Dzongri Trek

Dzongri Trek, West Sikkim Overview

Nestled at an altitude of 4,200 m, Dzongri Trek serves as one of the most popular high altitude trek destination in Sikkim that can be completed in a short time. The trek offers some enchanting sights while hiking through the fascinating trail comprising of varied terrains, from patches of land streaked with green and gold and lush green meadows to dense forest and mighty peaks covered in snow.

Being a shorter version of Goecha La Trek, this particular trek commences from Yuksam and ends at Yuksam within a span of 5 days. The delightful sight of Sikkim and Darjeeling region from the height is unparallel as is the captivating picturesque views of gorgeous valleys, plantations and mountain peaks. The sight of 14 or so, pristine white peaks flanking Dzongri are spell bounding, especially the majestic Kanchenjunga Peak. This type of trek is for those seeking to explore more in short amount of time and Dzongri Trek stands well up to the task.

1. Yuksom

Serving as the base camp for the trek, Yuksom is a picturesque town and the first capital of Sikkim. It offers opportunities for rest and acclimatization before embarking on the trek. Attractions incl (Read More)ude the Dubdi Monastery, the Coronation Throne, and various scenic spots.

The first trekking destination from Yuksom, Tshoka is a refuge settlement situated at an altitude of around 3,000 meters. It offers stunning views of snow-covered peaks, including Mt. Pandim.

3. Dzongri Viewpoint

Located at an altitude of 4,250 meters, the Dzongri Viewpoint offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. It is a highlight of the trek, providing mesmerizing vistas of the surrounding (Read More)landscape.

4. Laxmi Pokhari (Lake)

Situated at an altitude of 4,200 meters on the route to Goechala, Laxmi Pokhari is a pristine lake offering stunning views of Mt. Tenchingkhang and Mt. Pandim against the backdrop of the Himalayas.

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General tips and tricks

1. Make sure you carry warm clothes irrespective of the fact that what season you are travelling in.
2. Carry your own trekking gear and equipments and be always prepared.
3. Carry a medical aid kit and your usual medicines for the way.
4. A good pair of trekking shoes is a must.
5. Carry raingear no matter if you are travelling during monsoon season.
6. Make sure you obtain all the permits well in advance required for trekking in the region.
7. Make sure you carry spare batteries and film roll for camera as there will be no electricity supply.
8. A well informed and trained guide is very important and do make sure to sought out all trivial things well in advance to avoid misunderstanding.

How to reach Dzongri Trek

Rail: New Jalpaiguri serves as the nearest railways station to Yuksom situated about 150 km away.
Road: Yuksom, the base camp for Goecha La is easily accessible via road from several major cities including Siliguri. It is about 140 km away and serves as an entry point for Sikkim as well as its capital city Gangtok.

Itinerary for Dzongri Trek

Day 1: Gangtok to Yuksam

Distance: 1780 m, Duration: 6 hours

The drive from Gangtok to Yuksam consists of 6 long tiring hours. However, the ever change of scenery is extremely refreshing and luring. With tea garden, river and bridge comprising the journey, you will reach your final destination of Yuksam with relaxed mind where the trek begins.

Day 2: Yuksam to Tshoka

Distance: 3050 m, Duration: 7 hours

From Yuksam, begin your trek uphill towards the Rathong River gorge passing through dense forest. You will be accompanied by magnolia, rhododendron, and several varieties of orchids, ferns, bright exotic birds, and monkey peeking around the corner. After a hike of about an hour, you will cross the Paha Khola Bridge (1,733 m). Another two hours of trek and there is a spot for swimming near a waterfall and a stream beneath a bridge, where you can stop for lunch break. After crossing the Prek Chu River, there will be steep ascend for two to three hours which will lead to Bakhim. A Tibetan refugee settlement of Tshoka is just a little above from there where you can settle for the day after a long trek.

Day 3: Tshoka to Phedang

Distance: 3760 m, Duration: 4 hours

From Tshoka, a steep climb above will lead you to a splendid rhododendron forest. Contnue walking alongside a well defined trail till Phedang. Owing to the rarefied air, the trek on third day comprise of short distance hike of about 4 hours.

Day 4: Phedang to Dzongri

Distance: 4320 m, Duration: 3 hours

This is yet another day of trekking when you will be covering a short distance as you tread above the 4,000 m mark. Try and set the camp by lunch time and spend the rest of the afternoon getting used to the area and climate. A short climb will take you to beautiful meadows where you are suggested to pitch your tents. The campsite offers some marvelous views of Koktang, Rathong, Kabru, Khangchendzonga, Simvo and Pandim. However, you may choose your campsite according to the availability of water.

Day 5: Rest and overnight camping

On your fifth day either you can continue with your excursion or explore the raw beauty of the area by climbing the nearby small peaks offering bewitching views. The morning and evening view are the highlight of the panoramic scenic beauty it offers.

Day 6: Dzongri to Tshoka

Distance: 3050 m, Duration: 4-5 hours

Finally depart from Dzongri and trace back the same trail taken to arrive while climbing up. Make sure you cherish the beautiful nature while making your way down. After a trek of about 4-5 hours you arrive at Tshoka, your destination of the day.

Day 7: Tshoka to Yuksam

Distance: 1875 m, Duration: 5-6 hours

Trek back to Prek Chu following the same route taken up on the first day. Hike downwards gradually to reach the Yuksam Village.