Goechala Trek, Sikkim

People Also Ask About Goechala Trek

1. What is the best time to go for Goecha La Trek?

   The best time to go for Goecha La Trek is in the spring months of April to June and then later in the autumn months of September to November. The average temperatures during these months range from 15 to 20 degree Celsius during the day and 7 to -1 degrees Celsius during the night. It is best to avoid the month of July and August, as the routes get very slippery due to rains.

2. Which trek is better- Sandakphu trek or Goecha La trek?

   Enriched with a good number of topography, Goecha La trek is a little more challenging with a maximum heights of up to 5200 m as compared to the Sandakphu trek with the heights of up to 3636 m only from the mean sea level. Moreover, during your trek in Sandakphu, you get the 270 degree view of the Himalayan ranges, on the other hand, Goecha La trek presents the view of only the Mt. Kanchenjunga. Talking about the connectivity over the phone, in a few places you can have the mobile signals during the Sandakphu Trek, but in the Goecha La trek you will be totally isolated from the outer world. So, it is totally up to you and your experience and skill level, which trek you want to go for.

3. Which type of shoes should I carry?

   Please do not carry the normal sports shoes. As you need the good traction during the trek, shoes from Woodland or Forclaz 500 is a recommended choice.

4. Are meals included in the package?

   All meals during the trek (Day 2 to Day 10) are included in the package.

5. How much weight will I have to carry?

   It is advisable to carry a 6L backpack, weight to be carried will depend on your requirements and capacity.

6. Will there be mobile connectivity on Goecha La trek?

   No, there is no mobile connectivity during the trek. You will get mobile network in Jorethong which is one the way to Yuksom. After Jorethong you won't get the signals, so make all your important call at Jorethong.

7. How is the weather on Goecha La trek?

   The temperature varies and depends upon the month you are going for the trek. So, if you are going for the trek in May, June, the day temperature will be in the range of 15 to 25 degrees and during the night it will be between 8 to 15 degrees. On the other hand, if you are going for the trek during the months of September and October, the day temperature will be between 13 and 20 degrees and the temperature during the night will be between 2 and 17 degrees.

8. What about first aid and medicines?

   First aid kit and all the necessary medications will be provided during the trek.

9. What type of accommodation will be there on this Trek?

   Keeping in mind the terrain and the temperature, the most suitable and comfortable accommodation to expect will be make-shift kind of tents for easy mobility. The tents will be well built in order to assure you a comfortable and a sound stay. The tents are made from sustainable materials to withstand all weather types and insects which are found in the upper terrains. Also, you will stay in guest house.

10. How do we reach Yuksom?

    We Begin the journey to this wonderful trek by capturing the mesmerizing views of the Himalayas while driving from Bagdogra Airport/NJP to Yuksom. The drive will include the scenic sighting of the gushing Teesta River and it will continue uphill. Further you will be crossing a bridge in Legship to reach Yuksom. Did I mention ? Yuksom is as beautiful. The entire journey to Yuksom will mark lot of snow capped mountains and some amazing views for the photographer in you.

11. Is there a lot of snow on this trek? How much time we'll be walking in snow?

    No, during the accumulation of snow during early winters the trek roads are closed in order to maintain the safety of the adventure enthusiasts. So, one wouldn't be walking on snow. Further, the area gets highly tensed during peak snow falls, hence treks are canceled in such cases.

12. Can we consume alcohol if it's really cold during the trek?

    Taking in consideration the policies and rules of any trekking companies, consumption of alcohol or any other form of intoxicants is strictly prohibited. Due to the intense cold, we’d definitely understand your craving but it's our duty as an individual to maintain the decorum of the place.

13. What will be the distance covered each day on Goechala Trek?

    With a total trekking distance of 90km, the adventure enthusiasts generally trek an average of  5-6 hours per day for a stretch of approx 9-10 days. This is maintained in order to ensure a good trek experience.

14. What is the minimum age required to do Goechala Trek?

    The minimum age to take this trek is 13 years and the maximum age solely varies on one's physical and mental state.

15. Is it safe for girls to do Goecha La trek?

    Yes, the trek, be it girls or boys are advised to be only taken in groups to ensure safety. Hence as long as you are in a group accompanied by an instructor, it doesn't matter you are a girl or boy. You are good to go for the trek.

16. Does the temperature goes negative on Goechala Trek? How to handle this situation?

    Yes, the temperature does drop to negative sometimes at the goechala trek. The easiest way to Tackle such a situation is to ensure that you carry proper Woolens and steady ankle length shoes for the trek to ensure proper safety of in case the temperature drops vividly. Further, the adventure companies and the instructors will always have the basic first aids and other necessary things. You can sit back and stop thinking about the same.

17. What all I must pack for the trek ?

    Warm and comfortable clothes * Good quality trekking shoes, slippers and extra pair of socks * Sunscreen lotion or any other skin moisturizers * Water bottles, trendy backpack and energy bars/snacks * A pair of sunglasses and camera * Caps or hats * Personal toiletries and basic medication (if any) * Flashlight (with spare batteries) * Insect repellent and emergency medical kit * Anything else you may need, we may not know. Have a mind check. Don't forget to pack your sanity.

18. What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?

    Here are the mandatory documents that one needs to carry for the trek to Goecha La:
    - Photo Identity Proof
    - Trekking Permit obtained at the Subdivisional Magistrate at Yuksom. The fees for this permit varies for students and Indian trekkers.
    - Inner Lining Permit for foreigners
    - Entry receipt from the police station

19. Are there any washroom toilet facilities available on the trek?

    Yes, there is a special tent for the toilet in the camping ground for trekkers. The tents would either have an Indian or a Western seat to their business. Or in old school scenario, there would be a pitched hole with wooden or stone planks to rest your feet. In the last case, one has to use soil to cover the pit after the job is done whereas in former cases they are provided with water too.

20. How difficult is Goecha La Trek?

    The Goecha La trek ranges from moderate to difficult, due to the rocky and steep terrains. There are also some difficult turns at a height of 16,200 feet, but the troubles are worth the view. There will also be several forest lands that become denser and denser as you trek ahead. It would require a lot of endurance to cover this trek, so make sure you have experienced several other moderate to difficult treks to successfully finish Goecha La.

21. How much is the Goecha La Trek distance?

    The trek is as long as 90 km in total. For 9 days, you will have to walk and climb for approximately 7-8 hours through the varied terrains and views.

22. How much will GoechaLa Trek cost you?

    The cost of the trek to Goecha La will start from INR 19,700 per adult. You can get a discount of 22% on the same if you book your places early, which brings down the effective price of the trek to just INR 15,200 per adult.