Highlights
- Remote and off-the-beaten-path
- Rolwaling valley
- Meditation tour
- Milarepa cave
- Rich sherpa culture
- Gauri Shanker conservation area
About Lapchi trek
The Lapchi Kang trek offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in the Lapchi region, located in the Rolwaling area along the border of Nepal and Tibet. This trek takes you through visually extraordinary and geographically isolated terrain, filled with rich flora, wildlife, and folklore. Lapchi Kang is a small Himalayan range that stretches between the road to Tibet and the vast Himalayan valley of Rowaling Himal. It is often overlooked by tourists due to its restricted and tucked-away location, and it is not high enough to attract mountaineers.
One of the fascinating aspects of Lapchi Kang is its connection to the ancient Tibetan magician and Buddhist yogi, Milarepa. According to folklore, Milarepa went into retreat in this region, living in a cave and sustaining himself by consuming stinging nettles. Over time, he was said to have turned green. The Lapchi region, with its maze of twisted hills, rock spires, and sheer cliffs, provides an ideal habitat for the snow leopard, adding to its appeal for nature enthusiasts.
The trek begins at Jagat and takes you alongside the scenic Tama Khosi River until you reach Lamanabagar. At Lamanabagar, you deviate from the main trail and embark on an adventurous journey through dense bamboo and cloud forests, immersing yourself in the tranquility of these isolated surroundings pocket of Lapchi Kang. Here, you can marvel at the unclimbed rock spire of Ama Bamare and the impressive rock face of Kookur Raja Darra (King Dog Ridge). This area of Lapchi Kang offers a unique and unforgettable experience, away from the usual tourist crowds.
The term Trek denotes an adventurous route leading to the revered Lapchi Kang region in Nepal. Lapchi Kang is a remote and secluded mountain in the Himalayas, known for its spiritual significance and meditation retreats.
One advantage of approaching Lapchi Kang from the Nepal side is that it is more accessible and cost-effective than arranging a visit from Tibet. Since it is not necessary to obtain a Tibet visa and permit, exploring Lapchi and Mount Lapchi Kang from Nepal provides a convenient opportunity to visit this holy mountain once in a lifetime.
The Lapchi Kang trek promises an extraordinary and culturally significant journey through a remote and awe-inspiring part of the Himalayas, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, spiritual history, and folklore of the Lapchi region. Furthermore, contact Himalayan Ecological Trekking.
Useful Information
Location: The Lapchi Kang trek is situated in the Rolwaling Valley, a hidden and less-visited region of the Nepal Himalayas. The starting point of the trek is usually the village of Dolakha, which is approximately 140 kilometers east of Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal.
Difficulty Level: The Lapchi trek is considered to be a challenging trek suitable for experienced trekkers. It involves high altitude, rugged terrain, and long daily walking distances. Prior experience in trekking and good physical fitness are recommended for this trek.
Permits: To trek in the Lapchi Kang region, you will need to obtain two permits: the Rolwaling Valley Restricted Area Permit and the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit. These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or through authorized trekking agencies.
Duration: The Lapchi Kang trek typically takes around 15 to 20 days to complete. However, the exact duration may vary depending on your itinerary, trekking pace, and acclimatization needs.
Highlights: The Lapchi Kang trek offers stunning views of the Rolwaling Valley, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks such as Gauri Shankar (7,134 meters) and Melungtse (7,181 meters). The trek also takes you through picturesque Sherpa and Tamang villages, dense forests, and high mountain passes most popular meditation place.
Accommodation: Due to the remote nature of the Lapchi Kang trek, Camping is usually the preferred option, and trekkers need to carry their own tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment. It is advisable to hire a guide or porter to assist with logistics and navigation.
Weather and Best Time to Trek: The Lapchi Kang trek is best undertaken during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. The months of April to June and September to November offer the most favorable weather conditions, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. Winter treks are not recommended due to harsh weather and heavy snowfall.
Safety Considerations: Trekking in remote areas like Lapchi Kang requires adequate preparation and safety precautions. It is advisable to trek with an experienced guide or join a Himalayan Ecological Trekking. Additionally, carrying essential trekking gear, including proper clothing, trekking boots, a first aid kit, and a reliable communication device, is crucial.
Physical Fitness and Training: The Lapchi Kang trek is physically demanding, and trekkers should prepare themselves accordingly. Engage in regular exercise and physical training, including cardiovascular workouts, hiking, and strength training, to build endurance and stamina.
