General trip description

Expedition route: Kathmandu, Jiri, Yalung Ri, Ramdung Go, Na Goan, Tashi Labtsa, Parchamo, Thame, Namche Bazar, Lukla, Kathmandu

This trip starts with a long bus ride from Kathmandu to Jiri. From here you will trek through little villages, wild forests and green valleys in the direction of Yalung La. Trails may be muddy and slippery here. There are some steep climbs the first days, reaching a higher altitude very quickly. As you continue North, the wilder the scenery becomes. The trails are replaced by rocky fields and the first snow may appear. Ropes may be used for security reasons at the steep slopes of the Yalung La. Climbing Yalung Ri and Ramdung Go require glacier crossing. Although Yalung Ri’s snowy slopes are likely to be climbed without any difficulty, the route to Ramdung Go’s summit may cause approach problems by deep snow and crevasse complications. After summiting Ramdung Go you will descent into the Rolwaling valley and continue to the green valley of Na. The Tashi Labtsa is climbed across unstable, sandy and rocky trails, moraines and glaciers. Route finding may be difficult here. From the highest point of the Tashi Labtsa you will climb Parchamo. Although the route up is not difficult, huge crevasses may block the way and avalanche danger may be present. After climbing Parchamo you will descent Tashi Labtsa’s steep and slippery east side. Although the first section may cause some difficulties, the more you descent, the better the trails become. You continue to follow the sandy trail down, entering wide and green valleys all the way to Thame and Namche Bazar. The slopes in this trip can be steep so now and then. Landslides and falling rocks are possible at certain stages.

Team composition

This expedition is organized in classic expedition style only or in combination with lodge style. Classic expedition style means that the trekking route and the route to the summit are approached by establishing different camps on the mountain: trekking camps, base camp and one or more high camps. Simple guesthouses may be available at certain stages and may be used, too.

Within our full expedition service - package, the expedition is led by an experienced Nepalese expedition leader, supported by a strong team of (other) climbing Sherpa’s, cooks and porters and/or yaks. The expedition leader has managed many Himalayan expeditions; he knows the route and has climbed the passes and mountains in this trip or mountains of equal altitude and difficulty himself. The expedition leader and the climbing Sherpa’s prepare and secure the trekking / climbing route and establish al camps. A strong team of porters carries all equipment & food. Check the different, available service packages to see what is included and not included.

Well developed and proven trekking, climbing and acclimatization schedules with sufficient rest & acclimatization days guarantee the safety and the highest chance to reach the different goals in this expedition. The strategy and all options will be discussed on the way.

Minimum / maximum group size:
- Private expeditions: no limit
- Fixed departure expeditions: minimum 3 members / maximum:12 members

Experience & skills

The trek to Yalung La does not require specific experience or skills. You just should feel comfortable walking on steep, rocky, slippery and unstable terrain. Climbing Yalung Ri, Ramdung Go and Parchamo is not very technical as most of the slopes vary from an angle of 10 to 40 degrees. However, there are crevassed areas that have to be crossed. To ensure safety, ropes will be fixed at all difficult sections. You should feel comfortable with basic rock and alpine climbing techniques in winter conditions, preferably at higher altitude. This includes the following techniques: using ice axe and crampons. View the trip’s difficulty for more details.

This expedition is open for trekkers/climbers with basic mountaineering experience or fit and keen trekkers who like to gain mountaineering experience at higher altitudes. It's an advantage if you have previous experience in winter camping and basic rock and alpine climbing techniques, although this is not mandatory. Basic alpine climbing training is built into the trips itinerary. As you’re part of a group during difficult situations and demanding activities, you must have experience in working and living in and with a group of people who share the same, common goal. An easy going, flexible attitude is a must.

Equipment list

After booking all expedition members will receive a final equipment list detailing all necessary clothing and (climbing) equipment to be individually provided. You may download an example list on this page (right top).

Best season, climate, temperatures

Indication of best seasons to make this trip (stable weather and clear views):
- Spring: March, April, May
- Autumn: October, November

Indication of temperatures: (depending on weather conditions)
- Below 5000m varying from: Day time: +10ºC / +30ºC. Night time: -5ºC / +15ºC
- Above 5000m varying from: Day time: -5ºC / +10ºC. Night time: -15ºC / -25ºC

Deep snow me be expected around Yalung La and Ramdung Go. Rain may be expected in the lower areas from Jiri to Yalung La in early October. Mountain storms are unpredictable and can arise quickly, changing trekking & climbing conditions dramatically. Rain, snow and strong winds are always possible.