Overview:

Situated between the Langtang National Park and the Everest region, the Rolwaling Valley is one of Nepal’s most underrated trekking destinations. Easily accessible from Kathmandu, this moderately challenging trek is located in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area. This majestic trek is many trekkers’ dream. Known for its raw and off-the-beaten paths, this valley remains one of Nepal’s least explored places. The trek offers a pristine environment filled with dense forests and glacial lakes.

The Rolwaling Valley is more than just a trek; it offers cultural immersion and a chance to glimpse Nepal’s rural side. The Rolwaling Valley is also known as the land of the Yeti. Many locals still share stories about the mysterious creature and believe it still exists. The valley is also home to many snow-capped peaks like the Gaurishankar, Pharchamo Peak, Khangtari, Bamongo, Khang Karpo, etc. This trek is perfect for those seeking a true wilderness experience and a chance to walk less-traveled paths. This trek also gives the trekkers a chance to witness many diverse flora and fauna despite being high in altitude. In this article, let’s delve into this amazing and unique experience.

Rolwaling Valley Trek’s Info:

  • Trek’s Maximum Elevation: 4580 meters
  • Trek’s Duration: 7-10 days (Depends on Your Itinerary)
  • Trek’s Difficulty: Moderate- Challenging
  • Starting Point: Kathmandu
  • Location: Gaurishankar, Dolakha District, Nepal

Highlights of the Rolwaling Valley Trek:

  1. Tsho Rolpa Lake: Among the many glacial lakes of Nepal, Tsho Rolpa is one of the biggest. Tsho Rolpa is a stunning sight with its turquoise-colored waters framed by the towering peaks that border Tibet. The lake offers breathtaking views and a prime spot to spend time after an exhausting trek. Photographers are blessed with amazing opportunities as the surroundings of this lake are picturesque.
  2. The Spectacular Gaurishankar Mountain: This mountain, towering at 7134 meters, is one of the major highlights of this trek. The trek offers awesome views of this mountain, which is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus. The mountain bordering Tibet is named after the Hindu deities Shiva and Parvati. Along the trek, you can witness this amazing peak up close, which many people only dream of.
  3. Diverse flora and fauna: Despite this region crossing elevations over 4500 meters, trekkers can glimpse many rare plants and animal species along the trek. The Gaurishankar Conservation Area was established to protect the region’s endangered plant and animal species. Some animals include the Snow Leopard, the Himalayan Black Bear, and the Himalayan Tahr. If they are lucky, trekkers can glimpse them.
  4. Cultural Immersion: Trekkers can experience the traditional Sherpa culture by visiting the ancient villages of this region. The remote villages like Beding and Na showcase authentic Sherpa cultures, which can be witnessed during the trek. This point adds a cultural touch to this beautiful trek.
Rolwaling Valley
Rolwaling Valley (Source: Flickr)

 

Itinerary

  • Day 1- Kathmandu to Simigaun: On the first day of the trek, you’ll drive from Kathmandu to ChetChet, Dolakha. On the way, you’ll cross small towns like Charikot, Dolalghat, and Khadichaur. From ChetChet, you need to walk a short distance to reach Simigaun Village. You’ll stay the night at Simigaun.
  • Day 2- Simigaun to Dongang: On the second day of the trek, you need to walk for 6-7 hours to reach Dongang. The trail is moderately challenging, and along the way, you can glimpse small streams, waterfalls, and amazing mountain scenery. You will stay overnight at Dongang.
  • Day 3- Trek to Beding: This walk is the hardest part of the entire trek due to steep ascents and sudden altitude gain. As you approach Beding, the valley starts to open and you get clearer views of the distant mountains.
  • Day 4- Trek to Na Village and Tsho Rolpa Lake: On the fourth day of the trek, the trail becomes much easier, and the views get more mesmerizing. But if you haven’t acclimatized well, you may experience fatigue and tiredness. The trail to Tsho Rolpa from Na village is not strenuous, and you can complete it fairly easily. After walking for hours, you’ll reach Tsho Rolpa Lake. This pristine glacial lake is one of the most picturesque ones.
  • Day 5- On the fifth day, you’ll start to descend. This part of the trek is fairly easy, and you can easily reach Dongang on the same day.
  • Day 6- On the sixth day, you will reach ChetChet village. You need to walk for 5-6 hours to reach ChetChet.
  • Day 7-  ChetChet to Kathmandu: On the last day of your trek, you will either take a local bus to Kathmandu or drive/ride to Kathmandu in your private vehicle.

Permits and Accommodation

In order to trek in this region, you need the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit, which costs Npr 3000. Be sure to acquire this permit beforehand to make your travel safe and secure. You may also purchase the TIMS card, which ensures further safety. There are plenty of tea houses and lodges along the trail. Hence, accommodation is pretty comfortable.

Also Read: A Short Trek With Breathtaking Views: Dhampus Sarangkot Trek