Goechala Trek is the most popular trekking tour in India. This trek guides you through breath taking landscape and the rough terrain and also provides a touch of the rich Himalayan culture. Goechala Trek is by everybody that is experienced as well as someone who is new to this as an adventure. It will inform you everything about it, the schedule, professional tips and reviews.
What is the Goechala Trek?
Goechala Trek is a cross-country trek by the eastern Himalaya range and offers a fantastic view of the Kanchenjunga that reigns third as the highest mountain in the world. It is a self-discovery walk in Sikkim and involves treads amid dense forests, clear lakes and remote mountain settlements. The trail is not only rough but also scenic and this explains why adventurers enjoy it.
Why Choose the Goechala Trek?
- Scenic Beauty: According to Goechala Trek, the views of the Himalayas have never been prettier. You will be speechless by the sight of the snow-capped mountains, Kanchenjunga and the beautiful green forests.
- Cultural Immersion: When you trek through remote villages, you will get an opportunity of knowing about the traditions of the indigenous people. It is possible to have a special impression of how life can be in the high Himalayas by visiting some of the monasteries, indigenous houses and local culture.
- Challenging Adventure: Goechala trek is not suitable for people who are weak. It is up to 16,200 feet which makes it good for those experienced trekkers as it can test their endurance and stamina.
Goechala Trek Step-by-Step Itinerary
Depending on the itinerary chosen, the Goechala Trek usually takes 9 to 11 days. Here’s a full list of the Goechala Trek itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Bagdogra / NJP – Transfer to Yuksom
- Distance: 160 km from Bagdogra/NJP (approximately 6-7 hours drive)
- Highlights: The trip starts with a beautiful drive from Bagdogra or NJP to Yuksom, where the hike begins. Yuksom is a little town with a lot of history and famous monasteries.
- Altitude: 5,400 feet
Day 2: Yuksom to Tshoka (9,700 feet)
- Distance: 15 km (5-6 hours trek)
- Highlights: You start your journey from Yuksom to Tshoka today. The path goes through thick forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. You’ll see the Kanchenjunga range for the first time along the route.
- Altitude: 9,700 feet
Day 3: Tshoka to Phedang (12,000 feet)
- Distance: 7 km (4-5 hours trek)
- Highlights: The path goes on through lovely forests, where you can see Kanchenjunga and the peaks around it. Phedang is a lovely campsite at the border of a forest of rhododendrons.
- Altitude: 12,000 feet
Day 4: Phedang to Dzongri (13,100 feet)
- Distance: 9 km (5-6 hours trek)
- Highlights: It leads you to Dzongri that is one of the most scenic places along the entire journey. Here you have the entire view of the Kanchenjunga range. Dzongri is the best trekking place to acclimatize to the air before proceeding to higher altitude.
- Altitude: 13,100 feet
Day 5: Rest Day at Dzongri (Acclimatization)
- Highlights: It is also a significant rest day to become accustomed to all this. All through the day, you can walk around the area in brief distances to enjoy wonderful views and prepare yourself to enjoy the second part of the hike.
Day 6: Dzongri to Thansing (12,900 feet)
- Distance: 8 km (4-5 hours trek)
- Highlights: The road that leads to Thansing runs through very broad valleys and spectacular scenery of the mountains surrounding it. The area of Thansing is a peaceful camping ground to spend and enjoy nature.
- Altitude: 12,900 feet
Day 7: Thansing to Lamuney (13,400 feet)
- Distance: 6 km (3-4 hours trek)
- Highlights: The trip to Lamuney takes you through high-altitude areas with glaciers and rugged ground all around you. Lamuney is the perfect place to get ready for the last climb to Goechala.
- Altitude: 13,400 feet
Day 8: Lamuney to Goechala and Return to Lamuney
- Distance: 16 km (8-9 hours trek)
- Highlights: This is the hardest day of the hike. You’ll climb the last part of the way to Goechala (16,200 feet), where you can see Kanchenjunga and other nearby peaks in all their glory. You will go back to Lamuney for the night after spending some time at the summit.
- Altitude: 16,200 feet
Day 9: Lamuney to Tshoka
- Distance: 16 km (7-8 hours trek)
- Highlights: The way back down to Tshoka is much simpler, although it still takes a long time. You will go through lovely forests and streams on this lengthy day.
- Altitude: 9,700 feet
Day 10: Tshoka to Yuksom
- Distance: 15 km (6-7 hours trek)
- Highlights: The last stage of the journey takes you back to Yuksom, where the trip finishes. You can recuperate and see the town after the trip before you leave.
Expert Reviews of the Goechala Trek
The Goechala Trek is a favorite among trekkers for many reasons. Let’s take a look at some expert reviews.
Difficulty Level
The trek is moderate and it is difficult. It is difficult due to its altitude, length of time walking, and slopes. But with appropriate training and adjustment, the majority of people looking to do the trek can successfully achieve the trek. The Goechala Trek is more suitable to experienced trekkers although trekkers with some experience of trekking can also make it with adequate physical fitness.
Best Time to Go
When is the best time to do Goechala Trek? April to June and September to November are good months to do the Goechala Trek. This is the time of the year when the weather is more or less stable and the likelihood of clear weather is great. It is better not to venture during the monsoons (July to August) as the paths get muddy and mountainous.
Accommodation and Meals
All the campsites have tents installed with basic camping facilities being provided in the trek. The food is delicious vegetarian food and usually prepared by local cooks. The food is also scarce in the higher altitudes, however, you will be treated to a healthy and balanced menu to keep you full of energy.
Safety and Support
This is a well-organized hike with skilled guides, porters and cooks. The trekking firms have to make sure that there is emergency safety by providing first aid kits and oxygen cylinders. Trekkers are however advised to carry their own medication most especially against altitude sickness.
What to Pack for the Goechala Trek
Packing smartly for the Goechala Trek is crucial. Here’s a list of essential items:
Essential Gear
- Rucksack (50-60 liters)
- Sleeping Bag (4-season rated)
- Trekking Shoes (sturdy and waterproof)
- Trekking Poles
- Water Bottle (preferably with a filter)
- Layered Clothing (for warmth and comfort)
- Rain Gear (poncho or waterproof jacket)
Personal Items
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm
- Personal Medication
- Camera (to capture the breathtaking views)
- Snacks (energy bars, nuts, etc.)
Conclusion
Goechala trek is a tremendous trek in India. It offers adventure, gorgeousness, and challenge through its spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga range and earthy diversity and cultural exposure. This trek may not suit new people, but it is an event that trekkers will catch in mind. In order to complete this difficult trek, you have to be prepared, acclimatize to high altitude and right equipment. Goechala Trek is one you need to mark out on your list in case you are looking to get your next great adventure.
FAQ: Goechala Trek
1. What is the difficulty level of the Goechala Trek?
This high altitude trek is defined as moderate to difficult trek because the region is terrain-complex and the trip durations are long. It will suit active people or people who are not afraid of going trekking without any experience.
2. Can I do the Goechala Trek without a guide?
One should strongly consider doing the Goechala Trek under an expert guide. The path may be trying to follow and the altitude may be hazardous to the health. There is safety and assistance offered by guides and porters.
3. Is Goechala Trek suitable for beginners?
The Goechala Trek might be a challenging route but since the physically unfit individuals can also somewhat fit into the field of trekking, then with proper planning and directions of the field, the trek can be continued by individuals who are relatively fit.
4. How high is Goechala?
The summit of Goechala is at 16,200 feet, offering stunning views of the Kanchenjunga massif.