Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek

The Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Pass trek goes through the Gauri Shankar Conservation Area and the Sagarmatha National Park, linking the Rolwaling Valley with the Everest region.

This trek will visit the beautiful Tso Rolpa Lake (4183 m), summit the Tashi Lapcha Pass (5682 m), visit Namche Bazaar, and offers superb breathtaking views of Gauri Shankar and Everest, and many other mountains. The Tashi Lapcha Pass is perhaps the most difficult in this region, so a high level of fitness and stamina is required.

This is reportedly one of the possible routes that people from Kham in Tibet used during the mid-1800’s. These people subsequently settled in this area and the Everest region and are now known as Sherpa. Therefore, this trek also has historical and cultural significance. After crossing the pass and coming into the Everest region, there are glorious views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kangaru. And once reaching the bustling market town of Namche Bazaar there is an opportunity to interact with other trekking and climbing groups as well as the Sherpas.

But before that, aside from perhaps spotting a snow partridge or two, and coming across herds of yaks (or more specifically, naks) producing milk for cheese making, don’t forget to look out for the fabled Yeti. It was on the slopes of the Rolwaling Peak that Eric Shipton photographed Yeti footprints in 1951!

This trek certainly combines history and culture with stunning mountain views, and the satisfaction of crossing a high Himalayan pass.

Highlights of Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek

• The unique flora and fauna of the Gaurishankar Conservation Area.
• The stunning mountain views – including Gaurishankar and Everest.
• Visiting a high altitude glacier lake in an amazing location.
• Climbing a high Himalayan pass which links Rowaling Valley with the Everest region.
• Meeting Sherpa communities.
• Visiting Namche Bazaar – the starting point for many mountain expeditions.·  
• Flying out of Lukla airport with its amazing mountain views.

Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu to Shigati (Drive) – Shigati

• Trek time: 9 hours
• Distance: 950 m / 3,116 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

After an early breakfast, your guide will collect you from your hotel to take you to the bus station to board a public bus to Shigati.  

The road follows the Araniko Highway and the Bhote Koshi and Sun Koshi Rivers.  There is a good chance you will see whitewater rafters having their own adventure on the rivers.  

Mount Gaurishankar can be seen in the distance as you make your way along the winding, and sometimes bumpy road.  When you arrive at Shigati you will meet your camping crew who will be traveling and taking care of you over the coming days.

Overnight at Shigati – camping,

Highlights and Challenges

• See the white waters of two of the best rafting rivers in Nepal.
• Get your first glimpse of Gaurishankar.
• Meeting your camping crew.·      
• The road may be long and bumpy, but the end destination is the start of your trekking adventure.

Day 2: Shigati to Jagat – Jagatti

• Trek time: 6 hours
• Elevation: 1,050 m / 3,444 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

A day of firsts: after your first night in your tent and your first breakfast, set out on the first day of your trek. 

Today make your way along the Tama Koshi (river) and cross your first suspension bridge.  Although today is a relatively easy day, there are a number of ascents and descents to introduce you to trekking in the Nepal Himalayas.  You will get a better view of Gaurishankar (7,134m / 23,405.5 ft), the dominant peak in this area.

The people of the  Rolwaling Valley are a mix of Gurung, Tamang, Magar and Sherpa, all of whom are Buddhist.  There are also Brahmin and Chhetri people who are Hindu.  Tonight, in the village of Jagat you will get an opportunity to see how people live in this area. 

Overnight at Jagat – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• That first suspension bridge!
• A great trail to start your adventure on.·      
• Meeting the locals.

Day 3: Jagat to Simi Gaun – Simi Gaun

• Trek time: 5 hours
• Elevation: 1,900 m / 6,233 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

As you will quickly learn, for every ascent there is a descent, and for every river there is a bridge, oven as suspension bridge!

Stunningly, for every river and stream on this trek there is a magical waterfall.  Definitely these falls add to the tranquility of being in this remote area.   On the down (no pun intended) side there are a great deal of stone steps on the trails in this area and you come across one today. 

Pastures and terraced fields meet you around the village of Chhetchhet, as do Buddhist artifacts such  as prayer flags and small shrines.

Wonderful views of Gaurishankar can be seen from the village of Simi Gaun – your overnight stop.

Overnight at Simi  Gaun – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Stunning waterfalls along the trails.
• You are in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area with its interesting flora and fauna.
• Buddhist artifacts along the trail.·      
• Traditional villages with slate roofs.

Day 4: Simi Gaun to Gyalchen – Gyalchen

• Trek time: 6 hours
• Elevation: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

From here on the trek becomes more challenging. There are a lot of stone steps to climb and narrow paths, some with loose scree.    The altitude rises today by approximately 1,400 m / 4,593 ft. 

We consider the  3,000 m / 9,842.5 ft plus range to be when we need to start thinking about altitude related problems.   So, from today, please pay close attention to any changes in your body.

Overnight at Simi Gaun – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Stone steps are hard on the knees – trekking poles are coming into their own now.·      
• The rise in altitude is considerable – take frequent, short breaks on the trail.

Day 5: Gyalchen to Beding – Beding

• Trek time: 4 hours
• Elevation: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

While Day 4 was a hard one, today is a lot less strenuous and the trails wider.

There is the opportunity to see grazing yaks and witness small seasonal herders’ settlements.

There are increasingly more Buddhist artifacts such as mani walls (walls with prayers carved into the stone) and prayer flags.  There are two monasteries in the village of Beding.  One which is located up on the hillside, and a newer one much closer to the village.

Overnight at Beding – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Easier trails today. 
• Seeing grazing yaks and goats.·      
• Visit a Buddhist monastery.

Day 6: Beding to Na Gaun – Na Gaun

• Trek time: 4 hours
• Elevation: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

After breakfast, hike uphill to the Rolwaling River to where the valley widens into a U shape.  Another great peak you will see from today onwards is Dorje Lakpa.

Again, you will climb up in elevation so remember to drink plenty of water and go slowly but steadily. 

Arriving at Na Gaun you will find a beautiful village with traditional stone walls to protect the inhabitants and livestock from both wind and wild animals.

Overnight at Na Gaun – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• The mountain views.
• Traditional villages.·      
• Rising altitude can make hiking more strenuous.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day – Na Gaun

Today there is a chance to rest and relax while your body get used to the high altitude.  Being active does help in this process so do explore the village and the surroundings.  You can hike towards  the Yalung Glacier to get better views of the glacier and the mountains of Yalung, Menlung and Gaurishankar. 

Highlights and Challenges

• Find out more about how the locals live. 
• Rest and relax in the beautiful surroundings.
• Mediate  or do some simple yoga.·      
• Remember to keep a check on your body for any signs of altitude related illness.

Day 8: Na Gaun to Tsho Rolpa Lake – Tsho Rolpa Lake

• Trek time: 4 hours
• Elevation: 4,580 m / 15,030 ft – 4-5 km / 2.5-3 miles
• Accommodation: Camping

Today you arrive at the wonderful Tsho Rolpa Lake.  This glacial lake is set in a stunning setting, surrounded by mountains, snow and ice.  From a ridge above the lake you can take the most amazing photographs with the lake standing out in turquoise against the grey rocks and white snow.  

Highlights and Challenges

• Arriving at Tsho Rolpa Lake.·      
• The peacefulness of the area.

Day 9: Acclimatization Day / Explore Tsho Rolpa Lake

There is another day to acclimatize at this high altitude in order to make sure your body can cope with the thin area.  So, take the time to learn something about the area, interact with your camping crew, talk with your guide, edit your photographs and simply enjoy your time at this amazing location. 

Did you know Tsho Rolpa Lake is Nepal’s largest glacier lake?  It is approximately 3.5 km / 2.17 miles in length and covers an area of 1.6 km / 1 mile.  With a depth of around 132 m / 433 ft, it is also a deep lake whose waters continue to rise due to climate change.  

During the winter the lake freezes completely and all year round it is quite cold in this area due in part to the high winds.

Overnight at Tsho Rolpa Lake – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Spending time at this glorious lake.
• Hiking around the area.·      
• Discussing the Himalayas with your guide.

Day 10: Tsho Rolpa Lake to Tsho Rolpa Phedi – Tsho Rolpa Phedi

• Trek time: 4 hours
• Elevation: 5,682 m / 18,641ft
• Accommodation: Camping

Today, leave the beautiful lake behind and hike to Tsho Rolpa Phedi, otherwise know as base camp for the Tashi Lapcha Pass. (many seem to go to the Trakarding Glacier, o/n then go base camp)

Another day of challenging yet beautiful hiking.  Pay attention to areas of snow and ice making the trail slippery. Also posing a challenge is the increased elevation today.

Overnight at Tsho Rolpa Phedi – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Stunning views.
• Feeling quite accomplished as your body is getting used to the high altitude.
• Slippery trails.·      
• High increase in elevation.

Day 11: Acclimatization Day – Tsho Rolpa Phedi

With the now high altitude, you take another acclimatization day at Tsho Rolpa Phedi.

Enjoy the beautiful mountain vistas, and if the weather is just right you may be able to see some of the peaks in the Everest Range.

Highlights and Challenges

• The mountain vistas are always a highlight.
• The high altitude makes everything you do tougher, so take it easy.

Day 12: Tsho Rolpa Phedi to Ngole via Tashi Lapcha Pass – Tashi Lapcha Pass

• Trek time: 9 hours
• Elevation: 5,110 m / 16,765 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

This is a long and tough day, so you will start early in the morning in order to safely cross the pass and reach your overnight destination before dusk. 

Following the glacier the trails may be slippery with ice and snow as well as scree as you ascend up the pass.  There are fixed ropes on some parts of the crossing and great care should be taken – listen to your guide for instructions.

Descending is often more tricky than ascending Himalayan passes as the moraine can be loose and the descent hard on the body.

From the top of the pass there are glorious views of the surrounding peaks, making it all worthwhile. And you have now passed out of the  Rolwaling Valley and have reached the Khumbu (Everest) region.

Coming down the pass, you will camp near Ngole village.

Overnight at Ngole – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Feeling of personal achievement.·      
• Crossing this pass which leads you to the Everest Region.
• It’s a challenging day with snow, ice, crampons and fixed ropes.

Day 13: Ngole to Thame – Thame

• Trek time: 6 hours
• Elevation: 3,820 m / 12,532 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

The altitude is decreasing today, making it easier to hike but care should still be taken to look out for any signs of altitude related illness. Overall, it is a not too strenuous trek.

Being you are now in the Everest Region, there are many signs that you are in a famous region of Nepal.  There are small settlements to pass with their Buddhist artifacts and Tibetan like architecture.   You may wish to visit Thame monastery if time allows.

Overnight at Thame – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• You are now in the Everest Region – land of the Sherpas and the highest mountain in the world!
• You are also in the Sagarmatha National Park.·      
• Little teashops will be appearing on the trail, tempting you to stop on the way.

Day 14: Thame to Namche Bazaar – Namche Bazaar

• Trek time: 6 hours
• Elevation: 3,438 m / 11,279 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

Today you will be joining many of the main trekking routes through this region and reaching the famous market town of Namche Bazaar.

This is a fabulous hike today with so much history in the region.  For example, Thame is the home village of Apa Sherpa who until recently was the world record holder for Everest summits. 

On reaching Namche Bazaar you might want to head straight for a great espresso or beer at one of the many restaurants and cafes.   Don’t forget you will still be camping tonight so remember to leave room for your campsite dinner!

Overnight at Namche Bazaar – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Today it’s an easy trek for you now you are a trail-hardened trekker! 
• Meet many other trekkers on the road who are returning or setting off on one of the many treks around the region.
• Enter the fabled town of Namche Bazaar.
• Compare notes with other trekkers in one of the cafes or bars.·      
• Grab some pastries and coffee.

Day 15: Namche Bazaar to Lukla – Lukla

• Trek time: 7 hours
• Elevation: 2,860 m / 9,383 ft
• Accommodation: Camping

Your final day of trekking starts with a good breakfast then a hike down through forests and across more suspension bridges in a greener trail than you have become used to.

Passing other trekkers making their way up to Namche you may feel a tinge of jealousy as they are about to start their own adventure.

Reaching Lukla, the high altitude airstrip that is a gateway to the Everest Region, you can have a small celebration with your camping crew. 

Overnight at Lukla – camping.

Highlights and Challenges

• Getting to spend time in the Everest Region.
• Enjoying the rich flora of the area between Namche and Lukla.
• Arriving at Lukla, where the airstrip is called the Tenzing-Hillary Airport after the first Everest summiteers.  ·      
• Your final night under canvas is bittersweet.

Day 16:Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight) – Kathmandu

• Trek time: 30 minutes
• Elevation: 1,300 m /4,265 ft

Note: Depending on the season, you may fly directly to Kathmandu, or you may fly to Ramechhap then travel by road for around 5 hours to Kathmandu.

Say your final goodbyes to your camp crew and board your plane back to the city.  Flying over the mountains, foothills, and into the Kathmandu Valley is quite a sight and a fitting end to a great adventure.

Your guide will ensure you reach your hotel in Kathmandu and perhaps you will meet him again for a proper farewell later in the day.

Highlights and Challenges

• Flying out of the high altitude airport at Lukla.
• Seeing the mountains and foothills from the plane window.
• Arriving back at busy Kathmandu with the noise and traffic that you have probably not missed.·       A sad farewell to your guide.

Includes

Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek Map

Location of the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek

You will be trekking through the Rolwaling Valley, in east Nepal.  The valley itself is situated in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area which links the two national parks of Langtang National Park and Sagarmatha National Park.  The pass also brings you from Rolwaling into the Khumbu, as the Everest Region is known locally. 

The trails take you through stunning landscapes of flora and fauna.  In fact, within the Gaurishankar Conservation Area there are many species of which are unknown in other parts of the country. 

Once you have crossed the Tashi Lapcha Pass you are in another world: that of past and present mountaineers and 21^st century trekkers.  This is the Everest Region, home to Mount Everest.

Required Experience for the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek

Camping and hiking at high altitude is not for everyone.  If you are an experienced hiker and camper you will enjoy the challenge of this trek with its many days at high altitude and its demanding trails.  There are enough ‘easier’ days and acclimatization days to allow your body to stay in tip top condition.

For those who are less experienced, you may find this trek hard going with the high altitude, stone steps and long days.

The highest altitude you will reach is  at Tsho Rolpa Phedi, which is  5,682 m / 18,641 ft.   You will be sleeping at altitudes over or around 3,500 m / 11,482.9 ft for 11 nights.  There are three acclimatization days built into the itinerary to give your body time to rest and become used to the thinner air, which should give an indication as to how seriously we take the altitude.

If you have some experience of high altitude trekking and camping in remote areas and can walk for 6 hours plus per day over rough terrain, you can manage this trek and still feel like you have challenged yourself.

Physical Fitness – What You Need to Know

This is a trek for those with experience of trekking at altitude.  It is preferable that you have experience of camping at altitude also.  When we provide a camping trek, it often reflects the fact the area is remote and challenging.    

Do remember that camping in the Himalayas is not like camping in an area with campsite facilities.  Here we carry all the ‘facilities’ with us.  And although we do our best to provide you with comfortable tented accommodation, it is basic.

Overall, you should have a good level of fitness, stamina, and be able to persevere in challenging circumstances.  We want you to not only complete, but enjoy, the trek.

Three acclimatization days are built in and on average you are walking 6 hours a day over rough terrain.   On the day you cross the  Tashi Lapcha Pass, you will be trekking for around 9 hours. 

Prepare your body in advance by increasing your exercise regime, particularly working on your leg muscles and cardio.

Do remember there are a number of days where you will be walking and sleeping at altitudes which can potentially cause some people to have altitude related problems.  To combat this, we suggest you hike slowly, take plenty of breaks and stay well hydrated. Always be aware of your body on a trek – alert your guide to any different feelings – headaches, difficulty breathing, dizziness etc. 

To know more about altitude related illness, check here.

What to Expect on a Typical Day on the Trek

You will be woken with a cup of hot tea and a bowl of hot water to wash your hands and face.  Yes, there will be opportunities to shower (in a bucket) but it is not necessary every day.

Your wonderful camping crew will be up preparing for the day before you wake, and breakfast will be soon ready.  The camping chef will also prepare a packed lunch for on the trail and some boiled drinking water for you to carry with you.

Setting off around 8am – unless it is a very long day ahead – is the norm.

In the Rowling Valley, the landscape varies from lush vegetation, alpine vegetation, raging rivers and cascading waterfalls, to grazing pastures, boulder strewn trails and steep uphills. Gaurishankar is the main mountain you will see in this area.  There is wildlife in this area, ranging from monkeys at the lower elevations to snow leopards at the higher elevations.  It may be difficult to spot the rarer mammals but definitely you will see yaks, many of them wild herds, on the hillside. 

You will spend between 4 to 9 hours on the trail daily.  The average day will be more like 6 hours.  Lunch and short rest breaks are taken on the trail.

When you reach the next campsite you will be served snacks and more hot tea while you have a chance to relax before dinner.  As for food, there are always vegetarian options at every meal, and (please request) some canned meat and fish for non-vegetarians.

What You Will See on This Trek – Highlights of the Best it Has to Offer

What you will not see are hundreds of other trekkers on the trail!   Rolwaling is a remote, sparsely populated area and the Rolwaling Valley is nestled in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area.  The settlements you pass through are small and often seasonal. 

Rivers and waterfalls are a feature of the Rolwaling Valley.  Crossing rivers by suspension bridge is thrilling as is hearing the thunder of waterfalls.  You will also be visiting the high altitude glacier lake, Tsho Rolpo, which is in itself a wonderful destination.

The Rolwaling Valley section of this trek is very different from other treks in Nepal – it can be damp and stark, but it is always atmospheric and beautiful in its ruggedness.

Once you cross the Tashi Lapcha Pass you are in the Everest Region.  This area is, of course, home to Mount Everest and is famous among trekkers and mountaineers. 

Here are some reasons to enjoy this trek:-

• The Culture: Overall, the people from both sides of the pass follow Buddhism.  On the Rolwaling Valley side, there is a mix of different ethnic groups such as Gurung, Sherpa, Tamang, Chhetri and Brahmin.  Villages are built in traditional style and often surrounded by stone walls to keep out wildlife and the high winds that occur in this area.  When you cross over into the Khumbu (Everest Region) the people are predominantly Sherpa, who also follow Buddhism. 
• Flora and Fauna: Among the mammals, you may see Himalayan tahr, musk deer, pika (mouse-hare), and langur monkeys. Among the larger and more rare mammals can be found the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard.  You will have to be extremely lucky to see any of the bigger animals.  For those who are interested in birdwatching, some birds include Himalayan griffons, lammergeyers, blood pheasants, impeyan pheasants, and rufous-bellied tits.
• The Yeti: In 1951 Eric Shipton, who was part of an expedition to survey routes to the summit of Everest (and whose findings partly enabled Hillary and Tenzing to reach the summit two years later) photographed what was thought to be footprints of the Yeti.  These footprints were found near the Menlung Basin near Mt Melungtse.  Today you can see what is reported to be a yeti skull in a gompa in  Khumjung village, near Namche Bazaar.  We do believe that Hillary examined and debunked that theory, but it makes an interesting visit and story.  Will you see a yeti on your trek?
• Gaurishankar Conservation Area: Established in 2010 the conservation area covers 2,179 km² / 841 miles² and is part of the Sacred Himalayan Landscape of WWF. Currently managed  by the National Trust for Nature Conservation, the conservation area links Langtang National Park with Sagarmatha National Park. 
• Tsho Rolpa Lake:  You will visit this lake on the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek.  Its stunning turquoise waters make it quite beautiful.  Surrounded by mountains and rugged landscapes, the lake is the biggest glacial lake in Nepal and is continually expanding due to glacier melt.
• Mountains: The Gaurishankar Himal range is the dominant range in the Rolwaling Valley.  Mountains in this range include  Gaurishankar at 7,134 m / 23,405.5 ft , Melungtse 7,181 m /  23,559.7 ft and Dorje Lakpa at 6,966 m /  22,854.3 ft.  Once you cross over into the Khumbu, you will get fantastic views of  Thamserku (6,623 m / 21,729 ft),  Kongde Ri (6,187 m / 20,299 ft), Nuptse (7,861 m / 25,790.68 ft) and of course Mt Everest (8,848.86 m / 29,029 ft) and many more. 
• Namche Bazaar: Namche Bazaar was always the market town of the area but is now a bustling center for mountaineers and trekkers.  With its restaurants, cafes, bars and hotels, it is quite different than it was 70 years ago when Hillary visited.  If you have time, it is only a short hike to Khumjung village where Hillary set up a school and hospital for the local Sherpa community.  Other places of interest include the Sherpa Museum in Namche itself.
• Tenzing-Hillary Airport: The airstrip at Lukla is one of the highest airports in the world and quite challenging for pilots.  It is an interesting experience to fly in or out of this airport and get views of the mountains from a different angle.  

Minimum Number of Trekkers for this Trek

For a camping trek in Nepal, we require a minimum of two (2) trekkers to make it viable. It is also more enjoyable for you if there are more in your group.

However, if you are one person traveling alone we will endeavor, if possible,  to put you with other trekkers who wish to do this trek.

Camping Trek – Remote and Different

In this remote area, there are very few teahouses or home stay accommodation; which is why we chose to offer a camping trek.   

At our campsite we will provide you with a comfortable tent and sleeping mat, a toilet tent and dining tent. There is a kitchen tent where the camp chef will make delicious food and boil water for you for drinking.    While we try to make everything as comfortable as possible for you, make no mistake, this is rough camping with no facilities other than what we carry in with us.  If that doesn’t sound like your kind of adventure, we offer plenty of other treks which do not involve camping!  

For those who love camping, read on.

Food While Camping

Breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner are made by our lovely camp chef.

While you are getting ready in the morning, breakfast will be prepared.  A packed lunch will be taken on the trail and there will be snacks and tea available at the end of the day while you are waiting for dinner to be prepared.  That chef is a busy man!

As there is no electricity at the campsites the cooking is done on a kerosene stove which the camping crew will bring with them. 

We suggest bringing your own snacks for those moments when you just want a taste of home or a shot of chocolate.  Protein bars, dried fruits and nuts will also give you an energy boost.

Possible Menu While Camping:

Food on the trek will be simple, yet filling and tasty.  We cater to Western tastes as well as to clients who may be from India or other parts of Asia.  We will provide you with food we think you will enjoy!  Do let us know if you have any allergies or simply do not like a certain food.

• Breakfast may be porridge with bread (probably roti – a Nepali flatbread)
• Lunch and dinner can be pasta, noodles, dal bhat (Nepali vegetable curry), pizza, etc.  
• Afternoon snacks may consist of fried potatoes and popcorn.
• We will not attempt to buy fresh meat but will bring some canned meat / tuna fish.  There is no guarantee the meat in remote areas is indeed fresh, which is why we will not buy it.
• There will be vegetarian food available at every meal. 
• Tea/ coffee/ hot water is unlimited. Powdered milk and sugar are available.

We will not carry alcohol as we do not recommend its consumption at altitude. And it’s simply too heavy to carry.  Same with soft drinks – too heavy to carry.  You could bring some flavored powder to add to the water for a different taste.

Drinking Water While Camping

The kitchen tent will provide you with boiled water for drinking.  If you come across a mountain spring, as long as you add purifying drops or tablets to it you can drink that water.  When in doubt ask the guide.  A Lifestraw will filter out some, not all, larger bacteria so if you have one, bring it along.

What You Need to Bring for a Camping Trek

Take a look at our list of trekking equipment / gear  you need on any trek.  We suggest a few additional items for a camping trek, such as:

•  Portable solar panel (one which hooks onto your day pack) to recharge equipment.
• Headtorch with batteries and extra batteries.
• Medicines – any ones you take regularly plus items such as headache tablets, stomach tablets etc.  And a small first aid kit.
• Four-season sleeping bag. This can be rented in Kathmandu.
• Toiletries in small, travel sized containers, and some clothes washing soap.
• Things for blisters and a few bandages in case of sprains.
• Nepali rupees in case there is something you wish to buy on the trek. 
• Your favorite snacks.

Keeping Your Gear to the Essentials

While you should bring enough correct gear to last you the duration of the trek, please be considerate of those who will be actually carrying your bag!

Porters will be carrying the tents, kitchen equipment and food for your camping trek.  They can also carry your pack but please be considerate and keep your gear down to a sensible weight! 

Best Time to do the Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek

As for many treks in Nepal, the best time to do this trek is during the spring or autumn.

In the spring (March to May)  the rhododendrons will be in bloom at lower altitudes and the skies will be clear.  On the downside, there may be some light rain at times in the Rolwaling Valley.  It will also be very busy on the Everest side of the pass.  On the upside, you may get the opportunity to see mountaineering expeditions heading towards Everest as spring is the main climbing season.

In the autumn (Sept to Nov), the weather is similar to spring in that it is not too warm (at lower altitudes) and not too cold (at higher altitudes). Again, this is an extremely popular time for trekking in the Everest Region.  It is also the time of festivals in Nepal so there may be festival related activities happening.

During the monsoon (June to Sept)  months (June to August) there will be heavy rain making the trails slippery and camping soggy!

Winter (December to March) is not recommended as there is likely to be snowfall on the pass and in other high altitude areas.  The pass may in fact be closed.   It will also be very cold. 

Your First Days in Nepal

If you wish, we can meet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport on your arrival, saving you time and effort.  Just let us know on the booking form but please note there is a charge for pick up. 

Hotels in Kathmandu

Booking.com and hostelworld.com will give you a selection of hotels in Kathmandu.  We suggest you stay in Thamel which is geared up for tourists with lively cafes, restaurants, bars and shops. Our office is also located in Thamel. 

Explore Kathmandu

There is so much to see in Kathmandu!  Lose yourself in the tiny back streets and alleys or take a tour with us.  Or both!  

Some of the highlights  of a tour with us include Boudhanath (Tibetan area with a huge stupa), Swayambhunath (another Buddhist stupa) and Pashupatinath (Hindu temples and ghats). These are on everyone’s ‘must see’ list.  But there is so much more…

Did you know Kathmandu used to be three separate kingdoms?  That is why there are three Durbar Squares within the Kathmandu Valley. Durbar means palace so these squares were where the kings of the three separate kingdoms lived.    The easiest to explore yourself is the Kathmandu Durbar Square (Basantapur) which is a very short walk from Thamel.  But if you want to know more about the many things to see there  (such as the Living Goddess) – our guide can give you the information.  Over in Patan they have their own Durbar Square which is the smallest of the three and houses a very interesting museum which is worth seeing.  The jewel in the crown (sorry for the pun) is the Durbar Square over at Bhaktapur.  This is an area which is traffic free and is still very much alive with artisans and locals making and selling their wares.  If you have the time to overnight here we suggest you might want to do that.  It is also on route to the hilltop town of Nagarkot, which has marvelous mountain views.

Did you know Kathmandu has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites? Swayambhunath, Boudha, and Pashupatinath are among them.

If you wish to see something in particular, do ask us about it. 

Visa for Nepal

Visa on arrival is available for people from most countries, via the Immigration Department of Nepal’s on-line site.   Complete the form, print it out and bring it with you.  Bring USD cash (exact money) to make payment on arrival at the airport. 

Visa on arrival is valid for 15 days, 30 days or 3 months and costs: 

• 15 Days – 30 USD
• 30 Days – 50 USD
• 90 Days – 125 USD

Trekking Permits You Need for this Trek  

You require two permits for this trek:-

Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP)

Cost: USD 30 per person for foreign tourists.  USD10 (Nrs 1,000) for those trekkers from SAARC countries.

Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality (PLRM) Entry Permit:

Cost: USD 20 per person (even for those from SAARC countries)

Why You Need a Permit

The Gaurishankar Conservation Permit enables the fees collected from tourists to be put back into conservation – of the flora and fauna and of cultural heritage.  This is overseen by the Trust for Nature Preservation.

The Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit fees go directly towards conservation in the Everest Region and are overseen by the local Rural Municipality.   

It also helps in your safety.  When you pass a checkpoint, your permit  number is noted down and should you go missing, there is a greater chance of the search taking place in the right location.

Safety on the Trek 

Altitude: One of the main concerns for a high altitude trek is altitude related illness.  We make recommendations and encourage you to follow our advice on how to mitigate the possibility of altitude illness. No one knows for sure whether they are prone to altitude or not.  Altitude illness is not related to age, fitness or gender.  It does help if you are fit to undertake this trek, but physical fitness does not always equate to a lower risk.  Frustrating, no?

You will see local folks, your porters, Sherpas etc climb mountains with ease.  Their secret?   An ancient inbuilt gene that the Sherpa community has or simply living at high altitude from birth.  The rest of us have to take more care.

The basic guidelines are:

• drink enough water to stay well hydrated,
• go slowly, and
• take lots of breaks.

Our guides are trained in first aid and in recognising signs of altitude so do not hesitate to inform them if you are feeling unwell.

Getting lost: Getting lost is easy in the mountains. Every year someone goes missing through taking a wrong turn.  Even if the route looks straight forward, there is always the possibility of getting turned around and/or confused.  Let your guide know if you are wishing to go explore on your own at any time and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings in the mountains.

Tips for Safety on the Trek:

Some basic tips on safety are:

• Bring trekking poles for stabilizing yourself on risky /  slippery / steep trails.
• Do not go off alone at the rest/ overnight stops without telling your guide.
• Drink at least 4 ltrs of water per day.
• It is important not to skip meals as you need to keep your energy up.  Those energy boosting bars or nuts are handy too.
• Do tell your guide if you feel at all unwell. 
• Have the correct insurance.
• Wear the correct gear. Bring waterproof gear in case of rain or snowfall even when it’s not forecast as the weather is unpredictable in the mountains.
• Bring your own regular medicines and a medical kit.
• Pay attention to the guide in tricky or dangerous areas. 
• Don’t provoke the animals – including yaks!
• We are not sure of the procedure should you meet a yeti…

Expenses You Should Calculate For

On a camping trek there really isn’t anywhere to spend your money.  On the Rowaling side of the pass there are few shops, and what is in them is pretty basic.  Over on the Everest side there will be teashops, shops selling snacks, and joy – cafes with real coffee and cakes! You need some money for that part of the trek.

Included in the cost of the trek is the accommodation, the transport (including flight), your guide, your camp chef, the porters and your food.   Nothing else to pay on the trail.

We do request you set aside money to tip the camp crew and guide.  And also, to make donations at any monasteries / gompas you visit.   Details of tips are given below.  For the monasteries – around Nrs200-500 per visit is good.

Souvenirs are few and far between on the first leg of the trek.  Maybe there will be some handwoven rug or similar items.  Again, over on the Everest side there will be items available in Namche to remember your trek by.   

Overall, we suggest you bring Nepali rupees for things like cups of tea or snacks on the trail, coffee and pastries or a beer in Namche, and whatever is on offer in the way of a take home gift/ souvenir.  USD 5 – 10 per day is enough on the  Rolwaling side of the pass, and a bit more on the Everest side – that coffee in Namche is going to cost you around USD5!  You can do the math.

What is Included and Not Included in the Cost of Your Trek

• Transport: Public bus  to Shigati and flight back from Lukla are included. 
• Accommodation: Tents, and sleeping mats are provided.
• Food: At the camp site you will get breakfast, dinner,  and afternoon snacks.  You will also get a packed lunch to eat on the trail.
• Permits: The permits required for this trek are included in the cost of your trip.
• Tips: Tips are not included in the cost of your trek.  Please calculate the tips for your guide and porters.  Tips can be in Nepali rupees or other currencies.

Before you come expenses:  .

• Trekking / camping gear, good  trekking boots.
• Flight ticket, visa fee, and insurance.

Transport Options:

Should you wish to hire a private jeep for transport to and from the trekking point, please discuss with us.  There is an additional charge for this. 

Tipping the Guide, Chef and Porters

It is the norm to tip your guide and porters on treks to show your appreciation of the amazing people who help make your trek enjoyable and comfortable. 

Please be aware,  100% of your tips go to the staff. 

We suggest the following:

• Tip the guide 10% of your trip cost. 
• For the porters  it is normal to tip around a total of USD150  for each porter.
• For the chef, please tip USD200.

The tips for the guide and crew members are divided by the number of trekkers on a trip i.e. if you are three trekkers, then you pay USD50 each per porter. 

Extend Your Trip

The Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek ends in the Everest region so why not take the opportunity to extend your trip to visit some of the iconic places in this region.

• Everest Base Camp: this would add around seven days to your adventure and would take in not only base camp but the famous Tengboche Monastery and Kalapatthar – a high ridge with astounding views of Mt Everest.  How could you not wish to go there?
• Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery: spend another 3 or 4 days exploring Namche Bazaar, hiking to Khumjung village to see how Edmund Hillary positively impacted local communities’ lives, and visit the highest monastery in the region at Tengboche.
• Gokyo Lake: Known as Gokyo Lake, there are actually six high altitude lakes at this point.  Spend another 4 or 5 days to explore more amazing glacier lakes.
• Just let us know if you are interested in any of these extensions to your trek. 

Why Book with Magical Nepal

We at Magical Nepal are a team of highly trained travel enthusiasts.  

We started Magical Nepal in 2015 and pride ourselves in growing a great team. From our climbing guides, trek guides, and liaison staff to our camp staff, porters and camp chef, we all love to explore and travel in the Nepal Himalayas. We also love to introduce our beautiful country to our clients.

We are committed to human dignity, security, and safety for all – for our clients and for the communities we visit. We are also committed to the environmental sustainability of the landscapes, flora, and fauna of the Himalayas.

We also pride ourselves on offering great value for money and a price guarantee – if you can find the same trek at a lower price, we will match it – guaranteed.

Please check the reviews from our past clients to see what they say about us.

FAQs For Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek:

Related Trip in Rolwaling Region

Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek