Goechala Trek

The closest you can get to Mt. Kanchenjunga without climbing it

Difficult

Goechala Trek

BRS 5
Max Altitude
Sikkim
10 Days
85 Km
Max 15
18500 + 5% GST
Yuksom to Yuksom

Add ons




NJP to Yuksom
Yuksom to NJP
Sumo
(Shared by 5-6 trekkers)
Tempo
(Shared by 11-12 trekkers)
₹8000
₹0
₹8000
₹0

Brief Description

Grade:Difficult
Location: Sikkim
Altitude:4600 m
Duration:10 Days

Burrowed deep within the leafy jungles of the Kanchenjunga National Park, the coveted Goechala trek takes one disarmingly close to the third highest mountain range in the world.

Getting close to the legendary Mt. Kanchenjunga is not the only reason this trek remains a favourite amongst both trekkers and trek leaders alike. What fascinates us most about this trek is how up-close and life size some of the celebrated peaks of the Himalayas appear on this trail. For example, on the fifth day of the trek, we will be camping right at the foot of Mt. Pandim. By the time we get to the summit day, the peak of Mt. Pandim appears deceptively near, as if it is only a day’s hike away!

Topping the thrill of being in the vicinity of such gigantic peaks is the fierce alpenglow one gets to witness on the trail. Watching these otherwise unyielding peaks, especially Mt. Kanchenjunga, melt into molten gold right in front of you, under the early morning rays of the sun is an experience that remains etched in the back of your head for a lifetime.

Long suspension bridges running in the midst of dense jungles, a tranquil monastery at 3000 M, and a serene mirror like lake that sits right below the summit point are some of the other joys of the Goechala Trek. Read more about the attractions of the Goechala Trek here.

Climbing up to an altitude of 4600 M, the Goechala trek is as challenging as is beautiful. Read more about the difficulty level of the trek, the challenges one encounters on the trail and the skillset one requires to traverse the untrammelled terrain of Goechala effortlessly here.


Read more

Brief Itinerary

Siliguri to Yuksom (150 km drive)
Yuksom (1,720 M) to Sachen (2, 195 M)
Sachen (2, 195 M) to Tshoka (2, 900 M)
Tshoka (2,900 M) to Dzongri (3, 970 M)
Dzongri (3, 970 M) to Thansing (3, 704 M)
Thansing (3, 704 M) to Lamuney (4, 145 M)
Lamuney (4, 145 M) to View Point 1 (4, 602 M) to Thansing (3, 704 M)
Thansing (3, 704 M) to Tshoka (2, 900 M)
Tshoka (2, 900 M) to Yuksom (1, 720 M)
Yuksom to Siliguri

Detailed Itinerary


Day 1

Siliguri to Yuksom (150 km drive)

Time taken: 7-8 hours

If you have opted for the transport arranged by Bikat Adventures, please report at Laddoo Gopal Restaurant located on the Sevoke Road near the 2 Mile Check Post at 10 AM to board your vehicle leaving to Yuksom.

In case, you are traveling on your own to Yuksom, this article could come in handy in planning your route.

Carry two passport size photographs and a copy of identity proof along with an original ID proof for entry purposes. Please note that the rules for foreigners differ. Yuksom is a small village with many attractions of its own. You can plan your travel a day early if you would like some time to explore the place.

Day 2

Yuksom (1,720 M) to Sachen (2, 195 M)

Trekking duration: 5-5.5 hours

The Goechala trek starts from Yuksom (behind the forest check post). Initially, the trail skirts around the fields of Yuksom before entering the magnificent river valley of Rathong. The trail majorly runs through dense jungles with occasional exposure to sunlight here and there.

We will be crossing three long suspension bridges including the one that runs across the famous Tshushay Khola waterfalls. It is a moderate walk up to the second bridge after which the trail ascends steeply to Sachen.

Sachen, the campsite for the day, is a small clearing in the forest marked by a wooden shelter and a forest hut. The Prek River runs farther down in the valley below. Although it is not visible from the campsite, the faint gushing of the river can be heard from the campsite when you listen closely enough.

Day 3

Sachen (2, 195 M) to Tshoka (2, 900 M)

Trekking duration: 5-5.5 hours

The trek to Tshoka involves a moderate ascent peppered by a couple of steep sections. It begins with a crossing over a bridge that runs across the Prek River. After crossing the bridge, the trail runs in to the thick of the forests once again. The forests are filled with oak and rhododendron blooms during spring season. In autumn, the leaves take on lovely hues of fall colours.

To find out the best season to do the Goechala Trek, click here.

Bakhim, another camping ground with some lovely views, is the mid-point of the trek today. After a generous break at Bakhim, we will resume our ascent to Tshoka. Tshoka houses a serene monastery across a still pond higher up. After resting at the campsite, we will be going on a quick acclimatisation walk to the monastery which holds some remarkable views of the Kanchenjuna range and Mt. Pandim.

Day 4

Tshoka (2,900 M) to Dzongri (3, 970 M)

Trekking duration: 6 – 8 hours

The trek to Dzongri is undeniably one of the most demanding days of the Goechala Trek. We will be going well above the tree line today. What makes this day very challenging is the forced altitude gain of over a 1000 M. So, in order to let your body acclimatise better, ensure you do not rush your pace.

The initial section of the trail is paved with wooden logs while flanked by pretty rhododendron blooms on the left and right. A couple of hours into the trek will bring you to a large, clearing called Phedang. Lined with prayer flags and surrounded by stunning snow clad mountains all around, we will be taking a long break here before resuming trek.

Dzongri, the campsite for the day, is still a good 4-5 hours trek away from Phedang and involves some steep ascents. Ensure you layer yourself suitably after reaching the campsite. The winds are quite fierce here and it can get quite cold in the nights.

Day 5

Dzongri (3, 970 M) to Thansing (3, 704 M)

Trekking duration: 4- 5 hours

The day begins at 4 AM with an ascent to Dzongri Top (3, 946 M) from where you get unparalleled views of the Singalila and Kanchenjunga ranges during sunrise. It takes about an hour to reach Dzongri top.

What makes this climb spectacular is the alpenglow one gets treated to at the top. On a day with clear weather, the Kanchenjunga and Singalila ranges turn into molten gold under the early morning rays of the sun.

This is followed by a quick breakfast at Dzongri after which we will begin our hike to Thansing. Since, Thansing is located at a lower altitude when compared to Dzongri, it is going to be an easy hike of 4-5 hours with gentle ascents and descents alongside the Prek River.

The campsite is located right at the foot of Mt. Pandim making it one of the delightful camping experiences of the Geochala Trek.

Day 6

Thansing (3, 704 M) to Lamuney (4, 145 M)

Trekking duration: 2-3 hours

Today’s trek is easy with a flat trail most of the time.

Note: Sometimes, the trek leader might choose to use the day as an acclimatisation day and stay back at Thansing itself.

At a half an hour’s steep climb from Lamuney lies the mirror like Samiti Lake. There is a good chance of spotting mountain goats and blue birds on the lake side. Camping is not permitted by the lake. After spending some time exploring the lake, we will be returning to our camps at Lamuney to spend the night there.

Day 7

Lamuney (4, 145 M) to View Point 1 (4, 602 M) to Thansing (3, 704 M)

Time: 12-13 hours

Day 7 marks the culmination of the Goechala Trek. It is the most challenging day. But we have the advantage of leaving some stuff from our rucksack at the campsite behind.

If we are trekking from Thansing, we will begin our trek at 1 AM. If we are already at Lamuney, we will be beginning the trek at 3 AM.

The early start ensures that you are there at View Point 1 in time to watch the morning rays of the sun paint the Kanchenjunga range golden, a bewitching sight we promise will remain etched in your memory for a long time.

Since we aim to reach View Point One by sunrise, a major portion of your ascent to the summit will happen in the dark. So please ensure you carry your head torch with you. 

The view from View Point 1 is breath taking, both literally and metaphorically. This is the day you get to meet Mt. Kanchenjunga face to face and watch its snow clad turn a dazzling gold under the early morning rays of the sun.

This coupled with the accomplishment of finally having reached the summit leaves many overwhelmed and speechless and often makes for THE BEST EXPERIENCE on the Goechala Trek.

Day 8

Thansing (3, 704 M) to Tshoka (2, 900 M)

Trekking duration: 6-7 hours

The descent back to Tshoka can be steep in some places. In December, certain sections of the trail will also be frozen in ice.

Be careful while descending and it is advised to trek slow. In spring, you will find Rhododendron trees lining your way all the way down to Tshoka.

Day 9

Tshoka (2, 900 M) to Yuksom (1, 720 M)

Trekking duration: 6-7 hours

We will be retracing our path back to Ruksom today. Since the trek is mostly downhill, it can get quite strenuous on your knees. Only the last section, right before reaching Yuksom has a couple of ascents.

Overnight stay will be at a hotel in Yuksom.

Day 10

Yuksom to Siliguri

Board your vehicles early morning for the drive from Yuksom to Siliguri. The trip ends in Siliguri.

What's Included

  • Meals during the trek (Starting Lunch on Day 2 till Breakfast on Day 9)
  • Forest Permits/Camping Charges , if any (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
  • 2 Nights guest house stay in Yuksom on sharing basis
  • Tents on twin sharing basis, Sleeping bags, mats
  • Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
  • Services of an experienced Trek guide, cook, helpers.
  • Porters or mules for carrying common supplies
  • Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid certification

What's Not Included

  • Meals during road journeys
  • Transportation from Siliguri to Yuksom and back to Siliguri.
  • Additional Forest/Camping charges for foreign nationals. Approx INR 5000/- to be paid extra by the foreign nationals.
  • Meals during Hotel/Guest House Stay
  • Cost of any kind of Insurance
  • Any expense of personal nature
  • Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.

Are you Eligible for this Adventure?

Climbing up to an altitude of 4,600M, Goechala trek is as challenging as it is beautiful. Goechala Trek is a difficult level trek perfect for someone with prior trekking experience looking to level up by a notch! This trek puts you through some really exciting challenges.

Difficult
4600 m
85 km

BRS Level Required

BRS 5

Goechala Trek is a level 5 adventure on the Bikat Rating Scale.

This makes it mandatory for you to have high-altitude experience of preferably multiple treks marked at level 4 on the BRS. The altitude, the terrain and the nature of the climb demand a certain level of skill and a need for you to be aware of how your body reacts to the various features of a high altitude environment.

If you do not know what level of BRS trek would suit you best, worry not! Fill out this Form:

we will send you a progression chart to help you comfortably get out of your comfort zone in order to level up and ultimately reach your highest potential in the big, bad world of outdoor adventure.

Packing List

This is a list of essential items for individuals doing the trek with Bikat Adventures. This list contains only those items which the participants are required to bring with them. The list excludes those items which are provided by Bikat Adventures on the trek. We have divided the items into five categories. All the items in the list are essential except for those marked as optional.

Trekking Gear

  • Ruck sack bag with rain cover. Qty -1
  • Day Pack Bag - Recommended for treks with summit day
  • Head Torch with spare Batteries. Qty -1
  • U V protection sunglasses. Qty -1 Here is how you can choose the best sunglasses for trekking.
  • Water Bottles: 2 bottles of 1 liter each

Footwear

  • Non-skid, deep treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes Qty -1
  • Pair of light weight Slipper/Sandals Qty -1

Clothing

  • Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants. Qty - 2
  • Full sleeves T-shirts/ Sweatshirts. 1 for every 2 days of trekking
  • Pair of thick woolen socks. 1 pair for every two days of trekking
  • Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower. Qty-1
  • Undergarments. Qty - 1 for every day of trekking
  • Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck .Qty-1
  • Full sleeves sweater. Qty -1
  • Rain wear ( Jacket & Pants ) . Qty-1
  • Pair of waterproof, warm gloves. Qty-1
  • Woolen cap. Qty-1
  • Sun shielding Hat. Qty -1

Toiletries

  • Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)
  • Sun screen lotion small pack. Qty -1 Here is your Sun Protection 101 to stay safe in the bright sunny outdoors.
  • Lip Balm small pack. Qty-1

Utensils

  • Small size, Light weight & Leak proof lunch box. Qty-1
  • Plate. Qty- 1
  • Spoon.Qty-1
  • Tea/Coffee (plastic) Mug.Qty-1

Miscellaneous

  • Camera (Optional)
  • Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek.
  • Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional)


Frequently Asked Questions



Goechala Trek is suitable for trekkers with prior experience, having completed at least one BRS 4 level trek or equivalent.

If you can Jog/Run for 5 kms in 25-30 mins, you are ready to take on this trek. Once a week, you can practice running 10 kms in an hour or so to improve your endurance further. In addition to this, you can also add resistance workouts to your schedule like squats, lunges, push ups etc.

If you cannot do the above, there’s no need to worry. It is important to remember that it’s all about practice. Get on a training schedule and we can assure you that you will meet these standards in a matter of a few months.

A certain level of fitness and physical endurance are required to take on any high-altitude trail in the Himalayas. Basic knowledge about pitching a tent in snow, roping up, ascending and descending on steep gradients and seemingly simple tasks like ‘walking’ on snow in heavy snow boots, how to use a sleeping bag, toilet tents, sleeping tents, and mountain mannerisms will be helpful.

The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors between 13 to 17 years of age should be accompanied by their parents/ guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deems you fit for adventure activities like trekking.


The Goechala Trek is located in the Indian state of Sikkim. The trek starts from the town of Yuksom, goes through the Kanchenjunga National Park, and ends at the Goechala Pass.

The Goechala Trek boasts of awe-inspiring panoramic vistas of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, encompassing peaks such as Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Pandim, and Mount Kabru. The trek features two stunning high-altitude meadows, namely Dzongri and Thansing, which are known to be among the most picturesque camping sites. While Dzongri offers views of Mount Pandim and Mount Kabru, Thansing is nestled in a valley surrounded by towering peaks. At the highest point of the trek, the Goechala Pass, one can relish the magnificent views of the nearby mountains, the Talung Glacier, and the Samiti Lake. The route passes through the Kanchenjunga National Park, a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including rare creatures like the red panda and the snow leopard. Additionally, the Goechala Trek provides an opportunity to experience the culture and traditions of the Sikkimese people as one passes through traditional villages, mingling with locals, and trying out local cuisine. Read: Highlights of Goechala Trek

The trek to Goechala pass is quite demanding and necessitates a high degree of physical fitness and previous trekking experience. At an altitude of 4,600M above sea level, the summit can trigger altitude sickness, which, if not dealt with properly, may be hazardous. Climbing the peak necessitates ascending steep slopes and rocky paths. For more details on the challenges of this climb, read Who is this trek meant for?

The best time for Goechala Trek is March-April and October-December.

On the trek we have twin-sharing tents. In case you want an individual tent, you can add that to your booking request for an additional cost.

During the autumn season, which falls between September and November, the temperature on the Goechala Trek can vary depending on the altitude and time of day. In general, the days are warm and sunny with temperatures ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius at lower altitudes, while the temperature drops to around 0 to 5 degrees Celsius at higher altitudes, such as Dzongri and Goechala Pass.

Goechala Trek is not technically challenging but is a physically strenuous trek, especially for beginners or those who are not physically fit. The trek involves steep ascents and descents, rocky and uneven terrain, and high altitude, which can make it physically demanding. The trek also involves several river crossings and traversing through snow, which can add to the difficulty level. Although, no specialised climbing or mountaineering skills are required.


The start and end point of Goechala trek is Yuksom, a town in Sikkim. Read: How to reach Yuksom

Normally there is no network reception beyond Yuksom. If you are lucky, you can find network in Tsokha (at a spot near the first hut).

The nearest ATMs to the Goechala Trek are located in the nearby towns of Yuksom, Pelling, and Gangtok, which are the starting points for the trek.

The pick up point will be Laddoo Gopal Restaurant, Near 2 Mile Check post, on Sevoke Road, in Siliguri by 10 AM. The location will be confirmed on the Whatsapp group we create a few weeks before the start of the trek.

Expect to reach Yuksom late in the evening where your stay will be made at a local hotel/guest house. Make sure your bookings from Yuksom to your respective destinations are on the next morning.

Those who had availed our transport services, will be dropped off at Laddoo Gopal Restaurant, Near 2 Mile Check post, on Sevoke Road, in Siliguri, by/before 6:00 PM

Yuksom is a beautiful town in Geyzing district of Sikkim. It was earlier the capital of Sikkim. There are a number of heavenly places to visit in Yuksom. Khecheopalri Lake is one of the largest lakes in Sikkim. This magical lake is considered to be a secretion of Goddess Tara. Khangchendzonga National Park is where you can find an endless variety of endangered species of plants and animals. Tashi Tenka is another attraction which offers 360 degree views of Yuksom Village. There are also a number of monasteries in Yuksom like Tashiding monastery and Katok monastery. For more details on Yuksom read this: Top attractions to visit in Yuksom


All the common gear like tents, sleeping bags, mattresses etc. are provided. All the technical climbing equipment needed for the trek are also provided to you. Safety equipment used for rescue is carried by our trek leaders.

No rental facilities are available for this trek.

No rental facilities are available for this trek.

No rental facilities are available for this trek.

For a detailed list, check the Packing List section on this page.

Yuksom, the starting point of Goechala is a small town with a very small market. No rental shops are available in Yuksom. Please do not leave anything for last minute buying.


Although not recommended, you can off load your bag at an additional cost. Add a request while making your booking for the trek and it can be arranged.

(Note: We don’t recommend offloading because the extra resources on a trail - ponies or porters depending on the trail - means extra load on the environment which can easily be avoided. It also goes against the spirit of trekking by eliminating a level of endurance and discomfort from the experience which are factors at the very heart of an outdoor adventure activity.)

You can leave your extra luggage at the hotel in Yuksom.

On all trek days, we provide 3 full meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) in addition to evening snacks and tea. The meals are vegetarian and the menu is pre-decided for all days of the trek. We do provide eggs as well on certain days. If you have any specific food-related allergies or restrictions, you can let our local staff (during the trek) know, and your requests will get accommodated. We try to provide a variety of food across meals so as to avoid repetition as well as cover all nutritional needs.

On campsites, our team will dig dry pits and assemble a toilet tent to provide for safe and secure quarters. A shovel will be provided within the toilet tent as well. Using water in the toilet tent is restricted; you will need to carry your own toilet paper. On the more difficult expeditions, toilet tents are not carried to the higher camps (above base camp) due to restriction of space (to pitch the tent).

In case you get your period on the trail and don’t have sanitary napkins, our trek leaders can provide them to you. If you need any other kind of assistance, you can let our trek leaders know. Irrespective of gender, our leaders are gender sensitised and equipped to assist you in any way you need them to.

Our team carries a first aid kit and all the basic medicines required during the trek. They are equipped to be the first responders in case of any injury or health-related issues. For higher expeditions, we also carry a HAPO Bag and oxygen cylinders to tend to any altitude-related health conditions.

No, we will be camping in the wilderness with no access to electricity.


A copy of your ID Proof and Medical Certificate are the mandatory documents required for this trek. (Soft copies for all of these are to be sent to us & originals should be on your person while on the trek.)

Yes, insurance for any high-altitude activity is highly recommended to cover for the cost of rescue, evacuation and any other emergency service required as well as to cover for medical cost in case of injury or illness during the trek. You can buy it on your own. Alternatively, if you want us to buy it on your behalf, you can mark it as an add-on during the booking of the trek.

Yes, there are multiple permits required for this. We obtain the permits on every trekkers’ behalf. All the permit costs are included in your trek cost.

Foreign nationals need to get ILP(inner line permit) from West Bengal and Sikkim Border town Melli on the way to Yuksom. A single foreign national is not allowed on this trek.


Yes, you will receive e-certificates (of completion) after the trek. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek. In case you were unable to finish the trek, you will get a certificate of participation.

On completion of the trek, the certificate will show up on your dashboard on our website. You can download it directly from there.


Goechala Trek is in India. If you are coming from outside, you will need a visa to enter the country. You should be able to find the rules for obtaining a Visa based on your home country on the internet. This information is easily available.

This does not apply to you if you are an Indian citizen. In case you don’t hold an Indian passport, you will need to check online for Visa application rules based on your home country.

If you are not an Indian citizen, you will need Travel Medical Insurance to travel to the country. Please make sure that your insurance policy is valid for the altitude you are going to and the activity you are undertaking, to cover risks during the trek. The insurance policy provided by Bikat Adventures does not cover foreign nationals. So, please do not purchase it while making the booking from our website.

The Himalayas house the tallest mountains in the world and have long been a treasure trove for all adventure enthusiasts. The variety in terms of beauty, terrain, landscape, geography, culture and opportunity for adventure in the Himalayas, remains undisputedly unmatched.

You can make the booking any time depending on availability of slots in our fixed departure batches. You will get this information at the top of this page.


A Basic Mountaineering Course certification from one of the five recognized mountaineering institutes in India is a minimum requirement to join our team. Our field experts are also trained in basic medicine and first-aid response. We also conduct on-ground training for our staff once a year as a refresher for old skills and to learn some new ones. During this training that we call APW (Adventure Professional Workshop), our leaders learn close to 25 topics and techniques of rescue which are not covered in the BMC and AMC courses. For practical training, we simulate on-ground situations to prepare them for quick thinking and quick response during emergencies.

We follow a rigorous regime of hiring and training our experts on the field. Each trek leader is a certified mountaineer with years of experience in the field. The interview process to bring a trek leader on-board is close to 6 months long where we assess various skills as well as personality traits of an individual. They also go through an on-field assignment as part of the hiring process. Trek leaders also progress in time from leading easier treks before advancing to the more difficult ones where the stakes are higher. For detailed information on our selection process, please visit Forerunners - The Making Of A Trek Leader

It absolutely is. We recognize, value and embody the ideology that the world of outdoor adventure can benefit from diversity. We make it our mission to create outdoor spaces as equally accessible and safe for all genders as possible. We also encourage women leaders in the outdoors and all of our staff (irrespective of gender) is gender sensitised. As for accommodation, in case there are no other women on the trek, a solo female trekker is provided with a separate single-occupancy tent.

Our batch sizes for Goechala Trek are capped at 15 with the trek leader to trekker ratio of 1:8.

In addition to their qualification, our trek leaders are trained to tackle any and all kinds of sudden conditions that may present themselves on ground. During our recce stage, we study the trail in great detail and map out rescue routes before opening it up for our trekkers. We also have local support staff stationed in each area to arrange for emergency services at the place of need as quickly as possible.

We mobilise road rescue efforts where our trek leaders bring the person to be rescued down to the trailhead of the trek from where a car can take them to the nearest healthcare facility. The cost of rescue is not covered in the trek fee that we charge. It must be borne by the participant. However, if you opt for the insurance the cost of rescue operations can be claimed from the Insurance company on production of valid proof e.g. doctor’s prescription & hospital bills etc. Please note that Bikat Adventures is only a facilitator & not a party in the Insurance policy. You need to raise the claim request directly with the Insurance company. Bikat Adventures is not responsible for any rejection of claim. You can call the insurance provider directly for any clarifications related to the Insurance policy. Although not mandatory, we recommend buying the insurance. You don’t necessarily have to get the insurance we provide, you can pick an Insurance company of your choice and get a policy directly from them. If you need more information on the terms and conditions of the insurance policy, get in touch with our customer support team.

All the gear used on our treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality and is overall top notch in quality and condition. We are continually looking to obtain the best of everything there is in the market so as to ensure optimum safety.

That will depend on the nature of your medical condition. Do give us a call, and one of our people will help you understand what is best for you. If not this, we are sure there would be plenty of other options you can choose from our vast portfolio to pick as your next adventure.


We have rolling camps on all our trails. To know why we are strictly against the concept of Fixed Camping, read Reasons to Ban Fixed Camping in Himalayas

This is a complex question and has a compound answer. The simple response is that because it is bad for the environment which we dearly love but if you are interested in a more detailed response to this question, please read Reasons to Ban Fixed Camping in Himalayas

There are a number of measures that we take to prevent overcrowding on some of the most popular trails. Some of them are capping our group size at 15, capping the number of trekkers on a trail to 250 per season, constantly looking for newer trails and routes to spread the crowd around and providing incentives to our trekkers to try unexplored territories with us. We put in place the system of dynamic pricing, which is the first of its kind in the trekking industry, which incentivises trekkers to choose less crowded trails by offering higher discounts. We have noticed, since we started this system, that this has helped in a big way to spread out the crowds between trekking routes. We are also going international so as to relieve some of the stress on the Himalayan landscape as well as explore newer ranges and design newer experiences for our community. If you want a more detailed description of all our measures in this regard, please read Simple solutions to overcrowding on Himalayan Treks

Some basic things to remember are: do not use water, do not dispose of anything non-biodegradable inside the pits, carry your own roll of toilet paper and remember to cover up after yourself to leave a clean toilet for your fellow trekkers. Everything else is much the same like using an Indian style home toilet!

Most wet wipes are not biodegradable which means it could take 100 years or more for them to decompose – not the best thing if you are trying to ‘Leave No Trace’, right?

This is quite a tricky situation but not a hopeless one. Since most of our sanitary waste is not biodegradable, we recommend that you pack your pads/tampons neatly, store it in a zip-lock bag and bring it back down with you where there are better options to dispose of them. In case you do not have zip-lock bags, ask our trek leaders for them and they should be able to provide them to you.

Each trekker is responsible for the use and hygiene of their own eating utensils. And as a measure to maintain proper hygiene, we do not provide plates and spoons. Also, dipping your hands in cold water to wash your own utensils adds something to the overall joy of high-altitude living, wouldn’t you think?


On making the payment, you will receive a booking confirmation along with the packing list and a copy of the undertaking form via email. You will subsequently receive emails detailing documents required, how to prepare physically and mentally for the trek, information on pick-up location on the first day etc. Please add info@bikatadventures.com in your trusted emails list to make sure our emails don't go to your spam folder.

A Whatsapp group will be formed a few weeks before departure. Members from our team are on those groups as well. Feel free to seek any clarifications you require in regards to the trek, on the group itself. Updates related to transportation/pickup point/pickup timing, accommodation etc. will be shared on the Whatsapp group as well.

Yes, we create a Whatsapp group a few weeks before the departure date so that the flow of information remains smooth and transparent.

Yes, it is one of the mandatory documents you will need to submit before the trek starts. The soft copy is to be sent to us & the original should be on your person while on the trek.

Yes, we will provide you an undertaking form through email which will need to be filled up by you and submitted to us post booking.

Why Bikat?

Small Group Size


Our batch sizes are capped at 15 for smaller treks with the trek leader and trekker ratio of 1:8. This ratio, in our years of experience, has proven to deliver the best trekking experience for individuals as well as groups. Capping the size of the group ensures individual attention to each trekker so that no signs of distress or need during the trek go unnoticed. It also helps to form a more cohesive cohort with better group energy which helps define the rhythm and pace of days on the trek.

As you go higher up on the BRS scale, since the stakes are higher, expeditions have an even smaller group size with the ratio of expedition leader to climber set at 1:2.


Qualified Trek Leaders


We follow a rigorous regime of hiring and training our experts in the field. Each trek leader is a certified mountaineer with years of experience in the field. In addition to their qualification, they also go through practical and situational training to tackle any and all kinds of sudden conditions that may present themselves on the ground. Being unpredictable is the core nature of the mountains but being ready for any circumstance as best as possible is a controllable asset that we try to nurture.

Our field experts are also trained in basic medicine and first-aid response.

Watch: Forerunners - The Making of A Trek Leader At Bikat Adventures


Guided Progression


Since Bikat Adventures is a learning-based organization, we help you climb up the ladder of difficulty within the sphere of outdoor adventure systematically. Our on-ground training modules are designed to handhold you through the upskilling process so that you are ready to take on bigger challenges.


Equipment Quality and Check


All the gear used on our treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality, and is overall top-notch in quality and condition. We are continually looking to obtain the best of everything there is in the market so as to ensure optimum safety.


Support Systems


Along with the staff you see on-ground, we have a team of superheroes working in the background to give you the best experience possible. Our background team also comprises local staff from each area who know the region best. Having local support helps with studying the area, pre-planning, execution, and in receiving timely support in case of emergencies in these remote locations.


Communication


Our on-field staff is in constant contact with our teams based in primary locations so as to eliminate any avoidable delay in reaching additional help and support when required. We try to use the best tools for communication available, including satellite phones, in regions where they are not restricted.


What our customers Say

Cancellation Policy


Cash refund

Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date

5% deduction

Cancellations between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure date

50% deduction

Cancellations within 15 days prior to departure date

No Refund

Voucher refund

Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date

No Deduction

Cancellations within 5 days prior to departure date

No Refund

Please Note:
  1. Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers
  2. This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.

Blog Posts

Informative
Highlights Of The Goechala Trek
Over the years, Goechala has gained great acclaim as that trek that lets you meet the legendary Mt. Kanchenjunga face to face. But that is not the only reason this trek remains a favourite amongst both trekkers and trek leaders alike. The trail of G...
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Informative
Goechala – Who Is This Trek Meant For?
Burrowed deep within the leafy jungles of the Kanchenjunga National Park, the coveted Goechala trek takes one disarmingly close to the third highest mountain range in the world. Boasting staggering views of ginormous peaks, stunning reflections mirro...
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Folklores
Superstitions and Folklore of Goechala
In Tibetan language, Kanchenjunga translates to ‘five treasures of the great snow’ that refers to the five peaks of this range. Three peaks of this range lay at the border of India and Nepal and two lay entirely in Nepal. From India, Kanc...
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Informative
Goechala's Treasures
Goechala trek is blessed with abundant greenery, lush forest, wooden trails amidst the dense forest, some of the prettiest small streams and of course the backdrop of innumerable mountain ranges. The main motto during this whole trek is to see the su...
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Informative
Top attractions to visit in Yuksom when you are going for Goecha La Trek
Best Places to Visit in Yuksom   Yuksom, the ancient capital of Sikkim, is known for its alluring landscapes and snow-capped mountains. Regarded as ‘Third Eye of Sikkim’, the town holds religious importance given the monasteries an...
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Informative
How to travel to the base camp of Yuksom?
Yuksom, a town that was the first capital of Sikkim, is the base point of the much-coveted Goecha La trek. A largely non-commercial settlement located in the west of Sikkim, this town is beautiful and extremely well maintained. From l...
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