Posted by Best places for a day-long trek
What’s better than trekking and camping under the stars in the lap of mother nature? A day-long trek to Goechala Dzongri, that’s what! Nestled in the Himalayas at an altitude of 12,000 feet, Goechala Dzongri offers panoramic views of stunning mountain ranges all around you and makes you feel as if you are literally on top of the world.
Ways to do Goechala Dzongri trek
While planning your trip to Goechala, it is necessary to arrange many things like where to go, where to stay and what type of food you will have there. Do not forget that proper arrangements should made in advance because you are going there just on a single day. That is why we are providing all types of things related to Goechala Dzongri trek so that you do not face any kind of problem. Here below I am giving some tips about Goechala Dzongri and top 10 ways to reach the Goechala trek in sikkim.
Day trip to Goechala summit from Darjeeling
Goechala situated at 3100 meters above sea level and is located near Darjeeling. The name Goechala, which means Gojo (Tibetan) + Chal (Hindi), was given by Guru Padmasambhava who visited Sikkim more than 1700 years ago.
The steps after reaching Sikkim border at Rangpo
1. Rangpo railway station, West Bengal connected to Darjeeling, New Jalpaiguri, Siliguri and Kolkata. One can take trains to reach Rangpo at regular intervals from all these stations (Daily). 2. The Goechala dzongri hill is located at west Sikkim, which is 30 km away from NJP station (New Jalpaiguri). From Kolkata/Howrah station it takes 12 hours by train to reach NJP station and then only 1 hour by road transport (private vehicle) will take you to Rangpo Bhutan Border point where there is another railway station named Rangpo Station under NE Railways.
How to reach Rangpo
Rangpo is a small city at around 15 km south of Gangtok and has its own airport which connects it to Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra, Siliguri and all over India. The nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) , around 100 km from Rangpo. Rangpo has a very good bus service connecting it to neighboring towns including Phuntsholing, Mangan and NJP. Taxis are available at quite reasonable rates from any place within 200 km radius from here.
The Goose Lake
Located at an altitude of 2,600 meters in between Narkanda and Peo. The Goose Lake is an artificial lake with two charming islands inside it. This serene spot with snow-capped mountains all around is beautifully ideal to sit down, enjoy nature’s beauty and listen to soothing sounds. This breathtaking site can visited even on a short trip to Peo or Narkanda. You will find travelers enjoying Goechala trek in Sikkim here. On your way back you can visit Pathri Stone House which stands out due to its traditional architecture and it’s design by American architect William Sauntry. This house was use as his residence by him during his stay here.
Checklists before starting the hike
Any outdoor trekking trip can pose a challenge to your physical, mental and emotional well-being. The terrain you’re hiking, exposure to weather conditions. And distance from medical aid are just some things you need to keep in mind before planning out your itinerary. For example, it is essential that all participants must undergo proper training before attempting any form of strenuous adventure activity like Goechala Trek. Training on physical exercises and an adequate diet along with safety precautions will reduce health risks while giving you an experience that you’d cherish forever.
Enjoy the magnificence of the Himalayas!
The Himalayas have regarded as one of the most beautiful places on earth and it’s easy to see why. At 28,000 ft (8,500m), Goechala peak is at its finest when covered by snow and surrounded by clear blue skies. As you reach on top to witness a magnificent view, you can feel your tiredness drifting away and peace filling your mind. There is no other place where you can find such breathtaking natural beauty so easily. If that’s not enough, you can also add some fun elements like rafting or bungee jumping before heading back home!
Conclusion
The distance covered is approximately 13.5 km and is considered to be moderate when compared to other treks in Sikkim. The trailhead starts from Yuksom and ends at Goechala Pass, which has an altitude gain of about 1253 meters. There are several points along the trail. Where you can stop for water, snacks or to enjoy some leisure time at leisure points; however, camping facilities are limited along Goechala Dzongri Trek.