Beginners guide for Goechala trek

Overview

As you set out on the exhilarating Goechala trek, take in the beauty of the most difficult peaks, including Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Pandim, the Three Sisters, and the majestic Everest. 

The Beautiful mountains

Sikkim maintains a wonderful balance between the natural beauty of its flora and wildlife, but trekking there, particularly on the Goechala climb, makes up for the adrenaline rush that some wanderlust-filled individuals really require. This Goechala trek guide has everything you need for a soul-stirring escape, so if you have been wanting to quench your adventure thirst, get started today. 

Goechala Pass Snippet

Sikkim’s western region

Yuksom as the starting point, Goecha La as the finishing point, altitude is up to 16,200 feet.

Approximately 11 days (upward & downward trek)

Covered a distance of 90 kilometres. Initially moderate in difficulty, the trek becomes challenging as the terrain changes later on.

Best Months for the Goecha La Trek: April to May and October to November

Walka La Trek Mornings and nights will be -5°C to 10°C, while days will be 10°C to 25°C.

Tents, trekking huts, and guest houses are among the lodging options along the route.

Route

The most well-known route is one that leads through Dzongri via Phedang, all the way to Thangsing, and then on to Goechala. Trekkers can take this route based on their experience, feasibility, and convenience.

There is also the option of starting the ascent from Phedang and without travelling to Dzongri, but that would defeat the purpose of the entire expedition.

How to Contact

Trains and aircraft are the best means of transportation to get to Yuksom’s base camp.

By Air

The majority of metropolises have flights to Bagdogra Airport, which is the closest airport. It will take no more than 6 to 7 hours to go from this airport to Yuksom, which is situated at a distance of roughly 155 kilometres.

By Train

The closest rail station to Sikkim, which is well connected to other major cities, is New Jalpaiguri Junction, which is situated in the centre of Siliguri, West Bengal. One can take a taxi from New Jalpaiguri Junction to Yuksom, which is 150 kilometres away, in around 6 hours. 

Trekking Routes in Goechala

It shouldn’t take more than 11 days to complete the entire Goechala trek for both directions for those who intend to follow the standard route, which is plenty to enjoy the entire journey in the proper manner.

However, it is entirely up to you if you would rather take your time or stay an extra day or two at any of the intermediate locations.

Day 1: Siliguri’s New Jalpaiguri Junction to Yuksom’s base camp

Day 2: Sachen to Yuksom

Day 3: Sachen to Bakhim to Tshoka

Day 4: Phedang, Tshoka, and Dzongri

Day 5: A day of leisure in Dzongri

Day 6: Kokchurang -> Dzongri Top -> Dzongri Thansing

Day 7 : Thansing to Day 8 in Lamuney: Lamuney, Samiti Lake, Goecha La, Lamuney 

Day 9 of Thansing: Thansing -> Phedang -> Tshoka

Day 10: Sachen -> Tshoka -> Bakhim -> Yuksom

Day 11: From Siliguri to New Jalpaiguri Junction in Yuksom

The best trek in India is the Goechala Trek, why?

The mesmerising vistas of the mountain range are one of the main draws of the Goechala hike. The Goechala trip is compared by hikers to any of the challenging climbs in Nepal.

Another justification for choosing Goechala for trekkers is the chance to see the dawn above the Kanchenjunga Range.

One of the major sights to see while on the Goechala hike is the Samiti Lake. The stunning vistas of the lake’s motionless water and, more importantly, its reflection of Mt. Pandim are truly a visual delight.