Rolwaling - Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek

Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Trip Type

Lodge Trek

Grade

Moderate

Altitude

5755 m.

Transportation

Jeep & Lukla-Kathmandu by flight

Group Size

1 or more

Best Season

Spring & Autumn

Duration

21 Days

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Rolwaling Trek over Tashi Lapcha Pass

The Rolwaling - Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek is a remote and adventurous journey in the Nepal Himalayas that connects the secluded Rolwaling Valley with the famous Everest region via the high-altitude Tashi Lapcha Pass (5,755 meters). This trek offers a unique blend of untouched natural beauty, rich Sherpa culture, and dramatic alpine landscapes. Trekkers pass through traditional villages, dense forests, and high glacial valleys, with highlights including the stunning Tsho Rolpa Lake and panoramic views of peaks like Gauri Shankar and Melungtse.

Crossing the Tashi Lapcha Pass is both physically demanding and technically challenging, often requiring the use of mountaineering gear. Due to its difficulty and remoteness, the trek is best suited for experienced and well-acclimatized trekkers. It typically takes around 18 to 21 days to complete and requires special permits, including those for the Gaurishankar Conservation Area and sometimes a climbing permit. The trek offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking isolation, adventure, and a deep connection with the high Himalayas.

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Day 1 : Arrival

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

1400

Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer to your hotel. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Trip preparation day

Food

Breakfast

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

1400

Rest day in Kathmandu for trip preparation and collecting permits. You will meet the guide who will brief you about the trek. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Kathmandu – Chhetchhet

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1377

After breakfast, drive from Kathmandu to Chhetchhet (1377m.) takes about 8 hours. The road first follows the Trishuli River, passing green hills, terraced fields, and small towns like Trishuli Bazaar and Dhunche. From Syabrubesi onward, the road becomes rough and bumpy as it winds along cliffs and valleys. Stay overnight at lodge in Chhetchhet.

Day 4 : Chhetchhet - Simigaon

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2000

After breakfast, Trek from Chhetchhet to Simigaon (2000m.) which takes about 3 hours. The trek begins with a steep uphill climb on stone steps through terraced fields and scattered forests. As you gain altitude, enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills, waterfalls, and traditional Sherpa settlements. You will arrive at the picturesque Sherpa village of Simigaon, which offers magnificent views of Gaurishankar Himal and the Rolwaling Valley. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 5 : Simikot - Dokhang

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2790

Trek from Simigaon to Dokhang (2790m.) takes about 8 hours. The trail immediately starts with a steep ascent, following stone steps that climb alongside the Bhote Koshi River. Passing through scattered villages, lush forests, and terraced fields, the path offers fine views of waterfalls and surrounding green hills. The climb is demanding but rewarding as you gradually gain altitude. Stay overnight at lode.

Day 6 : Dokhang - Beding

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3740

Trek from Dokhang to Beding (3740m.) takes about 7 hours. The trail continues to climb gradually through rhododendron and pine forests, following the Bhote Koshi River upstream. You pass several small Sherpa settlements, prayer walls, and colorful mani stones that reflect the local culture. The valley begins to open wider with beautiful views of snow-capped peaks. Beding is the largest village in Rolwaling valley, surrounded by high cliffs and mountains along with Gauri Shankar. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 7 : Rest day at Beding

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3740

Today is a rest day at Beding for acclimatization. You can hike in and around the area for acclimatization and have panoramic views of mountains like Mt. Gauri Shanker and the Tibetan mountains across the Tibetan border. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 8 : Beding - Na

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

4180

Trek from Beding to Na (4180m.) takes about four hours. On this day you explore the upper slopes of the valley for the Snow Partridge or visit the nearby glacier lake. The trail slightly ascends along the river bank. This is an open area with fresh air where you can hear the calming sounds of the flowing river. You encounter panoramic views of the mountains as the trek moves forward. You will also come across a Sherpa village where you can interact with these famous climbers and learn about their culture. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 9 : Rest day at Na

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

4180

Rest Day at Na. You will be able to witness the various views of mountains like Gauri Shanker, Menlung, Yalung and the mountains of the Tibet. You will be on a Yalung Glacier camp today. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 10 : Na – Yalung Ri Base Camp - Na

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

4900

After an early breakfast, leave Na and follow a gradual ascent across the alpine meadows and glacial terrain towards Yalung Ri Base Camp. The trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and the upper Rolwaling Valley. Upon reaching Yalung Ri Base Camp (4900m.), enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Yalung Ri, Ramdung Peak, Chobutse, and other Himalayan giants. Spend some time at the base camp for exploration and photography. Trek back to Na. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 11 : Na – Tso Rolpa

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp

Elevation

4580

Today you will hike to Tso Rolpa Lake for an excursion takes about 5 hours. You will be able to witness the beautiful natural lake filled with the chilling water of the glaciers. Stay overnight at camp.

Day 12 : Tso Rolpa – Trakarding Glacier

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp

Elevation

4800

Trek Tso Rolpa to Trakarding Glacier (4800m.) takes about five hours. Early morning you will walk through the glaciers throughout the day and will be able to experience the new enchanting beauties that would add extra dimensions into your trial. Stay overnight at camp.

Day 13 : Trakarding Glacier - Tashi Lapcha Pedi Camp

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp

Elevation

5755

Trek from Trakarding Glacier to Tashi Lapcha Pedi Camp (5755m.) takes about five hours. The trail will still be ascending through some rock climbing and a gradual walk on the glacier. You will camp in the Tashi Lapcha Pedi camp today.

Day 14 : Tashi Lapcha Pedi Camp - Tashi Lapcha Pass – Tashi Cape

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp

Elevation

5755

Climb from Tashi Lapcha Pedi Camp to Tashi Lapcha Pass (5755m.) to Tashi Cape takes about four hours. You will climb up the Tashi Lapcha Pedi and cross the Tashi Lapcha Pass through Tashi Cape. You trek through snow covered route. Stay overnight at camp.

Day 15 : Tashi Cape - Thyomgbo

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp

Elevation

4350

Trek from Tashi Cape to Thyomgbo (4350m.) takes about four hours. Today you will walk across the glacier. The trail descends down towards Thyomgbo. Stay overnight at camp.

Day 16 : Thyomgbo - Thame

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3820

Trek Thyomgbo to Thame (3820m.) takes about 3 hours. Early morning you will trek down to Thame. This trail gradually descends and you trek an easier trail and will be able to enjoy the natural beauty of the environment. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 17 : Thame – Namche Bazaar

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3440

Trek from Thame to Namche Bazaar (3440m.) takes about 4 hours. The trail descends gently for early one hour to Sanasa (3550m.). Now you can catch a glimpse of the majestic peaks of the Khumbu including Mt Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kangaru. Passing by several villages and numerous teashops, the trail descends steeply to a bridge over the river Dudh Koshi at Phunki Tenga (3250mThe way from Sanasa to Namche is uneven with views of forests, scenery and mountains. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 18 : Namche Bazaar - Lukla

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2886

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2886 m.) takes about six hours. The last day of your trek leads from Namche Bazaar via Monjo to Lukla. The trek is pleasant, except for a few short uphill climbs and then down to the Bhote-Koshi River crossing it three times. The last uphill climb of 45 minutes will bring you to Lukla for your overnight stay. Stay overnight in lodge.

Day 19 : Lukla - Kathmandu

Food

Breakfast

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

1400

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu, a journey that takes approximately 35 minutes. These flights are only operated in the morning, usually between 6 AM and 11 AM, as fierce afternoon and evening winds make it impossible for planes to operate. Our representative will transfer you toy our hotel upon arrival

Day 20 : Free day in Kathmandu

Food

Breakfast

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

1400

Free day in Kathmandu for recreation and relaxation. You can stroll nearby markets and do some shopping. In the evening enjoy a farewell dinner with live cultural show. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 21 : Departure

Food

Breakfast

Elevation

1400

As per your flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to the international airport by a private car.

What Is Included ?

a) Kathmandu

All airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
4 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast at 3-star standard hotel
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening

b) Trekking

Trekking guide
3 porters including cook
All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner) during the trek
Accommodation in lodges/camping tents during the trek as per the itinerary
Required equipment: Tents, ice axe, ropes, mattresses, sleeping bag, down jacket, duffle bag, cooking utensil and trekking poles
Cooking fuel
Camping charges
Entry permits for Gauri Shankar Conservation Area
Entry permits for Sagarmatha National Park
Local Government fee
Special trekking permit for Rolwaling area
Land transportation: Kathmandu to Chhetchhet by private 4-WD jeeps
Flight tickets from Lukla to Kathmandu with airport transfer
Meals, accommodation, transportation, insurance and equipment for the guide and porters
First aid kit
Tax, VAT and our service charge
Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)

What Is Excluded?

Personal expenses (telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot showers, laundry, all drinks including soft drinks, beers, and any alcoholic beverages)
Travel / Medical insurance
Tips for guides and porters
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu

Rolwaling - Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek Altitude Profile

Route Map

FAQs

This is a strenuous and technical trek suited for experienced trekkers. The route involves long days of hiking at high altitudes, crossing glaciers, and navigating a technical pass where ropes, crampons, and sometimes ice axes are necessary. Proper acclimatization, excellent physical fitness, and some basic mountaineering knowledge are essential for a safe and successful trek.

The full trek typically takes 18 to 21 days, depending on your itinerary, acclimatization days, and weather conditions. Some trekkers also combine it with a longer Everest Base Camp trek or return via Lukla, which can influence the total duration.

The ideal seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to early November). These months offer stable weather, clearer skies, and relatively dry conditions, which are crucial for crossing the Tashi Lapcha Pass safely. Winter is too cold and snowbound, while the monsoon brings heavy rain and landslide risks.

Yes, you’ll need multiple permits:

Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP)
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Climbing Permit for Tashi Lapcha Pass (required because the pass is above 5,000 meters and involves technical climbing)
Sagarmatha National Park Permit (after you enter the Everest region)

While not legally mandatory in all sections, a licensed guide is highly recommended — and often required by trekking agencies — because the route is remote, poorly marked in places, and involves technical elements. A guide also ensures safety during the pass crossing and helps with navigation, logistics, and emergency situations.

Some of the major highlights include:

Tsho Rolpa Lake – a stunning glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks.
Tashi Lapcha Pass – a high and technical mountain pass offering epic views.
Gauri Shankar (7,134 m) – a sacred peak revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
Sherpa culture – especially in villages like Beding and Na.
Wild, unspoiled landscapes – deep forests, waterfalls, and glacier valleys.

Yes, some basic mountaineering skills are helpful and sometimes essential. While you won’t be scaling technical peaks, crossing the Tashi Lapcha Pass involves walking on ice, snow, and sometimes steep sections that require fixed ropes. Familiarity with crampons, ice axes, and rope techniques will significantly improve your safety and confidence.

For most of the trek, you’ll find basic teahouses or homestays in villages like Simigaon, Beding, and Na. However, near the pass and glacier sections, you’ll likely need to camp for 2–3 nights, especially around Tashi Lapcha Base Camp. Trekking agencies provide tents, sleeping mats, and meals during these sections.

You’ll mostly get typical Nepali trekking meals, such as dal bhat (rice, lentils, and curry), noodles, soups, potatoes, eggs, and Tibetan bread. In remote areas, food variety can be limited, so bringing some snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate) is recommended. During the camping sections, your support team will cook meals for you.

The trek usually starts at Gongar or Simigaon, which are reachable by drive from Kathmandu (8–10 hours) via Charikot and Dolakha. Roads may be rough, especially after rain, so a 4WD vehicle is preferred.

The highest point is Tashi Lapcha Pass at 5,755 meters (18,881 feet). It’s a glaciated pass that often requires ropes and fixed lines. This section is also the most challenging in terms of altitude and terrain.

Yes, acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a serious concern due to the rapid ascent and high elevations. Proper acclimatization is crucial. It’s recommended to include rest/acclimatization days in places like Beding or Na and to ascend slowly. Know the signs of AMS and always listen to your body.

Technically, it’s possible — but highly discouraged. The route is remote, sparsely populated, and has limited infrastructure. In the high alpine zones, navigation is difficult and rescue is not easily available. Going with a guide and porter or joining a group significantly improves your safety and experience.

If you're looking for raw wilderness, solitude, and a serious adventure, the Rolwaling – Tashi Lapcha trek delivers in every way. It’s not crowded, not commercialized, and offers a genuine Himalayan experience. You’ll see majestic peaks, meet local people living traditional lifestyles, and challenge yourself in ways few treks can match. It’s perfect for those who’ve already done classic routes and are now seeking something wild and memorable.

Additional Information

Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor. Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking.

General Items:

Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)

Clothing Items:

Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff

Sun-worn Items:

Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm

Gadgets:

Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries),

Liquid/Snacks:

Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks

Medical Essentials:

First Aid Kit

Optional:

Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc

Additional items for camping trek:

Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses

Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price.

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