A 45-year-old man from Uttar Pradesh died while trekking on the popular Goechala route in Sikkim, marking the third death on the high-altitude trail this year, police officials said on Saturday.
The deceased has been identified as Suraj Kumar Tiwari, who was part of an eight-day trekking expedition inside Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions.
Fell ill during ascent near Kokchurong
According to officials, Tiwari fell ill near the Kokchurong camp around 9 am on Thursday while ascending the Goechala route. He reportedly showed symptoms resembling paralysis, prompting immediate concern among fellow trekkers and guides.
First aid was administered at the site, and with assistance from local residents, efforts were made to evacuate him towards Yuksom, the main base for the Goechala trek.
Died en route despite evacuation efforts
Despite the rescue attempt, Tiwari’s condition deteriorated. He passed away near the Phedang campsite at an altitude of about 12,100 feet around 8 pm on Thursday. His body was transported to Gyalshing District Hospital on Friday.
Following a post-mortem examination and completion of legal formalities, the body was handed over to his family on Saturday. Tiwari is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter.
Third death on trail this year raises concern
This incident is the third fatality reported on the Goechala–Dzongri trekking corridor in 2025. Earlier, a trekker from Kolkata and a local resident from Gyalshing died on the same route, both reportedly due to acute mountain sickness.
Tourism stakeholders and trekking guides in Yuksom have urged the state authorities to strengthen medical infrastructure, improve availability of oxygen support, and enhance emergency rescue services along the trail.
They stressed that while Goechala remains one of India’s most sought-after treks, rising footfall and extreme altitude risks require stronger safety protocols to prevent further loss of life.