Rolwaling trek

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Trip Overview


Upper Rolwaling Trek

The Upper Rolwaling Trek is a remarkable adventure that takes you through the stunning Rolwaling Valley in Nepal, offering a unique and less-explored trekking experience. In this challenging journey, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the Himalayas, encounter remote Sherpa villages, cross high-altitude passes, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking alpine landscapes.

Scenic Beauty Sightseeing during Upper Rolwaling Trek

The trek typically begins in Kathmandu, where you embark on a scenic drive to the town of Barabise. From there, the real adventure starts as you step into the Rolwaling Valley. The trail gradually ascends, taking you through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees. You'll have the chance to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region, including rare Himalayan wildlife.

Peaks Sightseeing During Upper Rolwaling Trek

As you venture deeper into the valley, the surrounding peaks begin to reveal themselves. The mighty Gauri Shankar (7,145 meters) dominates the skyline, while other prominent peaks like  Melungtse (7,181 meters) and Ramdung (5,925 meters) grace the horizon. These towering giants create a breathtaking backdrop throughout the trek.

Tashi Lapcha Pass

The highlight of the Upper Rolwaling Trek is undoubtedly the Tashi Lapcha Pass. This high-altitude pass, standing at approximately 5,755 meters, tests your endurance and offers awe-inspiring views of the surrounding Himalayan panorama. Crossing the pass requires careful acclimatization and the assistance of experienced guides to navigate the challenging terrain.

Tso Rolpa Glacial Lake

Another gem of the trek is the enchanting Tso Rolpa, a glacial lake nestled amidst the mountains. Its pristine turquoise waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a truly magical sight. Taking time to explore the lake's serene shores is a memorable experience that allows you to soak in the tranquility of the Himalayas.

Cultural Experience and Accommodation

Throughout the trek, you'll encounter warm and hospitable Sherpa communities. Interacting with the locals and learning about their unique culture and way of life adds depth to the journey. The tea houses and lodges along the trail provide simple yet comfortable accommodations and delicious Nepalese meals, offering a chance to rest and rejuvenate after long days of trekking.

Conclusion and Summary

The Upper Rolwaling Trek is an adventure that requires physical fitness, previous trekking experience, and a spirit of adventure. The rewards, however, are immeasurable—breathtaking mountain vistas, remote and pristine landscapes, and a sense of accomplishment. It's a journey that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and grandeur of the Himalayas.

Trip Highlights


  • The Rolwaling Valley Trekking offers a wealth of captivating highlights that make it a truly unforgettable Himalayan adventure:
  • Embark on a journey through unspoiled landscapes, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of the Rolwaling region, far from the typical tourist trails.
  • Revel in breathtaking panoramic vistas of towering peaks, including Gauri Shankar, Melungtse, and Ramdung. The ever-changing mountain scenery provides a stunning backdrop throughout the trek.
  • Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Tsho Rolpa, a glacial lake surrounded by dramatic mountain terrain. Camping by its shores offers a serene and awe-inspiring experience.
  • Interact with local Sherpa and Tamang communities in traditional villages like Beding and Na. Immerse yourself in their customs, traditions, and way of life.
  • Conquer the challenging Tashi Lapcha Pass, a high-altitude crossing that rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views and a true sense of accomplishment.
  • Traverse diverse landscapes, from lush forests and alpine meadows to glacial moraines and rocky terrains. Each day brings new terrain and a sense of adventure.
  • Experience the thrill of trekking in a lesser-known region, away from the crowds, and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.
  • Camp in remote areas under starry skies, surrounded by nature’s tranquility, creating a genuine connection with the wilderness.
  • Capture stunning photographs of the Himalayan vistas, glacial lakes, and picturesque villages, creating lasting memories of your trek.
  • Test your limits with challenging ascents and descents, and experience personal growth as you overcome obstacles in a rugged environment.
  • Spot a variety of Himalayan flora and fauna, from colorful alpine flowers to elusive wildlife like the Himalayan tahr and red panda.
  • Learn about local beliefs and practices, visit ancient monasteries, and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural fabric of the Himalayan communities.

Itinerary


DAY 01: Arrive in Kathmandu [1300 m / 4264 ft]

Upon your arrival our Airport representative from Friendship World Trek will pick up you and transfer to Hotel.  After check in, you can take a rest, hang around in the city, visit our office; it all depends upon your interests and condition. In the evening we will provide Welcome Dinner at an excellent traditional Nepalese Restaurant where you will enjoy a Nepalese cultural program as well as a fine meal.

DAY 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

After breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks include the World Heritage Sites: the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath) and Buddhists shrine (Buddha Nath) which is one of the largest Stupas in the world. In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. NTA briefs you regarding our trek as well as provides us opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure.

DAY 03: Drive from Kathmandu (1350m.) to Dolakha to Shigati (950m.) Trek to Suri Dobhan

From Kathmandu, we head northeast on the Friendship Highway which connects Kathmandu with Lhasa. A Lamosangu, we leave the Friendship Highway and take another way to Jiri.  Earlier the motorable road used to be only upto Dolakha. But nowadays because of the Tamakoshi hydropower construction works, we can drive upto Shigati. From Shigati we trek to Suri Dobhan for our overnight stay.

DAY 04: Trek from Suri Dobhan to Jagat (1440m/4723 ft): 5/6 hrs.

Trek along the river, and then continue on the flat land. We cross several streams and jungles with varieties of orchid, rhododendron and other vegetation. Cross the suspension bridge to reach Jagat, a small town with people of different ethnicities.

DAY 05: Trek Jagat to Simigaun (1,990m/6527 ft):5 hrs

At first, we follow the normal flat path, and then the trail ascends and descends through the jungle.  The trail follows the river bank. As the valley narrows, we cross the suspension bridge over the river. A steep climb takes us to the Sherpa village of Simigaon, spread on the terrace of the mountainside. The village is mostly inhabited by Buddhists and there are also a few Hindus.

DAY 06: Trek Simigaun to Kharka (2,900m/9512 ft):6 hrs.

We pass by a few more Sherpa settlements.  On a clear morning the views of Gaurishankar above the Rolwaling Valley is fascinating. From the ridge top at Simigaun , we continue towards the Rolwaling Valley. The trail climbs a rocky, wooded ridge with beautiful pine forests. Descent again to the river of Rolwaling Khola.

DAY 07: Trek Kharka to Beding (3,690m/12,103 ft):4 hrs

Our trail ascends uphill through different varieties of plants and Rhododendron trees. Continue alongteh left bank of the Rolwaling Khola. Continuing along the deep river valley, we arrive at a tributary river from Gaurishankar. Enjoy the unfolding views of the Gaurishankar. The trail rises further until we come across an easy and relatively flat terrain. Finally, we arrive at the Sherpa village of Beding located by the river.

DAY 08: Trek Beding to Na (4,180m/13710 ft):5 hrs

An easy walk along the norther bank of the Rolwaling River begins our today’s trek.  We pass across the summer village of Beding, several yaks grazing and people busy in their fields of buckwheat and barley.  The crestline formed by the 6000ers such as Chekigo, Bamango, and Konyklemo rise on the immediate left of the village. We arrive at a monastery believed to be a meditative place of the Buddhist Guru Padma Sambhava.  Walking along the valley floor, we finally reach the summer village of Na surrounded by potato fields.

DAY 09: Trek Na to Tso Rolpa Lake (4,588m/15048 ft):7 hrs

At first trek through the leveled plane and gradually ascend to witness the Himalayan Lake filled with the chilling water of the glaciers. The views of Menlung and Tibetan Side Mountains add glory to the unfolding vista. We trek along the right bank of the river and then cross the river to climb up the rocky lateral moraine of the Glacier.  We then walk to Tso Rolpa for the night.

DAY 10: Tso Rolpa to Trakarding Glacier (4800m/15744 ft): 4 hrs

Early morning trek to head toward Trakarding glacier. Walk past the glaciers throughout the day and explore the beauty of the surrounding. The trail will still be ascending through some rock climbing and a gradual walk on the glacier moraine, occasionally passing rocks overhangs.

DAY 11: Trek to Tashi Lapcha Base Camp (5,010m/16432 ft):5 hrs

The walk follows high slopes above the glacier to avoid the lower section, but further up we have to trek along the centre on the hard rocky glacier. Steady walk leads us to the lowest point of the icefall and then climbing to the easiest point to gain the Drolambau glacier. Here we will be surrounded by superb high mountain scenery.  Continuing further downhill, we camp at Tashi Lapcha Pedi Camp at the foot of Tashi Lapcha, surrounded by absolutely grandiose mountains over 6000m with 360 degree panorama.

DAY 12: Cross Tashi Lapcha Pass (5,755m/18876 ft):5 hrs

Continue trekking to Trashi Lapcha Pass (5755m). From the pass, the view of senior Khumbu peaks is magnificent. Some hundred meter downhill trek under overhanging rock, we camp at a superb location, with magnifiscent sunset views.

DAY 13: Ascension Pachermo (6272 m/20572 ft) - Thengpo (4370 m)

We climb again to the neck of Trashi Lapcha and from there we start the ascent of Pachermo. The snow slopes lead us to the final ridge, sometimes requiring fixed ropes. From the Pachermo summit, enjoy the fantastic views of the Khumbu peaks including Everest, Makalu among others.  Descend to Col then to Thengpo. The Pachermo ascent takes about 5 to 6 hrs and then another 3 to 4 hrs descends takes us to Thengpo.

DAY 14: Leisure Day:

There is no such guarantee that we can get quite a favorable weather especially on our planned day for the Parchemo summit, so this day is used as a contingency.  If weather became exceptionally unfavorable we wisely have to postpone the program of summiting the peak.  Sometimes somebody in the group may get some problems in acclimatizing well enough; then the day can be used in that condition too.

DAY 15: Trek to Thame (3,820m/12530 ft):5 hrs

Today you will be experiencing a bit easy walking; the walk from here will be enjoyable most of the way to Thame.  A gradual descend brings us to Thame Village, the first hint of civilization since Beding. There is a very old and interesting Monastery at the upper end of the village. Now you have a glimpse of first really good views of the great peaks of the Khumbu including Mt Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kangaru.

DAY 16: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m): 5 hrs

At Thame, the old trade route over the Nangpa-la into Tibet branches north, following the Bhote Koshi, which incidentally is the 2-3 river so named on this trek. The trail descends gently at first and then steeply to a bridge over the river Dudh Koshi at Phunki Tenga. Passing by several villages and numerous teashops, the trail ascends steeply to Sanasa where local Sherpa people sell the Tibetan goods. The way from Sanasa to Namche has small ups and downs with view of forests, scenery and mountains.

DAY 17: Trek Namche to Lukla (2,840m)

legs continuously battle the rocky terrain. After crossing the suspension bridges over the fast flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries the trail becomes more level and natural. Although we are travelling the same route down, we feel completely different views. We snap a mixture of open plains, rhododendron and pine forests, and in the distance snow covered peaks. We walk through the Sherpa villages’ noticing impressive faith in Buddhism and culture of prayer stones and prayers flag while we walk through the villages. On arrival in Lukla, we stretch those sore legs and recall the experiences of the last couple of weeks. We experience the culmination of a fantastic trek on a happy note with everyone back safe and sound with smile on their faces.

DAY 18: Flight: Lukla - Kathmandu. Hotel Overnight.

We fly back to Kathmandu after our long mountain journey. The early morning flight drops us at Kathmandu. You can rest and relax throughout the day in your hotel. If get interested to take some gifts home from Nepal for friends and relatives, visit to some nearby shops or venture out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods which can be assisted by our guides or you can do it yourself too. If you want to explore any other areas of Kathmandu take the time to do that today! Remember, we will be hosting a fantastic celebration dinner together for successfully completing your adventure.

DAY 19: Fly Home: Farewell Friend or extend some other Adventure

Today is the day for your return to your home. We will arrange a private vehicle to take you to the Tribhuvan International airport of Kathmandu 3 hours before your departure time. If you want to explore more of the Beautiful regions of Nepal, We hope that you enjoyed the Rolwaling Valley Trekking trip at Fullest. Please connect with us for your next tour.

Price Includes


1. Airport Pick-up and Drop Off,
2. Licensed and trained trekking guides,
3. potters for carrying goods and supplies,
4. Meal on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) basis during the trek
5. 3 Nights Accommodation in the 3/4/5 Star Hotel in Kathmandu with B & B. (Bed
& Breakfast)
6. All accommodation during the trek.
7. All meals and hot beverages during the trek.
8. Transportation to and from the trail head.
9. All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
10. National Park/Conservation Area entry Permit, Insurance, and equipment for the staffs.
11. Coordination of quick Rescue service (Costs covered by your Insurance Plan)
12. Trekking staffs wages etc.
13. 1 hr. trekker massage after your trek.
14. Welcome and Farewell dinner in a Nepali Cultural Dance restaurant in Kathmandu.
15. Flight Ticket Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu
16. Trekking Staff Insurance of $10,000 Per Person.
17. Trekking Map, T-shirt, and Trekking certificate.
18. Exclusive of Medical Kit Bag
19. All Government and Local Taxes
20. International Flight ticket re-confirmation.
21. Meals will be Start when your Trek starts.

Price Excludes


1. International Airfares,
2. Travel/Trekking Insurance,
3. Excess baggage charges More than 16kg and handbag more than 5 kg in
domestic flights.
4. Visa fees.
5. Airport Departure Taxes.
6. Drinks (Cold and Alcoholic) Rescue charge.
7. Tips for The staffs.
8. Expenses of Personnel nature and Permit and Liaison officer fee (where Applicable.
9. Meals during stay in the Kathmandu and Pokhara.
10. Domestic Ticket Etc.
11. Extra Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

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