Goechala Trek Guide
The Goechala Trek is one of India’s most iconic high-altitude Himalayan treks, offering breathtaking sunrise views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. The trek passes through dense rhododendron forests, alpine lakes, and dramatic moraine landscapes in Sikkim.
🏔 Trek Overview
RegionSikkim (Yuksom)
Altitude15,100 ft
Total Distance90 km (round trip)
Duration9–11 Days
DifficultyModerate to Difficult
Base TownYuksom
🗓 Best Time to Do Goechala Trek
Apr – MaySpring blooms & snow
Sep – OctClear skies & views
Jun – Aug❌ Monsoon (closed)
Nov – Mar❌ Heavy snow
🧭 Trek Route & Camps
📍
Start PointYuksom
🏕
Major CampsTshoka · Dzongri · Thansing
⛰
View PointGoechala View Point 1
🌲
TerrainForests · Meadows · Moraine
🗺 Day-wise Goechala Trek Itinerary
📅
Day 1Arrival at Yuksom
📅
Day 2Yuksom → Tshoka
📅
Day 3Tshoka → Dzongri
📅
Day 4Dzongri acclimatization
📅
Day 5Dzongri → Thansing
📅
Day 6Goechala viewpoint & return
📅
Day 7+Buffer days & descent
💪 Difficulty & Fitness
DifficultyModerate–Difficult
Daily Walk6–8 hrs
Altitude RiskAMS possible
Recommended ForExperienced trekkers
🎒 Essential Packing List
High-ankle trekking shoes
Down jacket & fleece layers
Thermals (multiple layers)
Rain jacket & poncho
Trekking poles
Personal medicines
🛂 Permits & Safety
🪪
PermitMandatory Sikkim trekking permit
🧭
GuideMandatory (locals only)
📵
NetworkNo signal after Yuksom
⛑
MedicalNo facilities on trail
💰 Goechala Trek Cost
With Trek Operator₹16,000 – ₹22,000
DIY Trek❌ Not allowed
IncludesGuide, permits, food
ExcludesTravel to Sikkim
🙋 Who Should Do Goechala Trek?
✅
Experienced trekkersLong duration trek
✅
Mountain photographersKanchenjunga views
❌
BeginnersHigh altitude & long days
❌
Monsoon trekkersTrail closed
🚗 How to Reach Goechala Base
✈️
Nearest AirportBagdogra (IXB)
🚆
Nearest RailheadNew Jalpaiguri
🚖
RoadGangtok → Yuksom