The Goechala Dzongri Trek in Sikkim takes you to the highest mountain in North India and is one of the most scenic treks in the country. With three beautiful snow-capped peaks and a stunning view of Mt Everest, this trek can make anyone fall in love with the Himalayas all over again! If you’re planning to go on this trek, here’s an ultimate guide to help you plan your trip from start to finish!
Why trekking is ideal for discovering Sikkim
One of the best ways to discover a destination is on foot, and there’s no better way of discovering one of India’s most fascinating places than on a trek through Sikkim’s Goechala trek region (also known as Gangtok-Goecha La Pass). The towering Himalayas that surround you create an otherworldly atmosphere, and stunning scenery unfolds from every direction as you trek from hill station to hill station. The experience is both exhilarating and exhausting – just what every adventure should be! If you are up for something challenging but with unparalleled views, look no further than trekking on Mt Gurja via Gangtok-Goecha La Pass.
Best Time To Visit
The monsoon season makes July through September prime months for trekking, while spring (February through May) and autumn (September through November) make for pleasant alternatives. Don’t visit during winter unless you’re prepared for blizzards and freezing temperatures—which can last from December into February. It’s important to remember that visiting Goechala is an all-season activity, as even within these months visitors may experience rain or snow at any time of day or night. But with that said, expect extreme changes in temperature along with unpredictable weather conditions no matter when you go: Storms are common on sunny days and heavy winds at times will block your path forward – it really is up to Mother Nature!
Best Time To Book The Ticket
The goechala dzongri trek is more adventurous and rewarding when done during the rainy season, preferably between June and September, as it passes through lush forests and falls, but snowfall is also high during that time. Hence, you should plan your trekking trip to coincide with a suitable weather window while keeping an eye on high-altitude rainfall forecasts. Temperatures can range from 12 degrees celsius to 22 degrees celsius during those months. Given these extremes, you should take all necessary precautions like carrying proper clothing for both rain and snowfall (overalls or waterproof jackets). Also carry a medical kit for emergencies and snacks or candies if your journey requires staying out late at night or early morning.
Best months To Visit
July, August, September and October are recommended months for Goechala Dzongri Trek in Sikkim. Start from Gangtok (2540 mts), The journey starts with a flight or road journey from Gangtok to Lachung which takes about 3 hours or drive for approximately 150 kilometers by car / jeep / taxi to reach Lachung-3630 mts (The point where we start our trek). This road trip is quite scenic with rivers, waterfalls, beautiful views of snow peaks, Deorali pass, a golf course on the right side and heavy snowfall in winter.
Best places to stay near dzongri
The best place to stay near dzongri is in Phodong, which can be easily reached by a flight from Bagdogra (145km away). Another option is Seri Monastery and you could also stay at Pelling or Gwaldam. Both are located around 30-45 minutes away from Phodong, by car. The trek begins and ends at Goechala dzongri; however, it can be extended if you wish to go further down eastwards, towards Tsari village and Tashiding monastery. It may sound like a lot of driving, but it will leave more time for sightseeing on route! We recommend reaching Phodong before noon on day 1 and staying there till the next morning before starting off on your trek!
How do I reach dzongri?
To reach dzongri, you will need to trek across different beautiful and difficult terrains. The final destination is at a height of 7,217 feet (2,200 meters). There are different route options that one can take starting from Mangan and adding a few extra days on either side, but they all meet up near an old Army post called Cane Camp at an altitude of 4595 feet (1400 meters). This camp can be reached via jeep from Rimbik or via Changu Lake once you’re off from Mangan by vehicle.
Is it safe to visit during winter?
The Goechala region is only accessible via a 14km trek from Sangachoeling, which makes it difficult and expensive for emergency medical services to reach you. If you fall sick or get injured during your trek, rescuers may have difficulty finding you, even if they are aware of your situation. This can be dangerous at any time of year, but especially so during winter when visibility is often low due to rain and fog on top of nightfall occurring early at 3pm!
