Goecha La trek in Kanchenjunga National Park
Goecha La is a classic high‑altitude trek in West Sikkim that approaches the southern face of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m). The route begins at Yuksom and passes through dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows and high mountain passes, offering spectacular close-up views of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Kabru and Siniolchu. This trek combines cultural contact with the Bhutia–Lepcha communities and true Himalayan wilderness camping.
Location
Goecha La (Goechala) via Yuksom, Yuksom (West Sikkim), India (Sikkim)
Duration
Typical 9–12 days (trek 7–10 days + arrival/departure / acclimatization days). Common packages are 10 or 11 days from Yuksom to Yuksom.
Best Time to Visit
Mid-April to June (pre-monsoon, rhododendron bloom) and late September to November (post-monsoon, clear skies). Avoid heavy monsoon months (July–August) and deep winter (Dec–Feb) unless experienced in snow trekking.
Pricing
Typical package price range: INR 18,000–40,000 (≈ USD 220–480) per person for a 9–12 day group camping package. Price varies by group size, season, inclusion of permits, private porter/guide, accommodation (teahouse vs camping) and transport. Many operators include permits, guide, porters, all meals on trek and camping gear; confirm inclusions and refundable permit fees.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Close-up views of Kanchenjunga (South face) and other 6,000–7,000 m peaks including Pandim, Kabru and Siniolchu.
Samiti Lake — a high alpine lake with reflections of the Kanchenjunga range.
Dzongri and Dzongri Top — classic panoramic viewpoints and alpine meadows ('bugyals').
Dense rhododendron forests (late April–May spectacular bloom) and pristine alpine meadows.
Camping under high Himalayan skies and experiencing Bhutia–Lepcha culture around Yuksom.
Opportunity for wildlife (Himalayan birds, musk deer occasionally) inside Kanchenjunga National Park.
Itinerary
Arrive in Yuksom (via Siliguri/Gangtok) and complete permit formalities. Gear check and briefing with the guide.
Overnight in guesthouse in Yuksom. Rest, hydrate, and keep permits handy.
Yuksom to Sachen (trek begins) — 4–6 hrs, moderate.
Start through farmland and rhododendron forests. Camp at Sachen or nearby.
Sachen to Bakhim / Dophuk — 5–7 hrs, gradual ascent.
Forest trails, river crossings, scenic views. Camp in the Bakhim / Dophuk area.
Bakhim to Tshoka (or Khecheopalri Saddle approach) — 5–7 hrs.
Trail becomes more open with higher meadows; first views of high peaks begin to appear.
Tshoka to Dzongri — 4–6 hrs, moderate to steep sections.
Reach Dzongri base camps and expansive alpine meadows. Excellent sunset/sunrise viewpoints.
Acclimatization / short hikes from Dzongri (Dzongri Top viewpoint).
Optional half‑day hike to Dzongri Top for panoramic views of Kanchenjunga and surroundings.
Dzongri to Thansing / Lamuney / near Goecha La approach — long day (6–8 hrs).
Trail crosses ridges and high meadows; plan an early start. Camp close to Goecha La access valley.
Goecha La viewpoint day: Early morning trek to Goecha La / Goechala viewpoint and return to camp (long day).
Pre‑dawn start for best light on the Kanchenjunga massif. Visit Samiti Lake (if included) depending on route/time. Return to Thansing/Tshoka for camp.
Trek back toward Tshoka / Bakhim — downhill, easier day.
Retrace steps with plenty of time for photography and rest.
Tshoka to Bakhim / Sachen — downhill to lower forests.
Camp near Sachen and enjoy lower altitude comfort.
Sachen to Yuksom — trek ends. Transfer to Gangtok / Siliguri or onward travel.
Finish permits formalities where required. Overnight in Yuksom or transfer same day depending on transport.
Safety Requirements
Permits required: Kanchenjunga National Park permit and Sikkim Inner Line Permit / restricted area permits as applicable; arrange through a registered operator.
Good physical fitness and prior trekking experience recommended; altitude up to ~4,940 m (Goecha La viewpoint) — risk of AMS (acute mountain sickness).
Acclimatize properly; include rest days and avoid rapid ascent.
Professional guide, experienced porter team and first‑aid kit (including altitude medication like acetazolamide if advised by physician).
Weather can change rapidly; carry warm, windproof and waterproof layers and emergency shelter.
Travel insurance that covers high‑altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is highly recommended.
Tips
Book through a licensed operator who handles permits, trained guides and local porters — solo unsupported trekking inside Kanchenjunga NP is restricted.
Pack layers: base layers, insulating mid‑layer, down jacket, waterproof shell, warm gloves, hat and quality trekking boots with good ankle support.
Carry personal medication, sunscreen, sunglasses (UV), and a water purification method or tablets.
Bring cash in small denominations for Yuksom (limited ATMs) and tip guides/porters as appropriate.
Respect local culture and environment — carry out all non‑biodegradable waste, avoid single‑use plastics, and follow park rules.
Allow flexibility in schedule for weather and acclimatization; aim for early starts for best mountain views.
If photography is a priority, bring extra batteries (cold drains batteries quickly) and a lightweight tripod.
