Tip 1: Proper rest and sleep before starting the trek is the most important part. The long road journey in the mountains is tiring indeed, and sometimes odd flight timings mean a disturbed sleep cycle. So take proper rest, stay hydrated, keep your packs ready on the previous night itself and sleep on time.
Day 1: Yuksom to Sachen
It was a pleasant morning. After breakfast we met our guide, Itching Dai, and the support staff. Collectively, they had completed the Goechala Trek nearly 100 times! Since we had some time before starting, we strolled through the lanes of Yuksom, interacting with locals. Around 9:15 am, the staff loaded our backpacks and we set off.
The trail began with a half-hour walk through Yuksom’s quiet streets, lined with lovely homes decorated with colorful flowers. We stopped at the Yuksom check post and the Kangchenjunga Interpretation Centre, which displayed a rich collection of photographs from the National Park. The route then passed through the village, parallel to the valley, before reaching the gate of Kanchenjunga National Park. After crossing the ‘Pha Khola’ bridge, we entered the forest trail beside the Prek Chu River, gradually gaining altitude.
By afternoon we reached Sachen, our first campsite. A small hut served as the kitchen, complete with a dining table and stools. The staff prepared delicious food, ensuring we felt comfortable on our very first day.
The campsite was surrounded by dense jungle, offering no mountain views, but it was perfect for stargazing. Initially, I felt uneasy about sleeping in a tent deep in the forest, especially with humid weather after light rain. But the thick foam mattresses and warm sleeping bags provided by the Adventure Pulse team ensured a good night’s rest.
Tip 2: Sleeping in tents can be uncomfortable, especially if you’re claustrophobic or camping for the first time. Keep the ventilation zip slightly open for airflow, and wear thermals at night for warmth. The quality of tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses makes a huge difference—always choose an operator who provides reliable equipment.
Day 2: Sachen to Tshoka via Bhakim
We woke up early and witnessed a beautiful sunrise. The weather was perfect, and everyone felt fresh after a good night’s rest. After breakfast and a briefing by our trek leader, we began our hike to Tshoka. The trail soon turned steeper as we descended to a bridge, crossed the river, and climbed towards Bhakim. A light drizzle cooled the air, and the temperature dropped. At Bhakim, a tiny tea shop offered stunning valley views. Surrounded by rhododendron trees, our much-needed chai break revived the group, and within an hour we reached Tshoka.
Tshoka is a small settlement of Tibetan refugees with a few forest rest houses. A little ahead on the trail lies a café serving Maggi and tea. In the evening we visited a monastery by a serene pond. Though slightly crowded, Tshoka was perfect for an evening stroll and to soak in the calm of nature. Clouds hid Mt. Pandim, and the increasing cold soon pushed us indoors. We spent the evening playing games, sipping tea, and enjoying hot pakoras.
A big thumbs up to the Adventure Pulse team for keeping the group small, which made it easy to bond and share laughs. The kitchen staff delighted us with lip-smacking food, keeping the energy high throughout. Post dinner, our trek leader gave another insightful briefing about the next day’s hike, helping us prepare for the journey ahead. I was impressed by how well the team worked together, paying attention to every small detail.
.Day 3: Tshoka to Dzongri
Tip 3: Always give way to Yaks, Dzos and Mules while walking on the trail in the Goechala Trek. Make sure you find a good spot to stand towards the mountainside to avoid an accidental fall. Don’t panic and avoid touching the mules and wait till they the pass-through and that there is sufficient space on the trail.
Day 4: Dzongri
Day 5: Dzongri to Thansing
Day 6: Thansing to Lamuney
Day 7: Lamuney to Goechala and back to Thansing.
Day 8: Thansing to Tshoka
Day 9: Tshoka to Yuksom.
