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Rolwaling Tso Rolpa Lake Trek

Rolwaling Trek Nepal: Off-the-Beaten Path to Tso Rolpa Lake

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Country

Nepal

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Duration

12 Days

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Difficulty

Moderate
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Best Season

Oct, Nov, Dec, Feb, Mar, Apr, May

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Start / End Point

Kathmandu / Kathmandu

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Max. Altitude

5000

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Nature Of Trek

Lodge to Lodge trekking

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Activity

Trekking

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Trek Duration

12

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Region

East Nepal Region

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Group Size

2 - 20

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Trip Code

SVT09

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Activity Per Day

4-6hrs

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Accommodation

Trekkers lodge
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Meals Included

Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner
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Transportation

Bus or Jeep

Rolwaling Tso Rolpa Lake Trek Highlights

  • Beautiful views of peaks like Rolwaling Himal and Gauri Shankar.
  • Serene Rolwaling Valley and verdant surroundings.
  • Immersion in Sherpa and Tamang communities via culture.
  • A glacial lake at a high altitude, Tsho Rolpa Lake.
  • Challenging terrain, which includes Tashi Lapcha Pass.
  • A trekking path that is remote and less congested in comparison to other paths
  • There is high biodiversity in alpine meadows and woodlands.
  • Places to worship, such as mani walls and monasteries along the trails

Overview

The Rolwaling Trek of Nepal is a distinct and less popular trekking path well-known for its Sherpa culture, varied flora and wildlife, and stunning natural surroundings. The valley is located in northeastern Nepal; to the north, it shares a border with China, and to the east, it is divided from the Everest area by the well-known Tashi Lapcha Pass.Several prominent Himalayas can be found, like Ramdung, Chekigo, Nachugo, Khangtari, Bamongo, Khang Karpo, Chobutse/Tsoboje, and Mount Tengi Ragi Tau, which has the most difficult ascent path. The valley is also home to the holy lake Omi Tso, often known as the lake of milk, and the well-known glacial lake Tso Rolpa.Rolwaling offers a varied range of flora and fauna, including lush woods at the foot of mountain slopes and an extensive range of seasonal flowers, all despite its high altitude. Yaks, snow leopards, and white langurs (gray monkeys) are also found in the valley.
Trekking to the Rolwaling Valley offers unique cultural experiences in addition to beautiful scenery. You can enjoy the traditions and hospitality of the Sherpa and Tamang people, who live in the valley.The trail’s mani walls, monasteries, and temples emphasize the area’s spiritual significance. At an elevation of 4,580 meters, the Tsho Rolpa Lake, which is one of Nepal’s greatest glacial lakes, is the main attraction of the Rolwaling Trek.One of the trek’s highlights is this gorgeous lake, which is surrounded by massive peaks and provides a serene setting for photography and meditation.
The Rolwaling Valley Trek is renowned for its difficult terrain and secluded location, requiring strong physical condition and appropriate acclimatization, despite its natural and cultural charm.One of the hardest sections of the journey is the 5,755-meter-high Tashi Lapcha Pass, which frequently calls for both basic mountaineering abilities and occasionally specialized equipment. The journey to Rolwaling is best done in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is more steady.The Rolwaling trekking itinerary is a 12 days itinerary, including an acclimatization day. For prepared hikers looking for peace and a genuine Himalayan experience, trekking to Rolwaling’s secluded location and difficult terrain is perfect

Rolwaling Tso Rolpa Lake Trek Itinerary

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu and Pre-brefing session

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Drive Distance

6km

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Drive Duration

20m

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Place

Kathmandu

After you arrive in Kathmandu, our team will be there to pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. After you freshen up in your hotel, we will have a short pre briefing regarding the trek. In this session, you can ask any questions that you have regarding the trek.

Day 2 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat(1,150m), 7 to 8 hours

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Drive Distance

180km1150m

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Drive Duration

7-8 hrs

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Highest Altitude

1,150m

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Place

Jagat

Today we will drive from Kathmandu to Jagat, which will take approximately 7 to 8 hours, depending on the road conditions. The route goes past picturesque terraced fields, verdant hills, and quaint villages as we leave the busy capital of Kathmandu, providing views of rural Nepalese life. There are paved and difficult, unpaved stretches of the road, the last becoming narrower and more rocky as you get closer to Jagat.

Day 3 :

Trek from Jagat to Simi Gaun(2,030m),6- 7 hours

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Trek Distance

13km

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Trek Duration

6-7 hrs

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Highest Altitude

2,030m

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Place

Simi Gaun

Day 4 :

Trek from Simi Gaun to Dokhang(2800m), 7 hours

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Trek Distance

11km

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Trek Duration

7 hrs

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Highest Altitude

2,800m

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Place

Dokhang

After breakfast, we will start our trek towards Dokhang. The trail offers a calm and shaded walk as it climbs through dense trees of pine and rhododendrons. We will pass through scenic streams and get occasional views of the massive peaks in the distance. Before arriving at Dokhang, the route continues with a steady rise through small, isolated communities.

Day 5 :

Trek from Dokhang to Beding(3,690m), 6 hours

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Trek Distance

9km

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Trek Duration

6 hrs

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Highest Altitude

3,690m

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Place

Beding

After breakfast, we will start our trek towards Beding. We will follow the Rolwaling River as we leave Dokhang, passing through verdant rhododendrons and pine forests. With breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and waterfalls tumbling down the rocky valley edges, the track progressively ascends. As we go through a few Sherpa villages, we will be treated to the kind hospitality and distinctive culture of the locals before we arrive in Beding.

Day 6 :

Acclimatization Day in Beding

Today we will take a day off from all the trekking and rest in Beding. We will explore the nearby surroundings, like the ancient Gompa. Today, we will just relax and enjoy this beautiful village.

Day 7 :

Trek from Beding to Na(4,180m), 2 hours; Day trek to Tso Rolpa Lake(4,580m) and back to Na, 4 hours

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Trek Distance

6km

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Trek Duration

6 hrs

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Highest Altitude

4,580m

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Place

Na

Today we will first trek from Beding to Na early in the morning after breakfast. As soon as we arrive at Na, we will hike up to Tso Rolpa Lake. We will spend some time in the lake for refreshment and then return to Na for our overnight stay.

Day 8 :

Day hike from Na to Yalung Ri Base Camp and back to Na, 5-6 hours

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Trek Distance

8km

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Trek Duration

5-6 hrs

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Highest Altitude

5000m

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Place

Na

Today, early in the morning, we will first hike from Nam to Yalung Ri Base Camp. We make a slow ascent to the base camp of Yalung Ri, which is situated at 5,000 meters. We will see gorgeous views of the surrounding peaks, including Yalung Ri and other Himalayas. The climb is difficult because of the height rise, but it is very gratifying because of the amazing views and the sense of achievement we get when we reach base camp. We will return to Na, finishing the trip in a single day, after taking some time to relax and enjoy the views at the base camp.

Day 9 :

Trek from Na to Dokhang(4,700m), 5-6 hours

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Trek Distance

8km

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Trek Duration

5-6 hrs

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Highest Altitude

4700m

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Place

Dokhang

After breakfast, we will head towards Dokhang from Na. Gradually, we will climb via steep roads and alpine meadows, encircled by peaks as tall as Gauri Shankar. We will enter the Dokhang Valley after descending from 5,755 meters via the Tashi Lapcha Pass.

Day 10 :

Trek from Dokhang to Simi Gaun(2,030m) 5-6 hours

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Trek Distance

11km

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Trek Duration

5-6 hrs

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Highest Altitude

2,030m

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Place

Dokhang to Simi Gaun

After breakfast, we will head towards Simi Gaun from Dokhang. We’ll go along little paths that meander through forests of rhododendrons, occasionally revealing views of snow-capped mountains. The route finally goes to Simi Gaun, passing past small villages like Bedding.

Day 11 :

Trek from Simi Gaun to Jagat(1150m), 3 hours

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Trek Distance

13km

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Trek Duration

3 hrs

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Highest Altitude

1,150m

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Place

Jagat

After breakfast, we will head towards Jagad from Simi Gaun. We ascend through forests of rhododendrons and terraced farms, with occasional views of traditional Tamang and Sherpa settlements. After traversing waterfalls and suspension bridges along the Rolwaling River, the path continues till it reaches Jagat.

Day 12 :

Drive from Jagat to Kathmandu, 7 to 8 hours

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Drive Distance

180km

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Drive Duration

7-8 hrs

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Place

Kathmandu

Today, after breakfast, we will drive back to Kathmandu from Jagat, concluding our 12-day journey to Rolwaling.

Cost Includes

Transportation:

  • Airport pickup and hotel transfers in a private vehicle
  • Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat( both ways) by Local transport

Trek Permits and Expenses:

  • Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP)
  • Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
  • All government, local taxes, and official expenses

Accommodation:

  • In Kathmandu, accommodations on a twin/double sharing basis with breakfast
  • During Trek: Total 10 nights on a twin/double sharing basis

Meals:

  • Breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Standard full Board Meals During the Treks
  • Fresh seasonal fruit served along the trail after dinner
  • Farewell dinner at the end of the trek in Kathmandu

Guide and Porter:

  • Government-licensed holder, highly experienced, English-speaking guide
  • One assistant guide for more than 12 trekkers
  • 12.5 kg baggage allowance carried by porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • All staff’s insurance, salary, equipment, flight or transport, food, and accommodation

Medical Assistance:

  • Assistance in arranging rescue operations in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance)
  • Medical kits, including an oximeter to monitor blood oxygen saturation levels in high altitudes

Equipment and Extra:

  • Use of a Snow View Trek’s Team down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek (If needed)
  • One trekking duffel bag (70 L) per participant
  • Complimentary one Langtang route map and T-shirt
  • An appreciation certificate after the successful trek.

Cost Excludes

  • Visa fees
  • Domestic airfare and airport tax.
  • Int’l air fare
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, boiled water, shower, battery recharge , bar bills or extra porters)
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Rescue & Evacuation
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Extra night in Kathmandu (if you arrive early or late from the mountain)
  • Lunch & evening meals in Kathmandu.
  • Tips for guides and porters (for staff)
Altitude in:

Departure

Private Trip

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Good to Know

ACCOMMODATIONS DURING ROLWALING 12-DAY TREK

There are varied accommodations on the Rolwaling Trek. Trekkers typically stay in teahouses or lodges located in villages like Simigaon, Beding, and Na along the way. These lodging options, which include rooms with twin beds or dorm-style setups, vary from basic to luxury.

Facilities are usually simple, with common eating areas where hikers can enjoy hearty meals cooked by local cooks and shared restrooms that offer basic amenities like hot showers (when available).

We advise you to carry your sleeping bags or blankets for added comfort, but teahouses and lodges frequently supply them. To guarantee that lodging will be available along the way, it is advised to make reservations in advance with a respectable trekking service, particularly during busy seasons.

MEALS DURING ROLWALING VALLEY TREK

Meals are usually served at teahouses or lodges along the Rolwaling Valley Trek route. A wide range of regional and global cuisines, including dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, spaghetti, soups, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables, are typically included on the menu.

Typically, breakfast consists of tea or coffee served with eggs, toast, porridge, or pancakes. Several locations serve packed lunches for hikers on the go. Even if there aren’t many alternatives in isolated locations, the meals are usually filling and healthy.

PERMITS REQUIRED FOR TREKKING TO ROLWALING

Obtaining several permissions is necessary for trekking to Rolwaling Valley in order to support conservation efforts and assure conformity with local legislation.

The TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card is first and foremost necessary for trekkers since it facilitates visitor tracking and guarantees their safety.

The Sagarmatha National Park entrance permit is also required because some parts of the journey pass through this protected region.

Additionally, an admission permit to the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality is needed for anybody entering the territory by the Tashi Lapcha Pass.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS DURING ROLWALING TREK

Given the high altitude on the Rolwaling Trek, particularly when crossing the 5,755-meter-high Tashi Lapcha Pass, altitude sickness might be a problem.

Altitude sickness can include tiredness, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and trouble sleeping. Trekkers must properly acclimate by increasing their elevation gradually, drinking enough water, and paying attention to their bodies.

It’s critical to go to a lower altitude as soon as AMS symptoms appear to prevent serious consequences like high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).

Carrying the right drugs, such as acetazolamide (Diamox), can help reduce the risk of altitude sickness during this strenuous experience.

PACKING ESSENTIALS FOR TREKKING TO ROLWALING VALLEY

Clothing: Layered clothing for varying temperatures, including thermal base layers, fleece jackets, waterproof and windproof outer layers, trekking pants, and sturdy hiking boots.

Gear: a comfortable and durable backpack, sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, trekking poles for stability; a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries; and a reusable water bottle or hydration system.

Personal Items: sunscreen, sunglasses with UV protection, lip balm, personal hygiene items, and a first aid kit with medications for altitude sickness, stomach issues, and minor injuries.

Miscellaneous: map and compass or GPS device, trekking permits and identification documents, cash (local currency), and a camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning landscapes.

Optional: binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting; a portable charger for electronics, and snacks or energy bars for quick energy boosts on the trail

THE SERENE VALLEY OF ROLWALING

Rolwaling Valley is a small valley that is surrounded by the magnificent Gauri Shankar mountain and lies in the northeastern part of Nepal. This isolated valley, which lies between the Langtang and Everest regions, provides trekkers with an unspoiled and natural environment.

The valley’s topography is characterized by its rugged landscape, which includes alpine meadows, lush forests, and deep gorges. Glacial lakes dot the landscape, mirroring the towering hills around the valley, one of which is the breathtaking Tsho Rolpa.

The valley’s isolation guarantees that it will always be an area of peace and beauty, apart from the busy hiking paths of the more well-known Himalayan regions.

The rich traditions of the Sherpa and Tamang people who live in the Rolwaling Valley create an intriguing cultural diversity. For decades, these communities have coexisted peacefully with the challenging alpine landscape, upholding a way of life firmly based on Buddhist doctrine and traditions.

The mani walls and chortens that decorate the villages of Rolwaling, like Beding and Na, represent the worldwide impact of Buddhism. Trekkers are welcomed into the homes of the locals, who are renowned for their gracious hospitality and willingness to provide insights into their way of life.

BEST SEASON FOR TREKKING TO ROLWALING VALLEY

The ideal seasons for trekking in Rolwaling Valley are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Trekking in Rolwaling Valley is best done in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).

The weather is often consistent at these times, making it possible to see the breathtaking Himalayan peaks clearly under clear skies. Hikers can enjoy the vibrant colors of blossoming rhododendrons and other wildflowers in the spring, which brighten the rich surroundings.

Autumn is also one of the best seasons for high-altitude hiking and traversing the difficult Tashi Lapcha Pass because it brings clean, crisp air and less chance of precipitation.

Rolwaling Valley experiences significant seasonal and altitude fluctuations in temperature. At lower elevations (around 2,000 to 3,000 meters), daily temperatures in the spring and autumn usually vary from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).

Higher altitudes can have daytime temperatures between -10°C and 5°C (14°F and 41°F) and at night temperatures considerably below freezing, especially in the area around Tsho Rolpa Lake and Tashi Lapcha Pass.

BOOK YOUR TREK TO ROLWALING WITH US

We here at Snow View Trek provide an extensive range of opportunities for travelers to explore Nepal. Our Rolwaling Trekking package is one of many packages that allows you to explore the Himalayas, adding to the thrill of high altitude trekking.

With our team of experts and experienced individuals, we have carefully crafted this 12 day trekking package to Rolwaling Valley. From transportation, accommodation, meals and permits, we ensure to take care of everything, allowing you to have a safe and comfortable journey with us. For further queries or to book your journey to Rolwaling Valley, please feel free to contact us

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