The adventure begins with a long scenic drive from Kathmandu through terraced farmlands, winding mountain roads, and deep river valleys. You’ll follow the Bhote Koshi and Sun Koshi rivers, with views of scattered villages, green hills, and distant snow-capped peaks. After about 8 hours, you reach Jagat, a small riverside settlement that marks the gateway to the Rolwaling Valley. Here, you’ll settle into a local teahouse for the night. It’s a good day to stretch your legs after the journey and prepare your gear for trekking.

The trek officially begins as you ascend through terraced hillsides and small hamlets. The trail climbs steadily with views of Gauri Shankar (7,145 m), a sacred peak in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Simigaon is a Sherpa and Tamang village perched on a ridge, with a colorful monastery surrounded by fields of potatoes and barley. Tonight, you’ll stay in a teahouse, enjoy Sherpa hospitality, and perhaps witness evening prayers at the local monastery.

The trail leads you into dense rhododendron and pine forests, gradually gaining altitude along the Rolwaling Khola valley. Wooden bridges cross tumbling streams, while waterfalls cascade down the cliffs. Wildlife such as Himalayan monals (Nepal’s national bird) or musk deer may be spotted. Gyalche is a quiet settlement with limited facilities, where you’ll stay in a rustic teahouse. The air feels noticeably thinner, so remember to pace yourself and hydrate well.

A steady climb brings you deeper into the Rolwaling Valley, with spectacular views of Gauri Shankar and Melungtse. The trail follows the Rolwaling River, passing yak pastures and tiny settlements. Bedding is the largest village in the valley and the main Sherpa settlement. Its stone houses, prayer flags, and mani walls reflect the deep Buddhist traditions of the region. You’ll spend the night in a teahouse, warmed by hearty Sherpa meals such as noodle soup or potato stew.

Today’s trek is relatively short but important for gradual acclimatization. The trail continues through yak pastures with wide views of snow peaks. Na is a high-altitude summer village used by herders, with only a few basic teahouses open during trekking season. It is beautifully situated beneath peaks like Chekigo and Ramdung. The afternoon is free to explore or rest. Accommodation is basic but cozy, often with communal dining where trekkers and locals gather.

A rest and acclimatization day is essential before heading toward the Tashi Lapcha Pass. You can hike to nearby ridges for panoramic views of Chobutse (6,685 m) and the surrounding Rolwaling peaks. Some trekkers choose to explore Yalung Peak base or simply wander the yak pastures. It’s a good day to rehydrate, reorganize gear, and conserve energy for the high-altitude journey ahead.

The trek gains significant altitude as you leave the pastures and enter rugged glacial terrain. The trail is marked by rock cairns and crosses scree slopes and small glacial streams. The air is thin, and trekking requires slow, steady pacing. Chyukyoma is a small campsite near the glacier with limited facilities, where you’ll stay in a teahouse if open. Nights are colder now, with temperatures often below freezing.

Today’s route traverses the mighty Trakarding Glacier, surrounded by towering ice walls and rock cliffs. The path involves boulder-hopping, icy sections, and sometimes ropes for safety. It’s a raw, dramatic landscape with few signs of habitation. Camping on the glacier is an unforgettable experience, where your crew will set up tents on rocky platforms. The night sky here is dazzling, with millions of stars visible in the crisp mountain air.

The route continues across glacial moraine and steep rocky ridges toward the base of the Tashi Lapcha Pass. The altitude is demanding, and careful pacing is essential. Tashilapcha Phedi (also called Tashi Lapcha Base Camp) is a remote, windswept campsite surrounded by ice and rock. Tents are pitched on uneven ground, and meals are simple but nourishing. This night is one of the most challenging due to cold temperatures and altitude.

The big day: crossing Tashi Lapcha Pass (5,755 m), one of Nepal’s most challenging trekking passes. The climb involves snow, ice, and sometimes the use of ropes and crampons, depending on conditions. From the pass, the views of Everest, Tengi Ragi Tau, and the Rolwaling peaks are breathtaking. Descend carefully into the Khumbu region, reaching Pachermo High Camp (Tashi Puk). Tonight’s camping is cold and exposed but unforgettable.

After days in rugged wilderness, today feels rewarding as you descend into the green valleys of the Khumbu. The trail passes yak pastures and alpine streams before reaching Thame, a historic Sherpa village famous for its monastery and as the home of renowned Everest climbers. You’ll stay in a comfortable teahouse, enjoy hearty meals, and breathe easier in the thicker air.

A short, scenic trek brings you to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Khumbu region. The trail follows gentle forest paths with views of peaks like Thamserku and Kongde. Namche is bustling with lodges, bakeries, shops, and internet cafés. After many nights in remote camps, this feels like luxury. Spend the evening exploring the town or relaxing with a fresh coffee and bakery treat.

The final trekking day follows the classic Everest trail downhill through pine forests and Sherpa villages. Prayer wheels, mani walls, and chortens line the path. The trail eventually reaches Lukla, where you’ll celebrate the completion of your trek with your team. A comfortable lodge with good food and hot showers awaits.

An early morning scenic flight takes you back to Kathmandu, with sweeping views of the Himalayas. Once in the city, you’ll transfer to your hotel and enjoy modern comforts. This is a great day to relax, shop for souvenirs, or celebrate your achievement with a farewell dinner.