16 Nights – 17 Days
One of the most remarkable treks in the Sikkim Himalayan region, the Singalila Ridge and Goecha La trek is a must-do for every trekker. The journey begins from the vast tea gardens of North Bengal and continues through the eco-friendly environment of Sikkim, adorned with diverse species of alpine trees, medicinal plants, wildlife and avifauna at different altitudes. This trek is an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts as it offers a 360-degree view of the Himalayan range, from the towering peaks of Greater Himalaya to a vibrant glimpse into Sikkim’s deep and diverse culture.
The trek starts from Tonglu at an altitude of 3,070 meters via Maneybhanjang from Darjeeling. It takes you through breathtaking landscapes such as lush green Himalayan ranges below silver-lined clouds and vast forests of rhododendrons. As you continue through Garibas and Sandakphu, you can witness a magnificent sunrise over Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyo.
The route then extends to Phalut before descending to Rimbik via Raman. From there it leads to Yuksom via Pelling and Pemayangtse Monastery – serving as a gateway to Goecha La which traverses through Dzongri. As you pass through rich alpine forest areas and tribal villages while making your way to Tshoka at 3,030 meters – be prepared for increased difficulty level with gradual climbs leading up to Dzongri at 4,020 meters before reaching Samiti Lake at 4,200 meters via Thangsing. Finally culminating in another steep climb towards Goecha La peak standing tall at 4,940 meters.
The return journey follows a similar path back to Yuksom before heading towards Gangtok.
Upon arrival at Bagdogra airport, you will be greeted by our driver and transported to Darjeeling by road. Initially, we will drive through flat rice fields and tea plantations before the road starts to ascend towards the foothills of the Himalayas. As we continue, we’ll pass more tea plantations where the renowned Darjeeling teas are cultivated. The highlight of this journey is the steam toy train, which winds its way through the main road all the way to Darjeeling, passing over Ghoom at an altitude of 244 mts. Darjeeling itself is situated at 2134 mts with a stunning backdrop of the world’s third-highest peak, Mt Kanchenjunga. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and in the evening take some time to explore the area. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.
Rise early for the jeep rides to Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga and Everest. On our way back to the hotel, we will make a stop at Ghoom Monastery. All of this occurs before breakfast. Following breakfast, we will journey to Maneybhanjang, which is a 26-kilometer drive taking approximately an hour. From Manaybhanjang, we embark on the initial leg of our hike – a relatively short journey up to Tonglu. It is an inevitable truth of trekking in the Himalayas that altitude must be gained for optimal views. Spend the night at Trekker’s hut/Campsite.
We follow a mossy paved trail that winds through a series of forests and villages, occasionally revealing breathtaking mountain views. Spend the night at the Trekker’s hut/campsite.
We gradually ascend to join the ridge path towards Kalipokhri. Later, we begin a lengthy and challenging climb onto the Singalila ridge, which takes us to Sandakphu. Enjoy an incredible 360° view from the summit. Spend the night at the Trekker’s hut/campsite.
We hike to a prominent vantage point to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over the Kanchenjunga, Jannu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyo. Throughout the day, we are treated to constantly shifting vistas: herds of yaks, glistening pine forests, small grass-ringed lakes, and the snow-covered Himalayan range in the distance. Spend the night at the Trekker’s hut/campsite.
Departing from Phalut, we are briefly bidding adieu to the vistas of Kanchenjunga and the eastern Himalayas, as we descend through Rhododendron and Magnolia forests with occasional stretches of farmland to reach Ramam. Spend the night at the Trekker’s hut/campsite.
Descending once more today, we make our way to the crossing of the Siri Khola, passing through farmland and scattered villages. After that, we begin our ascent through mostly forested terrain to reach the village of Rimbick. Spend the night at the Trekker’s hut/campsite.
After breakfast, drive to Yuksom via Pelling and explore the Pemayangtse monastery at Pelling. Situated at an elevation of 280m, it is one of the oldest and most striking Gompas in Sikkim. Upon reaching Yuksom, check in to the hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation.
After breakfast, gather with our guide and the rest of the trekking team. The path ascends through the Rathong valley, traversing dense, semi-tropical forests. Later, we embark on a challenging ascent to reach the small Tibetan village of Tshoka. The scenery transforms into a picturesque combination of pine, rhododendron, and magnolia forests. We are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the entire Himalayan range and Kanchenjunga. Enjoy dinner and spend the night in tents.
The day commences with a challenging start as the path ascends steeply, winding its way through the diverse temperate forest and expansive groves of Rhododendrons. After a strenuous climb, we reach the spacious clearing at phedang, where we pause for a delightful picnic lunch. The panoramic view of Pandim, Narshing, and Joponu is truly breathtaking. Continuing on for another hour and a half, tackling yet another steep ascent brings us to Deorali. A ridge walk of approximately 45 minutes with varying elevations leads us to Dzongri (13320ft), nestled naturally in a hollow on the ridge. Overnight stay in tents or huts.
We make our way downhill, passing through a forest of rhododendrons, towards the flowing Prek river. Our campsite is set up in the lush meadows of Thangsing. Directly ahead, we are treated to breathtaking views of the southern ridge of Kanchenjunga and the majestic Onglakthing glacier. Additionally, we are fortunate to have close-up glimpses of Pandim. Enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night in tents.
An enjoyable stroll along the western side of Pandim, amidst dwarf azaleas and rhododendrons, brings us to Zemathang. We venture onto the Onglakthing glacier for the first time and ascend to the banks of Samity Lake, which is believed to be the sacred origin of the Prek river. Encircled by prayer flags, this lake mirrors Forked Peak, Kabru North, Gocha Peak, and other snow-covered summits. Conclude the day with dinner and spend the night in tents.
We need to depart early this morning, as fog and clouds roll in over the pass soon after sunrise. The path to Gocha La ascends sharply through moraines. At the pass, adorned with vibrant prayer flags, we are treated to views of Kanchenjunga and further on, the Talung glacier. Conclude the day with dinner and spend the night in tents.
After breakfast in the morning, we start our trek towards Lam Pokhari. Following a steep decline, we ascend through alpine regions and pass by small bodies of water. Upon arrival, we establish our campsite for dinner and spend the night there.
A leisurely stroll, in an environment that grows increasingly humid and dense as we make our way down. We will have dinner and spend the night in tents.
We explore the Tashiding monastery, one of the most secluded in Sikkim, situated atop a hill nestled between two rivers. On our way, we stop by Rumtek monastery, renowned for its Tibetan religious artwork. Guests are invited to join in prayers. The rest of the afternoon is free for leisure activities in Gangtok. We will have dinner and spend the night at our hotel.
In the morning, following breakfast, we will proceed to Bagdogra airport and from there board a flight to our next destinations.
Tour & Services Ends.
