Goechala Trek Itinerary: A Detailed Guide

Trek Description

The Goechala trek is one of the most beautiful treks in Sikkim. If you are someone who loves the Himalayas, this trek is a must. Goechala not only brings you close to the majestic Kanchenjunga but also offers breathtaking views of several other peaks. During the trek, you will pass through forests, mountain streams, and high-altitude meadows. The journey is full of natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere. Plus, the chance to witness the sunrise on Kanchenjunga is an experience you will never forget.

The trek is a bit challenging, especially for beginners, but if you have some trekking experience and proper guidance, it can be a life-changing adventure.

Short Itinerary

Let me first give you a short breakdown of the Goechala trek itinerary:

• Day 1: Reach Yuksom
• Day 2: Trek from Yuksom to Sachen
• Day 3: Sachen to Tshoka
• Day 4: Tshoka to Dzongri
• Day 5: Rest day at Dzongri for acclimatization
• Day 6: Dzongri to Thansing
• Day 7: Thansing to Lamuney
• Day 8: Trek to Goechala Viewpoint 1 and return to Lamuney/Thansing
• Day 9: Back to Tshoka
• Day 10: Return to Yuksom and depart

Detailed Long Itinerary

Now, here is a more detailed Goechala trek itinerary. This will help you plan your days better and know what to expect.

Day 1: Reach Yuksom

Your trek starts from Yuksom, which is a small town in West Sikkim. You can reach Yuksom either from Gangtok or Siliguri. Spend the day here relaxing and preparing for your trek.

Day 2: Yuksom to Sachen (8 km, 5-6 hours)

The first day of trekking is easy. You will walk through dense forests, crossing streams and small bridges. The trail takes you through beautiful green surroundings. By the end of the day, you’ll reach Sachen, where you’ll camp for the night.

Day 3: Sachen to Tshoka (7 km, 5-6 hours)

On the second day, you’ll climb up a bit more. The trail will take you through forests and steep sections. You’ll cross a hanging bridge over the Prek Chu river. After reaching Tshoka, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the surrounding peaks.

Day 4: Tshoka to Dzongri (10 km, 6-7 hours)

This is a tough day, but the effort is worth it. You will ascend through rhododendron forests, and as you go higher, the air gets thinner. By the time you reach Dzongri, the altitude will start hitting you, but the views are stunning. The sunset at Dzongri is magical.

Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Dzongri

You will spend an extra day here to get used to the altitude. Use this day to explore Dzongri and take in the scenery. The acclimatization day is crucial for your body to adjust, so don’t skip it.

Day 6: Dzongri to Thansing (10 km, 6-7 hours)

The trail from Dzongri to Thansing takes you through open meadows and gives you close views of the Kanchenjunga range. The beauty of this section of the trek is beyond words.

Day 7: Thansing to Lamuney (4 km, 2-3 hours)

This is a short day. You will walk through beautiful valleys and reach Lamuney early. Lamuney is a peaceful camping spot, with the mountains surrounding you.

Day 8: Lamuney to Goechala Viewpoint 1 and return to Lamuney (16 km, 10-12 hours)

This is the most exciting and challenging day. You’ll wake up very early and trek to Goechala Viewpoint 1 to witness the first rays of sunlight falling on the Kanchenjunga peak. The feeling you get here is pure bliss. After spending some time here, you’ll head back to Lamuney.

Day 9: Lamuney to Tshoka (15 km, 7-8 hours)

The return journey begins, and today, you’ll descend back to Tshoka. The trail is long but easier compared to the ascent.

Day 10: Tshoka to Yuksom (15 km, 6-7 hours)

On the final day of the trek, you will walk back to Yuksom. Once you reach Yuksom, you can celebrate the completion of the trek. You’ll carry memories of beautiful landscapes and a tough yet rewarding journey.

Best Time to Trek

The best time to go for the Goechala trek is during the pre-monsoon months of April to May or the post-monsoon months of September to November. During these times, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, allowing for breathtaking mountain views. If you trek in April or May, you’ll also see the rhododendrons in full bloom. Avoid the monsoon season as the trails can get slippery and risky.

Some Trustworthy Agencies

You should always trek with a reliable agency to ensure your safety and a smooth experience. Here are a few trusted agencies that offer Goechala trek packages:

1. Indiahikes – One of the most popular trekking organizations. They provide good facilities and experienced guides.
2. Trek The Himalayas – Known for their professional team and well-organized treks.
3. Himalayan Trekkers – They have local guides and a strong knowledge of the Sikkim region.
4. YHAI (Youth Hostels Association of India) – A budget-friendly option with reliable service.
5. Adventure Nation – Known for offering a range of trekking and adventure options with good safety standards.

When you are planning your Goechala trek itinerary, do keep these agencies in mind to make sure everything goes smoothly.