Top 7 High - Altitude Treks of Sikkim

Goecha La Trek

The Goecha La Trek stands among the most sought-after treks in West Sikkim. Starting from Yuksom, the trail climbs through forest corridors before opening into wide glacial valleys. Camps at Sachen, Tshoka, Dzongri, and Thangsing create a steady progression toward higher altitude.

Samiti Lake appears near the upper stretch of the trek and often reflects the surrounding peaks under clear conditions. The Goecha La viewpoint offers a direct face-to-face view of Kanchenjunga's southeast ridge, a reason many trekkers choose this route over others in the region.

• Start Point : Yuksom
• Maximum Altitude : 4,850 m
• Duration : 10 - 11 days

Green Lake Trek

The Green Lake Trek operates at the edge of Sikkim's most restricted trekking zones. Located near the Zemu Glacier in North Sikkim, the route stays far from settlements and demands strong physical preparation.

The trail crosses dense forests, high river valleys, and exposed glacial terrain. Weather conditions shift quickly, and logistical planning plays a major role in the success of the trek. Among Sikkim's high - altitude trekking routes, Green Lake stands out for its remoteness, permit - controlled access, and expedition-style planning.

• Region : North Sikkim
• Maximum Altitude : 4,935 m
• Duration : 14 - 16 Days

Dzongri Trek

The Dzongri Trek offers a shorter high - altitude option without technical difficulty. The route climbs through oak and rhododendron forests before reaching open grasslands used by local yak herders.

Dzongri Top provides direct views of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, and surrounding peaks. The trek works well for first - time high - altitude trekkers or as a conditioning route before longer expeditions in Sikkim. This route is often chosen as an acclimatization-friendly option among Sikkim alpine treks.

• Maximum Altitude : 4,000 m
• Duration : 6 - 7 days

Yambong Singalila Trek

The Yambong Singalila Trek follows the Singalila Ridge along the India - Nepal border. The trail remains elevated for most of the journey, offering continuous mountain views without repeated elevation loss.

Sandakphu marks the highest point of the trek and serves as a key viewpoint across the Himalayan range. The surrounding forests support rare wildlife, though sightings depend on timing and conditions rather than predictability.

• Highest Point : 3,636 m
• Duration : 08 - 09 days

Goecha La Kasturi Trek

The Kasturi route branches off from the main Goecha La trail and passes through quieter sections of the Kanchenjunga National Park. The terrain remains demanding, with fewer trekkers and longer walking days.

The trek concludes at Tashiding Gompa, an important monastery positioned on a ridge overlooking river valleys. Goecha La remains one of the most iconic high - altitude treks in Sikkim due to its proximity to the Kanchenjunga massif and sustained elevation gain.

• Maximum Altitude : 4,940 m
• Duration : 12 - 14 days

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek ranks among Sikkim's longest and most demanding treks. The trail spans West and North Sikkim, requiring detailed planning and reliable support teams.

Starting from Yuksom, the trek passes through Dzongri and Thangsing before reaching high camp zones near the base of the Kanchenjunga massif. From Sandakphu, trekkers gain views of both Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga on clear days.

• Maximum Altitude : 4,940 m
• Duration : 18 - 20 days

Uttarey - Singalila Trek

The Uttarey Singalila Trek offers an alternative entry into the Singalila Range. The route begins in Uttarey village and follows ridge lines with open views across eastern Nepal.

This trek avoids heavy elevation gain while maintaining consistent altitude exposure. The terrain suits trekkers who prefer long ridge walks and wide panoramas without extended technical sections.

• Maximum Altitude : 3,636 m
• Duration : 07 - 08 days

Other Trekking Routes in Sikkim

In addition to these major high-altitude routes, Sikkim also offers shorter trekking options that support acclimatisation and flexible travel plans. Lower altitude treks such as Tendong, Mainam, and Jhandi Dara provide shorter hiking options with forest coverage and viewpoint access. These routes work well for acclimatisation or limited travel schedules.

Essential Trekking Information

• Trekking permits are mandatory for all treks in Sikkim
• Restricted area permits apply to select regions
• Registered trekking agencies are required for high-altitude treks
• April to June and September to November remain the preferred trekking seasons

These regulations help preserve Sikkim's fragile mountain ecosystems while maintaining controlled access for serious trekkers.