Tsho Rolpa Trek | Adventure to Nepal’s Largest Glacial Lake
Overview
The Tsho Rolpa Trek is a hidden gem in Nepal’s Rolwaling Valley, offering a serene and off-the-beaten-path trekking experience in the heart of the eastern Himalayas. Nestled between the Everest and Langtang regions, the trail leads to Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580 m) — one of Nepal’s largest and most stunning glacial lakes — surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, pristine glaciers, and remote alpine landscapes.
This trek is ideal for adventurers seeking a less crowded, wilderness experience enriched with breathtaking natural beauty and cultural depth. The route takes you through charming Sherpa, Tamang, and indigenous Rolwaling villages, where traditional mountain lifestyles remain untouched by modern development. You’ll walk through lush forests of rhododendron and pine, cross thrilling suspension bridges, and follow the Rolwaling River as it carves through dramatic gorges.
The trek culminates at Tsho Rolpa Lake, a turquoise glacial lake dramatically positioned beneath Gaurishankar Himal (7,134 m) and surrounded by a high-altitude amphitheater of ice and rock. The setting is both powerful and peaceful, making it an unforgettable destination for nature lovers, photographers, and seasoned trekkers alike.
While the trail does not require technical climbing, it does demand good physical fitness due to its remote location, high altitude, and rugged terrain. It is best suited for trekkers with some prior experience who are looking for something unique and untouched.
📌 Key Highlights:
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Trek to Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580 m) — one of Nepal’s largest glacial lakes
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Majestic views of Gaurishankar (7,134 m) and surrounding peaks
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Authentic Sherpa and Tamang villages with rich cultural heritage
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Rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and glacial rivers
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A peaceful, uncrowded alternative to popular trekking regions
Why This Trek?
- Remote Adventure: Fewer crowds, pristine trails.
- Glacial Lake: Witness the awe-inspiring Tsho Rolpa.
- Cultural Immersion: Interact with the Tamang and Sherpa communities.
FAQs
Q: Is this trek suitable for beginners?
A: No. Requires prior high-altitude trekking experience due to remote trails and elevation.
Q: Are permits required?
A: Yes! Rolwaling Valley requires a TIMS card and a Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Activities: Airport pickup, hotel check-in, and welcome dinner.
Day 2: Kathmandu Cultural Tour & Trek Prep
- Activities: Visit UNESCO sites (Swayambhunath, Boudhanath), gear check, and briefing.
- Key Sights: Ancient temples, Buddhist stupas.
Day 3: Drive to Chet Chet (1,230m) via Private Jeep
- Activities: 8-9 hour scenic drive through the Dolakha district.
- Route Description: Follow the Tamakoshi River; views of Gaurishankar Himal.
Day 4: Trek to Simigaon (2,000m)
- Distance: 12 km (6-7 hours)
- Activities: Cross suspension bridges; ascend through terraced farms.
- Key Sights: Tamang villages, Rolwaling Valley entrance.
- Elevation Gain: +770m
Day 5: Trek to Dongang (2,800m)
- Distance: 10 km (5-6 hours)
- Activities: Traverse dense forests; spot Himalayan wildlife (musk deer, pheasants).
- Route Highlight: First views of the Rolwaling Himalayan range.
Day 6: Trek to Beding (3,690m)
- Distance: 8 km (5-6 hours)
- Activities: Enter alpine terrain; visit Beding Monastery.
- Key Sights: Traditional stone houses, yak pastures.
Day 7: Trek to Na Village (4,180m)
- Distance: 6 km (4-5 hours)
- Activities: Gradual ascent; acclimatize for Tsho Rolpa.
- Key Sights: Glacial moraines, prayer flags.
Day 8: Explore Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580m)
- Activities: Day hike to the glacial lake; learn about glacial retreat.
- Key Challenge: Rocky trails with panoramic views of Tsho Rolpa and surrounding peaks.
- Key Sights: Tsho Rolpa Glacier Lake trek, Himalayan ecology.
Day 9: Na Village to Dongang
- Distance: 14 km (7-8 hours)
- Activities: Descend through valleys; overnight in Dongang.
- Elevation Loss: -1,380m
Day 10: Dongang to Chet Chet; Drive to Kathmandu
- Trek: 10 km (4-5 hours) to Chet Chet.
- Drive: 8-9 hours to Kathmandu.
- Celebrate: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
What's included
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🚐 Ground Transportation: Private vehicle from Kathmandu to Chetchet (trek starting point) and return to Kathmandu after completing the Trek
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🧾 Trekking Permits & Entry Fees: Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP)
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🧑🏫 Trekking Guide: Government-certified, English-speaking trekking guide with high-altitude experience
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🏨 Accommodation:
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3-star hotel in Kathmandu (with breakfast)
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Teahouse lodges during the trek (twin-sharing basis)
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🍽️ Meals: Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
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🧳 Porter Service: 1 porter per 2 trekkers (max 20 kg luggage allowance per person)
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🩺 First Aid & Emergency Support: First-aid kit, pulse oximeter to monitor altitude effects
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🎒 Trekking Map & Duffel Bag: Provided by the company
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🌐 All Government Taxes & Company Service Charges
What's not included
- International Flights: To/from Kathmandu
- Nepal Visa Fee: Payable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport
- Travel Insurance: Mandatory—must include high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation
- Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner (unless stated otherwise)
- Personal Trekking Equipment: Boots, sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles, etc. (available for rent in Kathmandu)
- Beverages & Personal Expenses: Bottled drinks, snacks, alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers, etc.
- Tips & Gratuities: For guide and porter (recommended and customary in Nepal)
- Unforeseen Accommodation: Due to delays, early return, or itinerary changes
- Emergency Evacuation: Helicopter rescue or other evacuation costs (if required)
- Additional Side Trips: Optional hikes or detours not included in the set itinerary
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Book Your Tsho Rolpa Adventure!
📞 +977- 9856011727 | ✉️ info@amazingnepaladventure.com
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