Mountain, Lakes, Rivers, Green hills, Villages, Fields
Region of Nepal
Region of Nepal
Eastern Nepal
Max. Altitude
Max. Altitude
4,580m./15114ft.
Overview
Rolwaling Valley Trek is a unique and lesser-known trekking destination in the Everest region of Nepal. Its off-the-beaten trail takes you into the Gauri Shakar Conservation Area and is close to the Tibetan border.
The Rolwaling Valley is also known as the “Grave” because of its challenging topographical location. Similarly, the valley has another name, “The Land of Yeti,” you will hear many local stories about its sightings and existence. It is a region’s hidden gem with serene and untouched natural beauty. But the trek is a difficult venture requiring basic peak climbing skills. It is more like climbing than trekking.
Despite its challenges, the Rolwaing Trek is a rewarding and remarkable journey. It is even among some of the best treks in Nepal. The breathtaking view of Mt. Langtang, Gauri Shankar, and Mt. Everest is the trekking’s main draw to Rolwaling Valley. En route, trekkers will also come across several glacial lakes, glaciers, moraines, high pastures, waterfalls, remote communities, and other natural features.
Few trekkers have successfully completed this journey because of its remote location. The valley was closed to outsiders until recent years. When one descends to this lovely valley, the trail between the vast mountains and the surrounding splendor graces them.
The Rolwaling Trek is a one-of-a-kind high-altitude journey into a remote area of the Everest region. The trail passes the ancient Sherpa settlement of Beding and Na, which has a rich Tibetan Buddhist culture. These communities offer traditional local traditions and the most difficult Tashi Lapcha pass between Rolwaling Valley and the Khumbu region. The optimum seasons to complete the Rolwaling trip are spring and fall. This trekking is best suited for experienced hikers or seasoned trekkers.
Commence on a thrilling adventure to the Land of Yeti.
Traverse through charming Sherpa settlements, ancient monasteries, dense woodland, green pastures, cascading waterfalls, rivers, and glaciers.
Trek on an off-beat and isolated trail of the Gauri Shankar Conservation Area.
Get to witness the diverse Himalayan flora and fauna.
Visit the picturesque and ancient village of Beding and Na.
Grand view of Mount Everest, Gauri Shankar, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Cho Oyu, Ramdung, Yalung Ri, Pharchamo, and other peaks.
Take an excursion to the stunning turquoise Tso Rolpa Lake.
Learn about the Sherpa community’s unique culture, traditions, and customs.
How Difficult is Rolwaling Valley Trek?
Rolwaling Valley Trek is a challenging trek that requires reasonable fitness, strength, and stamina. Trekkers have to walk on varied terrain while making steep ascends and descends. The trek has a moderate grade but can get physically demanding as you climb to higher altitudes. On average, trekkers walk 5 to 6 hours each day.
The highest point of the Rolwaling Valley Trek is Tso Rolpo Lake, at an altitude of 4500 meters. Hence, there is a risk of altitude sickness. Trekkers must take proper acclimatization and precautions. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the weather becomes more unpredictable. The rapidly changing weather can make the trek more challenging.
The Rolwaling Valley falls in a remote area. Hence, there is a lack of infrastructure, and the accommodations are also basic. Trekking to Rolwaing Valley requires proper physical and mental preparation for a safe and comfortable experience.
January
-10°C to 5°C
February
-8°C to 6°C
March
-5°C to 8°C
April
-2°C to 10°C
May
2°C to 13°C
June
5°C to 15°C
July
7°C to 16°C
August
7°C to 16°C
September
5°C to 15°C
October
0°C to 11°C
November
-5°C to 8°C
December
-8°C to 6°C
Best Season for Rolwaling Valley Trek
The best seasons for Rolwaling Valley Trek are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). These seasons offer the best weather and temperature for trekking. Similarly, there is less rainfall, and the views are stunning. The landscapes are also vibrant and thriving at these times of the year.
Rolwaling Valley’s temperature ranges from -10°C to 16°C throughout the year. The average daytime temperature is 16°C, and the minimum is -10°C. There is a drastic change in temperature between lower and high-altitude regions. The daytime temperature in spring and autumn ranges between 5°C to 15°C.
7 Days Rolwaling Valley Trekking Facts Day-to-day-Itinerary
Day 1
Drive to Jagat /Chhochhot - Trek to Simigaun
Day 1 Facts
Trekking Time Average
160km/08 hours drive - 8 km./02 hours walk
Accommodation
Lodge in Jagat
Altitude
(2020m./6666ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After an early breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, you will meet with your guide. Then, you will drive towards Jagat, the starting point of your trek. The drive will take around 8-9 hours, passing through scenic countryside, rural villages, hills, and rivers. You will stop for lunch and rest before reaching Jagat in the late afternoon.
From Chhochhot, it is a short hike to Simigaun. The trail will take you through beautiful forests, crossing several suspension bridges and passing by small villages. You will stop for a short break before heading towards Simigaun. You will arrive in Simigaun late in the afternoon and stay overnight.
Day 2
Trek to Dongang
Day 2 Facts
Trekking Time Average
14km./06 hours walk
Accommodation
Lodge in Dongang
Altitude
(2790m./9207ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast in Simigaun, you will begin your trek towards Dongang. On this day, you will enter the Rolwaling River valley. The trail crosses several streams and waterfalls through rhododendron and pine forests. The off-beat trail is also distinct; you are less likely to lose your way. Today, it is mostly an uphill, steep trek inside the dense forest trail.
You will take a short lunch break around midday. Then, it is a steep uphill climb to Gyalche. It takes around half an hour to reach Dongan, a small village in a beautiful valley on the river bank. We will stay overnight in a cozy lodge at Dongang.
Day 3
Trek to Beding
Day 3 Facts
Trekking Time Average
16km./06 hours walk
Accommodation
Lodge in Beding
Altitude
(3700m./12210ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our destination for the day is Beding, a beautiful village at the foot of the Rolwaling Himal range. It is a long and demanding climb as we trek to higher altitudes. You will begin by crossing a bridge from Dongang and heading north. Then, you will cross the Rolwaling Khola. While trekking, you can view stunning landscapes of snow-capped mountains and glaciers.
Then, you will cross the Themlung River before reaching the Themlung Valley. From here, you can get a closer look at Mount Gauri Shankar. Similarly, you will see numerous traditional houses and yaks grazing leisurely on the green pastures. En route, you will cross other picturesque settlements such as Jobalu, Nyiamare, Ramding, and Chimmu Golche. Finally, we will arrive at the beautiful and biggest village in the Rolwaling Valley, Beding.
Day 4
Trek to Na - Excursion to Tso Rolpa
Day 4 Facts
Trekking Time Average
16km./06 hours walk
Accommodation
Lodge in Na
Altitude
(4200m./13860ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, DInner
After breakfast, you will trek towards Na, a small village above Beding. As you ascend to a higher altitude, the valley opens up and offers spectacular views. The trail will take you through beautiful icefalls, waterfalls, glaciers, and high mountain passes. Similarly, the vegetation also becomes sparse, with few grasslands and alpine meadows.
You will stop for lunch at a cozy teahouse in Na village. After lunch, you will continue your excursion towards Tso Rolpa, a stunning glacial lake at an altitude of 4500m. The trail goes north, and you must cross the Rolwaling River again. After a few hours of trek, you will reach Tso Rolpa Lake, which sits at the end of the Ripimoshar Glacier. After exploring for a while, you will retrace your way back to Na for an overnight stay.
Day 5
Trek to Dongang
Day 5 Facts
Trekking Time Average
15km./06 hours walk
Accommodation
Lodge in Dongang
Altitude
(2790m./9207ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
It is time to head back, and you will start your trek back towards Dongang. It descends on the same trail you previously climbed. The trail will once again take you through similar landscapes. You will arrive in Dongang late afternoon.
Day 6
Trek to Gongar Khola
Day 6 Facts
Trekking Time Average
14km./05 hours walk
Accommodation
Lodge in Gongar Khola
Altitude
(1430m./4719ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, start your trek towards Gongar Khola, a small village at the bottom of the valley. It is the final day of your trek, so soak into the beauty of the trail, magnificent scenery, and mountain vistas. After a 6-hour trek, you will reach Gongar Khola, the final stop for the day.
Day 7
Drive to Kathmandu
Day 7 Facts
Trekking Time Average
170km./08 hours drive
Altitude
(1295m./4273ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch
You will have your final breakfast in the Everest region before your drive back to Kathmandu. The vehicle retraces the same route that you took on your way to Jagat. The journey will be complete after you reach Kathmandu.
What do you get in the Trip?
Included
Tribhuwan International Airport transfer ( Airport – Hotel – Airport) in Kathmandu.
All meals during the trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Lodge accommodation( Twin share) during the trekking.
One experienced, well trained, fluent English /Local Language speaking, friendly and government authorized trekking guide and required porters (one porter for two persons).
Guide’s food, accommodation, salary, insurance, transportation and equipments.
Necessary permits and documents.
Oxygen saturation check up everyday, A trek map, first aid medicines, water purification, Trekking completion certificate etc.
Government tax and service charge.
Assistance for Emergency Rescue Evacuation.
Public Liability Insurance.
Not included
Hotel and Meals in Kathmandu.
Hard and soft table drinks such as tea/coffee, coke, fanta, mineral water, beer, hot shower, hot water, battery charge etc.
Personal Travel insurance.
Tips for guide and porter.( Highly suggested ).
Book the Trip
Available dates..
Currently, we do not have any scheduled group trips, but you are welcome to embark on the journey on a date that suits you best.
The given rates are per person with guaranteed departure schedules. If the given dates are not appropriate for you, please feel free to contact us for requesting a new dates, we will gladly personalize the itinerary and schedule of the trip that fits for you.
The Rolwaling Valley is in northeastern Nepal. It lies west of Everest, close to the Tibet border. It is within the Gauri Shankar Conservation Area and below the towering Mount Gauri Shankar (7,145 meters). It is one of the most remote valleys in Nepal, with off-beat and less-frequented trails. Due to its challenging and remote location, Rolwaling Valley is the perfect venture for adventure seekers.
The trail begins from the subtropical lush forests, which change into forests of conifers and highland pastures. The Rolwaling Valley has several names, such as Grave and the Land of Yeti. The rough and rocky terrains and desert-like landscape gave the valley its nickname as “Grave.” The valley is home to the gorgeous Tso Rolpa Lake and offers magnificent mountain views.
How do you get from Kathmandu to Rolwaling Valley?
You will begin by driving from Kathmandu to Jagat via Prithvi Highway. It is an 8 to 9 hours drive, passing by picturesque countryside, hills, rivers, and banks. Jagat is the starting point of the trek. The trek route from here enters the dense woodland. Along the way, you will pass by several suspension bridges, traditional settlements, valleys, gorges, rivers, and glaciers. You will mostly walk on off-beat but distinct trails. The terrains are rough and rocky, and the landscape becomes more desert-like as you reach higher altitudes.
Your first stop will be in Simigaon. From here, you will head to Dongang, Beding, and Na. Beding and Na are ancient Sherpa villages and popular stops during Rolwaling Valley Trek. From Na, you will hike to the gorgeous turquoise glacial lake, Tso Rolpa. Then, you will retrace your step back to Dongang and Gonga Khola before driving back to Kathmandu.
Rolwaling Valley Trek Cost
The cost of the Rolwaling Valley Trek can vary depending on the itinerary, duration, and services. The trek cost usually ranges between USD 500 to USD 1500. Nepal Alternative Treks also offers group discounts. Our standard 7-day Rolwaling Valley Trek includes airport transfer in Kathmandu, transportation, meals during trekking (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), accommodation, permits, guide fees, and porter fees.
The trek cost can increase accordingly if you want to extend your stay or add services. Our package does not cover visa fees, travel insurance, accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, drinks and beverages, hot shower charges, battery charges, etc.
Permits Required for Rolwaling Valley Trek
For the Rolwaling Valley Trek, trekkers will require two permits: a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card and a Gauri Shankar Conservation Area Permit.
The costs of the TIMS card are as follows:
Solo SAARC Nationals
NPR 600
Green card
Group SAARC Nationals
NPR 300
Blue card
Solo Non-SAARC Nationals
NPR 1000
Green card
Group Non-SAARC Nationals
NPR 2000
Blue card
The Gauri Shankar Conservation Area Entry Permit costs NPR 3000 per person.
Frequently
Asked Questions
How many days does it take to complete the Rolwaling Valley Trekking?
The Rolwaling Valley Trekking takes around 19-21 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and pace of the trekker.
What is the maximum altitude reached during the Rolwaling Valley
The maximum altitude reached during the Rolwaling Valley Trekking is Tashi Lapcha Pass, which is at an elevation of 5,755 meters (18,881 feet).
What type of accommodation is available during the Rolwaling Valley Trekking?
During the trek, accommodation is available in teahouses and lodges which offer basic facilities such as a bed, blankets, and shared bathrooms.
Is it possible to do the Rolwaling Valley Trekking independently?
Yes, it is possible to do the Rolwaling Valley Trekking independently, but it is recommended to hire a guide or a porter for a better experience and safety.
What permits are required for the Rolwaling Valley Trekking?
Trekkers require a Sagarmatha National Park permit and a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card to do the Rolwaling Valley Trekking.
What are the highlights of the Rolwaling Valley Trekking?
The highlights of the Rolwaling Valley Trekking include beautiful landscapes, stunning views of mountains, the Tsho Rolpa glacier lake, and the Tashi Lapcha Pass.
Is it safe to do the Rolwaling Valley Trekking?
Yes, it is safe to do the Rolwaling Valley Trekking if you take proper precautions such as acclimatizing properly, staying hydrated, and following the instructions of your guide.
Can I combine the Rolwaling Valley Trekking with other treks in the region?
Yes, the Rolwaling Valley Trekking can be combined with other treks such as the Everest Base Camp Trek, Gokyo Lakes Trek, or the Three Passes Trek for a more extensive trekking experience.
We thank our guests for trekking with us, reviewing our services, and making us eligible for the prestigious awards. We also sincerely thank our dedicated staff for their unwavering commitment and continuous support of our company. Without their hard work, dedication, and passion, the awards and achievements we have received wouldn’t be possible.
My friend and I were lucky to find Tej online before visiting Nepal. We knew we wanted to do a trek, but we weren’t sure exactly which trek. Tej sent us a bunch of itineraries for different treks and we chose the Manaslu circuit. When we arrived our guide, Kumar, was waiting for us at the airport and Tej was able to get us all our permits for the trek done in less than 2 hours which was great. The manaslu trek was absolutely amazing! We were super happy with our whole trip and we were lucky to be able to make the pass even though we saw dozens of other people who had to turn back because of the weather. We are already looking forward to going back next year at the same time to trek Everest and we will definitely use Tej again!
“Nepal Alternative Trek addressed my needs according to my schedule and agenda. I stayed most of the time at his home-stay, shuttling between home and the places that I wanted to visit. Tej, the boss behind Nepal Alternative Trek, helped to make my stay in Kathmandu comfortable and productive. He walked me to the monasteries that I wanted to visit and even picked me up when I needed a ride back home.
The home-stay is hosted by his wife and I got to experience living with a Nepalese family, sharing their food, space and laughter.
For the home-stay:
1) Meals available upon request
2) Family get together and chats
3) Regular change of bed-sheets and towels
4) Free WIFI
5) Near Swayambhu and Thamel
6) Safe environment
7) Mountainous forest behind home
8) Walking distance to beautiful monasteries
9) Away from hustle and bustle of towns yet easy to get to town
Goal was achieved 4130 meter and 0 degree celsius, Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It was 6 months of preparation. It was challenging target for us. We had dense forest, mountain, and completely wilderness above the treeline, it was windy and terrain . There is a huge support team. Without them it would not be possible. We can do it , we just have to give time and practice. Mr. Gurung Ji, you with your entire 7 of team were wonderful. They were always ready to help us.
Thanks Mr. Gurung ji for all the support, and guidance that made the trip successful. While all of us focused on Mountain, big thing but there were so many beautiful things along the way, stream, flowers, flora, so many birds I took pictures. So, in summary, phenomenal, success and our confidence there. We know, we can do more and higher in next what bigger thing.
8 days non trek city tour and 21days trek to EBC and chola pass
We love nepal and made 3 time visit to this beutiful country and rich culture. This time last year we came with 6 pax and visited Kathmandu , Pohkara and chitwan with a stay of 2 night in each place. We flew to Pohkara and got the van to chitwan and flew to Kathmandu. Tej arranged all transports overland and flights for us. We did not asked for a local guide but it was all smooth and no problem. We are happy with the service provided by Tej and he made all efforts to make us happy. His company performed professional with the very reasonable pricing. We encountered some small problem with the van transporting us back from nagarkot to kathmandu airport. This van was quite small and it came to pick up quite late that we almost missed the flight to pohkara. We told Tej about this and he must take care of this outsourced van company. Anyway the van in pohkara and to chitwan was excellent , big and comfy. So he has corrected the mistake.
Part 2 was our trek to EBC and chola pass for 21 nights. Tej arranged for flight and guide plus porter. For this trekking it was only me and my wife travelling together. We are about 50 years and used the service of 2 porters cause we bought a lot of dry food plus chocolate. We are difficult persons in terms of foreign food. Our guide Ammer and 2 porters are fabulous. They took care of us very well like we are part of their family.
Overall we strongly recommend this company. They are good and not high expensive tag. We will use their service again in June to trek in Langtang. Rocky
We had a fantastic experience on the Annapurna Circuit with Nepal Alternative Treks. Tej, the manager, was helpful, professional and efficient in dealing with our requirements and amendments, the arrangements worked smoothly and the information provided to us was excellent. Our guide Kul was brilliant. He was friendly, knowledgable and experienced and took changes in our itinerary in his stride. Our trekking experience was much better with his help in everything from planning the stages of the route to organising our food and accommodation. Just one warning: he is an ace card player and will probably beat you hands down!
A wonderful & interesting trek overall. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances ( heavy snow fall & Lie ping with a bad cold) we were unable to cross the Ganja la pass. However, our guide Simbir offered us as alternative trek which took us on a difference journey of Nepal. We had the opportunity to visit & stay in many local villages and meet Tamang, Gurung people experience, their lifestyle and culture. We visited our guide’s home town of Chalishgaun and timed it right to join in with Diwali celebrations!
Attempting Everest base camp trekking for me & my group was taking it to the next level. Before this, our limits were Kedarnath, MadMaheshwar & Tunganath with max distances of 18-19 kms spread over 2-3 days. Moreover, these tracks are such that people doesn’t necessarily have to trek. They have the option of ponies. EBC involves a lot for people like us (acclimatization to altitude, strength etc.), but above all, you need someone to provide logistical support, moral support that it can be done. This is where Nepal Alternative Treks does a great job. They organized it very well, guides and porters provided were very reliable and cost is reasonable when you compare to others. They can customize your travel plan according to your need.
A few weeks ago we went on a trip to Nepal, accompanied by a couple of friends who were on their second trip with Nepal Alternative Trek. Our first goal was to trek to the village of Chalish in Ruby Valley. We decided to go with the services of Nepal Alternative Trek to take us up there. We went there partly by jeep, partly walking through the cultivated terraces, meeting the inhabitants of the different communities who worked there.
I must say that the service that Tej offered us was perfect on all lines. First of all, before our departure, months before, Tej always answered our many questions (luggage, temperature, route to be revised, etc.) Always within 24 hours, he answered with a lot of patience.
All the equipment we thought we would need was available at his office.
Our guide Ammar led us to destination with confidence and professionalism. He knew all the trails, and especially all the shortcuts to avoid us having to go up or down too much along our road. He has managed all the difficulties we have encountered: due to personal reasons, we had to change and our itinerary, and our calendar, and he made everything possible. The whole team adapted to our changes. Our guide contacted Tej who orchestrated the changes without us even having to deal with anything.
The porters were attentive and were always in front of our needs.
Our journey continued towards Bandipur with the driver who made us know the various interesting points, from sunrise to sunset, making detours to take us to the most famous places. Then a 2 days stay in Chitwan, and return to Kathmandu again where the driver carried us without calculating from one place to another – God knows that traffic in Kathmandu, Bakhtapur and Patan can be complicated.
Thanks to Tej, and the whole Nepal Alternative Trek team. We will remember forever that amazing experience.
Many thanks to Tej – well organized, Dhan + hal worked Hard, we could not have done it without there Help, they were always there when needed, worked extra to help us when we were sick. Always kind and cheerful
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