Goechala pass trek is in Sikkim, situated at an elevation of 4,940m(16,207ft). It gives the astonishing view of Mt Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain. The amazing views from the Goechala Pass will mesmerize you. You can spot various other peaks like Talung, Rathong, Koktang, Simvo, Kabru forked, Pandim, Jupono, and Tenchenkhang. It is the greenest region in the world and perfect for trekking; it has everything to offer from flora to fauna and beautiful views of the mountains. The best time to visit is in the season of March to June with temperatures ranging from 15℃ to 22℃ and September to November with temperature ranging 10℃ to 15℃ in the day, offering you the alluring beauty of nature. The difficulty level of the trek is moderate to difficult. Bagdogra airport is the nearest airport to reach Yuksom (155km) and the New Jalpaiguri railway station is the nearest railway station to reach Yuksom(150km).
About the Goechala Trek
You will be arriving at Yuksom, the base camp for the trek is at an altitude of (5,670ft).
Once you reach Yuksom, stay at your respective accommodation, take some rest and then ascend for Sachen. You will be passing through the ancient bridges of Pha Khola, Tshushay Khola waterfall, and the Mentogang Khola river. Sachen is at an altitude of (7,150ft). It takes 5 hours to reach with the view of colorful flowers and monkeys along the hike.
After reaching Sachen your next camping destination is Tshoka at an altitude of (9,700ft) by passing through a village called Bakhim. From here the path becomes steeper and the sky opens up. Have your tea&coffee at Bakhim and fuel your energy up. Once you reach Toshoka you will encounter with panoramic views of Mt Pandim and Kanchenjunga.
From Tshoka to Dzongri via Phedang takes 5 hours to reach at an altitude of (12,980ft). It is the most exciting part of the trek with rhododendron trees around and the mix of steep and gentle climb. The path leads you to Phedang. As you reach, refresh yourself with some lunch and get ready to trek for Dzongri. It’s a steep climb with muddy patches in-between welcoming you to Dzongri. Spend your night by camping in Dzongri under the twinkling sky.
Dzongri to Kokchurang takes 5-6 hours to reach at an altitude of 12,900ft., passing by the grasslands of Kokchurang and reaching the Prekchu river from where the Thansing is just 2km away, it will be your camping destination for the night.
Moving ahead to Lamuney from Thansing is a steeper climb with the stunning view of mountain ranges. You will reach at an altitude of (13,600ft) passing by the astonishing views.
Here comes the final day when you will be reaching Goechala. Start your Trek early in the morning from Lachuney to Goechala via Samiti Lake; the steeper climb. You need to be very careful while trekking on such uneven terrain. To reach Samiti lake, it takes a 1-hour maximum. From here onwards the path becomes narrower and steeper than before. It will take a total of 4 hours to reach Goechala; 2 hours to reach Zemathang and 2 hours to Goechala. You can enjoy the beauty of the mountains after reaching Goechala and admire the mountains and other peaks; spend your quality time and then descend back to Thangsing for the night, as it is not allowed to camp at such a height due to deficiency of oxygen.
Descend back to Yuksom and admire the beauty of the place and take memories of the lovely and adventurous trek with you.
How you can prepare yourself for the trek
It is important to remember the trek goes through uneven terrain with steep and gentle curves. Therefore the trek not only requires to be physically fit but mentally fit. It is a trek of 8days with 90km in total. On a daily basis, you will be trekking for a long period of time and it may be tiring.
To carry on this trek you need to be physically fit; try to involve yourself in some cardio exercise, jogging, running and cycling to build up stamina. Practice some stretching in order to avoid strain in the muscles while climbing steep climbs. A little bit of strength building is necessary for the level of the trek.
Practicing some yoga and pranayamas can prove very helpful to fight any kind of mountain sickness or anxiety.
Things to carry
- Filterable water bottle
- Wollen clothes(sweater, jacket, gloves)
- 4-5 pair of socks
- Mosquito repellent
- First aid box with necessary medicines
- Protein bar and snacks
- Raincoat
- Reusable plastic bags
- Trekking shoes
- Trekking equipment
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats/caps
