Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trip Style: Camping Trek
  • Transport: Public Vehicle
  • Food: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge & Camping
  • Group Size: 2 - 16
  • Max Elevation: Tsho Rolpa Lake (4588m)

Highlights

  • Incredible mountain vista including Gauri Shankar (7145m), Melungtse (7181m), and others 
  • Observing the beautiful turquoise Lake Tsho Rolpa (4580m)
  • Gorgeous sunrise and sunsets from various points of the Tsho Rolpa Lake trek
  • Various mani walls, prayer flags, and monastery along the trail 
  • Exploring the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the Sherpa community
  • Spotting rare wildlife along the trail
  • Fantastic Bird watching opportunity along the trail
  • Scenic drive on the Araniko highway
  • Tasting the delicious local cuisine
  • Incredible hospitality of the local people
     

Description

Tsho Rolpa Trek is a lovely off the beaten trek located in the Rolwaling Valley region. This hidden trek takes you to the pristine turquoise lake of Tsho Rolpa (4580 m). The gorgeous lake lies between the majestic Langtang and Everest mountain ranges. It is one of the biggest glacier lakes in Nepal.

According to legends, the Rolwaling Valley is one of the seven hidden valleys and home of the mythical creature Yeti. The terraced farmed hills, mani walls, Himalayan rivers, rhododendron forests, and serene waterfalls will enchant you. The views of the Gauri Shankar (7145m), Melungtse (7181m), and other snow-capped mountains are breathtaking.

Tsho Rolpa lake falls under the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project (GCAP). “Tsho” means lake and “Rolpa '' denotes the Rolwaling valley in the Sherpa language. The trails constructed by a swiss project are well marked with proper information and marks. It is also famous for having a beautiful Cantilever Bridge. 

Moreover, our long-duration Tsho Rolpa trek itinerary allows you to acclimatize and explore the region in a relaxed manner. You will have to trek for around 6-8 hours; hence a good level of fitness is essential for the trek. A good training routine at least two weeks before the trek is essential.

You will also get to explore the culture and heritage of the Sherpa and other communities. Their incredible hospitality and a warm welcome will make you fall in love with the place. We are offering this exciting trek at a reasonable cost. Read further for the Tsho Rolpa trek itinerary and other information in detail.

15 Days Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek Itinerary

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Drive duration: 6-7 hours

Our Tsho Rolpa Lake trek journey starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Shigati. The scenic drive takes us along the winding roads of the Araniko highway. We can enjoy the beautiful views of the Bhote Koshi and Sun Koshi rivers. The breathtaking mountain views will welcome us on our 6-7 hours journey.

We then take a break to have our lunch and continue our drive observing the picturesque views of the terraced farmed hill and villages. The drive moves along the TamaKoshi River as we observe the distant view of Mt. Gaurishankar (7134m). We will finally arrive at Shigati village after a few hours and stay overnight at a local lodge.

  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Altitude: 950m

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek following a narrow trail along the Tama Koshi River. We then cross the pristine river through a suspension bridge and take an uphill climb. The trails then lead you to the beautiful Suri Dhoban from where you can observe the majestic Gaurishankar (7134m).

We cross several suspension bridges, various Mani stones and prayer wheels along the trail to arrive at the Manthali village. After a trek of a few hours along the riverbank, we will arrive at Jagat. We will stay overnight at a teahouse in Jagat.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 1150m

Trek duration: 5 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek with a descent to the riverbank by passing through the forested zone. We then cross a small river through a suspension bridge to arrive at Gonggar village.

The trail then ascends through the stone steps and we can encounter the pristine waterfalls. We then walk through the steps that lead us to the vast fields until we arrive at the Sherpa village of Chhetchhet. We will then cross a suspension bridge and ascend through the terraced farmed hills.

The trails then lead us to the beautiful Chorten as we arrive at Simigaon from where we can observe the majestic views of Mt. Gaurishankar (7134m). We will also explore the Buddhist Monastery and other significant religious landmarks of the region. Finally, after a long trek, we will stay overnight at a teahouse in Simigaon.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 1990m

Trek duration: 6 hours

After breakfast, we start our trek from Simigaon by descending to a slope before climbing the majestic stone steps. We then enter the forest and climb the up and down trail to arrive at the beautiful Rolwaling River.

The trail then leads us to the forest from where we can observe the Gaurishankar Himal (7134m). We then ascend the cliff that leads us to the Gyalchen. We will stay overnight at a teahouse in Gyalchen.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 2990m

Trek duration: 4 hours

After breakfast, we start the trail by passing through the forest that leads us to the Nyamare village. We have our lunch at the village and continue our trek on the up and down trail to arrive at the Beding, which is the largest settlement in the Rolwaling region.

We take a break to observe the beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains and the pristine waterfalls of the region. At the village entry, we can find an ancient Gompa. We stay overnight at a teahouse in Beding. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3690m

Trek duration: 5 hours

After breakfast, we will start our trek from Beding to Na Gaun. The trek starts with a gradual climb toward the right bank of Rolwaling River before we arrive in Dhogre. We can observe an alternate view of the majestic Gaurishankar (7134m).

The trail then opens gradually towards the U-shaped valley and vast grasslands. We also pass through the Mani stones along the path that gets covered in prayer flags. There is also a large Bodhisattva painting made on a large rock.

We will arrive at Na Gaon after a trek of a few hours. Na Gaon village lies below the magnificent range of mountains and remains enclosed by stone walls. We will stay overnight at a teahouse in Na Gaon.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 4180m

After breakfast, we will start our acclimatization and exploration of the Na village. We can take a short hike to Ramdung from where we can observe the beautiful mountain vista, including the Gauri Shanker, Menlung, Yalung, and other Tibetan mountains.

We also visit the famous Yalung Glacier camp. The incredible beauty of the place will enchant you. We will return and stay overnight at a teahouse in Na village.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 4180m

Trek duration: 7 hours

After breakfast, we will start the most beautiful part of our trekking adventure that is the trek to the pristine Lake of Tsho Rolpa. The trail leads us to the beautiful landscapes to finally arrive at the incredible glacial Lake of Tsho Rolpa.

We leave Na Gaon and cross several suspension bridges over the Rolwaling River. The trail then gradually leads on an uphill path until we arrive at the beautiful green meadows. The trail then leads us to the two glaciers as we enter the valley.

We walk through the rocky moraines of Rolwaling Glacier, to arrive at the breathtaking Tsho Rolpa Lake. The mesmerizing beauty of the Lake will overwhelm you. We explore the region and stay overnight at a tented camp or a teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camp
  • Altitude: 4588m

After breakfast, we will start our exploration tour of the beautiful Tsho Rolpa Lake. The biggest glacial lake in Nepal is at the height of 4580 m. This majestic turquoise lake has snow-capped mountains all around, and you can observe the reflection of the silver mountain on the lake.

Furthermore, the locals believe that the lake has grown significantly over the last few decades due to global warming and the melting of glaciers. We will take incredible pictures and explore the Tsho Rolpa Lake. We will stay overnight at a tented camp or a teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camp
  • Altitude: 4588m

Trek duration: 7 hours

After breakfast, we will start our return trek to Beding. We take some great pictures of the magnificent glacial lake and trek back the same route that we had taken earlier.

We take a short break at Na Gaon to have lunch before continuing our trek to Beding following the Rolwaling River trail. We will arrive at Beding, after a trek of a few hours, and stay overnight at a teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3690m

Trek duration: 6 hours

After breakfast, we will start the trek to the Daldung la pass from Beding. The uphill trek passes through the diverse flora and fauna of the region. We will cross a deep gorge through a huge suspension bridge.

You will then pass through the beautiful Sherpa village with incredible mountain views. You can also observe the temporary Yak shed called “Yak Naka” if you trek in a particular season. Finally, you will arrive at the Daldung La pass after a trek of a few hours and stay overnight at a teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3976m

Trek duration: 6 hours

After breakfast, we will start our trek from Daldung la pass to Simi gaon. The descending trek down from Kyalche is quite challenging. We will pass through the stone stairs to arrive at Simigaun after a trek of a few hours. We will stay overnight at a tea house in Simi gaon. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 1990m

Trek duration: 6 hours

After breakfast, we will start our trek with an uphill climb on a stony trail. The trail then leads us to beautiful landscapes with terrace farmed hills, and pristine waterfalls. We cross the suspension bridges over the Himalayan rivers. We finally arrive at Jagat after a trek of a few hours and stay overnight at a teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 1150m

Trek duration: 6 hours

After breakfast, we will start our trek to Shigati from Jagat. We will cross a suspension bridge and follow the river bank to arrive at the Manthali village. We will then descend the Mani stones and prayer wheels covered trails to arrive at the suspension bridge.

The trails then pass through the Suri dobhan from where we can observe the majestic view of Gaurishankar (7134m). We then follow the narrow trails along the Tama Koshi River to arrive at Shigati.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Altitude: 950m

Drive duration: 6-7 hours

After breakfast, we will start our drive from Shigati to Kathmandu as our Tsho Rolpa Lake trek gets completed. It takes around 6-7 hours of drive to arrive at Kathmandu through the scenic winding roads of the Araniko highway.

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
  • Altitude: 1320m

What to Expect

Cost Includes

  • Airport Pickup and Drop
  • Round Trip Local Bus (Kathmandu and Shigati)
  • Teahouse and Camping Accommodation with ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 3 Meals per day 
  • Guide, Porter, and Helper including their food, accommodation, salary, transportation, and insurance
  • Use of sleeping bag & Duffel bag (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed)
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits after dinner 
  • A first aid kit carried by the guide (Oximeter to measure your oxygen and pulse in high altitude)  
  • All Necessary Trekking Permits
  • All Government & Local Taxes 

Cost Excludes

  • International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
  • Hotel & Meals in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses (WiFi, Phone calls, Laundry, Bar bills, Battery Recharge, Water, Shower, and Tea / Coffee)
  • Other costs not mentioned in 'Cost Includes' section
  • Travel and Rescue Insurance
  • Tips for Guides, Porters, Helpers and Drivers

Useful Information

When is the Best Time for the Tsho Rolpa Trek?

The peak season for trekking in Nepal is the Autumn (September- November) and the Spring (March-May). The stable weather conditions and the minimal precipitation in these months make the Tsho Rolpa Lake trek a great adventure in these seasons.

Autumn (September- November)

The Autumn months from September to November are a great time for the Tsho Rolpa lake trek. You will get moderate temperatures in the daytime that are perfect for trekking. The minimal rainfall is another advantage of the trek in this season. Besides that, you will also get the complete cultural experience of the local community in Autumn. 

Spring (March-May)

Spring months of March to May is another exciting time for the Tsho Rolpa Lake trek in the region. The wildflowers, including Rhododendron, bloom all over the hills painting the hilly landscapes, red and pink. The spring months provide us beautiful weather and ideal trekking temperatures for trekking.  

Off-season Tsho Rolpa trek in the monsoon and the winter season are quite challenging. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall in the area, which leads to slippery and leech-infested trails. 

Moreover, there are also risks of avalanches and landslides in the region. Winter season brings heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures in the region. Hence, the Autumn and the Spring season are the best time for the Tsho Rolpa trek.  

How Difficult is the Tsho Rolpa Trek?

Tsho Rolpa Trek is a moderately challenging trek in Nepal. Beginners might find this newly built trail quite challenging. Hence, a good amount of training before the trek is essential. Altitude is one of the significant factors of difficulty during the trek. 

The maximum elevation during the trek is 4580 m. This high altitude Tsho Rolpa Lake trek brings the risk of altitude sickness among trekkers. Therefore, acclimatization and regular hydration is a must while trekking. Besides that, you should also trek at a gradual pace and not hurry to reach the destination.

Moreover, the rugged trail goes up and down a lot and also comes with lots of stone steps, which are a challenge for trekkers of all skill levels. You will need to walk around the narrow landscapes around the cliffs. Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek is thus tricky in these aspects. 

Another difficulty factor of the trek is the weather conditions. Weather remains unpredictable in the higher altitude region. Hence, you should check the weather condition before you start on the trek. You should also pack trekking gear and other essentials during the trek. 

Overall, the Tsho Rolpa trek is moderately challenging, and with proper preparation, you can complete the trek with ease.