Goechala Trek

After an early breakfast, begin your trek from Yuksom. The trail takes you through the Rathong Valley, crossing four suspension bridges over the Prek Chu River. Walk through dense forests of oak, chestnut, pine, bamboo, and fir trees. The path involves gradual ascents with occasional steep sections. Pass through the small settlement of Bakhim before reaching Sachen, your campsite for the night surrounded by magnificent forest cover. Trek distance: 8 km, Duration: 5-6 hours.

Today's trek involves a steady climb through rhododendron and magnolia forests. The trail becomes steeper as you gain altitude, with the forest gradually changing from subtropical to temperate vegetation. Cross wooden bridges over mountain streams and navigate through dense bamboo groves. Tshoka is a small Tibetan refugee settlement where you'll camp for the night. If weather permits, catch glimpses of Mt. Pandim from here. Trek distance: 7 km, Duration: 4-5 hours.

One of the most challenging days of the trek with a steep ascent through rhododendron forests. As you climb higher, the vegetation becomes sparser and you enter the alpine zone. The trail opens up to magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. Take frequent breaks to acclimatize to the increasing altitude. Reach Dzongri by afternoon, where you're rewarded with panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Kabru, Rathong, and Pandim. Trek distance: 9 km, Duration: 5-6 hours.

Wake up early for a sunrise hike to Dzongri La (14,200 ft), a vantage point offering 360-degree views of the Himalayan range. Watch the first rays of sun illuminate the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga, creating a golden spectacle. Return to camp for breakfast and spend the rest of the day acclimatizing. Explore the area with short walks or simply rest and enjoy the mountain views. This acclimatization day is crucial for the altitude gains ahead.

Descend from Dzongri through rhododendron bushes and juniper trees to reach the Kokchurang riverbed. The trail then follows the Prek Chu River valley with a gradual ascent to Thangsing. Walk through open meadows with stunning views of Mt. Pandim's south face dominating the landscape. Thangsing campsite is located in a beautiful valley surrounded by peaks. Trek distance: 8 km, Duration: 4-5 hours.

A relatively short trek along the Prek Chu riverbed through rocky moraines. The trail gradually ascends over boulder-strewn paths with multiple stream crossings. As you gain altitude, witness the magnificent north face of Mt. Pandim dominating the landscape. Reach Lamuney by early afternoon, your base camp for the Goechala viewpoint attempt. Spend the rest of the day resting and preparing for the early morning summit push. Trek distance: 4 km, Duration: 3-4 hours.

Start extremely early (2-3 AM) for the challenging ascent to Goechala viewpoint. Trek through darkness using headlamps, crossing frozen streams and negotiating rocky moraines. The final push involves steep climbs over loose scree. Reach Goechala viewpoint by sunrise to witness the spectacular close-up views of Mt. Kanchenjunga's eastern face, along with Kabru, Rathong, and other surrounding peaks. After spending time at the viewpoint, descend all the way back to Kokchurang or Thangsing. This is the longest and most challenging day of the trek. Trek distance: 11 km, Duration: 10-11 hours.

Begin your descent retracing the route through Dzongri. The long descent through rhododendron and pine forests can be tough on the knees. Stop at Phedang for lunch before continuing down through dense forests to reach Tshoka. The change in vegetation is noticeable as you descend from alpine meadows back into the tree line. Overnight at the familiar campsite in Tshoka. Trek distance: 16 km, Duration: 7-8 hours.

The final day of trekking takes you through lush forests back to civilization. Descend steeply through the forest trail, crossing the same suspension bridges over the Prek Chu River. Pass through Sachen and continue downhill to reach Yuksom by afternoon. Celebrate the successful completion of your trek with your team. Check into your guesthouse for a well-deserved rest and hot shower. Trek distance: 15 km, Duration: 6-7 hours.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the mountains and begin your 7-hour journey back to NJP Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport. The drive takes you through the same scenic route, descending from the hills to the plains. Reflect on your incredible mountain adventure as you prepare for your onward journey. The trek concludes with drop-off at NJP/Bagdogra.