Yuksom, the trailhead of the iconic Goechala Trek, is more than just a starting point. Nestled in the heart of West Sikkim, this historic village was once the first capital of Sikkim and remains a sacred site for locals. Before embarking on your adventure to the majestic Himalayan views of Goechala Pass, understanding how to reach Yuksom is essential for a smooth and timely journey.
Why Yuksom is the Gateway to Goechala
The Goechala Trek officially begins at Yuksom. Surrounded by pine forests and ancient monasteries, this tranquil village offers trekkers a chance to acclimatize and experience Sikkimese hospitality before entering the Kanchenjunga National Park. Yuksom is also home to the coronation throne of Phunshok Namgyal, the first Chogyal (king) of Sikkim, adding historical depth to your journey.
How to Reach Yuksom from Major Locations
Getting to Yuksom can be slightly complicated due to its remoteness, but there are multiple routes via air, rail, and road. Your journey will usually begin from one of these three hubs: Bagdogra Airport, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), or Pakyong Airport near Gangtok.
1. By Air
Bagdogra Airport to Yuksom
- Distance: Approximately 150 kilometers
- Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours by road
- Transport Options: Reserved taxis or shared jeeps (if available)
Bagdogra Airport is well connected with daily flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and other metro cities. It remains the most convenient airport for most trekkers heading to Yuksom.
Pakyong Airport to Yuksom
- Distance: Around 129 kilometers
- Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours by road
- Note: Direct flights to Pakyong are limited and mostly operate from Delhi. The airport is subject to weather-related delays.
Pro Tip: If you fly into Bagdogra or Pakyong, plan to spend one night in Gangtok and leave early the next morning for Yuksom to avoid night travel through hilly terrain.
2. By Train
New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) to Yuksom
- Distance: 146 kilometers
- Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours by road
New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) serves as the closest railhead to Yuksom, with regular train services linking it to key urban centers such as Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. Once you arrive at NJP, take an auto to Siliguri Junction (roughly 8 kilometers) for access to taxis and shared jeeps heading toward Sikkim.
3. By Road: Reserved Taxis vs Shared Jeeps
Once you arrive at NJP, Bagdogra, or Gangtok, there are two primary modes of road travel to reach Yuksom:
A. Reserved Taxis (Recommended for Trekkers)
- Cost: ₹7000 to ₹7500 per vehicle (6 to 7 people capacity)
- Availability: Easily available through local travel agents or arranged by trekking operators like Black Yak Expedition
- Time Efficiency: You can reach Yuksom in one day
Advantages:
- Safe and direct
- Avoids multiple breakpoints
- Comfortable for groups
B. Shared Jeeps (Budget but Inconvenient)
This is a budget-friendly but time-consuming method and best suited for solo travelers with flexible schedules.
Route:
- From NJP or Bagdogra, reach Siliguri Junction (or SNT Bus Stand).
- Take a shared cab to Jorethang (about 82 kilometers, 3 hours).
- From Jorethang, reach Yuksom via shared jeep (only one daily jeep, departs before 1 PM).
Challenges:
- No guaranteed seat due to pre-booked locals
- Long waiting hours
- Must reach Jorethang before noon
- May need to schedule two extra days in your Goechala Trek itinerary
Important Travel Tips Before Reaching Yuksom
1. Arrive a Day Before the Trek Starts
You must reach Yuksom at least one day before your trek begins to acclimate and attend the trek briefing. This is mandatory for all participants.
2. ATM and Cash Withdrawal
There is no ATM in Yuksom. Make sure to withdraw cash in:
- Jorethang (if coming via road)
- Gangtok (if coming via Pakyong)
- Siliguri (if starting from NJP or Bagdogra)
Do not rely on ATMs beyond Jorethang.
3. Mobile Network and Internet Availability
- Jio: Currently offers the most stable internet speeds in Yuksom. Average speed ranges between 8 to 15 Mbps, improving in recent months.
- Vodafone and Airtel: Still functional for basic calling and SMS, but slower internet.
- Wi-Fi: Most homestays and hotels do not provide reliable Wi-Fi. Do not expect fast internet connectivity once the trek begins.
Once you cross Yuksom and begin the trek, mobile networks fade away rapidly. Limited network spots may appear at Tshoka or Dzongri, but only intermittently.
Best Practices for Trekkers
- Pack essentials like portable chargers and spare cash.
- Make your transportation arrangements early, particularly if you plan to travel during the high trekking months of April to May or October to November.
- Use local Sikkim-based operators like Black Yak Expedition, who provide logistical support, local guides, and pre-arranged pickups.
Suggested Itinerary to Reach Yuksom Smoothly
| Day | Plan |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Station. Stay overnight in Siliguri. |
| Day 2 | Early morning drive to Yuksom by reserved taxi (6 to 7 hours). Rest and acclimate. |
| Day 3 | Begin Goechala Trek with Black Yak Expedition. |
Final Thoughts
Reaching Yuksom for the Goechala Trek is a rewarding prelude to one of the most spectacular treks in the Indian Himalayas. While the journey to this remote village may seem complex, planning it with accurate information makes it seamless. Choose your route wisely, prepare in advance, with trek routes of West Sikkim before your trekking adventure begins.
For those who want a hassle-free experience, booking a full package with Black Yak Expedition ensures transportation, permits, and logistics are handled with local expertise and professionalism.