you for taking the Sikkim Kanchenjunga Goechala Trek with Ashmita Trek & Tours! We look forward to seeing you again.

Thank you for your wonderful experience with us Hope to see you on the next tour to another fascinating destination of India/Nepal.After breakfast, our team transfers you to Bagdogra airport or NJP Train station for your next destination. Thank you for taking the Sikkim Kanchenjunga Goechala Trek with Ashmita Trek & Tours! We look forward to seeing you again.

Thank you for your wonderful experience with us Hope to see you on the next tour to another fascinating destination of India/Nepal.

  • 6am
  • Breakfast
Want to read it later?

Download this trip's brochure & start trip planning offline.

Download PDFTrip Map
Sikkim Goechala Trek - 11 Days map

What's Included

  • 2 night accommodation at Yuksoom Home Stay / guest house Yuksom on sharing basis.
  • All government fees and local taxes.
  • All necessary mountain Trekking permits during trek and tour.
  • Meals ( breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek with hot tea/coffee.
  • Meals while on trek (Veg. & Egg).
  • including boiled drinking water provided on trekking days.
  • Accommodation in camping tent during the trek.
  • Kitchen tent, dinning tent and toilet tent as required during the trek.
  • Local Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid certification
  • A good quality sleeping bag arrange by Ashmita Trek and Tours.
  • (Bring your own sleeping if you have a high altitude specific personal Sleeping Bag. This is always better for hygienic reasons.)
  • Basic Medical & First Aid kit.
  • Trasfer from and to airport. 
  • Meals during Hotel/Guest House Stay.
  • Tips for trekking Guide and Porters staff.
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary.
  • Your travel insurance (Compulsory) 
  • Personal gear and expenses for the trek.
  • Any expense of personal nature.
  • Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.

Useful Information

How high and location trek route of Sikkim Kanchenjunga Goechala Trekt ?

The Sikkim Kanchenjunga Goechala Trek  is a high mountain pass in Sikkim, India in the Himalaya range. The southeast face of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain, which runs about 90km altitude of 4,940 mt or 16,207 ft) the typical itinerary is over 9 days each day you will be walking about 6-7hours. the trek begin from Yuksoom  trail thrugh kanchanzonga national park with night camping at Tshoka, Dzongri, Tsansing, Lamuney, Kockchurung  end your trek Yuksom. 

Goechala Trek difficulty 

Before signing up for the Goechala Trek, most people ask, how hard is the Goechala Trek? Of all the treks in Sikkim, the Goechala Trek is one of the more difficult ones. It is considered to be a hard trek. However, anyone with moderate trekking experience should have no problems taking this trek. If you do not have much prior trekking experience or if you want to be extra prepared, some cardio preparation would benefit you. In terms of altitude, you will not have to worry, as our ascent is slow and steady. For those of you who can take on this challenge, you will be heavily rewarded with some of the best mountain views in India.

Goechala Trek Permit

Yes, for foreigners you need a permit for the Sikkim Kanchenjunga Goechala Trek. The permits required depend on where you are from. All permits will be taken care of by Ashmita Trek and Tours. Do note that citizens of China, Bangladesh, and Myanmar are not permitted to trek in this region.

The ILP (Inner Line Permit) is required for all foreigners before entering Sikkim. They are obtained either at Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri or at the entrance of Sikkim.

Kanchenjunga National Park (KNP) permit is also required, which can be obtained as you leave Yuksom village.

The Protected Area Permit (PAP) is also required for all foreigners. This is obtained in Gangtok and only through an authorized tour operator. For this reason, all foreign trekkers must book the Goechala Trek package through an government-authorized trekking agency.

What to Expect on the Sikkim Goechala Trek

Expect nothing less than to see several of the world’s highest peaks, including the majestic peak of Kanchenjunga. The Goechala Trek is truly of the India’s greatest trails, providing up-close mountain views. See rare alpine flowers blooming in the springtime, blooming rhododendron trees, and a variety wild animals wandering the forests. Get to know the Rai, Limbu and other ethnic groups while staying in their comfortable teahouses. Expect to get blown away by the natural beauty at Samiti Lake, enveloped by rocky mountains. On this 11-day excursion, prepare to trek through true Himalayan wilderness and see dozens of majestic.

Best season for Sikkim Goechala Trek 

Best season for Goechala Trek first season Spring (March to May) In the springtime, in the mountain the colorful flowers are blooming like rhododendrons,orchids and magnolia. during the fall, the skies are usually clearer the temperature ranges from 7 - 11 degrees C°, and the second Season is after the monsoon starting from (September to early December) the snow peaks show in their dazzling beauty in a clear blue sky when the temperature ranges from from - 10 to 4 degrees C°

Note : also possible to do this trek in winter from - Jan - Fab but it's cold recommended to bring warm cloth as munch as posible we Ashmita Trek and Tours arranges the trek with full management, including transportation, meals, stay ,permit etc. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions!

Sikkim Goechala Trek Weather/Temperature

The Sikkim Goechala Trek can be doen all throughout the year, though it’s much more pleasant in some weather conditions than others. The weather along the Goechala Trek depends on the season.  During the springtime (March to May), temperatures fall between 11-19 C° during the day and 2-10 C° at night. Monsoon temperatures are around 15-22 C° during the day and 7 to -1 C° at night. People tend to favor trekking in Autumn, when weather is moderate and skies are clear. In the daytime, temperatures range between 6-12 C° and 5 and -3 C° at nighttime.

Keep in mind, the Goechala weather is always unpredictable. In to time, a cloud can come and take away a mountain view, and a gust of wind can nearly knock you off your feet on a high pass. This just adds a little more adventure to the trek. Regardless of the season, you should pack several layers just in case.

FAQs

By Train :-

New Jalpaiguri or NJP is a major railway station located in south west of Sikkim. There are many long distance trains arrives or pass through the NJP station. You can choose to come to Kolkata and take one of the many trains to NJP. If you are coming from Delhi or north part of India, try to take any north east train which directly goes to NJP by passing Kolkata.

Recommended Train :-

DARJEELING MAIL – Train No. – 12343 (Very good option to reach NJP in the morning. Starts around 10 pm in the night and reaches NJP 8 am in the morning.)

PADATIK EXPRESS – Train No. – 12377 (Very good option to reach NJP in the morning. Starts around 11 pm in the night and reaches NJP 9 am in the morning.)

KANCHANKANYA EXPRESS – Train No. – 13149 (Starts at 8:30 pm in the evening and reaches NJP 7:30 am in the morning)

SHATABDI EXPRESS – Train No. – 12041 (Day train, starts 2:15 pm in the afternoon and reaches NP at 10:20 pm in the night. There are hotels/lodges outside the railway station at a walking distance of 5 minutes. Otherwise book an auto rickshaw/taxi to Siliguri, which takes around 15 minutes. There are several hotels around Siliguri Junction/Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus/S.N.T

By Flight :- (Airport Code: IXB)

Flying to Bagdogra is another option that you can choose though flights to Bagdogra tend to be pricier than those to Kolkata. Most of the flight foremost metros in the country come here.

Return from NJP/Bagdogra:

Normally you reach NJP/Bagdogra from any trek base by 5/6 pm in the evening. You can take any train after 7 pm. Accordingly arrange your homeward journey.and for flight we recommended to stay at siliguri one day before your flight depature. 

Goechala as a difficult trek demand a sufficient level of fitness, therefore you should check You might not know what goals to set and how to reach them. so we Ashmita Trek and Tours designed three trek-specific workout guides line for you.

Suggested Preparation :

  • Cardio exercises include running, cycling, jogging, push-ups, and pull-ups for about 4-5 days a week for 3 months before your trip will begin.
  • You should also be involved in developing core strength. and muscle endurance through weight training.
  • Hiking in the hills in different weather conditions will be good preparation for this trip.
  • If you have access, kayaking will also be a very good way to develop the strength and endurance required for this trip.

Here’s a chart to help you get fit for the trek.

Easy

Backpack : 

(-10 C) (50 - 60 ltr) with multiple-compartments will surely help you to keep your personal belongings safe and organized a good quality haversack as to make all things to fit in one it must be comfortable while walking with it Sleeping bag. Day pack + rain cover 20 - 30 ltr (If hire a mule or porter)

Clothing & Accessories : 

The trek routes go from low to high altitudes. we suggest you T- shirt, pentagon with cap Extra socks, a water proof jacket, (rain coat requred in ranny Season ) Down Jacket/Gore tax Jacket, Light wind & water proof jacket , Inner sleeping sheet , Long sleeve T-shirts , Warm hat/ gloves,a good trekking shoe, make sure you choose the right footwear shoes have to be lightweight and durable, that offers complete and grip. a sun protection cream. Woolen cap and hand gloves. Warm jacket or a sweater and also a wind-cheater You experience strong cold winds especially in the months of September and October.

First Aid : 

Personal Medical Kit to heal minor injuries, cuts, or burns, carry your own small first aid kit with basic medicines and bandages. or Consult your doctor.

Flashlights : 

1 Nos Torch with extra battery or head light in important. 

Supplements : 

Water bottle , packet food like biscuits dry fruits (dates,cashew,almonds,resins etc) and sweets (Dry packet sweets-Cadbury-peanut candy) are to be carried as supplements during the treks.

Water bottle : / Hydration pack 2 bottles of one litre each People who use hydration pack

Trekking shoes :

We requred The proper foot wear depends on the trek. Shorter treks in low altitude can be done in comfortable running shoes up to 2000miters and while longer, more demanding treks in high altitude require sturdy trekking/hiking boots.

Here’s a guide to help you pack for the trek – 

Easy

Booking terms and condition refers to the special binding agreement between Ashmita Trek and Tours and the client. It is important in the business system to conduct such a procedure. For both of our benefit, it is best to know and understand the terms of our mutual agreement before booking a trip. The terms are a set of regulations that the client must agree to follow to use online services.

To conform your place in a scheduled Fixed Departure trek or a Private trek we require 30% advance of your total cost Advance payment can made online via laft bank transfer net banking Credit/Debit Card. and the remaining 70% balance is payable 15 days before your trip denature trek date.

If you book the trek 15 before lass the trek date you need to pay the full amount of the trek fee.

Trip Cancellation Policy Form The Clients : 

If a client wants to cancel the trip for their prior booked trek or tours the deposit 30% of the Trek/Tour Fee is Non-Refundable at any stage. This ensures your booking and confirms reservation in trekking and tours and permit process as per the company policy. If in case you are not able to join the trek due to unavoidable region you have choice or of the shifting to another trip and you can travel anytime in the next one years without any extra cost. This means the payments you have already made stay secure with us and you can re-book the trip at a later date instead of immediately cancelling now and losing the deposit.

Customer Reviews

  • R

    Rebecca Gordon, Australia - April 18, 2023

    I just completed the 8 day Goeche La trek in Sikkim with my partner Ian. Sangay was our amazing and experienced guide. The trek was very challenging due to heavy snowfall. Sangay was amazing in his decision making, planning and belief for us to complete the trek. We had amazing clear views at Goeche La after two days of cloud and snow at Dzongri pass. Sangay and his amazing team ensured that we were always warm, comfortable and well fed. The food was especially good - The cook produced three course meals - delicious We even had a cake on our last day.. I am so appreciative to Sangay and his team for giving me the opportunity to complete this snowy challenge in the beautiful Himalaya.

    Thank you Ashmita Trek and Tours for organizing such a great trek experience

    Rebecca Gordon and Lan

  • D

    Daniel Traveler, United Kingdom - November 20, 2019

    Whw!what a professional service and well organized.our Goechala trek in Sikkim our guide Sherpas was very experienced and a great person to spend our time on the trek with.he was a wealth of knowledge and was able to answer every question he had about the Himalayas,the culture, and the trek. He told us that it was the job of the guide to make sure we walk,eat,sleep, and enjoyable.

    So we didn't need to worry about anything during our trek in Sikkim Goechala from the beginning of our trip everything was organized for trekking equipments porter accomodetion nesesary and looked after all emails answered promptly.

    Our experience with Ashmita Trek and Tours was excellent overall.and the rest of Ashmita teams made sure our bookings went smoothly.we highly recommend Ashmita as a service to all and we definitely coming back in the coming year to do Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal!
    Cheers.

  • J

    John L, United Kingdom - October 29, 2019

    My friend and I decided to book a last minute Trip to India to do Kanckanzonza goechala trek base Camp in 2019. and turned out to be a great decision because we had an absolutely amazing experience! From the very beginning we had lots of questions about the india trip and itinerary and Subash Tamang the owner was always quick with answers so we felt comfortable with everything.

    The team from Ashmita Trek and Tours Company has done a marvellous job to ensure that my safety, logistics and lodging was organised properly during our Trek.

    The guides were helpful, friendly and were always on the lookout for my well-being which I deeply appreciate.
    All in all we had a wonderful time and I could honestly recommend these guys to anyone interested in Sikkim Trek. Only hope I come back in the near future and do another trek!

  • J

    Jessica, United Kingdom - August 08, 2019

    We did Goecha la trek in Sikkim this April 2019 This was really sentiment to just how good the service is that from Ashmita Trek and Tours provides. Through the different packages and costs, and they are extremely good in offering the best price that was appropriate to our needs.
    Subash the owner of Company kept in touch and communicated with us throughout the entire journey, checking up on us to make sure we were Ok. Our guide Dawa lama and porter are extremely helpful and friendly after our Goechala trek, we booked Sikkim Authentic Cultural Tour through Subash again, this was another great trip.

    I would whole heartedly recommend Ashmita Trek and Tours, and will definitely return to Sikkim one day with my family,
    Thank you Subash we wish you every success in your the future of your business.
    Regards
    Jessica

  • B

    Bernard Napthine, Australia - May 28, 2019

    Fantastic trek with a great company that took us to mighty snow capped mountains with breath-taking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
    Subash and the team at Ashmita deserve the 5 star rating. We have trekked in Nepal, Kashmir and Ladakh over the years and this was the most professional and best organised trek we have done.Sunjay our guide was very skilled, knowledgeable, helpful and flexible which was really needed as our trip plans had to change several times due to bad weather. Nothing seemed a problem for him. If we were going back we would him again.Tenzing the cook was not only the master of preparing great food but such variety that we never ate the same meal twice in 12 days. Plus he added an extra laugh to the trek. In fact the whole team was top class.Not enough room here to describe the rich variety of scenery and the beauty of these mountains but we will remember this trip for a long time. Thank-you Asmita Treks.
    Mary-Anne and Bernard
    Australia

Trip Advisor