Goechala vs Gurudongmar Lake
Pick Goechala for
nature, camping, adventure
Pick Gurudongmar Lake for
road trips, a spiritual journey, an easier walk, fewer days
| Goechala | Gurudongmar Lake | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Sikkim, Khangchendzonga National Park | Sikkim, Lachen, North Sikkim |
| Highest point | 4,600 m | 5,430 m |
| Difficulty | Difficult | Easy–moderate |
| Trek distance | about 90 km | No trek needed |
| Days on the ground | 10–11 | 5–6 |
| Best months | Apr, May, Oct, Nov | Apr, May, Oct, Nov |
| Snow likely | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr |
| Crowds in season | Moderate | Moderate |
| Daily spend | about ₹3,000 | about ₹3,500 |
| Gateway | Bagdogra / NJP | Bagdogra / NJP |
| With kids | Not advised | Possible |
| With seniors | Not advised | Not advised |
| Permits | Khangchendzonga National Park permit through the operator; access beyond the first viewpoint has been restricted in recent years. | North Sikkim permit through a registered agent; Indian nationals only. |
Goechala: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- ❄︎Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Gurudongmar Lake: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- ❄︎Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely