Rolwaling

This Sherpa valley to the west of Khumbu is restricted to trekkers who have one of three possible Rolwaling trekking peaks as their destination. The area, one of the forbirdden valleys of Sherpa lore, can be entered from Khumbu by crossing the high glaciated Trashi Laptsa pass. The ususal approach route, however, starts from either Charikot on the Jiri road or from Barabise on the road to the chinese border. Both trails meet up below Simigaon, the enterance to Rolwaling. Extensive dense forests, stunning views of Gaurishanker (once considered the world's highest mountain) and moraine landscape, icelakes, unexplored and unnamed peaks higher up make this valley ideally suitable for those with a taste for real adventure.

Treks last between 15 and 25 days. Apart from Trashi Lasptsa leading east, there are possibilities of varying alpine character to connect Rolwaling with the area to the south. Crossing over Yalung La pass and dropping down to Jiri via the sacred lakes of Panch Pokhari requires three weeks. Autumn and spring are the best seasons for those with peak ambitions. For flower lovers late March and April may be good although spring snow could hamper progress higher up.

Grade 4