Goechala Trek

Himalayan Trekking

Difficult

Goechala Trek

 
 
 
 

 

Max Altitude
 11 Days
 76 Km
 Sikkim
 India
 

Overview

Trek Name: Goechala Trek

Days: 11

Adventure Type: Trekking

Base Camp: Yuksom

Season:Spring | Summer | Autumn |

Month:March | April | May | October |

Country: India

Altitude: 15100 Ft.

Grade: Difficult

Rail Head: New Jalpaiguri (NJP)

Stay: Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse (Separate male & Female)

Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse

Location: Sikkim

Distance: 76 Km.

Trail Type: Circle trail | Camping in various locations, starting and ending at the same point.

AirPort: Bagdogra International Airport, which is 20 km away from New Jalpaiguri Railway station

Highlights:

  • Services from Yuksom to Yuksom
  • Base Camp Accommodation: Home stay with attached washroom (no bunk beds).
  • Complimentary cloakroom at base camp for safe storage.
  • Best Route Overview Goechala
  • Pickup & Drop Location: Nearest Railway Station
    Pickup: 10:00 AM | Drop: 04:00 PM–05:00 PM (weather/road dependent)
    Keep a buffer day and arrive a day early to avoid delays.
  • For non Indians 4000 INR extra trek permit fee

Who Can Participate

  • Age Requirement:
    • Minimum 16 years
  • First-timers are welcome, though prior trekking experience is preferred. Good fitness is a must.
  • Fitness Criteria:
    • The Trekker should have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without stress or 10 km of distance by jogging in 70 minutes without stress.
    • If the trekker prefers cycling he/ she should be able to cycle 20 km of distance in 55 minutes.
  • If the trekker wants to carry a backpack then he/she should be able to carry a 10-12 kg backpack. If opt Off-load option then the Trekker should be able to carry 3-5 kg backpack.
  • If a trekker’s BMI is more or less than the normal range (18-26), please consult our Trek Coordinator before booking.
  •  

Itinerary

Day-1: Drive from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Yuksom

  • Altitude Yuksom: 1800 m / 5700 ft
  • Drive Distance: 150 km | 8 hrs

Day-2: Yuksom to Sachen

  • Altitude (Sachen): 2,200 m / 7,300 ft
  • Trek Distance: 7 km | 6 hr approx.
    • Leeches: There is a high chance of encountering leeches, so remember to carry salt or spray with you.

Day-3: Sachen to Tshokha via Bakhim

  • Altitude:
    • Bakhim: 2,650 m / 8,700 ft
    • Tshoka: 3,000 m / 9,800 ft
  • Trek Distance: 6 km | 5 hr approx.

Day-4: Tsokha to Dzongri via Phedang

  • Altitude:
    • Phedang: 3,700 m / 12,100 ft
    • Deorali Top: 4,000 m / 13,100 ft
    • Dzongri: 4,000 m / 13,100 ft
  • Trek Distance: 8 km | 8 hr approx

Day-5: Acclimatization Day at Dzongri

  • Altitude (Dzongri Top): 4,150 m / 13,700 ft

Day-6: Dzongri to Thansing via Kokchhurung

  • Altitude:
    • Kokchhurung: 3,700 m / 12,100 ft
    • Thansing: 3,950 m / 13,000 ft
  • Trek Distance: 10 km | 7 hr approx

Day-7: Thansing to Lamuney

  • Altitude Lamuney: 4,150 m / 13,600 ft
  • Trek Distance: 4 km | 3 hr approx.
    • Discover the Significance of Lamuney Campsite in the Goechala Trek by Clicking Here

Day-8: Lamuney to Goechala via Samiti Lake back to Thansing/Kokchhurung

  • Altitude:
    • Samiti Lake: 4,300 m / 14,200 ft
    • Goecha La viewpoint 1: 4,600 m / 15,100 ft
    • Thansing: 3,950 m / 13,000 ft
  • Trek Distance: 14 km | 10-11 hr approx

Day-9: Thansing/Kokcharang to Tshokha via Phedang

  • Altitude:
    • Phedang: 3,700 m / 12,100 ft
    • Tshoka: 3,000 m / 9,800 ft
  • Trek Distance: 14 km | 7 hr approx

Day-10: Tshokha to Yuksom via Bakhim and Sachen

  • Altitude Yuksom: 1,750 m / 5,700 ft
  • Trek Distance: 13 km | 8 hr approx

Day-11: Drive from Yuksom to NJP

  • Drive Distance: 150 km | 8 hrs

Day 1: Drive from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Yuksom

  • Altitude (Yuksom): 1,800 m / 5,700 ft
  • Drive Distance: 150 km | 7–8 hrs
  • Stay: Guesthouse

Your journey begins with a scenic drive from NJP to Yuksom, the historic gateway to the Kanchenjunga region. The road passes alongside the beautiful Teesta River and through small mountain towns like Melli and Jorethang.

After crossing the entry point into Sikkim, the drive continues through winding mountain roads until you reach Yuksom, once the first capital of Sikkim. In the evening, a trek briefing is conducted before dinner.

Day 2: Yuksom to Sachen

  • Altitude: 2,200 m / 7,300 ft
  • Trek Distance: 7 km | 5–6 hrs
  • Stay: Tents

Today the trek officially begins as you enter the Kanchenjunga National Park. The trail gradually ascends through dense forests and crosses several suspension bridges over the Prek Chu River.

Walking through lush forests filled with oak and rhododendron trees, you eventually reach the peaceful forest clearing of Sachen where the first campsite is set.

Day 3: Sachen to Tshokha via Bakhim

  • Altitude: Tshokha – 3,000 m / 9,800 ft
  • Trek Distance: 6 km | 5 hrs
  • Stay: Tents

The trek continues through dense forests and crosses the Prek Chu bridge before beginning a steady ascent towards Bakhim.

From Bakhim, the trail climbs through beautiful rhododendron forests to reach Tshokha, a small settlement offering stunning views of Mount Pandim and surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Day 4: Tshokha to Dzongri via Phedang

  • Altitude: Dzongri – 4,000 m / 13,100 ft
  • Trek Distance: 8 km | 7–8 hrs
  • Stay: Tents

Today is one of the more challenging trekking days as the trail climbs steeply through rhododendron forests toward Phedang.

Beyond Phedang the trees begin to thin and the landscape opens up to spectacular mountain views. After crossing Deorali Top, the trail gradually reaches the high-altitude meadow of Dzongri.

Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Dzongri

  • Altitude (Dzongri Top): 4,150 m / 13,700 ft

An early morning hike to Dzongri Top offers breathtaking sunrise views over Kanchenjunga and surrounding peaks like Pandim, Kabru and Tenzing Khang.

The rest of the day is spent acclimatizing, resting at the campsite and exploring the surrounding high-altitude landscape.

Day 6: Dzongri to Thansing via Kokchhurung

  • Altitude: Thansing – 3,950 m / 13,000 ft
  • Trek Distance: 10 km | 6–7 hrs
  • Stay: Tents

Today the trail descends through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests before reaching Kokchhurung near the Prek Chu River.

After a short rest, the trail continues across a bridge and gradually climbs towards Thansing, a beautiful campsite located near the base of Mt. Pandim.

Day 7: Thansing to Lamuney

  • Altitude: 4,150 m / 13,600 ft
  • Trek Distance: 4 km | 3 hrs
  • Stay: Tents

A shorter trekking day helps the body acclimatize further as you walk through open meadows towards Lamuney.

The campsite offers incredible views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and surrounding Himalayan peaks. In the evening, preparations are made for the summit day.

Day 8: Lamuney to Goechala Viewpoint via Samiti Lake – Return to Thansing

  • Altitude: Goechala Viewpoint – 4,600 m / 15,100 ft
  • Trek Distance: 14 km | 10–11 hrs
  • Stay: Tents

The trek begins very early in the morning with a climb toward Samiti Lake. From here the trail continues across rocky terrain to the Goechala Viewpoint.

Witness a spectacular sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga and surrounding Himalayan peaks before descending back to Lamuney and then to Thansing for the night.

Day 9: Thansing to Tshokha via Phedang

  • Trek Distance: 14 km | 7 hrs
  • Stay: Tents

The return trek begins as you descend through forest trails and mountain slopes toward Phedang.

After a break at Phedang, the trail continues through dense rhododendron forests before reaching Tshokha once again.

Day 10: Tshokha to Yuksom

  • Altitude: 1,750 m / 5,700 ft
  • Trek Distance: 13 km | 7–8 hrs
  • Stay: Guesthouse

The final trekking day retraces the route through Bakhim and Sachen while descending back to Yuksom.

Upon arrival, relax at the guesthouse and celebrate the successful completion of the trek.

Day 11: Drive from Yuksom to NJP

  • Drive Distance: 150 km | 7–8 hrs

After breakfast, begin the return journey from Yuksom to NJP. The drive once again follows the scenic mountain roads along the Teesta River.

By evening you reach NJP, marking the end of the memorable Goechala Trek.

Trek Essentials

Backpack with rain cover(50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps
Day pack with rain cover20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted)
Walking stickAdvisable (At least one)
Water Bottle / Hydration pack2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask.
Small size tiffin/lunch box1 Nos
SnacksEnergy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors
Personal Medical KitConsult your doctor

 

T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry)1 Full & 2 Half sleeves
Fleece T-shirt1 Nos
Fleece jacket1 Nos
Windproof Jacket1 Nos
Down feather / Hollow jacket1 Nos
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower)1 Pair
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry)2 Nos
Fleece Pant1 Nos
Waterproof gloves1 Pair
Fleece / woollen gloves1 Pair
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant1 Nos

 

Head torch1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch)
Sun Cap1 Nos
Woolen cap1 Nos.
Balaclava1 Nos.
Buff / Neck-gaiters1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen
SunglassesUV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses

 

Trekking shoes1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle, good grip)
Floaters / flip-flops1 Pair
Cotton socks6 pairs
Woollen socks1 pairs
Gaiters1 Pair (NK provides when required)
Micro spikes1 Pair (NK provides when required)

 

Sunscreen1 Nos
Moisturiser1 Nos
Chap-stick / Lip balm1 Nos
Toothbrush and toothpaste1 Nos
Toilet paper & Wipes1 Nos
Soap / hand sanitizers1 Nos
Antibacterial powder1 Nos
Quick dry towel1 Nos

FAQs

To do the Goechala Trek, trekkers need a Sikkim Inner Line Permit. Foreign nationals also require a Restricted Area Permit. If you trek with an organized group, the team usually arranges these permits for you.

Carry warm clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, trekking poles, personal toiletries, and a small first aid kit. Energy snacks and water bottles are also helpful during long trekking days.

Yes, there is a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) because the trek reaches altitudes above 15,000 ft. Proper acclimatization, walking at a steady pace, and drinking enough water can help reduce the risk.

If you feel symptoms such as headache, nausea, or dizziness, inform your trek leader immediately.

Yes, trekking poles are highly recommended. They provide support and balance during steep climbs and descents and reduce pressure on your knees.

Dress in layers for changing mountain weather. Carry thermal innerwear, fleece or down jackets, trekking pants, warm gloves, woollen cap, sun cap, and several pairs of socks.

The Goechala Trek is located in Sikkim and starts from the small town of Yuksom, which is the gateway to Kanchenjunga National Park. The trek offers stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.

The Goechala trek is considered difficult. It is a high-altitude trek of around 90 km that usually takes about 11 days. Trekkers should be physically fit and prepared for long trekking hours and steep ascents.

The maximum altitude reached during the Goechala trek is around 15,100 ft. Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness.

  • Sunrise views of Mount Kanchenjunga
  • Dense rhododendron forests
  • Beautiful Samiti Lake
  • Scenic campsites like Dzongri and Thansing
  • Panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range

Follow the itinerary carefully for proper acclimatization. Stay hydrated, walk at a steady pace, and avoid overexertion during the first few days. Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell.

The trek is generally recommended for trekkers who have prior high-altitude trekking experience. Beginners can attempt it only with proper preparation and training.

Accommodation during the trek is mainly in tents set up at campsites such as Tshoka, Dzongri, and Thansing. At Yuksom, trekkers usually stay in guesthouses.

Start fitness training at least one month before the trek. Focus on activities like jogging, cycling, stair climbing, and long walks. Practice carrying a backpack to build endurance.

Yes, the trek is considered safe when done with proper preparation and experienced guides. The main challenges are altitude and changing mountain weather, so acclimatization and hydration are very important.

The trek usually takes around 11 days, including trekking and travel.

  • Day 1: Arrival at Yuksom
  • Day 2: Yuksom to Sachen
  • Day 3: Sachen to Tshoka
  • Day 4: Tshoka to Dzongri
  • Day 5: Acclimatization at Dzongri
  • Day 6: Dzongri to Thansing
  • Day 7: Thansing to Lamuney
  • Day 8: Lamuney to Goechala and back
  • Day 9: Return towards Tshoka
  • Day 10: Tshoka to Yuksom
  • Day 11: Drive from Yuksom to NJP

Yes, several hotels are located close to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station.

  • Tirupati Lodge NJP – around 200 meters from the station
  • Prince Lodge NJP – budget-friendly option
  • Radha Rani Lodge – about 6 minutes walking distance
  • Hotel Golden Dragon – another convenient nearby option

Payment & Cancellation Policy:

When you have firmly decided to undertake the Tour with New Knight Adventure, you will need to book the trip with us. We must allocate enough time to prepare, obtain necessary documents and permits, and book hotels and Transport for the trip.
25% advance during the time of booking for confirmation
50% Amount one month prior of arrival in India
25% Amount to be one week prior of arrival in India

 

Cancellation Policy:

• If the cancellation is made 30 days before the tour starts, 25% of the full payment will be deducted and 75% will be refunded.
• If the cancellation is made 20 days before the tour start, 35% of the full payment will be deducted and 65% will be refunded
• If the cancellation is made 10 days before the tour start, 80% will be deducted and 20% will be refunded.
• No refund is made if the trip is cancelled after the departure for Expedition.
• No refund is made during the running tour.
• The cost of travel permit or any other documentation charges will not be refundable

Note: New Knight Adventure do all the ground operations in advance (As soon as we received the confirmation request from the guest). We pay advance payment to all our vendors to ensure all the services that we promise with the guest.