Sikkim Expedition

          For decades, Sikkim’s highest peaks are one of the least explored in the Indian Himalayan region due to locals’ belief that the mountains are sacred. But since late 1990s, the state government started opening up more alpine peaks for climbing expeditions, including Mt Thinchenkhang (6010m) nestled in Khangchendzonga National Park.

          This challenging expedition will take trekkers through the famous Goecha La route and to the summit of Mt Thinchenkhang. Only trekkers with experience on high altitude climbs and familiar with the use of crampons and ice-axe should attempt this trek. The climbing permit application process is long and mired in red tapes. And it is compulsory for liaison officer from Indian Mountaineering Federation (IMF) to accompany the expedition team. A minimum of six months in advance registration is required.

          But the view from the summit is unparalleled as Sikkim’s lofty peaks like Khangchendzonga (8586m), Mt Pandim (6691m), Mt Rathong (6678m) and Mt Kabru (7338m) feel like they are within grasp.

Itinerary

Day 01: Airport/train station to Yuksom; 5 hours

Day 02: Yuksom

And extra day in Yuksom to prepare for expedition.

Day 03: Yuksom - Bakhim(2764m); 5 hours

Day 04: Bakhim - Tshokha (3000m); 1 hour

Day 05: Tshokha - Dzongri (3950m); 5 hours

Day 06: Rest day at Dzongri (3950m)

Day 07: Dzongri-Thangshing. (3841m); 5 hours 

Day 08: Thangsing - Base Camp (4310m); 3 hours

Day 09: Base Camp (4310m) - Camp I (5510m) - Base Camp (4310m); 5 hours

Day 10: Base Camp - Camp I; 4 to 5 hours

Day 11: Camp I - Mt.Thinchenkhang (6010m) summit - Camp I; 7 to 8 hours

Day 12: Camp I - Base Camp; 4 to 5 hours

Day 13: Base Camp - Goechala – Thangshing - Lamuni (5-6 hrs).

Day 14: Thangsing - Tshoka; 7 hours

Day 15: Tshokha - Yoksum; 6 hours

Day 16: Yuksom - Pelling; 2 hours

A scenic drive from Yuksom to Pelling via the holy Khechopalri Lake.

Day 17: Pelling – airport/ NJP train station

Practicalities

Trekking costs include:

1. Transportation to and from the closest airport or railway station.

2. Accomodation on arrival day and after the trek.

3. All necessary permits and taxes for the trek.

4. All meals during the trek and in Utteray and Pelling, support team, experienced trekleader/guide, pack animals.

Excludes:

1. Air fare

2. Laundry

3. Tips, alcohol and beverage

4. Travel Insurance or any personal expenses