TREKKING

The most famous treks in the Eastern Himalaya are the Sandakphu and the Dzongri treks. The Sikkim Darjeeling Himalaya also offer a large variety of low, medium and high altitude treks including the Green lake trek, Mainam trek, Tendong trek and others.

Deys Holidays has been organizing treks in eastern Himalaya for more than a decade. We have unmatched expertise in organizing treks in the Darjeeling, Sikkim, Arunachal, Meghalaya, Bhutan and rest of North East. The entire operation is undertaken by our dedicated team members. Our members are well trained and expert mountaineers with a combined experience of climbing several dozen peaks in the Himalaya. We also own the latest international standard trekking equipment.

The trekking information here is organized under three categories. The trek destinations section introduces the most interesting and attractive places to trek to. The trek resources section is your one stop guide on how you should prepare before starting on a trek to Eastern Himalaya. The trek packages section offers you innumerable optional packages for trekking. You can either pick up a package suiting your requirement or ask us to create a customized tour plan for you.

Trekking Destinations :-

For adventure lovers visiting the Himalaya, the most obvious trek options are that of Sandakphu near Darjeeling and Dzongri in Sikkim. But for the discerning, the options are virtually unlimited. Here we look at some of the trek options in the Himalaya.

Long Treks

Singalila Trek – Sandakphu-Phalut is ideal for tourists who want an introduction to trekking but are not quite sure what to expect. The trek is considered a moderate one and is ideal for the beginners. The maximum altitude reached is about 3,600m so the problems of high-altitude sickness and acclimatization are minimized. Sandakphu is one of the rare places in the world from where you can see four of the top five mountains of the world. Everest, Kangchendzonga, Lhotse and Makalu, amongst many others. During late spring in April, the rhododendrons and magnolias are in bloom, and the hillsides are covered with red, pink, yellow and white blooms. Being primarily a ‘ridge walk’, there are views on all sides especially towards Nepal.

Dzongri- Goechala Trek is undoubtedly the most popular trek in Sikkim, famed for its superb mountain views, a floral spectacle in summer, birds and views of pristine forest. It can get quite crowded on this route during October and sometimes during May as well, but trekkers who can brave early spring (April) and late autumn (mid-November to mid-December) would be suitably rewarded.

Neora Valley NP Trek – The Neora Valley National Park (183-3,200m) is named after the river that flows within the park. The park has a number of torrents and streams spread like a net, feeding the Neora River and sustaining a wonderful array of vegetation within the protected area. From tiny wild strawberries, wild white orchids (Kurseong white orchid) and primulas, to the towering Himalayan yew and hemlocks, the park has an amazing variety of flora which in turn supports an impressive population of birds and mammals. The area is home to mote than 200 species of birds. The patient trekker has every chance to see the flashy male satyr tragopan, kalij pheasant, golden eagle, Jerdon’s baza, nutcracker, magpies and numerous finches and sunbirds.

Short Treks

Hiley – Varsey trek – for those who love nature but don’t relish sweating across long treks, the Varsey rhododendron sanctuary in Sikkim provides an ideal excursion. Located in the south-west corner of West Sikkim and spreading over 104 sq km across the ridge of the Singhalila Range, it forms part of India’s natural international border with Nepal. The protected forest is home to silver fir, hemlock, magnolia and the rhododendron. During March and April, the trail is ablaze with rhododendron blossoms and is a delightful day walk with stunning views of the high Himalayas. There’s plenty of action for keen birdwatchers as well.

Tiger Hill Trek – In 1829, two British agents set out to explore the Darjeeling hill area. They stumbled upon reaching tiger hill, which provided a stunning view of Darjeeling and the breathtakingly rapturous beauty of the Kangchendzonga range. Hitherto hidden by Oak and rhododendron trees, it didn’t take too long for the British to make the area reachable. Ever since, Tiger Hill has remained a main attraction for visitors coming to Darjeeling. Most tourists visit Tiger hill by car from Darjeeling in the early hours of morning. But a short trek to the peak can be a great experience.

Ravangla – Mainam Trek – is a lovely little hike if you want to walk among ancient forests and see plenty of bird life without having to go for a long and difficult trek. Ravangla is located on the ridge between Mainom (3,230m) and Tendong (2,590m) peaks. It has a scrub forest, which is home to a number of Himalayan birds. The trek to Mainom top is a 6 hour easy trek which can be enjoyed by almost everyone.

Damthang – Tendong trek – This is a day trek starting from Damthang in South Sikkim.
The trek can be combined with Ravangla Mainam trek to make it of longer duration. Above Damthang, overlooking the South District headquarters of Namchi, there is a small, flat stretch of land at an altitude of 2,600m. It’s surrounded by a lush green ancient forest, which is popularly known as the Tendong Hill. The hill, home to a small dormant volcano, is the destination of this trek.

Neora Valley – A nature lover’s paradise

Neora valley is a National Park situated in the Kalimpong subdivision of West Bengal. The park covers an area of 88 sq. kms, and is located close to the tourist destination of Lava. Neora Valley shares its border with Western Bhutan and the forests of Sikkim. It was established in 1986 as a National Park and derives its name from the Neora River running through the forest. A large network of streams and torrents is spread across the park sustaining a large variety of luxuriant vegetation, mammals, birds and reptiles. The forest nurtures many species of vegetation like wild strawberries, wild white orchids, primulas, yews, hemlocks and about 10 different species of rhododendrons.

Before you embark upon a trek to Neora Valley, you reach the small picturesque hamlet of Lava. Here you can visit the nature interpretation park to get first hand information of the bio-diversity in the region, and as an added bonus, you also get to see the Buddhist Monastery in Lava. The Neora Valley National Park has two entry points: one is from Lava and the other from Samsing. The trek route through Lava starts from Zero Point which is about 25 kms from Lava through motorable road bounded by dense forests. From here no vehicles can go further, and thus, the trek begins.

The trek from Zero point to Samsing within the Neora Valley National Park is a sensual and visual delight for the discerning trekker. To list the variety of flora and fauna inhabiting this park is like trying to catalog the books in the Library of Congress – the largest library in the world. It contains an incredible variety of bio-diversity that few national parks in the world can boast about. It is also inhabited by the endangered Red Panda and the rare Black Asiatic Bear.

Don’t be surprised to see the red-headed bullfinch bird trying to get your attention – this bird is not camera shy and you might even be able to get a close up shot of this beautiful bird. Or, don’t get startled if you hear the wailing sound of an ambulance siren – there are no casualties; it is just the calls of a male satyr tragopan. These birds only inhabit the mountainous regions and are found in great numbers here, especially, near the Aloobari camp. Also, the Goral Deer and the Barking Deer will make regular appearance throughout the trail for your pleasure. However, our endangered friend, the Red Panda, is a rare sight to see because they are generally very shy creatures. If you get a rare sight of this cute and cuddly creature, you bet, you are damn lucky.

During summer and spring, the Rechila Top is covered with a magical carpet of red made by flowers shed from the trees, and different types of rhododendrons – red, pink and white – can be seen. The Neora Valley National Park is home to around 200 species of birds which includes the bearded vulture, the Himalayan griffon, the red-legged falcon, the great pied hornbill, the khalij pheasant, Jordon’s baza, different species of cuckoos and more. Apart from the Red Panda and the Asiatic Black Bear, the park boasts a large population of wild boars, leopard cats, gorals, barking deer’s, Himalayan flying squirrels, clouded leopards and tigers etc.
Reptiles like King Cobra, common cobra krait, green pit viper, blind snake and lizards are also found in this forest apart from insects like several species of butterflies, moths, beetles, bees, wasps and bugs cicadas.

You can also enjoy the pleasure of camping at the riverside among large rocks near the river in Aloobari. You will have ample opportunities here to watch birds like khaleej pheasants, laughing thrush and chestnut-bellied tesia in the area. Don’t forget to visit the feeding place of the Asiatic Black Bear among the oak trees there.

As you reach Rechila Top, you will be offered with a magnificent view of the Kangchendzonga Range and the valley of Bhutan on the other side. Finally, it wouldn’t be inappropriate to state that the Neora Valley trek is a bird watching tour, leisure tour, adventure tour and a wilderness tour all packed into one. It is no doubt a dream trek for nature lovers.

Neora Valley is a National Park and permission from forest department is compulsory for entry inside the park. Visitors are advised not to enter the forest without proper permission. Deys Holidays .

Goechala

Sizzle in the Sensuous Spirits of Sikkim with the Spectacular Goechala Trek Standing on Goecha La at 16,200feet, overlooking the massive structure of Kanchenjunga, eyeing the Goecha lake with its tear shaped structure, the awe striking sunrises and sunsets, snow covered gigantic Himalayas, the amazing view of sixteen beautiful peaks visible from Dzongri top, the verdant Himalayan forest, its meandering rivers, meadows, rhododendrons, the reasons to fell in love with the beautiful Goechala Trek are endless. For a trekker it is a journey full of adventures where one can enjoy the adrenaline rush with its steep trails, bask in the beauty of nature and come to know more of Sikkim, the land of serene beauty.

Based in the state of Sikkim, Goechala is one of preferred destination for trekkers in India. Trekking in Sikkim , has its indomitable charm with flourishing verdant valleys, beautiful orchards, myriad and massive collection of flora and fauna, rich forests and charismatic ambience that never fails to allure the visitors with its magnetic beauty. Darjeeling is considered as the doorway to Sikkim and from here one can opt for the fabulous trek, which is one of the best treks in India . The region through which the Goechala trek is designed is designated as Kanchenjunga National Park.

About the trek

The beautiful trail of Goechala Trek has some of the key highlights which make the trip so stunning and spectacular among the trekking community.

• The trekking trail initiates from Yuksom town, which is a prominent destination in Sikkim for its historical significance. The rich and traditional culture of Sikkim can be well explored here. On the way one can also spot a distinctive unique style of wooden fencing close to the trail which is quite charming
• The second highlighted feature of the trek is the sight of fascinating and mesmerizing snow covered peaks of Kanchenjunga with amazing green landscapes and lush meadows at the foothills. The magnificent beauty of the third highest peak of the world is so arresting that one can spend hours eyeing its aura.
• Breathtaking views of Mount Pandim, Kabru, Rotang on the Goechala Trek , are both astounding and captivating that forces the trekkers to visit the destination again and again
• Last but not the least, for the love of nature, this trek is ideal, since it comprises of many inspiring destinations that glorify the beauty of Mother Nature with vast array of significant wild flowers, lush oak plantation and dense rhododendron forest.

Indeed there are several popular places for trekking in Sikkim , but Goechala Trek, is one that experiences maximum popularity, since its promises splendid scenic extravaganza and thrilling adventurous hike that can leave the heart pumping, but filled with pleasure. The terrain to Goechala is not easy and the trekking level is from moderate to difficult. The minimum age to conduct the trip is 13years and the maximum age depends on the physical fitness and health condition of the individual. Goechala trekking is a strenuous hiking trip and that is why it is advisable to conduct self fitness hiking test and proper physical check up before attempting for the luring expedition. Also it must be noted that since high altitude trekking is involved, less oxygen and lighter air is common in this trek especially after Dzongri.
Best time for conducting Goechala Trek
The best time to hit the hiking trails of Goechala is in the summer season between the months of April to June or much later in Autumn during September and October. From June end till beginning of September it’s better to avoid the track, as it is the monsoon time and landslides, slippery roads, muddy tracks is quite common making it difficult and dangerous to trek. Since heavy snow marks the winter season, it should also be avoided by the trekkers. In January and February, the temperature in Goechala region remains quite low at -20C. For the lovers of snow, the first view point of Goechala remains under snow till early May. The temperature during summer season stays between 15C to 22C and drops at night between 7C to -1C. In September the daytime temperature stays at 10C to 15C and at night it falls between 5C to -5C.
About the trek
The beautiful Goechala trek commences from New Jalpaiguri Station which is located at a distance of 150km from Yuksom. This distance is covered by an 8 hours drive and reaching Yuksom late evening. From Yuksom the trekking journey starts, the following day, moving to an altitude of 7200 feet which is about 8 kms trekking, to Sachen amidst forested land. The trail is quite scenic though the lucky ones may encounter some mountain animals like yak, mule also. From Sachen the trek continues the next day to Tsokha at 9700 feet which is about 7kms away. The walk is quite pleasant with sights of prominent peaks and rhododendron and alpine berries. The next day, the hiking trail continues to Dzongri via Phedang in a 9kms long trek to an altitude of 12980 feet. The hiking trail for the day is difficult, rocky and steep ascent. After a tiring journey it’s a rest day the next day where one get time to explore Dzongri at its best. On the sixth day the hiking trip begins from Dzongri to Thansing based at 12,900 feet and a distance of 10kms amidst lush meadows and crossing Kokcharang at 12,000feet. The next day it’s a 4kms trek from Thansing to Lamuney at 13,650 feet. The following day holds a much difficult trekking schedule to Goechala at 16,000 feet and back to Lamuney, via Samiti Lake. The trek involves steep ascents and difficult turns but the sight of the destination is worth every trouble. Cherishing the view in heart for ever descend to Lamuney or further Thansing if weather permits. One can enjoy the view of famed Himalayan peaks in this trail. From Thansing, the next day descend to Tsokha through rhododendron forests. The following day it is a long trek of 15kms to Yuksom which takes about 6 hours. The next day drive back to New Jalpaiguri Station for an onward journey.

Dzongri

A feast for the senses; a treat for the eyes; an experience that touches your heart – these are the words that can only half describe the Dzongri Trekking experience. Unknown to you, it might also be a soul-touching experience, because here you will witness nature in its raw and untouched state, which is enchanting and educating at the same time.

Dzongri simply means a collection or home of the mountains, and rightly so, for you will have a fascinating view of almost all the peaks of the Eastern Himalayas range from here. It is a dream place for flower lovers and bird lovers as well. Wildflowers like anemones and primulas is found in abundance, and birds like wagtails, red starts, minivets, blue magpies are seen bouncing around the bushes and trees.

Dzongri is popular trekking destination of Sikkim. Located at 13,200 ft above sea level in Western Sikkim, Dzongri provides some of the closest and best views of the Greater Himalayan Mountain peaks. Terraced slopes, high plateau, alpine forests, great snow views, small lakes combining together offer one of the greatest trek routes in Eastern Himalayas. Most popular trek route in west Sikkim is Yuksam –Dzongri-Goecha-la that leads to the base of Mt. Kanchanjangha at an altitude of over 16000ft.

Description of the Trek

Yuksom – The trek to Dzongri starts from a sleepy village in West Sikkim named Yuksom, situated at 5,800 ft. It was the erstwhile capital of the Independent Kingdom of Sikkim. There is also a pagoda here that still restores the throne of the first Chogyal, beside which is the footprint of Lord Buddha embedded in the ground. The Ratong Chu River lies on the left of the trail and dense forests of magnolia and rhododendron runs along the path to Bakhim.

Yuksom is about about 150 kms from Bagdogra Airport and 125 kms from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. More on Yuksom.

Yuksom to Bakhim – A 12 km trek from Yuksom through dense forests would take you to Bakhim. The trek route follows the Rathong Chu river which originates at Rathong glacier. At an altitude of 9,000 ft, Bakhim is where most trekkers to Dzongri spend their first night. Since you will be gaining about 3000 feet altitude in 12 kms, the trek till here is not very stiff. Bakhim is located in the same hill as Dzongri, although at a much lower altitude. The confluence of Rathongchu and Tikipchu that originates from Eastern Kabru glacier is just below Bakhim.

Bakhim to Tshoka (pronounced Chokka) – A climb of 3 km from Yuksom will take you to the last vestige of human habitation on the trek; a circular clearing of land surrounded by steep cliffs on three sides and thinly populated. A magnificent view of the mountains waits for you here.

Tsoka to Dzongri – The trek from Tsokha to Dzongri is 10 km long. One can have an exceptionally breathtaking view of the Ratong and Kabru peaks on this trail. You can also rest at Phedang before reaching Dzongri since it a steep trek from here.

As you reach the Dzongri and relax in the meadows of Dablakhang watching the yaks grazing silently, you will realize that this place is akin to a divine amphitheatre. A panoramic view of the mountains opens before your eyes as your heart and mind tries to absorb the experience. Congratulations! You have the reached the dizzy heights of trekking success. Now you can gaze with awe the majestic peaks of Kabru, Ratong, Kanchenjunga – the third highest peak in the world, Koktang, Pandim and Narsing. Towards the west you will see the ridges of Singalila that separates Sikkim and Nepal.

Early morning you should go for a hike to Dzongri Top, a sacred spot adorned with Buddhist prayer flags dedicated to the holy spirit of Mt. Kanchenjunga. This is the place where you will get the closest and best views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.

From Dzongri you may return via the same route to Yuksom or continue on a trek to Goechala or Kanchenjunga base camp.

The area from Yuksom to the mountain of the Khangchendzonga falls under the Khangchendzonga Wildlife Sanctuary, which is the highest wildlife sanctuary in the world ranging from 6,200 ft – 28,156 ft.

Our Services

We have been conducting treks to Dzongri for more than a decade now. Every year we conduct several treks to Dzongri. We have world class trekking infrastructure in terms of tents, sleeping bags and other gear as well as highly trained professional guides and team leaders. You may check some of the trek options given on the right panel or send us an enquiry with your specific requirement and our experts will get back to you soon.

Difficulty Level – Medium to high
Temperature – Cold to Very cold
Time – Anytime of year except July-August (heavy rain) and January-February (heavy snow) .

How to Reach

By Train :-
New Jalpaiguri or NJP is a major railway station located in south west of sikkim. There are many long distance trains arrives or pass through the NJP station. You can choose to come to Kolkata and take one of the many trains to NJP. If you are coming from Delhi or north part of India, try to take any north east train which directly goes to NJP by passing Kolkata.

By Flight:- 
Flying to Bagdogra is another option that you can choose though flights to Bagdogra tend to be pricier than those to Kolkata. Most of the flight foremost metros in the country come here.

Deys Holidays Tata Sumo or similar vehicles will pick-up you from NJP Railway Station at 9:30am.

Pick-up is included in the cost of the trek

You will reach Yuksom by 6:00 pm

Food from NJP to Yuksom is not included in the trek cost

Cost Terms

 Inclusions :-
1. Accommodation. (guest house, Camping).
2. Meals while on trek (Veg. & Egg).
3. Trek equipments like Sleeping bag, mattress, tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent.
4. Trekking Permits.
5. First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder.
6. Qualified & experienced trek Leader, Guide and Support staff.
7. Transport from NJP to yuksum and return.

Exclusions :-
1. Food during the transit.
2. Insurance.
3. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
4. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.

Note :
Normally Deys Holidays expect to carry your personal luggage on your own, if you don’t want to carry your backpack so you can give it to porter, but you have to inform us in advance and have to pay Rs. 350/- extra per day per bag.

To book a Trek/ adventure program please use our online booking form or, alternatively, you can call us on the given for confirmation of tour you have to wire a deposit and initial deposit.

Paying the Trek/ Adventure activity fee:
The fee can be paid by online transfer/check deposit/ demand draft. Instruction for payment will be forwarded along with your confirmation email. When your transfer is done, please e-mail us a confirmation mail with your transfer details, so that we can follow up your reservation efficiently.

When to book:
It is wise to make your booking at least two months in advance. However, if you want a good deal on your domestic/international flight, we recommend organizing your trip at least five months in advance. (Please contact us if you require a late booking)
In the event of cancellation of trek/adventure activity services due to any avoidable / unavoidable reasons we must be notified of the same in writing. Cancellation charges will be effective from the date we receive advice in writing, and cancellation charges would be as follows: –

Note:-
1)- Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch.
2)- In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by Deys Holidays.
3)- Deys Holidays holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice.

For Details & Booking please contact to deysholidays@gmail.com Or sales.deysholidays@gmail.com