Goechala is a moderate to difficult trek from Yuksom in Sikkim through Kanchenjunga National Park, reaching about 15,100 ft at the first viewpoint below the east face of Kanchenjunga. Plan about 11 days from NJP, in April to May or October to November.
- Max altitude
- About 15,100 ft (viewpoint 1)
- Duration
- About 11 days from NJP, 8 on the trail
- Difficulty
- Moderate-difficult
- Best time
- April to May, October to November
- Base
- Yuksom
- Getting there
- NJP railway station or Bagdogra airport, about 8 hours by road to Yuksom
Goechala trek: Samiti lake, near Kanchenjunga
Photo 1 of 2
Why people pick Goechala
- Sunrise on Kanchenjunga from close range
- Dzongri top views of the whole range
- Rhododendron forests in spring
Route, day by day
The usual shape of the trek. Exact camps and timings vary by operator and conditions.
A long drive into West Sikkim.
Forest trail towards Sachen and Tshoka.
Gain height through rhododendron forest.
Climb to the high meadows.
Sunrise viewpoint and acclimatisation.
Descend and cross towards the Kanchenjunga side.
Short day to the last camp.
Pre-dawn start for sunrise on Kanchenjunga.
Walk back towards Tshoka.
Long descent.
Drive out.
Fitness
Moderate to difficult. Prior high-altitude trekking strongly recommended.
What to carry
- Trekking shoes with ankle support, broken in
- Three warm layers and a waterproof jacket
- Headlamp, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Two water bottles
- Personal medicines and a small first aid kit
- Original photo ID
Safety and altitude
- Climbing too fast is the main cause of altitude sickness. Keep the acclimatisation day the route plan includes.
- A headache, nausea, dizziness or unusual breathlessness above about 2,500 m are warning signs. Stop going higher, and descend if they get worse.
- Summit timings depend on the weather. Turning back on a bad day is a normal mountain decision, not a failed trek.
- Mention asthma, blood pressure, heart conditions or recent illness in your brief, and check with a doctor before a high-altitude trek.
- Ask your written quote who leads the group, what first aid and oxygen is carried, and what happens if someone cannot continue.
Before you book
Permits for Kanchenjunga National Park are required and are arranged through registered operators.
Goechala questions
It is long and high, so it suits people who have done at least one moderate Himalayan trek before.
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