Explore one of Nepal's most remote Himalayan valleys, visit the spectacular Tso Rolpa glacial lake and trek beneath the sacred peak of Gaurishankar while experiencing authentic Sherpa culture far from the crowds
The Rolwaling Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s finest off-the-beaten-path trekking adventures, offering spectacular mountain scenery, authentic Sherpa culture and a genuine wilderness experience far from the country’s more crowded trekking routes. Nestled between the Langtang and Everest regions within the protected Gaurishankar Conservation Area, the secluded Rolwaling Valley remains one of Nepal’s least-visited Himalayan destinations.
The trek follows ancient trails through dense forests, traditional Sherpa villages and dramatic river valleys beneath the towering presence of Mount Gaurishankar (7,134m), one of Nepal’s most sacred and visually striking mountains. As the valley narrows and climbs towards the high Himalaya, trekkers encounter pristine alpine landscapes, glacial rivers and breathtaking mountain panoramas.
A major highlight of the journey is the beautiful Tso Rolpa Lake, one of Nepal’s largest glacial lakes, whose turquoise waters sit beneath a spectacular amphitheatre of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. The trek also includes a hike to Yalung Ri Base Camp (5,100m), providing outstanding panoramic views across the Rolwaling Himal, surrounding glaciers and the Tibetan frontier.
Throughout the trek, visitors experience the unique culture and traditions of the Rolwaling Sherpa people, whose way of life remains deeply connected to Tibetan Buddhism. Ancient monasteries, prayer walls and traditional stone villages offer fascinating cultural insights, while the remote nature of the valley creates a true sense of Himalayan exploration.
Ideal for trekkers seeking solitude, stunning mountain scenery and authentic cultural experiences, the Rolwaling Valley Trek showcases one of Nepal’s most beautiful and overlooked Himalayan regions.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Rolwaling Valley – Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, trek briefing and preparation in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Gongkar Khola (1,430m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 3: Trek from Gongkar Khola to Simigaun (2,036m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 4: Trek from Simigaun to Dokhang (2,791m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 5: Trek from Dokhang to Beding (3,740m), approx. 6 hours.
Day 6: Acclimatisation day in Beding.
Day 7: Trek from Beding to Na (4,180m), approx. 2 hours, followed by an excursion to Tso Rolpa Lake (4,540m), approx. 4 hours.
Day 8: Hike to Yalung Ri Base Camp (5,100m) and return to Na, approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 9: Trek from Na to Dokhang (2,791m), approx. 6 hours.
Day 10: Trek from Dokhang to Simigaun (2,036m), approx. 5 hours.
Day 11: Trek from Simigaun to Jagat (1,150m), approx. 3 hours.
Day 12: Drive from Jagat to Kathmandu, approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 13: Departure from Nepal.
The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Trek Briefing and Preparation
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will meet your guide for a detailed trek briefing and final preparation session. This is an opportunity to review the itinerary, check equipment and complete any last-minute shopping before heading into the mountains.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Gongkar Khola(1,430m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Leaving Kathmandu behind, the journey heads northeast through rolling hills, terraced farmland and traditional villages. Following scenic mountain roads, the drive offers impressive views of rural Nepal before reaching Jagat, the starting point of the Rolwaling Valley Trek.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 3: Trek from Gongkar Khola to Simigaun (2,036m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
Today’s trail follows the Tama Koshi River before climbing steadily through forests, terraced fields and traditional settlements. As elevation is gained, beautiful views of surrounding hills and distant Himalayan peaks begin to emerge. Simigaun is a traditional Sherpa village perched on a hillside overlooking the Rolwaling Valley.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 4: Trek from Simigaun to Dokhang (2,791m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
The trail enters the heart of the Rolwaling Valley, passing through dense forests of rhododendron, oak and pine. Crossing suspension bridges and following rugged mountain paths, the route offers increasingly dramatic views as the valley narrows and the mountains rise above. Arrive at the small settlement of Dokhang surrounded by pristine wilderness.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 5: Trek from Dokhang to Beding (3,740m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
Continuing deeper into the valley, today’s trek follows glacial rivers and alpine landscapes beneath towering Himalayan peaks. The traditional Sherpa village of Beding sits beneath the impressive south face of Gaurishankar and serves as the cultural centre of the valley. Ancient monasteries, prayer flags and stone houses reflect the area’s strong Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 6: Acclimatisation Day in Beding (B L D)
A full day is spent acclimatising to the increasing altitude while exploring Beding and its surroundings. You may visit the village monastery, interact with local residents or take short walks above the settlement for spectacular views of Gaurishankar and the surrounding mountains. This important rest day helps prepare for the higher elevations ahead.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 7: Trek from Beding to Na (4,180m) and Excursion to Tso Rolpa Lake (4,540m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
A short morning trek leads to the seasonal settlement of Na, located amidst broad alpine meadows beneath impressive Himalayan peaks. After settling into the lodge, continue to the magnificent Tso Rolpa Lake, one of Nepal’s largest glacial lakes. The brilliant turquoise waters, surrounded by glaciers and snow-covered mountains, create one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Himalaya.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 8: Hike to Yalung Ri Base Camp (5,100m) and Return to Na | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Today offers the highest point of the trek and one of its most rewarding viewpoints. Climbing steadily above Na, the route ascends through rugged alpine terrain to Yalung Ri Base Camp. From here, enjoy panoramic views across the Rolwaling Himal, Tso Rolpa Lake, surrounding glaciers and peaks extending towards the Tibetan border. After taking in the extraordinary scenery, descend back to Na.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 9: Trek from Na to Dokhang (2,791m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
Leaving the high alpine landscapes behind, descend through the valley while enjoying fresh perspectives of the mountains and glaciers. The trail retraces the route past Beding and through beautiful mountain scenery before reaching Dokhang.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 10: Trek from Dokhang to Simigaun (2,036m) | Approx. 5 Hours (B L D)
The descent continues through forests, river valleys and traditional settlements. As you lose elevation, the vegetation becomes increasingly lush and the warmer temperatures provide a welcome contrast to the high mountain environment.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 11: Trek from Simigaun to Jagat (1,150m) | Approx. 3 Hours (B L D)
A relatively short final day of trekking takes you back through terraced farmland and rural villages to Jagat. The afternoon provides time to relax and celebrate the completion of your trek in this remarkable Himalayan valley.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 12: Drive from Jagat to Kathmandu | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L)
After breakfast, begin the return journey to Kathmandu. Travelling through scenic mountain landscapes and rural communities, the drive offers a final opportunity to enjoy Nepal’s countryside before arriving back in the capital.
Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 13: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight marking the end of your Rolwaling Valley Trek adventure.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, trail conditions or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 1 night pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team
- Basic teahouse/lodge/camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers etc., during the trek
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on domestic flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Rolwaling Valley – Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
10 Days
Annapurna Region
Easy/Moderate
