Goechala trek takes you deep into the untouched wilderness. You’ll walk through blooming, vibrant rhododendron forests, cross sweeping alpine meadows, and pass the crystal waters of Samiti Lake. 

The trail climbs to a breathtaking vantage point of Mt.Kanchenjunga at 15,000ft. 

This adventurous journey starts in the historical village of Yuksom. The 95 km trail weaves through Kanchenjunga National Park offering raw Himalayan beauty, rich local culture, and an unforgettable sunrise. 

Goechala trek is known for its remote beauty and challenging terrain. It is ideal for those seeking a perfect mix of adventure and serenity.

 Overview

How to reach(From Siliguri)

1. Budget Option: Shared Jeep

Hop on a shared cab or Jeep from New Jalpaiguri Station/Darjeeling More to reach Jorethang (3 hours).

Change jeep/cab at Jorethang to reach the base camp of Goechala trekking- Yuksom (4 Hours)

Cost: Rs. 500-700

2. Best Option: Private Taxi

This option is ideal for groups or if you’re looking for the easiest and most hassle-free way to reach Yuksom from Siliguri.

Cost: Rs. 6000-8000(per vehicle)

3. By Bus (Limited)

By Bus is the most budget-friendly, but time-consuming. Buses to Jorethang leave from Siliguri SNT Bus Stand. 

There is no direct bus to Yuksom, first, you have to reach Jorethang or Geyzing. Then, hop on a shared vehicle to reach Yuksom(Approx 9 Hours in total).

Cost: Rs. 400-600

Note: Begin your journey early from Siliguri (6-7 AM) to reach Yuksom by evening. 

Goechala Trek Itinerary

The following is a detailed description of the day-wise Goechala Trek Itinerary to help you plan your Trek tour easily.

Day 1: NJP to Yuksom: The Journey Begins

The adventure journey starts with a road trip of 6 to 7 hours from New Jalpaiguri to Yuksom. The drive takes you through the scenic view of the teal waters of the Teesta River, lush tea gardens, and misty hills. 

As you reach Yuksom(5,700ft), freshen up and explore the town. Visit the Norbugang Chorten, the coronation site of Sikkim’s first king, and stroll around Dubdi Monastery. 

Day 2: Yuksom to Sachen: Into the Forests

Wake up early and have a hearty breakfast. Pack your bag with trek essential items, lace up your boost, and the official trek begins from here. The route to Sachen(7,200ft) is an easy trek route stretching around 7 km through the dense forests of pine, oak, and ferns. Along the way, you will cross several bridges over the Prek Chu River. You can also spot colorful birds fluttering through the canopy. 

After reaching Sachen, set your camp for the night. The forests of Sachen are so quiet, that you can hear the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant sound of flowing streams. 

Day 3: Sachen to Tsokha Via Bakhim: Colourful Rhododendron Bliss 

Today’s trail gets steeper but quite rewarding. You’ll first reach Bakhim, a lovely rest point for trekkers with views of the valley and fluttering Buddhist prayer flags. From here, the rhododendron forest takes over. 

After 7 km of trekking, you’ll arrive at Tsokha (9,700ft), a tiny Tibetan hamlet. The wooden cottages, a serene monastery, and a still water lake make Tsokha one of the most photogenic spots of the trek. 

Day 4: Tsokha to Dzongri Via Phedang: Steep climb to Alpine Meadows

Gear up, today's climb is challenging. The trail zigzags upward through thick forests of rhododendron and birch, leading to Phedang. It’s a broad meadow that offers you the first true Himalayan panoramas. After a short rest, the trek continues towards Dzongri (13,200ft).

As you climb higher, the forests fade and give way to open yak pastures and alpine vegetation. Spend the night at Dzongri and watch the sky full of stars glow above its sweeping alpine fields.

Day 5: Rest Day at Dzongri: Views from Dzongri Top

Wake up before sunrise and hike to Dzongri Top (13,780ft). You’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise view from the top. As the dawn breaks, the peaks of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Rathong, Kabru, and others blush under a golden sunrise.

After the hike, return to camp and spend the day relaxing and exploring the meadow.

Day 6: Dzongri to Thansing Via Kokchhurung: Into the Valley

The trail for today begins with a gradual slope down to Kokchhurung, a riverside campsite beside the Prek Chu River. If you’re visiting during the spring, you’ll get the trail full of vibrant rhododendrons and dwarf bamboo. 

After crossing the wooden bridges and green pasture fields, you’ll reach Thansing (12,900ft). Thansing is nestled below the mighty Mt. Pandim with lush meadows and yak herders’ huts scattered around. 

Day 7: Thansing to Lamuney: Getting Closer to Glacier

Today’s trek route is short and easy to cover. You’ll walk across flat alpine grasslands to reach Lamuney (13,700ft). It will be your last camping point before Goechala. The trail closely follows the Prek Chu River, bordered by morain fields with majestic peaks around you. Rest early today, as tomorrow is the big summit day.

Day 8: Lamuney to Goechala Via Samiti Lake, Back to Thansing/ Kakchhurung: The Summit Day

Today you have to start trekking pre-dawn to witness the magic of Kanchenjunga up close. Headlamps on, climb steadily, and reach Samiti Lake- a glacial, crystal clear lake that reflects the peaks wonderfully at first light. 

From here, continue towards the Goechala Viewpoint 1 (15,100 ft). As the sun rises, the world’s third-highest peak, Kanchenjunga, and other mountains stand in front of you, majestic and glowing. It is an otherworldly and humbling moment. After soaking it all in, retrace your steps, and the downward journey begins. Rest at Thansing/Kakchhurung for the night.

Day 9: Thansing/Kokchhurung to Tsokha Via Phedang: Back to Greenery

Today is the start of your long downhill journey through the lush rhododendron forests. The trek takes you back up to Phedang and then gently drops down to Tsokha. The oxygen gets richer and the surroundings greener again.

Day 10: Tsokha to Yuksom Via Bakhim and Sachen: Farewell 

It's the last stage of your journey. You will come down through familiar forests and cross bridges again. You will feel warm, almost nostalgic, as you reach Yuksom, where it all began. Take a hot shower and a warm meal in your hotel/homestay.

Day 11: Yuksom to NJP: Towards Home

After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to the mountains. Hope on a taxi and drive back to NJP while watching the scenic views of hills slowly fade into plains, along the Teesta river. 

The mountains stay with you in your photos and heart as you head back. 

Trek Essentials

Trek Guidelines & Tips

1. Goechala Trek Permits & Documents

• For Kanchenjunga National Park (for all trekkers):

This is the mandatory entry permit you must take before entering the national park.

Where to get: Forest Checkpost, Yuksom

Documents required: 2 passport-sized photos, photocopy of a valid ID proof (Aadhar, Passport, etc)

Fees: 

Rs. 200 (Indians)

Rs. 400 (foreigners) 

• For Protected Area Permit (For foreign nationals only)

Foreigners need an additional protected area permit to enter Sikkim.

Where to get: Rangpo or Melli Checkpost

Documents required: Valid passport and Indian Visa, 2 passport-sized photos

2. Hire a registered Guide 

Solo trekking is not permitted in Sikkim; hiring a registered guide is compulsory for all trekkers. They ensure safety and help you navigate through the tricky routes. 

3. Pack Light but Right

Carry the trek essentials like layers, rain gear, a sleeping bag, and sturdy boots. And, use reusable water bottles and other eco-friendly items. 

4. Carry Enough Cash

You won’t find any ATMs beyond Jorethang/Geyzing. Yuksom also has very limited cash withdrawal options. So, you should carry as much cash as possible. 

5. Stay Updated on Weather

Before beginning your journey, check the weather forecast for the week and avoid visiting during heavy rain or snow. The best time to visit Goechala is Spring (April-May), the rhododendron's blooming season, or Autumn (Sept-Nov) for clear skies.

6. Adaptation is the Key

The trek goes up to heights of more than 15,000 ft, so it takes time to adapt. Don’t rush, rest well at the Dzongri and Thansing camps to adapt gradually. 

Stay hydrated, eat light, and be mindful of Acute Mountain Sickness symptoms such as headache or dizziness.

7. Travel in a group

For solo trekkers, you should team up with a small group, especially in remote sections. This ensures your safety and gives you companions to make the journey even more memorable. 

8. Health & Safety

Carry a basic first-aid kit, prescribed medicines, and altitude sickness medication. Before starting the trek, inform someone of your itinerary. 

9. Respect local & Nature

Avoid carrying any plastic disposables, don’t bring back all waste, and use closed bags and reusable utensils. Respect the locals, and get their permission before photographing people or places. Don’t pluck any flowers or plants, and keep the noise minimal. 

Estimated Goechala Trek Cost

F&Q

Is the Goechala trek suitable for beginners?

It is best suited for trekkers with previous high-altitude experiences. But with good physical fitness and preparation, you can attempt it. 

What is the best time for a Goechala trek?

April-May (Rhododendrons bloom) and End September-end October (clear skies).

Can a solo female trekker go on the Goechala Trek?

Yes, but solo trekking is not allowed without a guide. 

How difficult is the Goechala trek compared to Sandakphu?

Goechala is longer, higher in altitude, and more challenging than Sandakphu. Goechala trek requires more endurance and fitness.

Are there ATMs or mobile networks available?

ATMs are available till Jorethang/Geyzing. 

About network availability: Yuksom has a limited network (BSNL, sometimes Airtel) but beyond Yuksom, you won’t get any network connectivity.