Darjeeling – Sikkim Trekking
Embark on the Darjeeling–Goecha La Trek, an unforgettable 15-day journey through the Eastern Himalayas of Sikkim. Experience vibrant hill towns, ancient monasteries, rhododendron forests, and panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga — the world’s third-highest peak.
Country
India
Duration
15 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Trip Type
Trekking
Max Altitude
5,000m / 16,404ft
Best Season
Mar-May,Sep-Dec
Accomodation
Hotel and Lodge, Camping
Meals
All meals ( Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast) during the trek
Start/End Point
Kathmandu
Highlights & Overview
Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur and drive to DarjeelingWitness sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga from Tiger HillExplore Darjeeling’s monasteries, tea gardens, and colonial charmVisit Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest in SikkimEnjoy serene lakes and waterfalls en route to YuksomTrek through lush rhododendron and magnolia forestsCamp at Dzongri with majestic Himalayan viewsHike to the pristine turquoise Samiti LakeConquer the high mountain pass of Goecha La (5,000m)Explore Sikkim’s cultural gems — Gangtok, Rumtek, and Kalimpong
The Darjeeling–Goecha La Trek is one of the most rewarding Himalayan adventures in Eastern India, combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and panoramic mountain views. Beginning with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, the journey takes you through Darjeeling’s colonial hill charm and into Sikkim’s serene landscapes. You’ll explore Pemayangtse and Yuksom before trekking deep into the Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The trail winds through dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and remote villages, leading to Dzongri — a perfect vantage point for sunrise views of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, and Kabru peaks. The highlight of the trek is reaching Goecha La Pass (5,000m), offering close-up views of the majestic south face of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
This 15-day adventure blends spirituality, culture, and wilderness, making it an ideal choice for trekkers seeking both challenge and serenity amid the Eastern Himalayas.
Darjeeling – Sikkim Trekking Itinerary
Day 1: Fly to Bhadrapur – Drive to Kakarvitta – Darjeeling
gin your adventure with an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, followed by a scenic drive to Kakarvitta (Nepal border). After completing formalities, continue your journey toward Darjeeling, the “Queen of Hills.” Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the charming streets of Darjeeling for sightseeing and acclimatization.
Max Altitude
2,040m / 6,693ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 2: Darjeeling Sightseeing
Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, from Tiger Hill. Visit Ghoom Monastery and the Batasia Loop War Memorial en route back to your hotel. After breakfast, enjoy a full-day tour of Darjeeling’s iconic attractions including Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre, and the lively local market. If available, take a nostalgic Toy Train ride.
Max Altitude
2,040m / 6,693ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 3: Drive from Darjeeling to Pemayangtse (Pelling) – 65 km / 4–5 hrs
After breakfast, embark on a 5-hour drive to Pemayangtse, a serene town offering panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas and Mt. Kanchenjunga. In the evening, visit the historic Pemayangtse Monastery — the second oldest in Sikkim.
Max Altitude
2,100m / 6,890ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 4: Pemayangtse to Yuksom (32 km)
After breakfast, drive to Yuksom while visiting Kanchenjunga Falls, Khecheopalri Lake, and Rimbi Falls along the way. Explore the peaceful Yuksom village nestled in the valley, surrounded by lush greenery and serene lakes.
Max Altitude
2,340m / 7,677ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 5: Trek from Yuksom to Tshokha (3,000m) – 5–6 hrs
The trek begins from Yuksom’s local market, following the Ratong Chu River and crossing several suspension bridges. The trail ascends through dense forests of magnolia and rhododendron to reach Tshokha, a beautiful small settlement.
Max Altitude
3,000m / 9,843ft
Accomodation
Lodge / Tea House
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 6: Tshokha to Dzongri (4,030m) – 5–6 hrs
Ascend through vibrant rhododendron forests to the alpine meadow of Phidang, then continue to Dzongri. The trail rewards you with sweeping Himalayan panoramas upon arrival.
Max Altitude
4,030m / 13,222ft
Accomodation
Lodge / Camping
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 7: Rest Day & Acclimatization at Dzongri
Spend the day acclimatizing at Dzongri. A short hike to Dzongri Top provides mesmerizing views of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Kabru, and other Himalayan peaks.
Max Altitude
4,030m / 13,222ft
Accomodation
Camping / Lodge
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 8: Dzongri to Tangsing (3,800m) – 4–5 hrs
Descend to the valley, cross the Prek Chu River, and then climb to Tangsing, a scenic meadow at the base of Mt. Pandim.
Max Altitude
3,800m / 12,467ft
Accomodation
Camping
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 9: Tangsing to Samiti Lake (4,500m) – 3–4 hrs
Trek through alpine meadows and glacial moraines to reach Samiti Lake, a turquoise alpine lake offering magnificent views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
Max Altitude
4,500m / 14,764ft
Accomodation
Camping
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 10: Samiti Lake to Goecha La Pass (5,000m) – Return – 6–7 hrs
An early start for the challenging ascent to Goecha La Pass, which offers breathtaking close-up views of Kanchenjunga’s south face and surrounding peaks. After exploring, descend back to Samiti Lake for overnight rest.
Max Altitude
5,000m / 16,404ft
Accomodation
Camping
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 11: Samiti Lake to Tshokha (14 km) – 6–7 hrs
Retrace your steps via Tangsing and Kokchorung to reach Tshokha. The route offers beautiful forested sections and gradual descents.
Max Altitude
5,000m / 16,404ft
Accomodation
Camping
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 12: Tshokha to Yuksom – Drive to Gangtok (125 km / 6–7 hrs)
After breakfast, descend to Yuksom and drive toward Gangtok, stopping by the scenic town of Ravangla en route.
Max Altitude
1,650m / 5,413ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 13: Gangtok Sightseeing
Explore Gangtok’s cultural and spiritual highlights — visit Chorten Stupa, Institute of Tibetology, Handicraft Centre, and the renowned Rumtek Monastery.
Max Altitude
1,650m / 5,413ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 14: Gangtok to Kalimpong (78 km / 2 hrs)
Drive to Kalimpong and enjoy sightseeing at Durpin Dhara, Zong Dog Palri Monastery, and beautiful orchid nurseries. Explore the local market in the evening.
Max Altitude
1,247m / 4,091ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Day 15: Kalimpong – Drive to Bhadrapur – Fly to Kathmandu
After breakfast, drive back to Bhadrapur via the Nepal border and take a flight to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and relax.
Max Altitude
1,400m / 4,593ft
Accomodation
Hotel
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
Price Includes
Accommodation in Kathmandu twin sharing basis with breakfastSightseeing tour in Kathmandu with tour guideKathmandu –Bhadrapur –Kathmandu by flightAll Transportation AC / Qulise, Innova / Xylo / Mini Tourist BusGuide/ leader (Experienced Tour Guide will lead the tour).All monument fees, Permit arrangement, All taxes and VAT in Darjling ,SkkimAll accommodation as Darjeeling, Gangtok, Pelling, Yuksom and Kalimpong in twin sharing With Breakfast.All meals (lunch, Dinner and Breakfast) during the trek.Price Doesn't Include
Lunch and dinner in Nepal.Entry Visa fees - at present $25 for 15 day, US$ 40 for 30 day, and US$ 100 for three month visa on entry into Nepal.Travel and medical insurance.Personal expenses (laundry, bar bills, snacks, phone calls, internet.)Tips for guide and driver (tipping is expected)Loss, theft or damage to baggage and personal effects. (We strongly advise you to get personal travel insurance.)Packing Lists
Cloathing
Quick-dry trekking shirts and pantsFleece jacket and thermal layersDown jacket or insulated outerwearWaterproof and windproof shellHat, gloves, and buffGears
Trekking polesSturdy hiking bootsDaypack (30L–40L)Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C)Headlamp with extra batteriesPersonal Items
Sunglasses and sunscreenLip balm and moisturizerToiletries and wet wipesRefillable water bottle or hydration bladderOther Items You Can Bring
Personal first-aid kitSnacks and energy barsPower bankTravel documents and permits