Experiencing trekking in GoechaLa, Sikkim rather than in the northern Himalayas is also otherworldly.
Trekkers set out for Goechala trek in hopes of getting closer to the world’s third highest mountain peak of Mt. Kanchenjunga and this trek keeps up with its prevailing reputation. The majestic view of this big snow-clad mountain touching the fiery red horizon at the early hour of sunrise is an experience for the lifetime. Apart from Mt. Kanchenjunga, one can also see Mt. Pandim is deceptively close.
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Apart from these otherwise unyielding peaks, you will also come across still water lakes reflecting the skyline, lush forests with beautiful flowers and beautiful campsites giving you majestic views. The dark canopy of suspended bridges in the dense forest and deep gorges of river streams are some of the exceptional experiences that you will encounter on this trek.
Trek Distance: 61 km
Trek Altitude: 16,000 ft
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Best Season: April-May and October-November
Why You Should Visit Goechala:
Close-up views of big mountains
The Goechala trek is well known among trekkers for the sole reason of getting in the vicinity of some of the big mountains of the world like Mt Kanchenjunga, Mt Pandim and at least 14 other such high-altitude summits. Goechala is notoriously famous for giving you such a close look at these daunting mountains.
High altitude dense Forests
There are hardly any treks that offer trails dotted with trees at a height of 12000 ft like Goechala. The spring season brings colours to these trees and the autumn turns the whole environment into some dark canopy making it look misty. Also, not to forget, the Prekchu river flowing alongside will keep you company.
Suspended Bridges
There are a total of 3 suspension bridges that need to be crossed in the midst of dark jungles. These bridges are made to pass over the deep gorges of Prek Chu river. Walking on the hanging bridges as you look down the gorge from a height is one of an adventure in itself.
Rhododendrons in April
The rhododendrons blooming in April and May with the prettiest shades of pink is quite a romantic change in scenery. You can relish in the rare beauty of walking in the dense jungles of Goechala with scarlet flowers blossoming all around.
Samiti Lake
Goechala trek is filled with natural treats hoarding all the beautiful phenomena. One other such beautiful treat is Samiti Lake with its crystal clear still water that gives you a glass reflection of Mt. Pandim among the clouds. Try to time the trek so that you reach Samiti Lake at early hours to have the fullest of its virtues.
Monasteries
Imagine a monastery hidden on the trails of Goechala surrounded by mountains and ponds. The environment calls for a soulful relaxation at this monastery near Tsokha almost at an elevation of 9,500 ft. You need to walk a few minutes offbeat to the trek to reach this monastery but it’s definitely worth it.
Dramatic Scenery change
The sudden change in the terrain and surrounding landscape will surely surprise you. The suspended bridges appearing out of nowhere and the dense forest with rhododendrons suddenly giving way to barren land is quite a surprise. After you cross the river of Prekchu over the bridges it becomes one with the terrain afterwards.
Sunrise from Dzongri top
On your camping day at Dzongri climb a short steep ascent in the early morning to catch the aesthetic shades of red and orange over the Mountain of Kanchenjunga from an elevation of 13,778 ft.
Camping
Imagine pitching a tent at the foot of Mt Pandim along the Prekchu river with contrasting meadows of the Goechala. You can just relax in the prime nature of Goechala trek and even click some beautiful pictures.
Sunrise from View point I
Another magnificent highlight is the first rays of sunrise setting on the Kanchenjunga snow clad mountain making it look ethereal from View point I.
When to visit:
Goechala Trek can be done in two seasons: autumn and spring. The contrasting experience of these two seasons will make it hard for you to decide when to visit Goechala. The Autumn is known for its crystal-clear views of the Dzongri and Tsokha on your trail. The dark colours against the lit blue sky looks something out of dark academia.
On the other hand, Spring brings out the best of colours on its trail with blooming scarlet rhododendrons. The dreamy view of the mountains with these vivid colours of pink is best for couples
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