Planethimalayas

• ~150 km | 6–7 hr drive.
• The journey to Yuksom takes you through a scenic 6–7 hour drive from NJP or Bagdogra, winding past emerald tea gardens, misty river valleys, and the rolling foothills of Sikkim. As you ascend into the Himalayas, the air turns cooler and crisper, and the rhythm of life slows down. Yuksom, once the first capital of Sikkim (established in 1642), still carries the charm of an ancient Himalayan settlement — fluttering prayer flags, old monasteries, and quiet lanes lined with traditional homes. After checking into a cozy guesthouse, spend the evening sorting out documents for trek permits, checking your gear. If you reach Yuksom early, take a short acclimatization walk to Kathok Lake or the Norbugang Coronation Throne, both steeped in Sikkim’s royal and spiritual history. As dusk settles over the valley, meet your trek crew over a warm dinner, discuss the trail ahead, and get a good night’s rest — tomorrow, your Himalayan adventure truly begins.

• Trek: ~8 km | 5–6 hrs.
• Your Goechala adventure begins today with the first trek from Yuksom to Sachen — a beautiful introduction to the forests and rivers of Sikkim’s Kanchenjunga National Park. After a filling breakfast in Yuksom, the trail takes you past a few traditional wooden homes and cultivated fields before gently leading you into the wilderness. Mobile networks fade, human settlements disappear, and the soothing sounds of nature begin to take over.
You’ll soon pass through the grand gate that marks the entrance to Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its pristine biodiversity. The path meanders through lush forest dominated by broadleaf, golden oak, and silver oak, with a stunning display of ferns, orchids, and Himalayan wildflowers lining the trail. Three picturesque bridges span the Prek Chhu River, each offering peaceful stops where you can feel the cool mountain breeze and hear the rhythmic sound of flowing water.
The gradient remains moderate until after the second bridge, from where a steep ascent begins towards Sachen. As you climb higher, the air grows cooler and denser with forest aroma.
By late afternoon, you’ll reach the Sachen campsite, tucked inside a quiet clearing deep within the forest. The campsite sits above the Prek Chhu Valley, and at night, the distant sound of the river adds to the tranquility. It’s a simple yet soulful place to rest after your first day on the trail — perfect for reflecting on the journey ahead and recharging for tomorrow’s climb to Tshoka. Keep an eye out for leeches — carrying a bit of salt or anti-leech spray is wise.

• Trek: ~7 km | 4–5 hrs.
• The second day of your Goechala Trek takes you from the deep forested camp of Sachen to the vibrant Tibetan settlement of Tshoka, with a refreshing halt at Bakhim along the way. As dawn breaks, the forest awakens to a soft chorus of Himalayan birds — thrushes, flycatchers, and the occasional laughing thrush echoing through the valley. The air feels cool and clean, and the early sunlight streams through oak leaves, painting golden streaks across the trail.
After breakfast, you begin a beautiful forest walk that winds gently up and down, following the sound of the Prek Chu River below. The first landmark is the Prek Chu Bridge, a sturdy wooden crossing that sways lightly above a rushing mountain stream — a wonderful photo stop. From here, the trail starts to climb steadily through lush oak, maple, and rhododendron forests, where the melody of birds and rustling leaves set the perfect trekking rhythm. Keep your eyes peeled for the Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, a striking bird that often flits among the canopy.
Soon, a steep zigzag ascent brings you to Bakhim (8,600 ft) — a small rest point with mesmerizing views of the Yuksom Valley far below. Trekkers often stop here for tea and snacks while refilling water bottles before the next stretch. From Bakhim, the path turns steeper but far more rewarding as you climb through groves of magnolia trees. In spring, these trees burst into pink and white blooms, transforming the forest into a dreamlike scene straight out of a painting.
A little later, you’ll reach Tshoka, a picturesque hamlet perched on an open shelf with prayer-flagged huts and a small monastery overlooking snow-covered giants like Mt. Pandim and Tenzing Khang. The campsite here is stunning — with wooden huts, a serene lake nearby, and a sweeping view of the Eastern Himalayas. Evening is the best time to explore the Tshoka Monastery or simply sit by the lakeside, watching the clouds drift past the peaks.
As night falls, the air turns crisp and silent except for the flutter of prayer flags in the wind. Rest well — tomorrow, the trail takes you even deeper into rhododendron country, towards Dzongri.

• Trek: ~8 km | 6–8 hrs.
• The fourth day of the Goechala Trek marks one of the most breathtaking — and demanding — sections of the journey, as you climb from the peaceful settlement of Tshoka to the high alpine meadows of Dzongri. The morning at Tshoka feels magical: mist rolling over the wooden huts, prayer flags fluttering softly, and a faint glow on distant snow peaks. After a warm breakfast, you begin your steady ascent toward higher altitudes.
The trail starts gently, winding through a dense rhododendron and oak forest, where the cool mountain air carries the earthy scent of moss and rain-soaked wood. Soon, a beautiful wooden walkway appears — a series of planks that guide you through one of the most enchanting sections of the entire trek. In spring, this path transforms into a tunnel of colors, with blooming red, pink, and white rhododendrons draping the forest in a surreal floral canopy. Each step along this stretch feels like walking through a dream — soft creaks beneath your boots, petals scattered across the trail, and an almost sacred stillness in the air.
Gradually, the forest thickens again, and the path grows steeper as you climb toward Phedang (12,000 ft) — a scenic clearing lined with prayer flags fluttering against the backdrop of deep green valleys. This is the perfect spot to rest, enjoy a snack, and hydrate before the final push to Dzongri. Beyond Phedang, the trees begin to thin, and the climb becomes more relentless. The gain in altitude is noticeable, so move slowly, breathe deeply, and pace yourself to avoid altitude-related fatigue.
After a challenging ascent, you’ll reach Deorali Top, a panoramic ridge that rewards every step of the climb. From here, the view opens dramatically — Kanchenjunga, Pandim, and other towering peaks rise majestically across the skyline, often shimmering through drifting clouds. It’s one of those rare Himalayan moments where silence, effort, and beauty merge perfectly.
From Deorali, the terrain levels out into a more gradual path leading to Dzongri, one of the most iconic high-altitude camps in Sikkim. The landscape shifts to open meadows, dwarf rhododendrons, and patches of frost-crusted grass. As the wind turns colder and stronger, you’ll know you’ve truly entered the alpine zone.
By evening, you arrive at the Dzongri campsite — a windswept meadow surrounded by snow peaks and crisp mountain air. After settling in, enjoy a hot meal, stay warm inside your tent, and rest deeply. The next morning brings a special reward — the legendary sunrise from Dzongri Top, one of the most magnificent sights in the Eastern Himalayas.

• Trek: ~10 km | 6–8 hrs.
•Wake up early at Dzongri campsite to start a truly unforgettable day. Your morning begins with a short trek to Dzongri Top, just about an hour from camp. By sunrise, you’ll reach the top and witness the majestic Himalayas bathed in soft morning light. Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Kabru North & South, Kokthang, and other towering peaks glow golden as the first rays hit the snow, while colorful Tibetan prayer flags flutter in the wind. Take your time to capture photographs, soak in the panoramic views, and savor this magical Himalayan moment before heading back down to Dzongri for a hearty breakfast.
After refueling, continue your trek toward Thansing, passing through the open meadows and alpine thickets that make this trail so scenic. The path takes you through wide, rolling Dzongri meadows, where clouds often drift across the mountains, creating a constantly shifting and dreamlike landscape. Moving ahead, the trail enters high-altitude rhododendron and oak forests, where the chirping of birds and rustling leaves provide a peaceful soundtrack to your trek.
At the end of the Dzongri meadows, a steep and extended zigzag descent leads to Kokchurang, a small hut and rest point for trekkers at the Prek Chhu riverbed, a place staight out of a storybook. Take a short break here, hydrate, and enjoy a quick snack. From Kokchurang, the trail gradually descends through lush forests, crossing a small river bridge across the Prek Chhu river. On the other side of the river, gentle climbs and open clearings continue to greet you as the landscape transitions from dense woodland to expansive meadows.
Finally, the trail opens into the Thansing campsite, nestled at the base of Mt. Tenzing Khang. The close-up views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks are spectacular — on clear days, you can admire the shoulder of Kanchenjunga and the towering Pandim Peak. Once at camp, enjoy a hot lunch and spend the rest of the day relaxing. Layer up as temperatures can drop sharply, especially in the evening. Take short walks around the campsite, capture the stunning scenery, and savor the serene alpine atmosphere.
By nightfall, retreat to your tent for a warm meal and a good rest, preparing your body and mind for the adventures that lie ahead. This day combines the thrill of a high-altitude sunrise, panoramic Himalayan views, and a rewarding trek to a stunning campsite — all in one memorable stretch.

• Trek: ~4 km | 2–3 hrs (short day with important acclimatisation emphasis).
• Today offers a break from the tougher sections of the Goechala trek, as you move from Thansing to Lamuney. The trail is short and mostly level, giving your legs a chance to recover while letting you fully enjoy the stunning landscapes around you. After a relaxed breakfast, you’ll start walking through wide, open meadows dotted with wildflowers and gentle streams. The path meanders through the valley, with the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga and its neighboring giants keeping you company along the way.
The walk to Lamuney takes around three hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the serenity and snap photos of the expansive pastures. Once at the campsite, settle into the calm environment, enjoy a hot lunch, and take short walks along the riverside or across the meadows. The quiet of the mountains and the flowing Prek Chu River creates the perfect setting to unwind and reflect on the trek so far.
In the evening, your guides will gather everyone for a briefing about the next day — the Goechala Summit. They’ll outline the route, share practical tips, and answer questions to ensure you’re prepared for the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek.
As night descends, watch the stars fill the sky above Lamuney, a breathtaking backdrop that reminds you how remote and magical these mountains are. With an early start tomorrow, it’s the perfect opportunity to rest well and recharge for the adventure ahead.

• Trek: ~12–13 km round trip | 8–10 hrs (start pre-dawn with headlamps).
• Today is the highlight of your Goechala trek, a day of challenge, awe, and unforgettable mountain vistas. You’ll start before dawn, so an early wake-up is essential. As you step onto the trail in the soft pre-dawn light, the Himalayas slowly come alive around you. Packing your bags the night before will make it easy to move quickly once you return, allowing for lunch and a descent to Thangsing or Kokchurang without any rush.
The trek begins with a steady climb over rocky moraines, gradually winding toward Samiti Lake. Since it will still be dark when you start, the lake’s beauty will remain hidden for a while, but the anticipation builds as you trek upward. From here, the trail ascends further, narrowing as it hugs the ridge, leading to the Goechala Viewpoint. Headlamps will guide you along this part of the trail, ensuring safe steps on the rocky path.
Reaching the Goechala Viewpoint at sunrise is nothing short of magical. Before you, the towering peaks of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, and Tenzing Khang glow golden as the first light of morning spreads across the Himalayas. The sheer scale and proximity of these giants leave trekkers speechless, and the panorama stretching from snow-covered ridges to distant valleys makes every step of the early climb worthwhile. This moment, standing above the world with the crisp mountain air around you, is one of the most memorable experiences of the trek.
After lingering to take in the sweeping vistas, you’ll begin your descent. A short walk brings you to Samiti Lake, where the still waters mirror the surrounding mountains in perfect clarity. Take time to explore the lakeshore, capture photos, and enjoy the serene ambiance before heading back to Lamuney for a hot, satisfying lunch.
Depending on the weather and energy levels, you’ll continue your descent to either Thangsing or Kokchurang, retracing some of the trail you covered earlier in the trek. Once you arrive at your campsite, relax in your tent, enjoy a warm meal, and soak in the sense of accomplishment after conquering one of the most stunning viewpoints of the Indian Himalayas.

• Trek: ~15–16 km | 6–7 hrs (long descent day).
• Today marks your descent toward Tshoka, giving your legs a mix of gentle climbs and easy downhill stretches through some of the trek’s most enchanting forests. Start your morning at the campsite with a wholesome breakfast, soaking in the fresh mountain air and panoramic surroundings before setting off.
Instead of retracing your earlier route, today you’ll follow a different trail from Kokchurang. The path winds through dense, verdant forests where only a single hiker can walk at a time. Tall rhododendrons, pines, and other Himalayan trees flank the trail, creating a serene canopy overhead. If trekking during spring, bursts of red and pink rhododendron flowers add vibrant color to your walk, making the forest feel almost magical.
The trail is mostly straightforward but requires attention, especially on steeper sections where the ground can be slippery. Move steadily, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and take time to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty around you.
After about 4–5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Phedang, your first rest stop of the day. Here, you can pause for a packed lunch while the cool breeze and gentle sounds of the forest refresh you. Re-energized, you’ll continue descending through thick rhododendron groves, following the familiar trail toward Tshoka. The latter part of the trek is gentler, offering a pleasant walk as the forest gradually opens to reveal distant Himalayan peaks.
Upon reaching Tshoka, settle into your campsite for the evening. Enjoy a warm meal, reflect on the day’s journey, and rest well — tomorrow will take you further down the trail as the trek winds toward its conclusion.

• Trek: ~14 km | 5–6 hrs (final trekking day).
• Your final day of the Goechala Trek takes you back to Yuksom, retracing the scenic trails along the Prek Chu River, through Bakhim and Sachen. Wake up early and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the campsite, preparing for a mostly downhill journey that still promises stunning forested landscapes and river views.
The trail is gentle and serene, letting you soak in the last moments of the Himalayas’ tranquility. Along the way, you’ll cross the three iconic iron bridges once more, pass through the quiet hamlets of Bakhim and Sachen, and witness the peaceful rhythm of mountain life. While the descent is easier than climbing, take care on steeper sections to avoid putting too much strain on your knees. Maintain a steady pace and pause whenever you want to capture the surrounding beauty.
As you approach Yuksom, a short uphill stretch signals the final push back to civilization. Soon, the familiar sights of the town greet you, along with the return of mobile connectivity. Take some time to explore Yuksom’s rich history and culture. Wander through its quaint streets, visit local monasteries, browse handicraft shops, or simply soak in the welcoming atmosphere.
Once you arrive at your guesthouse, enjoy a wholesome meal and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. This is a day to relax, celebrate your achievement, and take in the memories of a trek that will stay with you forever.