Rolwaling Valley Trekking is one of the less-traveled trails in the Khumbu region. It falls under Gaurishankar Himalayan Range in the west of the Mahalangur range in Eastern Nepal. The valley is named after Mt. Rolwaling which is situated between the Everest trekking region and the Langtang region.
Rolwaling Valley Trek has its finest beauty in bio-diversity. Tourists visit this area because trekking does not need any experience or training. The region is full of flora and fauna including rare animals and birds. In this region, 16 different vegetation types, and various species of wildlife like 235 bird species, 34 mammal species, 16 fish species, 14 snake species, 10 amphibian species, 8 lizard species, etc. are found. Himalayan black bear, musk deer, monkey, and more than 250 species of birds are making their home in the forest of Rolwaling valley.
Rolwaling Valley Trek provides a magnificent view of the mountains- Rolwaling Himal, Mt. Gaurishankar, Mt. Dorje Lakpa, Choba Bhamare peak, Melungtse peak, Pachermo peak, and Yalung Ri. The main attraction of the trek is Tsho Rolpa Glacier Lake. The trekking trail also provides the opportunity to explore Beding village and Na Gaun. Different ancient monasteries and chörtens also give you spiritual peace while exploring them.
Rolwaling Valley Trek is less visited by tourists because of its remoteness. The name of valley Rolwaling means ‘the grave’ because it is deep down between the two giant mountains of the Khumbu region- Mt. Everest and Mt. Langtang.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)
Day 02: Trek Preparation and Kathmandu City Sightseeing
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Shigati (950m) 5-6 hrs
Day 04: Trek to Jagat (1400m) 5-6 hrs
Day 05: Trek to Simi Gaon (2000m) 5-6 hrs
Day 06: Trek to Dongkang (3450m) 5-6 hrs
Day 07: Trek to Beding (3721m) 5-6hrs
Day 08: Acclimatization day
Day 09: Trek to Na Gaon (4183m) 5-6 hrs
Day 10: Acclimatization day
Day 11: Trek to Chugima (4920m) 6-7hrs
Day 12: Trek to Drolumbau Glacier (5205m) 5 -6 hrs
Day 13: Trek to Thengbo (4430m) via Tashi Lapcha Pass (5755m) 6 -7 hrs
Day 14: Trek to Thame (3860m) 5-6 hrs
Day 15: Trek to Namche (3790m) 4-5 hrs
Day 16: Trek to Lukla (2860m) 5–6 hrs
Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu (1350m) 35min
Day 18: Final Departure
Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International airport, the representative of Destination Himalaya treks gives you warm welcome in the adventurous Himalayan country Nepal. Then, transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Early in the morning after breakfast, we issue necessary trek permits and arrange and check all the necessary equipment. Once the trek preparation is complete, we proceed to sightsee many historically and culturally important sites which are also listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We visit the holy Hindu Temple of Pashupatinath, the ancient Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath), and another Buddhist shrine of Bouddhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world along with other possible sites. Overnight in Kathmandu.
In the morning along with a guide, take a private jeep ride to Shigati from Kathmandu. Enjoy the scenic views of terraced fields, green hills, snowy mountains, and flowing rivers arrive at Shigati. Overnight stay.
The trek starts following the deep valley gorge of Bhote Koshi. Traverse through suspension bridges and some beautiful settlements through the forested trail. Overnight in Jagat.
Enjoy walking on a steep trail admiring the impressive landscapes and passing terrace fields. Arrive at the beautiful Simi Gaon inhabited by Sherpa and Tamang. Overnight in Simi Gaon. Get an amazing view of Mt. Gaurishankar.
Walk on a trail surrounded by rhododendron and bamboo forests and climb slowly towards Gyalche. Enter in the vicinity of Rolwaling valley and slowly descend on a trail. Walk alongside the Rolwaling river bank and continue to walk further. Arrive at Dongkang for an overnight stay.
Walk uphill through a forested trail adoring the beautiful surrounding mountain vistas. The altitude is rising so walk slowly. Enter the Beding village. Witness the fantastic views of Mt. Melungtse I. Interact with locals and enjoy the locals’ warm hospitality and local food. Overnight stay.
The first acclimatization day of the trek. We spend the day exploring the nearby ancient Buddhist monastery. Next, a short hike to Malung Kharka Pass to adjust to the surroundings and prevent altitude sickness. The pass is above Beding village and from here get a stunning view of more than 15 snow-capped peaks. The Beding valley and green forest from the top of the pass are spectacular. Return to Beding for an overnight stay.
The trek towards Na Gaon is small and only open during the peak seasons. The village lies beneath the beautiful Tsho Rolpa Glacier. From here, get an impressive sight of Mt. Yalung Ri, Chobutse, and Chugimago. Overnight in Na Gaon.
The second acclimatization day of the trek. We hike to Yalung La Pass where we witness the mesmerizing views of Ramdun Peak Icefall, beautiful Tsho Rolpa Glacier, Yalung Glacier, Yalung Ri, Ramdung Peak, and Tibetan peaks. Spend some time enjoying the picturesque vistas and capture some pictures. Return to Na for an overnight stay.
Walk past the dam of Tsho Rolpa Lake and pass moraines. Reach Chugima which is in between the Trakarding Glacier and Tsho Rolpa Lake. Overnight in a tent.
The trek path is tricky and demanding. But following the guidance of an expert slowly ascends. Admire the surrounding vistas of icefalls, glaciers, and rocks. Arrive at a campsite for an overnight stay.
The D-day to traverse Tashi Lapcha Pass at an elevation of 5755m. The highest point of the trek to traverse is demanding. Ascend carefully and after a few hours arrive at the top of the pass. Reaching the top of the pass is worth it as you can witness the awesome views of Tibetan peaks and other snow-covered mountains. Slowly descend from the pass and head towards Thengbo for an overnight stay.
Walk on a descending trail mostly enjoying the natural scenery. En-route visit the ancient monastery. Arrive at Thame for an overnight stay.
Adoring the surrounding picturesque beauty trek to Namche following the trail with short ascend and descend walks. Overnight in Namche.
This day we descend to Lukla from Namche bazaar following the Bank of the Dudh Koshi River. This is the last day of our trek; so we share our experience and enjoy singing and dancing in the evening. Overnight in Lukla.
Our trekking comes to an end today. We fly back to Kathmandu and you are transferred to the hotel of your stay before you depart to your respective destinations. In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner. Overnight in a hotel.
You are escorted to the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) at least three hours before your scheduled international flight. We hope that this trip has created a fond memory of this amazing Himalayan nation and you have the urge to come again to this beautiful nation.
Accommodation
Accommodation in the Rolwaling Valley is mostly teahouses or lodges operated by locals. They are comfortable and simple with basic facilities. Extra facilities like hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging of electronic devices, and laundries are available by paying additional charges. Room sharing is common during the peak seasons and at high altitudes. So, prepared for it. Washrooms are mostly outside the teahouse or lodge. Tent camp accommodation at 3 places.
Meals
We provide only breakfast in Kathmandu and 3 meals (breakfast, lunch. dinner) a day are provided during the entire trek. Meals are provided from the teahouses or lodges which is simple but organic and healthy. Nepali Dal Bhat is a chief dish with fresh green vegetable curry. Besides, noodles, soup, bread, roti, Sherpa stew, and hot drinks are also available. For camping tents, meals are arranged by us and no need to worry about it.
Drinking Water
Drinking water in the Himalayas is pure and fresh. One can directly drink the natural freshwater stream from the Himalayas. Or fill up the boiled water in a water bottle in the teahouses paying an extra charge or from taps for free. It is a good idea to bring your water bottle. Always carry water purifying solutions for proper water treatment and to be safe. Drink plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated to prevent altitude sickness.
Internet connectivity & Mobile Network
Internet connectivity and mobile networks are stable in most parts of the lower regions. You can also purchase a Sim and use mobile data for using the internet. In higher altitudes, internet connectivity and mobile network are difficult to find.
Rolwaling Valley Trek Starting Point
Shigati is the starting point for Rolwaling Valley Trek. Drive to Dolakha from Kathmandu and Dolakha, and drive to Shigati.
Required Permits
Permits are mandatory in the Himalayas of Nepal. Our required permits are:
1. Rolwaling Special Permit Fee
USD 20 per person per week
2. Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project (GCAP)
Foreigners- NPR 3000
SAARC- NPR 1500
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is quintessential in the Himalayas. It must cover all emergency evacuation, medical extremities, luggage loss/theft, flight cancellations, altitude above 4000m, etc. Thus, arrange travel insurance from a reputed agency as it is compulsory.
Safety and our guides
We assure you 100% when it comes to safety. Our client’s safety is our main concern. Our guides are certified and well-trained with years of expertise in this field. They are technically competent and have excelled in safety performance. They always carry essential safety equipment, gear, and first-aid kits. For the safety of our trekkers, the itinerary is properly scheduled and acclimatization rest days are properly set up to adjust to the high altitude and prevent altitude sickness. If any queries concerning safety, feel free to share them with our guides. We are always there for your services.
Best time for Rolwaling Valley Trek
The best time to trek is the peak season for safety and to enjoy the spectacular and clear views. Spring and Autumn seasons are the best time to witness the beauty of the Rolwaling valley. Winter and Rainy seasons are riskier due to the unpredictable weather and the muddy, snowy, and slippery trails. We recommend you plan carefully if you want to trek during the off-season.
Rolwaling Valley Trek Difficulty
Rolwaling Valley Trek is moderately difficult due to the trek route, steep ascends and descends, and high elevations, but still, it is adventurous. With the proper assistance and guidance of experts, it is achievable. When it comes to Rolwaling Valley Trek, experience in trekking at high altitudes is a bonus. Besides this, trekkers must be in good health, and physically, & mentally fit as it is physically demanding. So, we recommend you participate in exercises, day hikes, and physical training months before starting the trek. Also, take necessary health tests before trekking to high altitudes. You can completely trust our assistance and guidelines throughout the trekking journey.
Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization
Altitude sickness is common in mountains above the altitude of 3000m. The trek starts from Shigati (950m) and the altitude rises to Tashi Lapcha Pass (5,755m) during the trek. Acclimatization is very much essential to adjust to the altitude and prevent altitude sickness. Hence, properly rest at the scheduled acclimatization resting places.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Primary: Headache, nausea, gasping, appetite & sleep loss, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting
Extreme: primary symptoms and hallucinations & unconsciousness
Preventive Guidelines
Shoes: Trekking shoes, base camp shoes, Rubber sandals
Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Down Jacket, Base Layers, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks
Accessories: Sunglasses, Ski Goggles, Hats/Caps, Beanie, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Head Lamp, Pocket Knife, Personal Hygiene &Toiletries
Sleeping: Mattress, Warm Sleeping bags
Travel Bag: Duffel bag, a day pack, pack cover
Medicine Kit: Wash Kit, First-Aid Kit, Blister Repair Kit, Medicines for preventing Altitude sickness, Prescribed Medicines (Personal use)
Extras: Heat/Leak proof water bottles, Water Purifying solution (Iodine based), Water filters, Insulated cup/flask, Map, Binoculars, Travel Documents, Sewing kit, Cash, Extra batteries, Power bank, Pen, Diary, Book, Reusable (spoon, cup, plate), Reusable bags, Large Waterproof Disposable Bags, Snacks (Choco-bars, Mints, Nuts, Granola Bars)
Gears: Ice Ax, Crampons, Trekking Poles, Ropes, Karabiners, , Gaiters
Note: Customize and rent the above list as a necessity.