Goechala Trek

Trek from Yuksom base camp to Sachen camp.

• After breakfast, begin your trek from Yuksom base camp, marking the official starting point of the Goechala Trek

• Walk through scenic farmlands and lush greenery as you enter the enchanting Rathong River valley

• The trail leads through dense forests where sunlight filters in softly, creating a magical and shaded trekking experience

• Be cautious of some slippery patches along the way, especially in narrow forest sections

• Witness the beautiful Tshushay Khola falls, where multiple small waterfalls merge into the Prek River, adding charm to the trail

• Spot a few log huts en route, offering a rustic glimpse into life in the remote mountain regions

• Reach your campsite at Sachen (7,200 feet) located just above the banks of the gushing Prek River

• Set up your tents at Sachen and relax to the soothing sound of the river for an overnight stay in the wilderness

Trek from Sachen to Tsokha camp (9700 feet) via Bakhim.

• Begin the day with a steep ascent from Sachen to Tsokha, gaining significant altitude and experiencing varied landscapes

• Cross the Prek River over a scenic bridge adorned with Buddhist prayer flags gently swaying in the mountain breeze

• Trek through lush forests of Rhododendrons and Oak trees, adding vibrant colors and rich scent to your journey

• Pass through Bakhim, a small scenic rest point with forest views and a great spot to take a quick breather

• Continue the climb to Tshoka (9,700 feet), a charming Himalayan settlement known for its wooden huts and mountain cafés

• Taste the local drink “Tumba”, a traditional millet-based brew, often found in Tshoka’s quaint cafés

• Visit the Tshoka Monastery for incredible panoramic views of the Kangchenjunga range and Mount Pandim

• Set up camp at Tshoka, enjoy a delicious hot meal, and rest for the night amidst the crisp mountain air

Trek from Tsokha camp to Dzongari camp (12980 feet) via Phedang.

• Wake up early at Tsokha, have a hearty breakfast and start the trek toward Dzongari camp with packed lunch in hand

• The trail from Tsokha to Dzongari (12,980 feet) is steep and demanding but incredibly rewarding in its scenic beauty

• Trek through dense forests bursting with vibrant Rhododendron blooms if you're trekking in the spring season

• Reach Phedang, a wide forest clearing that offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks

• Take a short break at Phedang before continuing the climb through misty trails lined with alpine vegetation

• Arrive at the Dzongari meadow, a surreal high-altitude grassland set against the backdrop of the Kangchenjunga range

• Stand in awe as you witness the panoramic Himalayan peaks rising in all directions, offering unforgettable vistas

• Set up camp in Dzongari and relax after a long climb, soaking in the silence and beauty of this majestic setting

Rest Day + Acclimatization Day

• Enjoy a relaxed morning at Dzongari, waking up around 8:00 am to the crisp mountain air and peaceful surroundings

• Have a leisurely breakfast by 10:00 am and take time to soak in the beauty of the high-altitude Dzongari campsite

• Today is an acclimatization day, essential for adjusting to the altitude before continuing to higher elevations

• Go for a short and easy hike around the meadow to help your body acclimate while enjoying more incredible Himalayan views

• Use this time to rest, hydrate, and explore the Dzongari region at your own pace with light walking and relaxation

• Capture photos of the majestic Kangchenjunga peaks, fluttering prayer flags, and the expansive alpine landscapes

• Return to camp by afternoon, enjoy hot food, and spend the evening under the stars before the next trekking day

Trek from Dzongari to Thansing camp (12900 feet) via Kokcharang.

• Wake up early and hike 1 km to Dzongari Top to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Kangchenjunga and Singalila ranges

• Watch the peaks change colors as the sun rises, casting golden hues across the snow-covered Himalayan summits

• Spot Thansing from Dzongari Top, your next destination nestled in the valley far below

• Begin your descent to Kokcharang, a beautiful forested trail that takes you down through a peaceful alpine zone

• From Kokcharang, start the ascent towards Thansing, crossing the Prekchu River via a wooden bridge

• Navigate a 2 km boulder-strewn section before reaching the open, serene meadows of Thansing (12,900 feet)

• Set up your tents at the Thansing campsite and bundle up warmly as the temperatures drop significantly at night

• Enjoy a well-earned rest under the stars after a scenic and eventful day in the heart of the Himalayas

Trek from Thansing to Lamuney camp.

• Start your trek from Thansing to Lamuney, a relatively easy walk along a levelled and scenic trail through alpine meadows

• Enjoy a relaxed pace today as the route is gentle and takes around 3 hours, offering plenty of time to take in the views

• Walk through rolling green meadows, surrounded by towering peaks and grazing yaks along the peaceful landscape

• Upon reaching the Lamuney campsite, take a short break before heading out on a side excursion

• Continue towards the beautiful Samiti Lake, a sacred high-altitude lake known for its crystal-clear waters and rocky surroundings

• Spot colorful Himalayan birds and mountain goats near the lake, adding to the magic of the place

• Since camping is not allowed at Samiti Lake, return to Lamuney after spending quality time at the lake

• Enjoy dinner and retire for the night at Lamuney, resting up for the challenging trek to Goechala the next day

Day 8: Trek from Lamuney to Goechala summit (15100 feet) via Samiti Lake and descent to Thansing.

• Begin the toughest and longest day of the trek early in the morning to allow ample time for the summit and return

• Start by heading to Samiti Lake, and from there, begin the steep ascent toward the Goechala Viewpoint (15,100 feet)

• Cross a narrow mountain ridge cautiously, offering dramatic views but requiring full attention while navigating

• Witness a stunning Himalayan sunrise where the snow-covered peaks glow in shades of gold, orange, and pink

• From the summit, enjoy breathtaking 180-degree views of towering peaks across the skyline including:

  • Kabru South and Kabru North

  • Kabru Dome and Kangchenjunga

  • Gocha Jupuno, Sinvo, and Tenzingkhang

• Spend a memorable time at Goechala Viewpoint, taking in the high-altitude silence and the majesty of the Himalayas

• Begin your descent back to Lamuney, where you’ll stop for lunch and rest after the strenuous climb

• Continue the descent to Thansing campsite, where tents will be set up for a well-deserved night’s rest

Trek from Thansing to Tsokha (9700 feet) via Phedang.

• Begin your descent from Thansing to Tsokha (9,700 feet), passing once again through the lush forest landscapes

• The trail is mostly flat with mild ascents and descents, making it a comfortable yet scenic trek

• Walk through vibrant Rhododendron forests while catching occasional views of the stunning Mount Pandim

• Arrive at Phedang, a peaceful forest clearing ideal for a short break amidst its refreshing natural ambiance

• From Phedang, begin a 5 km descent to Tsokha, moving through rich biodiversity zones full of flora and fauna

• Try not to take many halts along this stretch to ensure a timely arrival at Tsokha before nightfall

• Set up your tents at Tsokha campsite, enjoy a warm meal, and rest overnight after the fulfilling journey down

Trek from Tsokha to Yuksom (5700 feet) via Bakhim and Sachen.

• Begin your final trekking day with an easy descent from Tsokha to Yuksom (5,700 feet) following the familiar trail

• Pass through the peaceful forest sections of Bakhim and Sachen, enjoying the last views of the serene wilderness

• Take a short break at Sachen, soaking in the calm atmosphere and reminiscing the journey so far

• Continue descending on gentle slopes, crossing a few mild ascents before finally reaching Yuksom

• Upon arrival, head to the hotel where arrangements are made, and unwind in comfort after the successful trek

• Enjoy a delicious meal and a well-deserved good night's sleep to mark the end of your incredible adventure

After breakfast Drive from Yuksom to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) (150 km) (7/8 hours) reach evening 5 to 6 pm.

• Wake up for your final morning in Yuksom and enjoy a warm, hearty breakfast with your team from Himalayan Hikers

• After breakfast, begin your drive from Yuksom to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) covering approx. 150 km

• The scenic drive takes around 7 to 8 hours, winding through lush valleys and peaceful Sikkimese towns

• You are expected to reach NJP between 4:00 to 6:00 pm, giving enough time to rest or catch your train

• Make sure to book your return train for any time after 7:00 pm to avoid any rush or delays

• Say your goodbyes, carry back memories of the majestic Himalayas, and end the trek on a high note of achievement