The best months for Rolwaling are April to May and October to November. The monsoon brings landslides and leeches on the approach, and winter snow can block the higher sections.
Spring and autumn windows
The usual seasons are March to June and September to November. Crossing the pass is only safe in settled weather with a good snow condition.
Spring
Snow lies on the pass early, which can make the crossing easier or harder depending on conditions. Rhododendrons bloom on the lower slopes in April. May is warmer but with more afternoon cloud.
Autumn
October and November have the clearest skies. Nights at Beding and Na are well below freezing, and the lake is quiet.
Monsoon and winter
Heavy rain, leeches and cloud in summer and deep snow and cold in winter make these seasons unsuitable for the pass. The valley itself can be visited in June by prepared parties, but the views are poor.
What changes between seasons
In spring the valley has rhododendron and primula flowers and more water in the streams from snow melt. In autumn the fields around Beding are golden at harvest time, the rivers are lower and the sky is clearer. The difference matters for photographers: spring gives colour, autumn gives clarity.
Pass conditions
Fresh snow can make the Tashi Lapcha crossing harder or impossible. Hard, frozen surfaces in the early morning are the safest. Warm afternoon snow can be slushy and dangerous. This is why the pass crossing usually starts well before dawn.
How the monsoon affects the valley
Rolwaling is on the southern side of the main range, so it receives heavy monsoon rain. The trail below Beding is slippery, leeches are common and streams run high. By October the water is lower and the air clear. The pass crossing is only attempted in the dry seasons.
Choosing between spring and autumn
Spring gives you rhododendron blooms and warmer days but more cloud. Autumn gives you the clearest air and the best views of the high peaks, together with colder nights. Many guides prefer late October for the pass because the snow is firm and stable.
Choosing
Pick late April to May or October for the pass. See the pass guide.
