Treks and walks · Yuksom
Dzongri and Goecha La trek from Yuksom
The classic high trek of Sikkim climbs from Yuksom through Sachen, Tshoka and Dzongri to Goecha La View Point 1 at about 4,600 m, facing Kanchenjunga. Plan 8–10 days, a licensed guide and park permits, and train for long climbs at altitude.
The trail leaves Yuksom past the national park check post and follows the Prek Chu valley through forest to Sachen and up to Tshoka, at about 3,000 m, a small settlement settled by Tibetan families. The next day climbs through rhododendron forest to Dzongri, around 4,000 m, where most groups rest a day and walk up Dzongri Top before dawn for a wide view of Kanchenjunga, Kabru, Pandim and their neighbours. In April the rhododendrons below Dzongri are in flower.
From Dzongri the route drops to Kokchurang, follows the river to Thansing and climbs to Lamuney, the last camp below the moraine. On summit day you start in the dark and reach Goecha La View Point 1, at about 4,600 m, by sunrise, with the face of Kanchenjunga filling the sky. The pass itself, around 4,900 m, lies further on, but in recent seasons most groups have been allowed only to View Point 1. Rules change, so check current status before you travel.
This is a serious trek with long climbs and real altitude, so train for six to eight weeks and acclimatise properly. A licensed guide and registration are compulsory, park entry permits are issued at the forest office in Yuksom, and foreign nationals need a Restricted Area Permit and must go in a group through a registered agency. Most people join an organised group, which includes tents, food, guide and porters or pack animals. Carry warm layers, rain gear and a good sleeping bag.
Cost: ₹16,000–28,000 pp with an agency (indicative)
Questions people ask
Good to know
Can a beginner do the Goecha La trek?
A fit beginner can, with preparation. The trek climbs to about 4,600 m over 8–10 days, with several long, steep days. Train for six to eight weeks with stair climbs, uphill walking and cardio, and join a reputable group with a sensible acclimatisation day at Dzongri. People with heart or lung conditions should consult a doctor first.
What permits are needed for Dzongri and Goecha La?
Everyone needs park entry permits from the Khangchendzonga National Park office or forest office in Yuksom and must trek with a licensed guide. Foreign nationals also need a Sikkim Restricted Area Permit and must trek in a group through a registered agency. Fees and rules change, and access beyond View Point 1 has been limited, so check current status before you travel.
Can we trek only to Dzongri?
Yes. A shorter trek from Yuksom to Dzongri and back, with the dawn walk up Dzongri Top, usually takes 4–6 days. It still needs a licensed guide and park permits. It suits people with less time or less fitness, and the Dzongri Top view of Kanchenjunga, Kabru and Pandim is among the finest in Sikkim.
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