Your Adventure is Around the Corner
Trip Code
AWTE-RT01
Destination
Nepal
Trekking Duration
14 Days
Grade
Strenuous content here
Altitude
5,755m
Activity
Trekking
Best Season
Oct-Nov and March-May
Accomodation
Meals Included
Transportation
Jeep /Flight
Region
Off The Beaten Treks
Start / End Point
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Group Size
4 - 18
The Rolwaling Trek is a challenging but rewarding trek that takes you into the remote yet stunning Rolwaling Valley of Nepal. This trek offers the unique experience of seeing the unspoiled beauty of the Himalayas, untrammeled by the tourist routes of the more popular trekking trails. Rolwaling Valley is famous for its challenging terrain, high-altitude passes, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes, like the stunning Tsho Rolpa. The trek offers breathtaking views of harsh peaks such as Gauri Shankar (7,134m), Melungtse (7,181m), and other Himalayan giants. The trekkers will also encounter diverse plant and animal life, pass-through typical Sherpa villages, and enjoy the rich local culture. The Rolwaling Trek is ideal for adventurous trekkers who would want to undertake a challenging and old-fashioned Himalayan trek.
The Rolwaling Valley in eastern Nepal and bordering Tibet is a gem that lies secluded but offers a trekker a unique and virgin trekking experience. Its seclusion has helped ensure that its natural splendor and cultural authenticity are intact, offering trekkers a peep into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. The region’s breathtaking vistas, ranging from thick forests to desert mountains, fill the heart with wonder and amazement, making it heaven for photographers and a nature lover’s paradise.
The most memorable experience of the Rolwaling Trek is the glimpse of the towering Gauri Shankar, a giant mountain which is held in awe by the locals due to its religious significance. The twin peaks of the mountain are said to represent Lord Shiva and his wife, Parvati. In addition to Gauri Shankar, the trek offers stunning vistas of other mountains with snow covered peaks such as Melungtse, Kang Nachugo, and Kyajo Ri.
Trekkers on the Rolwaling trail will also get a chance to visit remote Sherpa villages and get a glimpse of the local culture and way of life firsthand, witnessing the very unique traditions of these rugged mountain people. Village folk, with their beautifully carved prayer walls, multicolored monasteries, and agrestic farming lifestyle, will reveal to travelers an interesting glimpse of a life that is completely linked with mountains. The friendliness and hospitality of the Sherpa people are a highlight of the trek and create a lasting impression on the guests.
The best seasons to visit the Rolwaling region are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer clear skies, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures, making trekking enjoyable and safe.
Both seasons offer optimal conditions for experiencing the stunning landscapes and cultural richness of the Rolwaling Valley.
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Highest Altitude 1,400m | |
| Start Point Airport | |
| End Point Kathmandu |
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative from Alpine Wonder Treks and Expeditions. They will assist you with your transfer to your hotel. After settling in, you’ll have some time to rest and adjust to the bustling atmosphere of Nepal’s capital city. If time permits, you can explore nearby areas like Thamel, known for its vibrant markets and shops. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Nepali cuisine and learn more about the culture and the upcoming trek.
| Accomodations Hotel in Kathmandu |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Duration 7.5-9 hrs Drive | |
| Highest Altitude 1,150m | |
| Start Point Kathmandu | |
| End Point Jagat | |
| Mode of Transportation Private Transportation |
Today, you’ll embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jagat. The journey begins early in the morning and takes you through winding roads, passing through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and along the banks of rivers. You’ll witness the changing landscapes as you leave the Kathmandu Valley and head towards the eastern part of Nepal. The drive is approximately 7.5-9 hours long, depending on road conditions. Jagat is a small village that serves as the gateway to the Rolwaling region. You’ll spend the night at a local teahouse.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 15km | |
| Trek Duration 5-7 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 2000m | |
| Start Point Jagat | |
| End Point Simi Gaon |
Your trek officially begins today. After breakfast in Jagat, you’ll start trekking towards Simigaon. The trail gradually ascends, taking you through lush forests, crossing suspension bridges over gushing rivers, and passing through small settlements. You’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna along the way. Simigaon is a beautiful village inhabited by Sherpa people, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. The trek takes around 5-6 hours. You’ll spend the night at a teahouse in Simigaon.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 9km | |
| Trek Duration 5-6 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 2,850m | |
| Start Point Simi Gaon | |
| End Point Dovan |
Today’s trek takes you from Simigaon to Dovan. The trail continues to ascend, leading you deeper into the Rolwaling Valley. You’ll trek through dense forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak, with the sound of the river accompanying you. The scenery becomes more dramatic as you gain altitude, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance. Dovan is a small settlement located by the river. The trek is approximately 6-7 hours.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Camping |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Duration 6-7 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 3,690m | |
| Start Point Dovan | |
| End Point Beding |
The trail from Dovan to Beding is steeper and more challenging. You’ll continue to ascend through the valley, passing through terraced fields and small Sherpa villages. The vegetation starts to change as you gain altitude, with the forests gradually giving way to alpine meadows. Beding is one of the largest Sherpa villages in the Rolwaling Valley, offering a fascinating insight into the local culture and lifestyle. The trek takes around 6-7 hours.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Camping |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 10km | |
| Trek Duration 5-6 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 4180m | |
| Start Point Beding | |
| End Point Na Gaon |
Today, you’ll trek from Beding to Na Gaon, the last village in the Rolwaling Valley. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Gauri Shankar (7,134m), a majestic peak that dominates the skyline. You’ll pass through yak pastures and cross several streams. Na Gaon is a remote and picturesque village, surrounded by towering peaks. The trek is about 5-6 hours.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Camping |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 6-8km | |
| Trek Duration 5-6 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 4580m | |
| Start Point Na Gaon | |
| End Point Tsho Rolpa Lake |
Today’s trek takes you to the stunning Tsho Rolpa Lake, one of the largest glacial lakes in Nepal. The trail is relatively challenging, with some steep sections, but the reward is well worth the effort. As you approach the lake, you’ll be mesmerized by its turquoise waters and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Tsho Rolpa is a truly breathtaking sight. The trek is approximately 6-7 hours.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Camping |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Highest Altitude 4580m |
Spend a day exploring the area around Tsho Rolpa Lake. You can hike to nearby viewpoints for even more spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. This day also allows for further acclimatization and provides a chance to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere of this high-altitude paradise. You can also explore the moraines and the glacier that feeds the lake.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Camping |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 6-8Km | |
| Trek Duration 4-5 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 4580m | |
| Start Point Rolpa Lake | |
| End Point Na Gaon |
A rewarding journey from Rolpa Lake to Na Gaon, the Rolwaling Trek weaves through remote valleys, glacial lakes, and hidden Sherpa villages—offering raw Himalayan beauty and quiet moments of connection in nature’s solitude. An unforgettable escape far from the usual trekking crowds. This part of the trek offers a true sense of remoteness and adventure. The trek is around 4-5hours.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Camping |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 6-7km and 9-10 km | |
| Trek Duration 2-3 hrs and 4-5 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 2850m | |
| Start Point Na gaon | |
| End Point Dovan |
From Na Gaon to Beding and Dovan, this stretch of the Rolwaling Trek winds through ancient trails, riverside paths, and quiet alpine forests where prayer flags flutter and time slows. It’s a peaceful walk into the heart of Sherpa culture and untouched mountain life. The trek is 7-9 hours.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Camping |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 9km | |
| Trek Duration 5-6 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 2000m | |
| Start Point Dovan | |
| End Point Simi Gaun |
Today’s trek takes you from Dovan to Simi Gaon. The trail continues to ascend, leading you deeper into the Rolwaling Valley. You’ll trek through dense forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak, with the sound of the river accompanying you. The scenery becomes more dramatic as you gain altitude, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance. Dovan is a small settlement located by the river. The trek is approximately 5-6 hours.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 15km | |
| Trek Duration 5-7 hrs Walk | |
| Highest Altitude 1155m | |
| Start Point Simi Gaon | |
| End Point Jagat |
The trek from Simi Gaon to Jagat gently descends through dense forests, quiet villages, and cascading streams. With every step, the air gets warmer and the sounds of daily life return offering a comforting shift from highland silence to lowland rhythm.
| Meals B,L,D | |
| Accomodations Tea House |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Duration 7.5-9 hrs Drive | |
| Highest Altitude 1400m | |
| Start Point Jagat | |
| End Point Kathmandu | |
| Driving Hour 6 hours |
On the last day of our trekking, the drive from Jagat to Kathmandu winds through hills, rivers, and roadside towns a gentle transition from the quiet trails of Rolwaling back to the rhythm of everyday life.
| Meals B,L | |
| Accomodations Hotel in Kathmandu |
| Itinerary Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Distance 10Km | |
| Trek Duration 30 Min Drive | |
| Highest Altitude 1,400m | |
| Start Point Kathmandu | |
| End Point Airport |
Your journey concludes with a transfer to the airport for your flight back home, marking the end of your unforgettable adventure in the Rolwaling Valley.
| Meals B |
You will need the following permits for trekking in the Rolwaling region:
Your trekking agency will usually assist you in obtaining these permits.
Alpine Wonder Treks and Expedition has the following booking policies:
The Rolwaling Trek is considered challenging to strenuous, especially due to its remote nature, high altitude, and the technical crossing of Tesi Lapcha Pass (5,755m). Trekkers should be physically fit and ideally have previous high-altitude trekking experience.
Yes. Since the trek crosses Tesi Lapcha Pass, which is above 5,000m and considered semi-technical, you will need a climbing permit. In addition, you’ll need:
Yes. The trek reaches elevations over 5,700 meters, so altitude sickness is a serious risk. Proper acclimatization days are built into the itinerary, and it’s essential to ascend gradually and stay hydrated.
The lower parts of the trail offer basic teahouse accommodations, while the upper Rolwaling Valley and Tesi Lapcha area may require camping, especially beyond Na Gaon. Be prepared for limited facilities and bring necessary gear.
No. The Rolwaling Valley is a remote and less-traveled route, making it ideal for those looking for solitude and a more authentic Himalayan experience. You’ll encounter far fewer trekkers compared to popular routes like EBC or Annapurna.
It’s not recommended for beginners due to the altitude, remoteness, and technical terrain. However, fit and determined individuals with some prior trekking experience can complete it with proper preparation and a guide.
While not mandatory, a licensed guide is strongly recommended, especially for crossing Tesi Lapcha Pass safely. A porter can also be very helpful, especially given the long duration and heavy gear required for camping sections.
The trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Jagat, which takes around 7–8 hours. It ends in Lukla, from where you’ll take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu.
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