The high altitude treks are highly recommended, and certainly compare favourably to those across the border in Nepal. Most of the high altitude treks start from Yuksom. All treks must be accompanied by a tour guide, who arrange a special trekking permit. The more popular treks either go to Zongri 4000m or Gochela Pass 5000m. The Zongri trek usually takes 5-6 days, and the Gochela trek 7-8 days, though this varies depending on fitness and previous exposure to high altitudes. The region is extremely beautiful, with numerous photographic opportunities. Note that altitude sickness is a common concern in this region due to the relatively short distances required to gain significant altitude. A "rest day" for acclimitisation is strongly advised at Tsokha 3000m. Successful climbing to Gochela Pass usually involves leaving at 3AM on that morning to reach the pass for sunrise before the clouds sweep in. Porters, with the help of yaks and ponies carry most of your gear, but you should carry your own day-pack with water, snacks and warm weather gear. Note that temperatures can fall well below zero at any time of the year at high altitude, and you should either hire or take genuine cold-weather gear and sleeping bagsmost tour companies will hire these. One of the more popular tour companies is Modern Tours linked to Modern Central Lodge in Gangtok -- they hire sleeping bags and jackets at no cost. Most tour agencies cost $30-35 USD per day including transport, food, porters and an English-speaking guide.
Low altitude treks are also popular, and since an additional permit isn't necessary, these can be done at your own pace. The typical trek starts in Pelling, and finishes either at Yuksom 3 days 40 km, or Ravangla 4 days, 54 km. The route follows both roads and paths, and several guesthouses are available for accommodation along the way. The trek passes Khecheopalri Lake, 14 km from Pelling.
