Goechala Trek

Goechala Trek

Sikkim
Moderate to DifficultDifficulty
10 DaysDuration
4940 mMax Altitude
90 kmLength
YuksomStarting

Goechala Trek: Walk to the Grandstand of Mt. Kanchenjunga

The Goechala Trek is a legendary high-altitude Himalayan trek that offers mind-blowing views of Mt. Kanchenjunga—the third highest peak in the world. Located in the enchanting landscapes of Sikkim, this trail leads you through dense rhododendron forests, dramatic ridgelines, glacial lakes, and ends at a point so close to the mighty Kanchenjunga that it feels surreal. It’s not just a trek; it’s a pilgrimage for mountain lovers.

Unparalleled Mountain Views

Goechala isn’t just about Kanchenjunga. Along the route, you’re treated to panoramic views of 14 other big Himalayan peaks including Mt. Pandim, Rathong, Kabru, and Simvo. The famous View Point 1 offers a golden sunrise that paints the mountains in fiery orange—one of the most magical moments on any Indian trek.

Blooming Trails in Summer, Snowfields in Fall

Spring turns the entire trail into a rhododendron wonderland. Red, pink, and white blossoms cover the forest like a fairy tale. In autumn, you walk through icy trails with clear skies and snow-draped peaks—both seasons show Goechala in a completely different but equally stunning mood.

The Challenge and the Reward

Packing List

60L backpack with rain cover
Buy on Amazon
High ankle trekking boots
Buy on Amazon
Thermal innerwear and fleece jacket
Buy on Amazon
Down jacket and windproof outer shell
Buy on Amazon
Waterproof gloves and warm cap
Buy on Amazon
Trekking poles
Buy on Amazon
Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses
Buy on Amazon
Headlamp and spare batteries
Buy on Amazon
Personal medication + altitude pills
Buy on Amazon
Water bottles (2L total) or hydration bladder
Buy on Amazon
Power bank and ID proof
Buy on Amazon
Snacks, dry fruits, and electrolytes
Buy on Amazon
Camera/binoculars (optional but worth it)
Buy on Amazon

Itinerary

Day 1: NJP/Bagdogra to Yuksom | Distance: 150 km | Duration: 7 hours | Altitude: 5,700 ft
  • Scenic drive through Teesta and Sikkim hills
  • Overnight stay in Yuksom
Day 2: Yuksom to Sachen | Distance: 8 km | Duration: 5 hours | Altitude: 7,200 ft
  • Walk through forest with hanging bridges
  • Camping in dense pine and oak zone
Day 3: Sachen to Tshoka | Distance: 7 km | Duration: 5 hours | Altitude: 9,650 ft
  • Steep climb through Bakhim village
  • First views of Mt. Pandim from Tshoka
Day 4: Tshoka to Dzongri | Distance: 9 km | Duration: 6 hours | Altitude: 13,020 ft
  • Rhododendron forest trail with wooden walkways
  • Reach Dzongri meadows with stunning peaks all around
Day 5: Acclimatization at Dzongri | Distance: 2 km (optional hike) | Duration: 2 hours | Altitude: 13,670 ft (Dzongri Top)
  • Early morning hike to Dzongri Top
  • Catch sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga and nearby peaks
Day 6: Dzongri to Thansing | Distance: 10 km | Duration: 6 hours | Altitude: 12,900 ft
  • Descend and then climb across Kokchurang
  • Walk alongside Prek Chu river
Day 7: Thansing to Lamuney | Distance: 4 km | Duration: 2-3 hours | Altitude: 13,650 ft
  • Short acclimatization hike
  • Camp near Samiti Lake base
Day 8: Lamuney to Goechala View Point 1 and back to Thansing | Distance: 12 km | Duration: 8 hours | Altitude: 15,100 ft
  • Early start to reach View Point 1 for sunrise
  • Back to Thansing after crossing Samiti Lake
Day 9: Thansing to Tshoka | Distance: 14 km | Duration: 6-7 hours | Altitude: 9,650 ft
  • Retrace steps back via Kokchurang and Dzongri route
Day 10: Tshoka to Yuksom | Distance: 15 km | Duration: 6 hours | Altitude: 5,700 ft
  • Final day of descent through forest trail
  • Trek concludes at Yuksom
Marker
Leaflet

Best Month to Visit

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Nearest AirportBagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway StationNew Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station

Weather Forecast

Low: -4°High: -1°
-1°
Snow
Snow
05:25
17:34
95%

Pricing

BanBanjara logo

BanBanjara

₹15225
The Searching Souls logo

The Searching Souls

₹17999
Thrillophilia logo

Thrillophilia

₹17999
Glacier Treks And Adventure logo

Glacier Treks And Adventure

₹19000
Sikkim Tourism logo

Sikkim Tourism

₹19500
Trekup India logo

Trekup India

₹20980
Trek The Himalayas logo

Trek The Himalayas

₹21000
Indiahikes logo

Indiahikes

₹21450
Bikat Adventures logo

Bikat Adventures

₹21500
Himalaya Trekkers logo

Himalaya Trekkers

₹24000

You will be redirected to the operator's website

Reviews

0 reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review

Top Stays Nearby

Chungda Hidden Homestay Yuksom

Chungda Hidden Homestay Yuksom

star4.8 (160)📍 0.2 km away from Starting
Kanchendzonga Guest House

Kanchendzonga Guest House

star4.3 (45)📍 0.1 km away from Starting
OIKOS INN

OIKOS INN

star5 (29)0
Nyamgyaling Homestay

Nyamgyaling Homestay

star4.5 (17)📍 0.8 km away from Starting
Mountain Whisper HomeStay Yuksom

Mountain Whisper HomeStay Yuksom

star5 (16)📍 0.2 km away from Starting
Yuksam Village Farm Stay

Yuksam Village Farm Stay

star5 (16)📍 0.8 km away from Starting
Budha Homestay

Budha Homestay

star5 (11)📍 0.1 km away from Starting
Lanam cottage home stay

Lanam cottage home stay

star4.5 (10)📍 0.1 km away from Starting
Yuksam homestay Izifiso

Yuksam homestay Izifiso

star4.9 (7)0
Yak Hotel

Yak Hotel

star5 (5)📍 0.7 km away from Starting

FAQs

Do we go all the way to Goechala Pass?

No, trekkers are only allowed till View Point 1 (~15,100 ft). Going further is restricted by the forest department.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?

It’s better for those who’ve done at least one high-altitude trek. It’s long and physically demanding.

Are permits required for this trek?

Yes. You need permits from the Kanchenjunga National Park and ILP (Inner Line Permit) for Sikkim.

Can I do this trek solo?

No. Sikkim government requires solo trekkers to be accompanied by a registered guide or group.

What are the stay arrangements like?

Basic wooden huts or tents at campsites. No luxury. Shared sleeping spaces and common toilet arrangements.

What kind of food is provided?

Simple vegetarian meals (rice, dal, roti, tea, porridge) are served. Non-veg is not allowed on the trail.

Is there mobile network or electricity?

No signal post Yuksom. No charging points either. Carry a power bank and inform your family in advance.

How is the weather during the trek?

Cold mornings and nights. Mild days. Temperature can drop to -5°C at higher camps. Be ready for wind and rain.

What’s the best season to go?

April-May for rhododendrons. October-November for clear skies and snowy peaks.

Are there water sources on the trail?

Yes, you’ll cross multiple streams. But always use purification tablets or filtered water.

Trek

BROWSE ALL TREKS

Browse all treks in one place and use filters or sorting options to find trails by region, difficulty, duration, or season for your perfect adventure.

Explore Treks

More Treks Nearby This

Dzongri Trek
50 kmModerate to Difficult

Sikkim

Dzongri Trek

5-6 days • 50 km

14 km away
Sandakphu Phalut Trek
75 kmModerate

West Bengal

Sandakphu Phalut Trek

7 Days • 75 km

59 km away
Talle Valley Trek
65 kmModerate

Arunachal Pradesh

Talle Valley Trek

6–7 Days • 65 km

568 km away
Dzukou Valley Trek
25 kmEasy to Moderate

Nagaland

Dzukou Valley Trek

2–3 Days • 25 km

627 km away
Namik Glacier Trek
65 kmModerate to Difficult

Uttarakhand

Namik Glacier Trek

8-9 days • 65 km

831 km away
Pindari Glacier Trek
48 kmEasy to Moderate

Uttarakhand

Pindari Glacier Trek

7 Days • 48 km

849 km away
Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek
110 kmModerate to Difficult

Uttarakhand

Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek

9–12 days • 110 km

849 km away
Bagini Glacier Trek
43 kmModerate to Difficult

Uttarakhand

Bagini Glacier Trek

7–8 Days • 43 km

863 km away
Roopkund Trek
53 kmModerate to Difficult

Uttarakhand

Roopkund Trek

7-9 Days • 53 km

874 km away
Ronti Saddle Trek
90 kmDifficult

Uttarakhand

Ronti Saddle Trek

12-14 Days • 90 km

875 km away

Essential Trekking Guidelines to Follow

Obtain Required Permits

Many trekking destinations in India and abroad require official permits from forest departments or local authorities. Failing to produce a permit can lead to fines or denial of entry. Always check if your trail lies in a protected or restricted area and apply in advance.

Respect Nature and Wildlife

Do not litter, pluck plants, or disturb animals. Follow the “Leave No Trace” principle. Avoid playing loud music, feeding animals, or venturing off-trail, as it can damage fragile ecosystems and disturb wildlife habitats.

Travel in Designated Groups or with a Guide

Some treks mandate a certified guide, especially in high-altitude, glacier, or border-sensitive regions. Trekking solo may not be allowed or could be risky. Groups ensure safety and make coordination with rescue teams easier in case of emergencies.

Camp Only at Authorized Sites

Setting up tents or bonfires in unauthorized zones can harm the environment and violate local rules. Use designated campsites, follow fire safety guidelines, and avoid open fires unless explicitly permitted.

Respect Local Communities and Culture

Trek through villages respectfully. Ask for permission before taking photos of locals, religious sites, or rituals. Dress modestly and avoid disrupting the local way of life. Learn a few local words if possible—it builds rapport.

Abide by Weather and Safety Advisories

If the forest department or tour operator cancels or postpones the trek due to bad weather or risk warnings (like landslides or avalanches), you must comply. Ignoring advisories can endanger your life and others'.

Don’t Venture Beyond Restricted Zones

Many trekking regions are close to international borders or army zones. Trekking beyond permitted zones can lead to interrogation, fines, or arrest. Always know the trail boundaries.

Adhere to Group Timings and Instructions

Whether you're trekking with a group or an agency, always stick to the trek leader’s instructions and timing. Straying behind or venturing ahead alone can lead to accidents or getting lost.