Tucked away in the rugged folds of Nepal’s Rolwaling Valley, the Tsho Rolpa Trek is a journey through raw wilderness, where towering peaks cradle an alpine lake of otherworldly beauty. Far from the well-trodden paths of Everest or Annapurna, this trek offers solitude, adventure, and a connection to the Himalayas that feels almost sacred.
A Journey Off the Beaten Path
The trek to Tsho Rolpa begins in the quaint village of Chetchet, a vibrant starting point where lush terraced fields meet the untamed beauty of the Rolwaling River. As you ascend, the landscapes shift dramatically. Dense forests of rhododendron and pine give way to stark glacial valleys, with every turn offering postcard-perfect views of snow-capped peaks like Gauri Shankar (7,134m).
This is no ordinary trek—it’s a passage through Nepal’s cultural and natural tapestry. Along the way, you’ll encounter traditional Sherpa villages, where time seems to stand still, and ancient Buddhist monasteries, their prayer flags fluttering in the crisp mountain wind.
The Crown Jewel: Tsho Rolpa Lake
High up in the Himalayas, at 4,580 meters, you’ll find Tsho Rolpa, a beautiful lake that looks like a giant sapphire. It’s huge, stretching over 1.5 kilometers, surrounded by rocky hills and tall mountains. The lake’s water is a lovely shade of blue-green, reflecting the mountains around it.
This region is also a stark reminder of climate change. Tsho Rolpa has grown significantly over the decades due to glacial melt, a silent testament to the shifting dynamics of the natural world.
The Trekking Experience
Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu to Chetchet
- Drive from Kathmandu to Chetchet (7-8 hours).
- Overnight at a teahouse.
Day 2: Chetchet to Simigaun
- A steep ascent through terraced fields and lush forests.
- Approx. 4-5 hours of trekking.
- Overnight in Simigaun, a picturesque Sherpa village.
Day 3: Simigaun to Dongang
- Trek through dense rhododendron forests alongside the Rolwaling River.
- Approx. 6-7 hours of trekking.
- Overnight at Dongang.
Day 4: Dongang to Beding
- Ascend to Beding (3,690m), the largest village in the valley.
- Approx. 6 hours of trekking.
- Explore local culture and monasteries.
Day 5: Beding to Na Village
- A gradual trek to Na (4,180m), where you’ll be surrounded by spectacular peaks.
- Approx. 5-6 hours of trekking.
Day 6: Na Village to Tsho Rolpa Lake
- Trek to the stunning Tsho Rolpa Lake, surrounded by glacial landscapes.
- Approx. 5 hours of trekking.
Day 7: Tsho Rolpa to Beding
- Retrace your steps to Beding.
- Approx. 6 hours of trekking.
Day 8: Beding to Chetchet
- Trek back to Chetchet, followed by an overnight stay.
Day 9: Chetchet to Kathmandu
- Drive back to Kathmandu.
Budget Breakdown
- Permits:
- Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit: NPR 3,000 per person.
- Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card: NPR 2,000.
- Accommodation:
- Teahouses: USD 5-10 per night.
- Meals:
- Approx. USD 25-30 per day for three meals.
- Guide and Porter:
- Guide: USD 25-30 per day.
- Porter: USD 20-25 per day.
- Transportation:
- Kathmandu to Chetchet by bus: USD 10-15.
Highlights of the Trek
- Tsho Rolpa Lake: The largest glacial lake in Nepal, a shimmering jewel at 4,580m.
- Gauri Shankar Range: Awe-inspiring views of one of Nepal’s holiest peaks.
- Sherpa Culture: Explore traditional villages, monasteries, and Buddhist shrines.
- Untouched Wilderness: Trek through pristine landscapes, far from the crowds.
- Challenging Adventure: Test your endurance on rugged trails and high-altitude terrain.
Why Tsho Rolpa Should Be Your Next Trek
The Tsho Rolpa Trek isn’t just a hike, it’s a journey into the soul of the Himalayas. You’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking scenery, from the majestic Gauri Shankar to the icy waters of Tsho Rolpa.
This trek is perfect for those who crave adventure and a deeper connection with nature. You’ll experience true solitude and discover the rich cultural heritage of this incredible region.
Book your Free Exploration call today for planning your next trek.
