Goechala Trek: A Complete Day-by-Day Diary with Photos & Costs

Few treks in India match the grandeur and drama of the Goechala Trek in Sikkim. Nestled deep in the Eastern Himalayas, this trail offers jaw-dropping views of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) — the third-highest mountain in the world — along with several other majestic peaks of the Singalila Range.

From rhododendron forests to high-altitude meadows and glacial moraines, the Goechala Trek is a dream come true for every mountain lover. Whether you’re a first-time trekker looking for a challenge or an experienced adventurer chasing Himalayan panoramas, this journey promises memories for a lifetime.

At Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks, we bring you a complete, professional guide — including a day-by-day itinerary, cost breakdown, permit details, and essential tips for this iconic Himalayan adventure.

Goechala Trek at a Glance

Detail Information
Duration 9 Days / 8 Nights
Starting Point Yuksom (West Sikkim)
Trek Difficulty Moderate to Challenging
Maximum Altitude 15,100 ft (Goechala Viewpoint)
Best Season April–June & September–November
Permit Required Yes (issued via registered agency like Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks)

Day-by-Day Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Yuksom (5,670 ft)

• Your adventure begins in Yuksom, the historic capital of Sikkim and the trailhead for the Goechala trek.
• Drive from NJP/Bagdogra (6–7 hrs) through lush tea gardens and mountain roads.
• Attend the trek briefing and gear check by Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks.
• Explore Yuksom’s Dubdi Monastery and Coronation Throne if time permits.
• Overnight: Homestay/Guesthouse in Yuksom

Day 2: Yuksom → Sachen → Bakhim (8,600 ft)

• Distance: 8 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
• The trek begins through dense forests of magnolia, oak, and rhododendron. Cross hanging bridges over the Pha Khola and Prek Chu Rivers before reaching Bakhim, a serene campsite with forested surroundings.
• Overnight: Camping at Bakhim

Day 3: Bakhim → Tshoka (9,700 ft)

• Distance: 3 km | Duration: 3 hours
• A short yet steep ascent takes you to Tshoka, a picturesque Tibetan settlement overlooking the valley. The sight of prayer flags fluttering against snow peaks will stay with you forever.
• Highlights: Wooden houses, monasteries, and views of Pandim and Narsing peaks.
• Overnight: Camping at Tshoka

Day 4: Tshoka → Dzongri (13,200 ft)

• Distance: 9 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
• One of the most scenic sections of the trek! Walk through blooming rhododendron forests (April–May) to reach the alpine meadows of Dzongri, offering panoramic views of the entire Kanchenjunga range.
• Evening: Hike up to Dzongri Top (13,700 ft) for a breathtaking sunset.
• Overnight: Camping at Dzongri

Day 5: Dzongri → Thansing (12,900 ft)

• Distance: 9 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
• Descend through meadows to the Prek Chu River, cross a wooden bridge, and climb to Thansing, located in an open valley surrounded by towering peaks.
• Viewpoints: Mt. Pandim, Kabru, and Kanchenjunga dominate the skyline.
• Overnight: Camping at Thansing

Day 6: Thansing → Lamuney (13,700 ft)

• Distance: 4 km | Duration: 3–4 hours
• A short trek to the last campsite — Lamuney, situated at the foot of Mt. Pandim. The views are ethereal, with the Kanchenjunga massif glowing in the distance.
• Overnight: Camping at Lamuney

Day 7: Lamuney → Goechala Viewpoint 1 (15,100 ft) → Thansing

• Distance: 10 km | Duration: 7–8 hours
• Start early (around 3:00 AM) to reach Goechala Viewpoint 1 before sunrise. Watch as the first light of dawn hits Mt. Kanchenjunga — a sight every trekker cherishes.
• Descend back to Thansing for the night.
• Overnight: Camping at Thansing

Day 8: Thansing → Tshoka via Kokchurang → Yuksom (next day)

• Descend gradually, retracing your steps through forests and meadows. Rest and celebrate your successful trek at Yuksom the following morning.
• Overnight: Guesthouse in Yuksom

Goechala Trek Cost (Per Person Estimate)

Package Type Price Range (INR) Inclusions
Standard (Group) ₹16,500 – ₹18,500 Accommodation, permits, guide, meals, transport Yuksom–Trek–Yuksom
Premium (Private) ₹22,000 – ₹25,000 Includes upgraded tents, porters, and personalized support
Add-ons ₹2,000–₹3,000 NJP/Bagdogra to Yuksom transfers, gear rental

Note: Costs vary based on group size, season, and inclusions. Contact Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks for customized packages.

Trek Highlights

• Rhododendron Blooms (Apr–May) – Forests burst into red, pink, and purple hues.
• Sunrise at Goechala Viewpoint – Watch Kanchenjunga glow golden at dawn.
• High-Altitude Camping – Stay amid pristine alpine meadows.
• Photography Paradise – Capture Himalayan peaks, prayer flags, and glacial lakes.
• Biodiversity Hotspot – Rare Himalayan flora and fauna in Khangchendzonga National Park.

Trekking Essentials

• Must-Carry Gear:
• Trekking shoes, warm layers, gloves, rain gear
• Sleeping bag (if not provided)
• Trek poles, headlamp, personal medication
• Power bank, waterproof backpack

Fitness Tip:
Start cardio and leg-strength exercises 4–6 weeks before the trek.

Permits & Regulations

As Goechala lies within the Khangchendzonga National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site), permits are mandatory and can only be issued through registered tour operators.

Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks takes care of:

• Trekking permits
• National Park entry
• Forest camping permissions

Why Trek Goechala with Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks

With local expertise and years of Himalayan experience, Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks ensures your Goechala adventure is safe, organized, and deeply memorable.

What We Provide:

• Experienced local guides & porters
• Hygienic meals and quality camping gear
• Emergency oxygen and first-aid kits
• Full permit support and eco-friendly trekking practices

Book Your Goechala Trek with Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks
Visit: https://sikkimdiaries.com