- Sikkim
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- People's Choice
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Starting from
₹14,560/-PP*T&C
+5% GST
25% Off
4.9
- 9 Days
- 15,100 ft
- 90 Km
- Moderate-Difficult
- Sikkim
Best season : December to April
Opening Dates
- Oct
- Nov
01/Oct/2023
07/Oct/2023
08/Oct/2023
14/Oct/2023
15/Oct/2023
21/Oct/2023
22/Oct/2023
28/Oct/2023
29/Oct/2023
04/Nov/2023
05/Nov/2023
11/Nov/2023
12/Nov/2023
18/Nov/2023
19/Nov/2023
25/Nov/2023
26/Nov/2023
Overview
The Goechala Trek, Sikkim is located high up at 16,207 feet, offering a close-up view of the third-highest peak, Mt. Kanchenjunga. It’s a dream destination for many adventure seekers. Surrounded by stunning flora and fauna, the trek is a burst of vibrant colors that can uplift anyone’s spirits.
This trek is a thrilling adventure with many towering peaks to conquer. The trail connects with the renowned Kanchenjunga National Park, where you can experience the true wonders of nature, refreshing your senses. The best time to visit is in April and May when the sky is clear, offering perfect views of the mountains and stunning sunrises and sunsets.
Reaching the summit of Goechala offers a sense of achievement like no other as you stand in awe of the panoramic views stretching across the Himalayan range. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a novice adventurer, the Goechala Trek, Sikkim promises an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty, cultural immersion, and the thrill of exploration. So, lace up your hiking boots and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime amidst the pristine wilderness of the Himalayas.
Itinerary
Day 1: Yuksom to Sachen
The trek commences with a moderate hike from Yuksom to Sachen, covering a distance of around 8 kilometers. The trail leads through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, with occasional glimpses of the majestic mountains.
Day 2: Sachen to Tshoka
On day two, the route ascends gradually as you trek from Sachen to Tshoka, a picturesque village surrounded by lush greenery. The trail offers stunning views of the Pandim and Tenzing Khang peaks.
Day 3: Tshoka to Dzongri
This day involves a steep ascent to Dzongri, the highest point of the trek. The trail passes through dense forests and alpine meadows, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the towering Kanchenjunga.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Dzongri
To help acclimatize to the high altitude, a rest day is spent at Dzongri. Hikers can explore the nearby areas, take short walks, and enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views over the snow-capped peaks.
Day 5: Dzongri to Thansing via Kockchurang
The trek continues towards Thansing, passing through Kokchurong, a beautiful valley dotted with vibrant alpine flowers. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Rathong and Kabru peaks.
Day 6: Thansing to Lamuney
This leg of the journey takes trekkers through rocky terrain and moraines as they make their way to Lamuney, situated near the Samiti Lake. The route offers stunning vistas of the surrounding glaciers and peaks.
Day 7: Lamuney to Goechala
The highlight of the trek, day seven involves an early morning ascent to Goechala, the highest point of the trek. Trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range, as well as panoramic vistas of other peaks like Pandim, Kabru, and Rathong. After soaking in the views, trekkers descend back to Kokchurong for an overnight stay.
Day 8: Kokchurong to Tshoka
The journey back retraces the steps taken earlier, with a descent from Kokchurong to Tshoka. Trekkers can enjoy the familiar sights along the trail, soaking in the beauty of the landscapes once more.
Day 9: Tshoka to Yuksom
The final day of the trek involves a descent from Tshoka to Yuksom, marking the end of the exhilarating journey. Trekkers can reminisce about their experiences and celebrate their achievements upon reaching Yuksom.
NOTE
This itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, trail conditions, and the group's pace. Trekkers are advised to follow the instructions of the trek leader for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Map
Inclusion
- Trekking Route:The itinerary outlines a detailed trekking route from Yuksom to Goechala and back, covering various scenic destinations and offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
- Accommodations: Accommodations are provided at designated stops along the trekking route, ensuring a comfortable stay for participants.
- Acclimatization Day: A rest day at Dzongri allows trekkers to acclimatize to the high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and enhancing safety.
- Scenic Views: The itinerary highlights stunning views of prominent peaks such as Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Kabru, and Rathong, offering participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.
- Experienced Guides: Experienced guides accompany participants throughout the trek, providing support, guidance, and ensuring the safety of all trekkers.
- Cultural Experience:: Participants have the chance to interact with local communities and experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the region, adding depth to the trekking experience.
Exclusion
- Travel to Yuksom: Transportation to Yuksom, the starting point of the trek, is not included in the itinerary and must be arranged by participants.
- Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional meals, snacks, souvenirs, and optional activities are not covered in the itinerary and should be budgeted separately by participants.
- Travel Insurance: Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies or evacuation costs during the trek.
- Trekking Gear: Participants are expected to bring their own trekking gear, including appropriate clothing, footwear, and equipment, as these items are not provided.
- Medical Services: While basic first aid may be available during the trek, participants should be prepared with any necessary medications and medical supplies for personal use.
- Alcohol and Tobacco: Consumption of alcohol and tobacco may not be permitted during the trek, depending on local regulations and the policies of the trek organizers.
- Gratuities: Tips for guides, porters, and support staff are not included in the itinerary and should be budgeted separately by participants.
- Optional Activities: Any optional activities not included in the planned itinerary, such as side trips or extended excursions, are the responsibility of participants to arrange and pay for independently.
Things to Carry
If you are planning to go on the Goechala Trek, Sikkim here are some essential items that you should carry with you:
- Backpack: A sturdy backpack with a capacity of at least 40-50 liters to carry all your essentials.
- Trekking Shoes: Good quality trekking shoes with a good grip and ankle support.
- Warm Clothes: It is essential to carry warm clothes as the temperatures can drop significantly at night. Carry thermals, fleece jackets, down jackets, gloves, and woollen socks.
- Rain Gear: Carry a raincoat or poncho to protect yourself from rain and wind.
- Sun Protection: Carry sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, and a hat to protect yourself from the harsh sun.
- Headlamp or Torch: A headlamp or torch with extra batteries is necessary as there will be no electricity on the trek.
- Water Bottles: Carry at least two water bottles with a capacity of 1 litre each to stay hydrated throughout the trek.
- First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with medicines for headaches, stomach upsets, and other common ailments.
- Trekking Poles: Trekking poles provide stability and support and reduce the strain on your knees while descending.
- Miscellaneous: Carry a camera, power bank, and pocket knife for emergencies.
Make sure to pack light and carry only the essentials to avoid unnecessary weight on the trek.
How to Reach
he Goechala trek is nestled in the captivating landscapes of the Sikkim district, offering an exhilarating adventure amidst breathtaking scenery. To commence this remarkable journey, travelers can access the nearest city.
Nearest Rail Head: The nearest railway station to the Goechala trek is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, located approximately 150 kilometers away.
Nearest Bus Stand: The nearest bus stand to the Goechala trek is in Yuksom, which is also the starting point of the trek. The distance from Yuksom to the Goechala trek base camp is around 0.5 kilometers.
Nearest Airport: The nearest airport to the Goechala trek is Bagdogra Airport, situated approximately 160 kilometers away.
Safety & Security
Here are some safety tips that you must keep in mind while on the Goechala Trek:
- Always carry a first-aid kit with you, including medicines for altitude sickness
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids
- Listen to your body and take breaks when needed
- Follow the instructions of your trekking guide and do not venture out alone
- Respect the local culture and traditions
Cancellation Policy
We understand that planning an outdoor trip brings a lot of excitement and joy. However, we also know that cancellations can be disappointing. While Hello Hikers rarely cancels treks due to our efficient ground operations, cancellations can happen due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, government regulations, or any other factors beyond our control. In such cases, the following cancellation policy will be applicable.
To ensure a hassle-free experience, we recommend making your booking at least two months in advance. If you do need to cancel your trek, please inform us in writing. Cancellation charges will be effective from the date we receive written advice.
Our cancellation policy is as follows:
We have designed a cancellation policy that is fair, feasible, and convenient for all our customers. The procedure is as follows:
- If you cancel your trek 21 or more days before the start date, we will deduct 10% towards GST and transaction charges and refund 90% as a trek voucher valid for 1 year.
- If you cancel your trek 15-20 days before the start date, we will deduct 30% towards GST, transaction, accommodation at base, ration, etc., and refund 70% as a trek voucher valid for 1 year.
- If you cancel your trek 7-14 days before the start date, we will deduct 50% towards GST, transaction, accommodation at the base, ration, trek leaders, permits, equipment, etc., and refund 50% as a trek voucher that is valid for 1 year.
- If you cancel your trek 1-6 days before the start date, we will deduct 100% as all arrangements have been made, and we are ready to take you on the trek.
We also have some terms and conditions for the trek voucher:
- The voucher will be valid for 12 months from the date of issuance.
- The voucher can be used for any trek with Hello Hikers.
Thank you for choosing Hello Hikers, and we hope to see you on our treks soon!
FAQS
1. What is the Goechala trek?
The Goechala trek is a renowned trekking route located in the Indian state of Sikkim, known for its stunning views of the mighty Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. It's a challenging yet immensely rewarding trek that takes you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes.
2. Where is the Goechala trek located?
The Goechala trek is situated in the Himalayan region of Sikkim, starting from the town of Yuksom and culminating at the Goechala Pass. This region is characterized by its rich biodiversity, with dense forests, glacial lakes, and panoramic mountain vistas.
3. What is the duration of the Goechala trek?
The Goechala trek typically lasts for about 8 to 10 days, depending on the chosen itinerary and weather conditions. It covers a distance of approximately 90 kilometers round trip, offering trekkers an immersive experience in the wilderness.
4. What is the difficulty level of the Goechala trek?
The Goechala trek is considered to be of moderate to difficult difficulty level. It involves steep ascents, rocky terrain, and high altitude passes, requiring a good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience.
5. What are the highlights of the Goechala trek?
The highlights of the Goechala trek include breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks, encounters with diverse flora and fauna including rhododendrons and blue sheep, camping beside pristine lakes like Samiti Lake, and crossing high altitude passes like Dzongri La.
6. What should I pack for the Goechala trek?
Essential items to pack for the Goechala trek include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing including layers, waterproof jacket and pants, sleeping bag, trekking poles, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, water bottles, energy snacks, first aid kit, and a camera to capture the stunning vistas.
7. Are there any accommodations available during the trek?
Accommodations during the Goechala trek primarily consist of camping in tents at designated campsites along the route. Trekkers need to carry their own camping equipment, although some tour operators may provide organized camping packages.
8. Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Goechala trek?
While hiring a guide is not mandatory for experienced trekkers with knowledge of the route, it is highly recommended, especially for those unfamiliar with the terrain and altitude. A local guide not only ensures safety but also enhances the trekking experience with their expertise and insights.
9. When is the best time to undertake the Goechala trek?
The best time to embark on the Goechala trek is during the pre-monsoon season (March to May) and post-monsoon season (September to November). During these months, the weather is relatively stable, offering clear views of the mountains and pleasant trekking conditions.
10. How do I reach the starting point of the Goechala trek?
The starting point of the Goechala trek is the town of Yuksom in Sikkim, which can be reached by road from major cities like Siliguri and Gangtok. Regular bus services and shared taxis are available to Yuksom, from where the trekking trail begins, leading you into the heart of the Himalayas.
Opening Dates
- Oct
- Nov
01/Oct/2023
07/Oct/2023
08/Oct/2023
14/Oct/2023
15/Oct/2023
21/Oct/2023
22/Oct/2023
28/Oct/2023
29/Oct/2023
04/Nov/2023
05/Nov/2023
11/Nov/2023
12/Nov/2023
18/Nov/2023
19/Nov/2023
25/Nov/2023
26/Nov/2023
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