Overview
The Goechala Trek in Sikkim is regarded as the most popular high-altitude trekking destination in India because of the Goechala Trek’s height and difficulty. When you reach the top of Goechala, you will be rewarded with a stunning 180-degree view of Mount Kanchenjunga and other high peaks. September through October are the ideal months to visit the Goechala trek, followed by November and December.
A trip to Sikkim, India has been on your bucket list for many years, and now it’s time to make it come true. But instead of just sightseeing in the capital city of Gangtok or gazing at the famed Kanchenjunga from the top of the hills, why not take a memorable journey into the wild and discover India’s hidden natural beauty with the Goechala Trek? Read on to learn more about this stunning 9-day trek that takes you through some of Sikkim’s most awe-inspiring sceneries.
Goechala Trek is the best time
Goechala Trek’s best time is between April and June and between September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and the skies are clear, offering great views of the surrounding mountains, including the Kanchenjunga.
Additionally, the trails are less crowded, making for a more enjoyable trekking experience. It is not recommended to do the trek during the monsoon season (July-August) as the trails are slippery and prone to landslides. Also, the trek is closed during the winter season (December-March) due to heavy snowfall.
So, the Goechala trek’s best time is from April to June and September to November and the other seasons are busy ones and not suitable for trekking.
Level of difficulty in Goechala trek
The Goechala Trek is considered to be a moderate to challenging trek. The trek is about 110 km long and takes around 9-12 days to complete. The trail takes trekkers through dense forests, rocky terrain, and steep inclines.
Goechala Trek’s height is 15,100 ft, which can make it difficult for some trekkers to acclimatize. Additionally, the trail can be muddy and slippery during the monsoon season, making it more challenging to navigate.
However, due to the Goechala Trek height and route, the difficulty level can vary depending on your physical fitness, trekking experience, and level of preparation. If you are an experienced hiker with a good level of fitness and have done proper acclimatization, the trek can be relatively easier. But if you are a novice trekker or have not prepared well, the trek can be more challenging.
It’s important to note that the trek requires a good level of physical fitness, good stamina, and proper acclimatization. It’s always recommended to consult a doctor before attempting a trek, especially if you have any history of health issues. Also, it’s essential to be well-equipped with proper gear and clothes for the trek.
Goechala trek cost
Goechala Trek’s cost can vary depending on several factors such as the time of year, the route chosen, and the level of services included.
Here are some of the expenses that you need to consider while planning your Goechala trek:
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Permits and fees: You will need to pay for permits and fees to enter the trekking area, including the Kanchenjunga National Park permit and the special area permit. The cost of these permits can vary depending on the season and the route chosen.
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Guides and porters: If you choose to hire a guide and/or porter, this will add to the overall cost of the trek. The cost of guides and porters can vary depending on the season and the level of experience of the guide/porter.
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Accommodation: You will need to pay for accommodation while on the trek, either in the form of camping or staying in trekkers’ huts. The cost of accommodation can vary depending on the season and the amenities offered.
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Food: Food expenses will also add to the overall cost of the trek. You can either carry your food or purchase it along the way.
Overall, the Goechala trek cost can range from around INR 15,000 to INR 30,000 or more depending on the level of services included and the time of year.
Short Itinerary of Goechala trek
The Goechala Trek is a 9–12-day long trek that takes you through the beautiful Kanchenjunga National Park and offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga Mountain range. Here is a short itinerary of the trek:
Day 1: Trek from Yuksom to Sachen
On the Day 2: Trek from Sachen to Tshoka
Day 3: Trek from Tshoka to Dzongri
On the Day 4: Trek from Dzongri to Thansing
Day 5: Trek from Thansing to Lamuney
On the Day 6: Trek from Lamuney to Goechala Base Camp
Day 7: Trek from Goechala Base Camp to Lamuney and then back to Dzongri
On the Day 8: Trek from Dzongri to Tshoka
Day 9: Trek from Tshoka to Yuksom
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