The Rolwaling Valley Trek is a secluded and picturesque Himalayan trek in eastern Nepal. From Chhet Chhet (1,410 m) to the breathtaking Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580 m), Nepal's largest glacial lake, the trail offers views of Gaurishankar, Melungtse, and verdant alpine scenery as it winds through peaceful Sherpa villages like Simigaun, Beding, and Na.
Rolwaling Trekking
Rolwaling Trekking Overview
The Rolwaling Trekking is undoubtedly one of the most adventurous treks in the Mahalangur Himalayan region. Rolwaling, in the Sherpa language, means ‘graveyard’ because the place is situated deep between the steep ice giants of the Khumbu region. Very few tourists dare to do the Rolwaling trekking because of its difficult terrain and wilderness; however, this proves to be the most rewarding challenge for real adventurers.
The highlights of the trekking are the crossing of a high Himalayan pass called Tashi Labtsa (5,775 m) and climbing the peak of Parcharmo (6,273 m). Not only that, but you will meet the classical Everest Base Camp trek in Thame and Namche. Once you pass the Tashi Labtsa (5,775 m), you will have the chance to explore another part of the trek, which is known as the Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek. Both offer splendid views of Mt. Everest, Langtang, Jugal Himal, Melungtse, and Mt. Gauri Shanker. The trek traverses pristine forests of rhododendrons and orchids, as well as terraced fields, and comes across glaciers, high passes, and lakes. While on the trek, you will also get an opportunity to experience the culture of the Tamang and Sherpa people and visit ancient monasteries.
The Rolwaling Trek, from nature’s point of view, is deeply wild and magical. A rugged landscape dotted by glaciers, ice, and rock, and entirely uninhabited. No wonder Rolwaling Valley is popular as the home of Yeti, the mythical snowman, who has been sighted by many a trekker in the past.
The trek route to Rolwaling
The early morning bus from Kathmandu to Singatte takes about 8 hours. After having a long drive, you will start your adventure the next day. Singate Bazer, Chhet-Chhet, Simi Gaun, Beding, Na, Tso Rolpa Lake, and Tashi Lapcha Pass to Thame. However, going this pass, you have to take a peak permit. We at Global Adventure obtain the necessary permits and provide all the necessary staff for your safe trek.
Besides offering you a customized itinerary, Global Adventure Trekking will arrange for you all the logistics, including climbing gear and necessary permits. Our experienced Sherpa climbing guides will be there to make your trip safe and pleasurable.
Highlights
- One of the most challenging Himalayan treks
- Visit the Rolwaling Valley and ancient villages of Beding & Na
- Cross Tashi Labtsa (5,775 m) and ascend the peak of Parcharmo (6,273 m).
- Enjoy stunning views of Everest, Langtang, Jugal Himal, Melungtse, and Mt. Gauri Shanker
- Meet Yeti if you are lucky!
Rolwaling Trekking Itinerary Outline
- Day 01: Arrival and transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu
- Day 02: Kathmandu Guided Sightseeing tour
- Day 03: But to Shigati.
- Day 04: Shigati Khola to Simi Goun. 1920m. 6hrs.
- Day 05: Simi Goun to Kedhang. 4hrs. 2700m.
- Day 06: Kedhang to Beding. 5hrs. 3690m.
- Day 07: Beding to Na 3hrs. 4180m.
- Day 08: Na to Tsho Rolpa lake. 4 hrs.
- Day 09: Tsho Rolpa to Parchamo Base camp.4930m. 6hrs
- Day 10: Parchmo base camp to Tashi Lapcha pass 5755m to Thengpokharka 4230m. 8hrs.
- Day 11: Thengpokharka to Thame. 3820m. 4hrs.
- Day 12: Thame to Namche Bazar 4hrs 3440m.
- Day 13: Namche to Phakding –Lukla.
- Day 14: Flight back to Kathmandu.
- Day 15: Final Departure.
Rolwaling Trekking Itinerary
upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, Our airport representative will meet you and coordinate transfer to Hotel. Rest of the time is free.
After breakfast we will start Kathmandu Sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square- Pashupatinath Temple (the oldest and biggest Shiva Temple in South Asia), Buddhanath Stupa (the holy place for Tibetan Buddhism). Overnight hotel in Kathmandu.
After having earlu breakfast, we start our journey by public but to Shigati. This is a 9 hrs bus journey. Lunch will be served along the way.
The trek begins after the breakfast in the morning. The path goes through the forest beside the Rowaaling River. Make sure we have enough water to drink as there is no tea house along the way and it is steep up to Simi Goun.
Simi Goun is a small village and not to many tea house are there. This village is also temporary village. The path goes 60 degree up slope. Along the way many pine and alpine forest are passes.Over night at Kedhang.
It is another beautiful village and many ups and down is common to go. Many Himalaya range can be seen along the way including Gauri shankhar, Everest, Cho oyu and many more.
We are already above the tree lines. We are walking beside the big mountain range beside the Rolwaling Khola. Wider valley with herbs encounters.
This is the most beautiful day with the Tsho Rolpa lake and mountain range. The entire Hanging glacier makes your trip more adventure.
Most difficult day! We are walking through the glacier as soon as you arrived on top see many snow caped Mountain and snow caped crest after all descent to Thenpokharka.
The path is easy comparably. After 4 hrs walk you are in Thame which is another inhabitant of Sherpa tribes and where monasteries are for worshiping.
Thame village is the origin of Sherpa tribes. Around this surrounding is a home of many Mountain goat and different birds. Everest, Lotse, Thamserku and many more mountain views are just at front.
The path is mostly descent and many trekkers can be visited who are aiming up to Everest Base camp trek. If you have time we can follow the trails to Everest base camp trek trails.You are trekking through the Sherpa village and passing many suspension bridges to Lukla.
Most of the flight leaves from Kathmandu- lukla- Kathmandu in the morning which is just half an hour. Arrivals and transfer to Hotel, Evening farewell dinner.
After having healthy breakfast, we transfer to KTM International Airport for your on ward flight.
Rolwaling Trekking Cost Details
Includes
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit.
- Lukla-Kathmandu regular flight ticket
- Kathmandu Guided Sightseeing tour
- Bus transportation to the starting point of the trek (Shigati).
- Experienced English-speaking Sherpa guide with equipment.
- Three-night hotel in Kathmandu (2/3* category hotel) with breakfast.
- 11-night tented/teahouse accommodation in the mountains with full board meals.
- All necessary camping equipment like sleeping tents, mattresses, and toilet tents
- All necessary Nepali support staff.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle
- All the food and lodging, and the salary of the guide and porters
- TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System)
- Insurance of Nepalese Staff.
- 1-Farewell dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant.
- Gov't tax and VAT
Excludes
- Nepalese visa fee. A visa can be obtained upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport. Visas cost 25 USD, 40 USD, and 100 USD for 15, 30, and 90 days, respectively.
- Excess baggage charge(s)
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of an earlier return from the mountain, than the scheduled itinerary)
- International flight Tickets
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, showers, etc.)
- Tips for guide(s), porter(s)
- Sightseeing entry fee in Kathmandu (27 USD per person)
Dates & Availability
Rolwaling Trekking is known as Tashi Lapcha pass. This is the most challenging trekking in Everest Region. We do organize this private trek on your request. Please choose your prefered date and write us back. We will surely make your holiday the most memorable one!
Essential Information
Important notes—Rolwaling Trek
Due to the demands of traveling at high altitudes, a traveler self-assessment form is required for this trip. You will be trekking on hilly terrain, generally on well-defined paths, walking between 3 and 7 hours per day, on average about 5 hours a day. Altitude may exceed 5545 meters.
A single supplement to have your room is available on this trip and applies only to nights spent in Kathmandu.
In case of weather conditions leading to cancellations or delays in flights, this trip will operate on an alternate itinerary. Please see Day 1 of the itinerary for more details.
You must bring an emergency fund of 500 USD in cash with you on this trip, which you may need to use in case of delayed or canceled flights.
We advise allowing a few extra days in Kathmandu at the end of your trip, should your return flights from Lukla be delayed due to weather conditions.
The minimum age for this trip is 18 years at the time of travel.
Please note that while we try to assist all our clients in achieving their goals, there may be times your leader makes the decision to either delay or stop your ascent based on your medical conditions and AMS symptoms.
Rolwaling Trek Seasonal Overview
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Preparing for the Rolwaling Trek: Gear/Essentials Checklist
Here is a complete checklist of trekking gear and equipment for the Tsho Rolpa Trek.
Head:
- Trekking Hat/Cap
- Headlamp/Flashlight (with extra batteries), good quality
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Woolen hat /Beanie (for cold weather)
- Bandana/Buff (for dust and sun protection)
- Sunblock (Sunscreen) (SPF 40 or higher)
- Insect Repellent (any trekking areas)
Body:
- Base Layer Shirt: Two (moisture-wicking, breathable fabric)
- Trekking Jacket: A pair of lightweight (water-resistant/windproof)
- Insulating Layer: A pair (fleece, down jacket, or sweater for warmth)
- Rain Jacket/poncho (lightweight, waterproof)
- Trekking Trousers/Pants: Two pairs (comfortable and durable)
- Long-sleeve shirt: 1 pair (for sun or insect protection)
- Underwear: Two pairs (moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric)
- Compression Garments (for reducing muscle fatigue, optional)
- Gore-Tex or a similar waterproof jacket
Lower Body:
- Trekking Pants: Two pairs (convertible into shorts if needed)
- Thermal Leggings: one (for cold weather)
- Shorts: Two (optional, for warmer weather)
- Knee Guards/Support (for those who need extra knee protection)
- Hands: Protect your hands with warm gloves
- Light inner gloves (for lower-elevation trekking)
- Insulated or down gloves (high-altitude trekking)
- Waterproof gloves (wet season)
Footwear:
- Trekking Boots/Shoes (comfortable, waterproof, with good grip and ankle support)
- Gaiters (to protect from mud, snow, or rocks entering boots)
- Thick Socks: Two pairs (merino wool or synthetic, moisture-wicking)
- Lightweight Socks: Two pairs (for warmer weather or layering)
- Sandals/Flip-flops (for campsite/rest stops)
Extra Suggested Items:
- Sleeping bag
- Drying towel
- Trekking Poles
- Cash (extra Nepali rupees for additional expenses)
- 60L+ Backpack (Rucksack) (with rain cover and hydration system)
- Hydration System/Water Bottles/Camelback
- Water Purification Tablets/Filter
- Snacks (Energy Bars, Dried Fruits, Nuts
- First Aid Kit (with basics like bandages and antiseptic, as per personal need)
- Multi-tool/Knife
- Trekking Map or GPS
- Portable Power Bank (to charge devices)
- Camera or Smartphone (to capture the views)
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, shampoo, etc.) Feminine hygiene products as needed
- Wet wipes
- Emergency Whistle
- Dry bags
- Clothing Layer
- Duct Tape
- Hand sanitizer
- Fire-starting Kit (matches, lighters)
- Plastic Bags for Waste (Leave no trace principle)
- Notebook/Journal (for documenting the trip)
Passport and Visa:
All travelers should have a 6-month validity passport. A visa can be obtained upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport. Visas cost 25 USD, 40 USD, and 100 USD for 15, 30, and 90 days, respectively.
Medical and health information:
All travelers need to be in good physical health in order to participate in this trip. Before buying this trip, please read the details itinerary carefully.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or any necessary vaccinations before departure. We suggest that you bring your medical kit.
Accommodation while on the Rolwaling trekking:
Accommodation at the local lodge, known as the Guest House, is simple but comfortable. The toilet and washing facility are shared. In the guesthouse, travelers are provided a twin-sharing room with twin beds, mattresses, and pillows. In high season (March to May and September to November), in some places there are few numbers of guest houses, so sometimes travelers may stay in dormitories. In some places, guest houses depend on solar power. In remote regions, the guest house does not have a toilet, and running water can mean just a hole in the ground. Hot shower facilities are available in some guest houses for a price, but occasionally, a hot shower means a bucket of hot water, which is enough to wash your body. Electricity and Wi-Fi are available in some places for an additional cost. Remember, you must spend 2/3 nights camping (tent) between Na to Thame.
Transport:
We will take you to the Singetti by bus. The bus is comfortable and leaves at 7 am from Kathmandu. This is a 7-hour bus journey.
By Air, Lukla to Kathmandu flights are often delayed due to the poor weather conditions. All travelers are advised to have a few backup days in the end to catch their international flight. If the flights keep getting canceled, then you have the option to take a charter helicopter flight, and that will cost about 500 USD per person on a sharing basis. This also depends on the number of people. So make sure you have prepared your emergency fund just in case. All the domestic flights have a strict weight limit. 10 kg of your baggage and 5 kg of hand luggage are included in your tickets. Excess baggage will be charged at your own expense.
Phone and Internet services:
Most of the hotels in Kathmandu offer free Wi-Fi with excellent connections. While trekking, Wi-Fi may be available in some places, like the teahouse, for a small cost. The higher you go, the more use Wi-Fi and the internet will cost, and, likely, the slower the speed. Remember, your room may not have an electrical outlet. You have to share in the dining hall for your recharge.
Safety: Nepal is one of the safest travel destinations in the world. Just to be sure, travelers are advised to have their neck belt and money wallet while traveling for the safekeeping of their money, passport, and some valuable items. During your trip, you will have some free time to pursue your interests, relax and take it easy, or explore at your leisure.
Altitude sickness: Altitude sickness is a hazard, including on the Annapurna, Langtang, and Everest Base Camp treks and more. Please make sure you familiarize yourself with signs and symptoms before you leave and observe your health during your trek.
Altitude sickness is a life-threatening disease. Those higher than 2,500 m are at risk of altitude sickness even if they are physically fit. It is important to be aware of these symptoms you may encounter.
Periods of sleeplessness, Occasional loss of appetite, Vivid, wild dreams at around 2,500-3,800m in altitude, Unexpected momentary shortness of breath day and night, Periodic breathing that wakes you occasionally, Blocked nose, Dry cough, Mild headache, and Vomiting …
If you are feeling nauseous or dizzy or experience other symptoms, please share with your group and guide for the necessary evacuation.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory for our EBC trek. Make sure your insurance covers you for your planned activities, including travel and trekking above 3000 m if this is included on your itinerary, mountain rescue services, and helicopter evacuation costs.