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17 Days Rolwaling Eco Cultural Trek

Group Size 2 and more
Mode of Travel Moderate to Strenuous
Accommodation Hotel/Lodge/Teahouse
Meals Full Board (during trek) and breakfast in Kathmandu
Transportation Private Vehicle/Bus

trip Overview

Rolwaling Eco Cultural Trek takes you deep into the pristine region lying on the southern flank of the Rolwaling range. The Himalayan range lies in the north the of Dolakha district in central Nepal. The range between Everest in the east and Langtang in the west is called the Rolwaling range. This range acquires fame for Mount Gaurishankar (Shankar means Mahadev and Gauri his consort in Sanskrit) and Tso-Rolpa Glacier Lake. Mount Gaurishankar (7145m), besides being holy, is a scenically very beautiful mountain.

As you trek along the trail, get a miraculous experience with some majestic Himalayan sceneries of the region, dominated by Mt. Gaurishankar. On the way, meet the villages that have remained out of even the slightest modern influences. And also explore the vibrant Buddhist culture in the higher region. The high villages of Beding and Na are fine specimens of unspoiled rural life and customs. In addition, when you reach the  Tso-Rolpa Lake, you will see with your own eyes the threat posed by global warming.

The glacial lake existed only in tiny form till two decades ago. It blew up into alarmingly gigantic proportions because of the melting of glaciers due to global warming. After the government perceived the threat of a glacial lake outburst here, they took immediate action. They installed sirens along the bank of the Tamakoshi River that drains the lake. Otherwise, it could cause untold damage downstream.

Starting in 1998, an outlet to the lake was built to let its waters flow down in a controlled manner. Therefore, the Rolwaling trek is also an essential eco-trek that gives you firsthand experience of the environmental threats because of human activities.

An intimate experience of the high mountain region, together with various ethnicities with their centuries-old culture and ways of life. Trekking is moderate but for beginners can be strenuous. The additional advantage of the permit is that you can utilize it by climbing Mt Ramdung or Parchamo.

Rolwaling trek remains one of the most mysterious, least-explored regions of Nepal. However, its high Himalayan sceneries, spectacular waterfalls, floral and faunal diversity, and its remoteness alone do not exhaust its attractions. There is an equally vibrant culture in the villages up the trail. Come and join us for the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek.

Itinerary

30-45 minutes Hotel

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, an Outdoor Himalayan Treks representative welcomes you and transfers you to the hotel. Introduction with a guide, check the trekking gears. Night in the hotel.

3-4 hrs Hotel

While we process your documentation (issuing of trekking permit and TIMS), you can enjoy sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley with our tour guide. (Optional with an Extra Cost)

5-6 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to Shigati in a local bus adoring the surrounding views from Kathmandu. The bus ride is more enjoyable with the views of snow-covered mountains, green hills, terraced fields, small villages, flowing rivers, and zig-zag roads. Arrive at Shigati for an overnight stay.

5-6 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Following the deep valley gorge of Bhote Koshi River, cross the suspension bridge and walk through the beautiful villages. Traverse the forested trail covered by orchids and wild vegetation. After crossing another suspension bridge, walk further and arrive at Jagat.

5-6 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Walk past on a comfortable trail following the steep ascending and descending trail cherishing the surrounding landscapes. Cross the suspension bridge and several beautiful settlements and finally enter the lovely village of Simi Gaon. This village is inhabited by Sherpa and Tamang ethnicities. Get a first glimpse of Mt. Gaurishankar which looks very amazing.

6-7 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Pass through numerous small villages and ascend on the trail surrounded by various wild vegetation. Trek slowly as the altitude rises. Admiring the vicinity, walk past following ascending and descending trails and arrive at Daldung La.

6-7 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Walk through the forested trail and climb uphill admiring the diverse flora and snowy mountains in the backdrop. As you enter the beautiful Sherpa village Beding, the breathtaking view of Mt. Melungtse I welcomes you.

4-5 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Today is an acclimatization day, the important part of the trek. It is vital to adapt to the surroundings' altitude and prevent altitude sickness. Spend the day taking a short hike to Malung Kharka Pass where trekkers can get phenomenal views of more than 15 snow-capped peaks. Also, the village of Beding and the greenery from the top of the pass looks outstanding. Back to Beding after a short hike and spend the rest of the day on your own or interacting with locals and enjoying local foods.

4-5 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Experience the altitude gain as you trek towards Na Gaon. Along the bank of the river, walk through an ascending trail. A beautiful Sherpa village Na sits beneath the Tsho Rolpa Glacial Lake. Admiring the surrounding views, enter Na Gaon which welcomes you with splendid views of Mt. Yalung Ri, Chobutse, and Chugimago.

3-4 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

The altitude is challenging so the second acclimatization day is scheduled. On this day, spend the day hiking to Yalung La Pass. Walk slowly and from here relish the fantastic views of Mt. Gaurishankar, Ramdun Peak Icefall, Yalung Glacier, Yalung Ri, Ramdung Peak, and Tibetan peaks. Explore the mesmerizing Tsho Rolpa Glacial Lake which is at an elevation of 4,525m and the highest point of the trek. Take pictures, create memories, and descend back to Na Gaon.

4-5 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Admiring the panoramic views of Gaurishankar, Yalung Ri, Chobutse, Melungtse I, Chugimago, and other peaks descend through the forested trail. Reach Beding for an overnight stay.

5-6 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Follow the forested trail surrounded by various flora. Traverse beautiful small settlements walking on descending and ascending trails to reach Daldung La.

6 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Pass through picturesque Sherpa villages, cross suspension bridges, and walk on descending and ascending trails. Cherish the lovely view of Mt. Gaurishankar and continue to trek until you arrive at Simi Gaon.

5-6 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Walk through a forested trail after crossing a suspension bridge. Pass through small villages adoring the natural beauty of the surroundings. Again, cross a suspension bridge and reach Jagat.

6-7 hrs Lodge/Teahouse

Admiring the surrounding picturesque beauty trek to Shigati. Follow the trail with short ascend and descend walks and relish the towering mountain peaks in the background.

5-6 hrs Hotel

Drive back to Kathmandu enjoying the scenic ride. Transfer to the hotel and rest and relax. In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner. Overnight in a hotel.

Farewell and airport transfer at your required time.

What's included

  • Accommodation: 3 nights in a deluxe hotel in Kathmandu (Either Hotel Mums Home or Hotel Friends or similar); Teahouses or Lodges during the trek
  • Meals: Breakfast in Kathmandu; 3 meals a day during the trek
  • Transportation: Kathmandu - Shigati - Kathmandu by bus. Airport-hotel-airport transfers by private transport.
  • Human resource: Professional English-speaking trekking guide and required porters, with their entire expenses covered (wages, meals, insurance, etc.)
  • Equipment: Sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles, etc.
  • Permits: Rolwaling Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project (GCAP), and TIMS (Trekker's information management system) Card
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no 'hidden charges' afterward.
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show)
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf.

What's not included

  • Beverage (cold drinks, bottled mineral water, tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals, battery charging fees, photography charges, etc.)
  • Tips or donations
  • Your travel insurance

Guidelines

Accommodation

  • Locally owned teahouses or lodges.
  • Very basic but comfortable teahouses (beds, quilts, and pillows).
  • Bathrooms are mostly outside the teahouses.
  • Pay an additional cost for services (Wi-Fi, laundry, hot water, and showers).
  • Internet and phone networks are mostly stable in the lower regions.

Meals

  • Full-board meal options during the trek. (B+L+D)
  • The meals served during the trek are healthy and hygienic.
  • The vegetables are prepared from fresh home-grown crops.
  • Variety of meals to choose from on the menu. (Nepali Dal-Bhat, steamed mo: mo, hot thukpa, hot coffee, ginger honey tea, etc.)

Drinking water

  • Mineral water costs USD 2-4 per bottle.
  • Fill boiled water at teahouses paying an additional cost.
  • Fill tap water and use a water purification solution to prevent water-borne diseases.
  • Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution.

Transportation during the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek

  • Kathmandu - Shigati - Kathmandu by bus.

Best Time for Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek

Rolwaling Eco-Cultural trek is a moderate-level trek. The ideal seasons for this trek are Spring and Autumn as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. Read More

Trekking Permits for Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek

Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek requires compulsory three permits i.e. Rolwaling Restricted Area Permit (RAP), Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project (GCAP), and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Rolwaling Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
USD 20 per person per week

Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project (GCAP)
Foreigners- NPR 3000/person
SAARC- NPR 1500/person

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
SAARC- NPR 1000/person
Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek Difficulty

Rolwaling Eco-Cultural trek is a moderate-level trek with a maximum elevation of 4,525 m. Walking daily long hours on the steep ascending and descending rough trails can be challenging for trekkers. Read More

Altitude Sickness in Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek

The maximum elevation during the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural trek is 4,525 m (Tso Rolpa Glacial Lake). Hence, altitude sickness is common and acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it. Read More

Fitness Level

Rolwaling Eco-Cultural trek demands trekkers to have good fitness levels. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, good physical fitness, and following the guide’s instructions Rolwaling Trek is achievable. Read More

Skills

Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points.

Travel Insurance

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange for a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. All these costs shall be borne by your travel insurance company.

Required Equipment/Gears

Rolwaling Eco-Cultural is a moderate-level trek. Thus, only requires basic equipment and gear which trekkers can hire or bring on their own. Read More

Documents required

  • TIMS Card and RAP
  • Gaurishankar Conservation Area Trekking Permit
  • Scanned copies of passport photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel insurance

FAQs

Why trekkers should go for the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek?
The Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek is a scenic and culturally rich trek that takes you through stunning landscapes, and remote villages, and offers insights into the unique culture and traditions of the Sherpa and Tamang communities.

How long is the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek?
The Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek normally takes around 15 to 17 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and your trekking pace. This duration includes trekking days, and rest days, and allows for proper acclimatization.

What level of fitness is required for the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek?
It is recommended to have a reasonable level of fitness and some experience in trekking at high altitudes to better cope with the challenging terrain and altitude.

Which seasons are suitable for the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek?
Spring (Mar to May) and Autumn (Sep to Nov) seasons are suitable for the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek. These months offer favorable weather conditions, clear views, and pleasant temperatures for trekking.

What permits do I need for the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek?
The permits required are the Rolwaling Special Trekking Permit, the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP), and the TIMS card. Your trekking agency or guide can assist you in obtaining these permits.

How physically demanding is the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek?
The Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves long days of walking, steep ascents and descents, and varied terrain. Good physical fitness and stamina are recommended to enjoy the trek to the fullest.

What is the chance of altitude-related risks on the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek?
While the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek does not reach extremely high altitudes, there is still a chance of altitude sickness. Adequate acclimatization, proper hydration, and following the guidance of your guide will minimize the risks. It's important to be aware of symptoms and descend if necessary.

What are the accommodation options during the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek?
Accommodation during the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek mainly consists of teahouses or lodges in the villages along the trekking route. These teahouses provide basic facilities such as a bed, meals, and sometimes hot showers. However, the facilities may be more basic compared to popular trekking regions.

Is it safe to drink water during the trek?
It is advisable to drink purified or treated water during the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek to avoid waterborne illnesses. You can carry water purification tablets or use a water filter. Bottled water may not be readily available, so it's important to be prepared with water purification methods.

What cultural experiences can I expect on the Rolwaling Eco-Cultural Trek?
The Rolwaling Valley is known for its rich cultural heritage. On the trek, you get the opportunity to visit traditional Sherpa and Tamang villages, interact with locals, witness their daily lifestyle, and learn about their customs and traditions. You may also visit ancient monasteries and experience local festivals if you are there during the festive month.

CANCELLATION

  • Free cancellation up to 60 days prior departure
  • 30% of the total cost of the trip will be charged if cancelled between 60 to 30 days prior to departure date
  • 60% of total cost of the trip will be charged if cancelled in between 30 to 14 days prior to departure date. 
  • No refund will be provided if cancelled within 14 days prior of departure date.
  • No refunded will be provided if the guest will not show up. 
  • Regrettably, in case where the trek/tour can not be completed due to customer's own problem or sickness or unfavourable weather there will be no refund. 
  • If the trekking/tour is extended more than given itinerary extra charge will be applied accordingly 
  • If the agreed trip can not be organised due to bad weather or any unforeseen events, similar trip will be organised (in the mutual understanding with the travellers)