Camping at Lamuney on the Goecha La trail
Camping at Lamuney is a high-altitude tented experience on the Goecha La trekking route inside Kanchenjunga National Park (KNP), West Sikkim. Lamuney is an alpine campsite offering close, dramatic views of Kanchenjunga and neighboring peaks, brilliant sunrises, and quiet nights under a clear Himalayan sky. The campsite is typically used as a rest/acclimatisation stop and base for early-morning approaches toward Goecha La or nearby viewpoints. Expect open meadows, rhododendron scrub at lower approaches, and stark rocky terrain closer to the pass.
Location
Lamuney Campsite (on Goecha La trail, Kanchenjunga National Park), Yuksom (nearest trailhead town), India
Duration
Typically: overnight at Lamuney; camping forms part of the full Goecha La trek which is usually 8–12 days. Plan 1–2 nights at Lamuney for acclimatisation and views.
Best Time to Visit
April – June (pre-monsoon rhododendron bloom; clear mountain views) and September – November (post-monsoon stable weather). Avoid peak monsoon (July–August) due to landslides and cloud cover; winters (Dec–Feb) are very cold with possible heavy snow and limited accessibility.
Pricing
Typical package range: INR 8,000 – 18,000 per person for the camping portion as part of the full Goecha La trek (10–12 days). Price depends on season, group size, and inclusions.
- Budget/Independent (guides & permits only): INR 6,000–9,000 (per person, shared basis)
- Standard group package (guide, porter, meals, permits, tents, sleeping mats): INR 10,000–15,000
- Premium/private package (private guide, upgraded camping gear, porter ratio): INR 15,000–25,000 Note: Flights/road travel to Yuksom, personal gear rental, insurance, and emergency evacuation cover are usually extra.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Spectacular close views of Mount Kanchenjunga and subsidiary ridges at sunrise
Quiet alpine meadows and panoramic Himalayan vistas
Excellent photographic opportunities — sunrise/sunset and starry nights
Experience of camping in a high-altitude protected area inside Kanchenjunga National Park
Rich biodiversity on approach: rhododendrons, blue pine, and chance sightings of Himalayan birds and mammals
Itinerary
Reach Yuksom — final permits, gear check, and briefing with guides.
Yuksom (1,780 m) is the usual trailhead. Final buys and last-minute rentals available.
Trek through Sachen / Khecheopalri area towards Dzongri to acclimatise en route.
Short, steady gains in altitude with overnight camps in established sites.
Trek from Dzongri toward Thangsing / Lamuney approaches, set camp at Lamuney.
Moderate to strenuous day depending on chosen route; panoramic views open up as you gain height.
Acclimatisation day at Lamuney: short hikes to nearby viewpoints, photography, rest.
Use this day to hydrate, rest, and take short walks to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Early morning approach for sunrise views and onward push toward Goecha La or high viewpoint; return to Lamuney or continue descent.
Pre-dawn starts recommended to catch the best light on Kanchenjunga; conditions can be cold and windy.
Retrace steps back to Yuksom and onward exit.
Most groups take several days to descend back, allowing gradual reduction in altitude.
Safety Requirements
Valid permits for Kanchenjunga National Park (KNP) — usually arranged through registered agencies
Travel with a licensed guide and/or porter familiar with the trail and rescue procedures
Acclimatisation plan to reduce risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS); carry Diamox only on medical advice
Warm, layered clothing, insulated sleeping bag (rating to at least -10°C recommended), and a good sleeping mat
Emergency communication device (satellite phone / PLB) or strong local SIM where available
Basic first-aid kit, altitude sickness medication, and insurance with high-altitude trekking cover
Respect park rules: no littering, no camping outside designated sites, no disturbance to wildlife
Tips
Book permits and a registered agency in advance — KNP limits and rules must be followed
Carry cash in small denominations (Yuksom has limited ATMs/UPI coverage)
Pack light but bring essential technical items: good trekking boots, gaiters, down jacket, sun protection, water purification tablets
Acclimatise properly: hydrate well, avoid alcohol, and follow guide instructions
Keep batteries and devices warm (cold drains batteries quickly); carry a power bank
Practice Leave No Trace — carry back all waste including toilet paper and food wrappers
Check weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes; flexible travel days are advisable
High-altitude photography tip: shoot the sunrise with manual exposure and bracket for the snow highlights
