TASHI LAPCHA PASS TREK
TASHI LAPCHA PASS TREK
WILD WILDERNESS FRONTIER EXPERIENCE TO REMOTE ROLWALING VALLEY.
MORE THAN 50 SOARING PEAKS TO FEAST YOUR EYES ON IN THE LAND OF SMILING SHERPAS & THEIR PEACEFUL BUDDHIST TRADITIONS.
The Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek (5755m) is a less traveled adventure that combines the remote Rolwaling Valley ((Gaurishankar) and Khumbu regions of Nepal in one package. You can take in the spectacles of Melungtse (7181m) and Melungtse II (7023m) inside Tibet and Gaurishankar (7134m) on the border of Nepal. Besides these giant peaks, there are 50 others over some 6000m extending from the Nangpa La Pass where the Mahalangur section begins southwest to the Tamaki River. Trek through Sherpa villages, such as Tasi Nam, Simigau, and being located in the Rolwaling Valley and get to understand their culture and traditions – and of course feel their warmth and hospitality. The Sherpa people have a smile that is contagious! Trekkers can reach Everest Base Camp by crossing Tashi Lapcha Pass or by a direct flight to Lukla. The Rolwaling Valley is a valley (within the Gaurishankar Conservation Area) that traverses from east to west just below Mt. Gaurishankar (7145m) slightly south of the border. Due to its depth, it is often cloaked in cloud adding to its mystical and eerie appearance.
On this trek, you will be in awe of numerous peaks, such as Mt. Gaurishankar, Dorje Lakpa & Mount Everest. You will also see Tsho Rolpa Lake, one of the largest glacial lakes in Nepal located at an altitude of 4580 meters in the Rolwaling Valley.
This is a more physically demanding trek due to the high altitudes, particularly trekking through Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass (5755m). The remoteness of the Rolwaling Valley will bewilder you and the quiet will calm you! This area is also the home to the fabled Yeti, an elusive creature that supposedly with human characteristics!
The Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek starts with a drive to Shigatse Village (3800m) and then the trail passes the villages of Jagat, Simigaun (3520m), Donga, Beding and Na where the valley opens up. Another interesting and remote location is a trek to Yalung Base Camp an isolated and remote location. After leaving Na Village we ascend to Tsho Rolpa Glacial Lake and then to the Rolwaling Glacier ice field. From here we climb to Tashi Lapcha Pass (5755m) and amazing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains before descending on the trail to Namche Bazaar via Thame and then to Lukla where we catch our scenic flight back to Kathmandu.
The Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek will test your fitness, hence the necessity to prepare beforehand which will make this, not just less physically demanding, but more enjoyable. The Sherpa Expedition and Trekking team will help you prepare for this out of the way journey into the forgotten regions of the Gaurishankar Conservation Area. This trek is less traveled and ensures you of a more unique experience trekking in Nepal.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu transfer to hotel (1,350m)
On arrival at Kathmandu airport, you will be met by a representative from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking who will take you to your 3-star hotel. You can rest at your hotel or stroll around Thamel and do some last-minute shopping and take in the local cafes, restaurants, and shops to do some last-minute shopping prior to your journey.
Day 2 : Prepare for trek and explore Kathmandu.
Today, we will spend the day sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley with our guide. We will visit Pashupatinath, which is regarded as the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal and where pilgrims worship Lord Shiva (situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River), Bouddhanath, a Buddhist temple known as ‘Little Tibet’ and then on to Swayambhunath known as the Monkey Temple. From Swayambhunath we drive to Kathmandu’s famous Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and located in front of the old royal palace. Upon arriving back at your hotel you may have time to do some last-minute shopping around Thamel – the tourist hub of Kathmandu. Back at your hotel, your guide will help you prepare for your trek.
Day 3 : Drive from Kathmandu to Sigatte (1,020m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we travel by jeep from Kathmandu to Sigatte with enough variation in the landscape to interest you along the journey. You may be surprised as we turn a corner and before you is a snow-clad mountain that looms before your eyes. We will stop along the way and visit Bhimeswor Temple, one of the oldest in Dolakha at around 200 years. An hour later on a fairly rough road, we come to the place where we will camp for the night, ideally located on the bank of the Tama Kosi River.
Day 4 : Trek from Sigatte to Jagat (1,250m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trial today heads into the Bhote Koshi Valley near the Tibetan border. The trail takes us through valleys, past terraced farmland and quaint villages. We continue and walk through a dense rhododendron forest before crossing a suspension bridge just before Jagat. Along the trail expect to pause and admire the awesome views of Gaurishankar (7145m), the second highest peak in the Rolwaling Himal, slightly less than Melungtse (7181m). Overnight camp intent.
Day 5 : Trek from Jagat to Simigaon (2,773m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we leave the valley and head in an easterly direction before ascending to the Sherpa and Tamang village of Simigaon. Like many mountain villages the countryside is abundant with terraced farm land. Just above Gaurishankar on a hill is a Tibetan monastery.
Day 6 : Trek from Simigaon - Donga (2800m/9185ft) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail today passes through a rhododendron and bamboo forest prior to entering the Rolwaling Valley. The trail gradually ascends to Gyalche (1760m) before heading back down to the river valley. Tonight we make the camp of the banks of the Rolwaling Khola (river) beneath the shadow of the towering Mt. Gaurishankar.
Day 7 : Trek from Donga to Beding (3,690m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our trail today heads uphill through a forest with opportunities to take in some fantastic mountain views and nearby landscape. On arrival at Beding we have a clear view of Mt. Melungtse I (7181m), the highest peak in the Rolwaling Himal. Beding has been known for years and especially by the early mountaineers heading for Everest. Beding is a traditional Sherpa village and its hospitality extends to its making of Chaang (barley beer) and salted yak butter tea. In the centre of the village lies a Buddhist monastery of significant importance to the community. Tonight we camp on the bank of the river in Beding.
Day 8 : Beding rest and acclimatization day & Malung Kharka trek; Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today is an important day as we need to acclimatize before heading to higher altitudes. Health specialists recommend staying active to better assist the process. One option is to take a trek to Malung La Pass (5616m) that would assist in acclimatizing. As we climb to the pass the views become more spectacular and ultimately we can see more than fifteen snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and areas of the forest below us– a real feast for the eyes!
Day 9 : Trek from Beding to Na (4,185m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The initial part of today’s trek is a short distance to Na, situated on the bank of a river. From Na, we can explore the vivid blue glacial lakes and the surrounding mountains reflecting off them. Na village sits in a valley just below the Tsho Rolpa Glacier Lake. From here we have more amazing views on the towering snow-clad peaks of Chobutse (6685m), Chugimago (6259m), and Yalung Ri (5630m). We make camp in this small Sherpa village for the night.
Day 10 : Trek from Na – with further rest and acclimatization with trek to Yalung La Pass; Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today is another day where we must acclimatize to avoid the risk of altitude sickness. We have the option of climbing to Yalung La Pass (5094m). On the way, we have a startling view of Ramdung Peak’s glacier and numerous streams cutting through it. From here we also can see Tsho-Rolpa glacier lake, Yalung Glacier in the east, and Ramdung Peak (5930m) in the south, Yalung Ri (5630m) in the west and stunning views of the Himalayans in the north toward the border with Tibet. Tonight we sleep in a tent at Na.
Day 11 : Trek from Na to Nyiduk Kongma (4,750m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today the trail heads up to the dam that holds back Tsho-Rolpa Lake. Due to the lake’s expansion and unstable nature, the authorities have placed early warning systems on the damn wall in the event it breaks and destroys livestock and over 6000 villagers living further down on the Tamakoshi River. We then follow the trail until we come to what appears to be an amphitheatre (4900m) where we set up camp for the night located between the Tsho Rolpa and Trakarding (4858m) glaciers.
Day 12 : Trek from Nyiduk Kongma to Drolumbau Glacier (5,205m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we head to the Trakarding glacier climbing up a 160-meter rock face before reaching the camping site for tonight. Trading is a massive rocky terrain. There are some stunning views of the Trakarding glacier below and the Drolumbau glacier in the north along with numerous streams flowing from the glacier. Tonight we camp here.
Day 13 : Trek from Drolumbau Glacier to Tashi Lapcha Pass (5755m) & descent to camp (5460m) Duration: 7-9 hours.
Today the trail is somewhat difficult and physically demanding as we climb a fairly steep trail to Drolumbau Glacier. Once there we will be amply rewarded with some fantastic views of Tengi Ragi Tau (6943m), Bigphero-Go Shar (6729m), Dragkar-Go (6793m) and numerous other peaks along the Tibetan border. Our trail takes us across moraines and some moderate slopes, across areas of glacial ice as we ascend to the summit. Tonight we camp 300m below the summit at the pass.
Day 14 : Trek from the camp below Tashi Lapcha Pass to Thame (3,805m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s trek is more relaxing as we descend to Thame. Prior to entering Thame we catch views of its picturesque monastery on a nearby hill before we finally enter this amazingly quaint Sherpa village. Thame is a gathering place and central hub for Tibetan traders in the region along with their yak caravans making it a relatively colorful hive of activity. Their caravans have made their way through Nangpa La Pass (5716m) and are ultimately heading to Namche Bazaar and further afield. We set up camp here for the night.
Day 15 : Trek from Thame to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today is an easy day as we trek for 3 to 4 hours before reaching Namche Bazaar where we stay the night. Guesthouse accommodation.
Day 16 : Trek from Namche Bazaar to Everest View Hotel (3,880m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today’s trek will take us to Syangboche Airport (3700m) that claims to be the highest airport in the world and then continue on to Everest View Hotel –well known for its panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Amadablam, Tawache, and other peaks. On the return journey, we will visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery. Guesthouse accommodation.
Day 17 : Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
This is our final day of trekking before returning to our starting point at Lukla. This is a time to reflect on the unforgettable memories of our trek as a group and our achieving our individual goals. A free afternoon allows you time to relax and enjoy a hot shower! In the evening we will celebrate with a few drinks and dance.
Day 18 : Fly from Lukla back to Kathmandu; Duration: 30 minutes flight.
After our Tashi Lapcha Pass trek, we take an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. After arriving at Kathmandu, you can take a rest or do some shopping. This is also a time to catch up on visiting places you missed on arrival in Kathmandu. Our guides will continue to assist you with b souvenir shopping or sightseeing.
Day 19 : Leisure Day in Kathmandu
Today is a day of leisure in Thamel where you are free to rest or to explore Kathmandu and maybe catch up on some last-minute shopping.
Day 20 : Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.
Your adventure comes to an end today – but your memories will last a lifetime! Our company representative will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure and explore the most magnificent mountains of Nepal.
SERVICES
Cost Included In Your Package
- Airport transfer on arrival and departure by private vehicles
- Three nights’ standard accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu in a twin-sharing basis including 3 breakfasts.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, the main course) during the trek.
- One highly experienced Sherpa Teams’s government-licensed, English-speaking local guide covering meals, flight, insurance, accommodations, and equipment for the guide.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- All the necessary documents such as Sagarmatha national park Fees and TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)
- Trekking lodges or tea houses during the trek & tent camp
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- An assistant guide for the group of 8 pax or above
- Four nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
- Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu including tour guide and car
- Three Meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) prepared by our expert cook
- Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu including departure Tax
- Seasonal available fresh fruits every evening after dinner.
- Sherpa Teams' Certificate of appreciations after the successful trek
- Sherpa Teams’s complimentary free hiking T-shirt.
- Oximeter to measure your oxygen and Pulse level during the trek in the mountain, it’s very useful for all the trekkers to be aware of the high altitude sickness.
- Emergency rescue operation assistance in arranging in case of complex health conditions (funded by your Travel Insurance)
- All government, Local taxes, and official Expenses
Cost Excludes
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Extra nights accommodation and meals before and after the trek
- International airfare
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- Travel insurance - insurance has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation
- Personal cloths and trekking equipment
- Additional cost, the itinerary modifications or delay caused by out of management control due to the weather condition, illness, change of government policies, strikes, and physical condition, etc.
- Gratitudes to the guides and staffs (Recommended by Nepali culture )
- Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the Price "inclusive section" of this program
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Sleeping Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Duffel Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker or windcheater
- Thermal underclothes
- Rain poncho
- Down jacket (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece or wool trousers
- Sun hat or scarf
- Trekking pants (two pairs)
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Hiking socks (several pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts, including t-shirts
- Trekking shoes or boots with spare laces
- Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Swimsuit or swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch
- Sleeping bag (Sherpa Teams can provide this for you)
- Trekking poles (if desired)
- Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters
- Small lock for your backpack
- Reusable water bottles (at least two liters)
- Water purification tablets or filtration device
- Wash towel
- Basic first aid kit
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom - in Namche which is a thriving town seeing many more tourists and a greater range of accommodation. It should be noted that at higher elevations the quality of accommodation may not be as good, with more basic rooms with the bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Khumbu region is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpas’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We do not have to use public transportation or local buses during the trek. Our only flights are from Kathmandu to Lukla and return.
Physical fitness
Tashi Lapcha Pass is a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus!. We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek?
The Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek is a challenging and adventurous trek in Nepal that takes you through the remote and less-traveled regions of the Rolwaling and Khumbu valleys. The highlight of this trek is crossing the Tashi Lapcha Pass, which sits at an altitude of 5,755 meters (18,881 feet).
How long does the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek take?
The duration of the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek can vary depending on the itinerary and your fitness level. On average, it takes around 18-20 days to complete the trek, including acclimatization days and rest days.
What is the best time to do the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek?
The best time to do the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and favorable trekking conditions. However, it is important to note that this trek is more challenging and requires experience in high-altitude trekking.
What is the difficulty level of the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek?
The Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek is considered to be a challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness. The trek involves long and steep ascents and descents, crossing glaciers, and navigating through remote and rugged terrain. Prior high-altitude trekking experience is recommended.
Do I need a permit for the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek?
Yes, you will need several permits for the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek. These include the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, the Rolwaling Special Restricted Area Permit, and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu.
What is the accommodation like during the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek?
Accommodation during the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek is mainly in teahouses or basic lodges along the route. However, as this trek is more remote and less popular, there may be limited teahouse options in some areas. Camping may be required in certain sections, especially near the Tashi Lapcha Pass.
Is it possible to do the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek independently?
While it is technically possible to do the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek independently, it is highly recommended to hire an experienced guide and/or porter. The route can be challenging to navigate, especially in high-altitude and glacier sections. Having a guide or porter can enhance safety and provide local knowledge.
What are the highlights of the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek?
The Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek offers breathtaking views of mountains like Gauri Shankar, Everest, and Cho Oyu. It takes you through remote and untouched valleys, glaciers, and alpine landscapes. The highlight of the trek is crossing the challenging Tashi Lapcha Pass, which offers a unique and thrilling experience.
What should I pack for the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek?
Packing for the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek requires careful consideration. Some essential items include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a down jacket, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, a backpack, trekking poles, a headlamp, sunscreen, a first aid kit, and high-energy snacks.
Is it safe to do the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek?
The Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek is a challenging and remote trek, and safety precautions should be taken seriously. It is important to trek with an experienced guide or team, have proper acclimatization, and follow their advice. Adequate travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking is also recommended.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 11 Reviews
Berny Dohrman
Australia
September 12, 2024
Fantastic Trekking Team
Trekking Tashi Lapcha Pass with Sherpa Expedition was fantastic! The entire team was professional and genuinely caring, ensuring our comfort and safety throughout the journey. Our guide was experienced and shared insightful stories about the local culture and geography, which enriched the trek. The views from the pass were breathtaking, and every step felt rewarding. The teahouses we stayed in were cozy, and the food was plentiful and delicious. I wholeheartedly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone looking to explore this stunning region!
Ngagne Diambang
Hong Kong
August 14, 2024
Amazing Scenery and Support
The Tashi Lapcha Pass trek with Sherpa Expedition and Teams was filled with amazing scenery and great support. From start to finish, the team was organized and professional. Our guide ensured we were well-prepared for the challenges ahead and shared his extensive knowledge about the region. The trek offered stunning views, especially from the pass, which were worth every effort. The accommodations were comfortable, and the food was excellent. I highly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone seeking a memorable trekking experience!
Farhad Faridpanah
Denmark
July 25, 2024
Memorable Trekking Experience
I had a memorable trekking experience on the Tashi Lapcha Pass with Sherpa Expedition and Teams. The organization was excellent, and our guide was both knowledgeable and encouraging. Each day was filled with breathtaking views and new adventures. The trek was challenging but manageable, thanks to the team’s support. I appreciated the comfortable teahouses and the delicious meals that kept us energized. Reaching the pass was a personal triumph, and I couldn’t have asked for a better group to share it with. Highly recommend!
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