Sikkim
This recently opened trek route encompasses the area southwest of Dzongri and is defined by its name.It includes several days of hiking, traversing the Sanglila range. This is the lesser mountain chain arising from the northern hills of Darjeeling district and extends to converge with the Kanchenjungha massif.This mountain range separates the western border of Sikkim from Darjeeling and Nepal. This trail promises you some of the most spectacular views, with rare species of trees flanking it on both sides. Occassional herds of yaks with their herders might be your only source of contact with rest of mankind for a number of days on this desolate stretch. The journey starts at Gantok. Drive down to west sikkim through winding roads, across valleys and over hills. Cross the thunderous Rangeet river to reach Pemayangtse which is perched dramatically over an airy ridge, with a panoramic view of the Himalayas stretching right in front of it. From here, drive to Uttarey the same day, and spend the night in a log hut. For the next eight days prepare yourself for a strenous trek . The names given to the small hamlets that are strwen accross the path, may sound very exotic to your ears, but they actually serve a very practical purpose, by defining the topography, like ridges, pastures and passes.Your first stop on this trail is going to be at Chiwa Bhanjyang. Pitch your tents and spend a day getting acclimatized to the altitude. Next day trek to Dhor. It is sheltered by the hollow of a overlying ridge, and offers a beautiful view of the mountains around.Rising a few minutes before dawn, and take a walk on the ridge, to enjoy the spectacular sight of the sun rising over the Everest and Kanchenjungha. Later in the day, trek to Pare megu, taking a spiralling path , crossing passes, open pastures, and dense jungles of rhododendrons. Our next halt will be at Lam Pokhari. Along the way, enjoy the view of Kabru range and Mount Padim. Next day, trek to Gomathang.This is high up in the mountains, and livestock, air as well as vegetation, all grow sparse, while the land becomes more arid and rugged.Your next halt will be at Tikip Chu.It gets it's name from the river which flows through it, and is a beautiful place.From Tipik chu, gradually descend to the open meadows of Dzongri.From Dzongri, trek to Goecha la via Lamuney and Zemathang.Goechala literally means 'the locked gate' and is truely a lifetime experience both in beauty and adventure.This is the last high point of the trek.After this, prepare yourself to face the din of civilisation as you make your way back to Yuksom via Tshoka. The return to civilisation is a rather difficult one, as the humdrum of city life is going to be very loud upon your silence accustomed ears. This should be incentive enough to make you start planning your next himalayan escapade right away