Altitude: 3,160m | Distance: 15 km | Walking Time: 6-7 hours

Begin your trek with a gradual ascent through dense subtropical forests and rhododendron groves. The trail winds through the Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, offering glimpses of diverse flora and fauna. Cross several streams and climb steadily through moss-laden forests before reaching the border checkpoint at Chewabhanjyang. This strategic location marks the convergence of Sikkim, Nepal, and West Bengal borders. Set up camp near the border security post and prepare for the alpine adventures ahead.

Altitude: 3,160m/3,850m | Distance: 5 km (round trip) | Walking Time: 3-4 hours

Essential acclimatization day with a morning excursion to Phoktey Dara viewpoint. This short but rewarding hike provides spectacular panoramic views of the Sikkim and Nepal Himalayan ranges, including distant glimpses of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. The junction point offers a unique perspective where three borders meet. Return to Chewabhanjyang for lunch and rest. Spend the afternoon relaxing, hydrating well, and monitoring your body's adaptation to altitude. Evening preparation for higher elevation trekking.

Altitude: 3,640m | Distance: 16 km | Walking Time: 7-8 hours

Embark on a challenging day traversing the Singalila Ridge. The trail undulates through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests, offering magnificent mountain vistas throughout. Navigate rocky terrain and gentle ascents as you progress deeper into the Kanchenjunga National Park. The path provides continuous views of towering peaks while crossing several minor ridges. Sikkimey Gairi offers a beautiful camping location surrounded by prayer flags and stunning mountain panoramas. This remote campsite provides an authentic high-altitude Himalayan experience.

Altitude: 3,730m | Distance: 13 km | Walking Time: 5-6 hours

Continue along the scenic Singalila Ridge with relatively gentle terrain. The trail offers spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga massif and surrounding peaks as you traverse through alpine meadows dotted with seasonal wildflowers. Pass through yak grazing areas and encounter traditional stone shelters used by herders. The landscape becomes more barren and dramatic as you gain elevation. Dhor campsite provides excellent views and serves as a perfect rest point before tackling higher passes ahead.

Altitude: 3,900m | Distance: 12 km | Walking Time: 6-7 hours

Trek through increasingly sparse vegetation as you approach tree line elevation. The trail becomes more demanding with rocky terrain and steeper ascents. Navigate through boulder fields while enjoying unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks. Pare Megu offers a dramatic camping location with panoramic mountain vistas. The altitude begins to significantly impact breathing, making proper pacing essential. This campsite marks your entry into high alpine territory where snow patches may be encountered year-round.

Altitude: 4,130m | Distance: 8 km | Walking Time: 5-6 hours

Ascend to Lam Pokhari, a sacred high-altitude lake surrounded by towering peaks. The trail becomes increasingly challenging with rocky terrain and potential snow patches. The pristine lake reflects the surrounding mountain peaks, creating a mystical atmosphere that locals consider sacred. Set up camp near this beautiful alpine lake while enjoying spectacular views of Pandim and other surrounding peaks. The high altitude requires careful attention to hydration and acclimatization symptoms.

Altitude: 4,510m/3,580m | Distance: 10 km | Walking Time: 7-8 hours

Challenging summit day crossing Danphebhir La (4,510m), the "Pass of the Pheasant." The steep ascent to the pass rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views of Sikkim, Tibet, and Bhutan. From the pass, witness spectacular vistas of the entire Kanchenjunga range and distant peaks. The descent to Gomathang involves navigating through loose scree and rocky terrain. Gomathang valley offers a beautiful camping location surrounded by alpine meadows and provides relief from high altitude exposure.

Altitude: 4,080m | Distance: 8 km | Walking Time: 4-5 hours

Relatively easier day trekking through the scenic Gomathang valley before ascending to Pangdin. The trail winds through alpine meadows and yak grazing areas while offering continuous mountain views. Pangdin campsite sits at the base of impressive mountain ridges connecting to the Dzongri-Goechala range. This beautiful location provides excellent acclimatization opportunities and stunning sunset views over the surrounding peaks. Prepare for the upcoming junction with the classic Goechala trek route.

Altitude: 4,030m | Distance: 6 km | Walking Time: 3-4 hours

Join the popular Dzongri-Goechala trek route as you descend slightly to reach the famous Dzongri campsite. This iconic location offers some of the best mountain views in the Himalayas, with Kanchenjunga dominating the northern horizon. The campsite features prayer flags and stone shelters while providing spectacular sunrise and sunset opportunities. Dzongri serves as a crucial acclimatization point before the final push to Goechala. Evening exploration around the campsite to prepare for tomorrow's early morning viewpoint visit.

Altitude: 4,030m+ | Distance: 2 km (round trip) | Walking Time: 2-3 hours

Essential rest and acclimatization day with pre-dawn excursion to Dzongri Top viewpoint. Start at 4 AM to witness the spectacular sunrise illuminating Kanchenjunga, Kabru, Rathong, Pandim, and other peaks. The panoramic view from Dzongri Top ranks among the finest mountain vistas in the Himalayas. Return to camp for breakfast and spend the day resting, hydrating, and preparing for the challenging Goechala approach. Optional afternoon hike to nearby ridges for additional acclimatization and photography opportunities.

Altitude: 3,850m/4,200m | Distance: 9 km | Walking Time: 5-6 hours

Descend through rhododendron forests to Kokchurang before crossing the Prek Chu River. Continue ascending through alpine meadows to reach Thansing, beautifully situated at the base of Mount Pandim. The campsite offers stunning close-up views of Pandim's imposing south face. Many trekkers continue to nearby Lamuney for better positioning toward Goechala. The trail passes through diverse ecosystems while providing excellent mountain photography opportunities throughout the day.

Altitude: 4,950m/4,301m | Distance: 8 km | Walking Time: 8-10 hours

Summit day to Goecha La (4,950m) - the trek's highest point and ultimate destination. Begin pre-dawn (2-3 AM) to reach Viewpoint 1 for sunrise over Kanchenjunga's southeast face. The final approach involves steep rocky terrain and potential snow. From Goecha La, witness the closest possible view of Kanchenjunga without technical climbing. Visit the sacred Samiti Lake, whose emerald waters reflect Mount Pandim magnificently. Return to Lamuney/Thansing after this demanding but incredibly rewarding day experiencing the heart of the Kanchenjunga sanctuary.

Altitude: 3,700m | Distance: 12 km | Walking Time: 6-7 hours

Begin descent through diverse forest ecosystems, passing through Kokchurang's beautiful riverside location. The trail follows the Prek Chu River through rhododendron and pine forests while gradually losing elevation. Kokchurung offers a peaceful campsite beside the river with opportunities to spot Himalayan wildlife. The descent provides relief from high altitude while showcasing the trek's incredible biodiversity. Evening relaxation by the river after days of high-altitude trekking challenges.

Altitude: 2,960m→2,720m→2,180m→1,710m | Distance: 18 km | Walking Time: 7-8 hours

Final trekking day covering significant distance through varied terrain and elevations. Pass through Tshoka village with its charming monastery overlooking a serene pond. Continue descending through Bakhim and Sachen villages while crossing multiple suspension bridges over rushing mountain streams. The trail winds through dense forests before reaching Yuksom, the historic first capital of Sikkim. Celebrate your achievement in this culturally significant town while enjoying comfortable accommodation after weeks in the wilderness.

Altitude: 1,710m | Activity: Departure

After breakfast, bid farewell to the mountains and begin your journey back to civilization. Yuksom offers opportunities for last-minute souvenir shopping and visiting local monasteries. Transfer to Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (6-7 hours drive) for onward journey. Reflect on your incredible journey through one of the most spectacular trekking circuits in the Himalayas, having experienced the complete Singalila Ridge and approached the mighty Kanchenjunga from its most spectacular angles.