Goecha La
Goecha La - a Sikkim trek to a high pass with a stunning close view of Kangchenjunga (the world’s 3rd highest)
The route
The line through Sikkim (Kangchenjunga NP), India - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Waypoints
- 1Yuksom trailheadTrailhead
Start of route [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 2Intermediate camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 3Intermediate camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 4Intermediate camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 5Intermediate camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 6High point / turnaroundSummit
Turnaround (out-and-back) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
Season & conditions
Mar-May and Oct-Nov
Cold, rain/snow, altitude; the pass is exposed
Best in spring/autumn; permits and a mandatory guide via Sikkim rules. Confirm.
On the trail
Rhododendron forest, high meadows and moraine to a pass facing Kangchenjunga
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Turn around at Dzongri (a shorter classic) for the Kangchenjunga view
Getting there & staying
Yuksom
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Trekkers’ huts and camping (Dzongri, Thansing)
Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote
Services in Yuksom; limited or none on the trail
Mandatory registered guide/operator
Permits & safety
Sikkim/Kangchenjunga NP permits and a mandatory registered guide/operator. Confirm.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Altitude illness is the main risk at these elevations - acclimatize, ascend slowly, know the descent rule; cold, weather, the long distance
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.