Dzongri Trek: Ultimate Guide to Itinerary, Difficulty, Cost & Local Planning

The Dzongri Trek is one of the most rewarding short-duration Himalayan treks in India, offering panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, and the surrounding Sikkimese peaks.

But this is no ordinary trail. The terrain is rugged, the weather unpredictable, and the route remote. There are no motorable roads beyond Yuksom, no homestays en route, and no shortcuts.

This trek cannot be done solo. You will need camping equipment, porters, a trained cook, and most importantly—a reliable local travel agent based in Yuksom who knows the trail, terrain, permits, and rescue protocols.

Outsourcing to national operators or large internet-based platforms is a risk; local agents are better equipped for on-ground challenges and emergencies.

If you feel you don't dare to go higher up. There are lots of other activities that you can do in Yuksom. You can check our list of Yuksom sightseeing and activities.

Quick Overview :

Start Point: Yuksom (1,780 m)

Highest Point: Dzongri Top (4,200 m)

Total Trek Distance : ~42 km (round trip)

Duration: 5–6 days

Dzongri Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Permit Required : Yes – via local agents

Dzongri Trek Cost : ₹9,000–₹14,000/person (5–6 days)

Best Time to Visit: April–June & Oct–Nov (Spring & Autumn)

Dzongri Winter Trek: Dec–Feb (Only for experienced trekkers)

Dzongri Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Yuksom (1,780 m) to Sachen (2,200 m)

• Distance: 8 km | Time: 4–5 hrs

• Highlights: Forest trail, 3 bridge crossings

• Terrain: Gradual ascent, damp jungle trail

• Note: First night of camping—no network, no settlements

Day 2: Sachen to Tshoka (2,950 m) via Bakhim (2,700 m)

• Distance: 7 km | Time: 5–6 hrs

• Highlights: Rhododendron forests, Bakhim viewpoint

• Acclimatization begins here—steep altitude gain

• Stay: Wooden huts or tent

Day 3: Tshoka to Dzongri (4,020 m) via Phedang (3,650 m)

• Distance: 9 km | Time: 6–7 hrs

• Highlights: Phedang rest stop, alpine landscapes

• Note: Altitude gain is significant; pace slowly

Day 4: Acclimatization + Dzongri Top Hike (4,200 m)

• Distance: 2 km round trip | Time: 1.5 hrs

• Viewpoints: Mt. Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Kabru, Rathong

• Also Visit Dzongrilla Pass and Laxmi Pokhari during the day

• Purpose: High point acclimatisation

Day 5: Dzongri to Tshoka

• Distance: 9 km | Time: 5 hrs

• Steep descent—monitor knees and pace

Day 6: Tshoka to Yuksom

• Distance: 15 km | Time: 6 hrs

• Final return day with forest descent and river crossings

Dzongri Trek Map (Trail Flow)

Yuksom → Sachen → Bakhim → Tshoka → Phedang → Dzongri → Dzongri Top → Return via same route

• Altitude Gain: +2,420 meters from Yuksom to Dzongri Top

• Network: No signal beyond Yuksom.

• Water Sources: Streams near Sachen, Tshoka, and Dzongri

Dzongri Trek Difficulty

The Dzongri Trek difficulty level is moderate to difficult, based on:

• Steep ascents (especially Tshoka to Dzongri)

• Rapid altitude gain (over 2,000 m in 3 days)

• High altitude exposure (risk of AMS)

• Cold temperatures and unpredictable rain/snow

• Lack of settlements or supplies beyond Yuksom

  
  

Not suitable for solo treks. Only experienced trekkers with full support staff should attempt.

Dzongri Trek Cost Breakdown:

Important note cost can vary from company to company. Higher the cost better the services are:

Group treks reduce cost. Solo treks are unsafe and discouraged.

Best Time to Visit Dzongri Trek :

Spring (April–June):

• Blooming rhododendrons, clear skies, fresh trails

• Ideal for photographers and beginners

Autumn (Oct–Nov):

• Post-monsoon clarity, best views of Kanchenjunga

• Dry and stable weather

Dzongri Winter Trek (Dec–Feb):

• Snow-covered landscape

• Extreme cold, high difficulty

• Only for experienced trekkers with local team and proper gear

Avoid Monsoon from the march of July to September at all cost. Very high chance of trek cancellation and incomplete trek.

Why Local Travel Agents from Yuksom Matter

Hiring a Yuksom-based travel agent is not a suggestion—it is a survival necessity:

• They manage permits, staff, yaks, camping gear, and food

• Their familiarity with the terrain enables faster response during emergencies

• In case of injury, sickness, or evacuation, local agents coordinate rescue from the trail

• You directly support the local economy and hidden trekking communities, bypassing large online companies

  
  

FAQs

Is Dzongri Trek Difficult?

Yes. With high altitude, limited infrastructure, and challenging terrain, it is moderate to difficult. Physical preparation and acclimatization are crucial.

What is the Cost of Dzongri Trek?

Expect to spend between ₹9,000 and ₹14,000 per person for a 5–6 day trek, depending on group size and services included.

How to Reach Dzongri Top?

Start from Yuksom. Trek via Sachen, Tshoka, and Dzongri base camp. A short 1 km morning hike from base leads to Dzongri Top (4,200 m) for a stunning sunrise view.