The Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek is a less popular but beautiful trekking route in the Rolwaling area of Nepal. It takes you to Tso Rolpa Lake, a glacial lake situated at a height of approximately 4,580 meters (15,026 feet). The trek offers startling views of the Himalayan peaks, including Gauri Shankar (7,134 meters/23,405 feet), Melungtse (7,181 meters/23,560 feet), and many others.
The Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek offers an extraordinary blend of natural magnificence, cultural diversity, and, of course, the grand adventure. It’s an opportunity to dig through a lesser-known treasure in the Himalayas and assemble endless memories amidst awe-inspiring topography. There are many reasons why you should do the Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek once in your lifetime.
Highlight of the Tsho Rolpa Trek
Magical and Majestic Glacial Lake – Tsho Rolpa Lake is one of the largest glacial lakes in Nepal. It is situated at an elevation of 4580 meters above sea level.
Authentic Himalayan Culture – Trekking to Tsho Rolpa Lake is a pure Himalayan experience of the authentic Himalayan culture. Walk through the traditional and typical Tamang and Sherpa villages, the alpine forest, and the bank of the Tamakoshi River. The hospitality of the local people of the area is the best thing about this majestic journey.
Diverse Landscapes – The journey to Tsho Rolpa begins from Kathmandu pass through the various villages and differ landscape. From authentic villages, lush river valleys, to alpine meadows, and glacier terrain. While trekking each day, it offers new and different views and moods.
Various flora and fauna – Rolwaling Valley is a part of the Gauri Sanker Conservation Area. Which is why the region has various flora and fauna.
Trek Duration and Difficulty
Duration of the trek depends on the itinerary you choose. And if you go through an organized trek group, then it depends on the itinerary that the trekking agency offers you. On average, it takes around 10-12 days to complete the trek.
The Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek is known as a moderately difficult trek. A trekker has to walk on rugged terrains, high mountain trails, and gain considerable altitude. Having previous trekking experience and a good level of physical fitness are highly recommended to accomplish this magnificent trek.
Day by Day Tsho Rolpa Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu to ChetChet drive and trek to Simigaun (1950 meters)
Morning departs from Kathmandu by local bus or private Jeep, the scenic drive will be around 7 to 9 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. The trek to Simigaun takes around 2 hours.
Day 2: Simigaun to Dongang (2790 meters)
Total trek duration is around 5 to 6 hours, depending on walking speed and ability. Will ascend through the villages, rhododendron, and pine forests along the banks of streams and rivers.
Day 3: Dongang to Beding (3692 meters)
Trek around 5 to 6 hours through the alpine meadows, enjoy the glimpse of the snowy peaks, and enjoy the Sherpa culture and tradition in their hospitality.
Day 4: Beding to Na Village (4180 meters)
Today’s journey will be around 4 to 6 hours, but the altitude makes it difficult to walk, so walk slowly and enjoy the magnificent views of the snowy peaks and surroundings.
Day 5: Acclimatization/ Side hikes near the villages.
Acclimatization is very necessary to get used to the altitude. So today romming around the village and climbing at least 2 to 3 hundred meters and back to the village.
Day 6: Trek to Tsho Rolpa Lake (4580 meters) and back to Na.
Trekking to Tsho Rolpa Lake requires a lot of ascent. So start early in the morning and enjoy the mind-blowing beauty of nature. Trek around 7 to 8 hours for a round trip, including the brakes at the lake.
Note: You can even spend an overnight at the Teho Rolpa Lake by camping or at a Tea house.
Day 7: Na Village to Dongang
Trek around 6 to 7 hours, mostly downhill, and similar trails that are followed while going up.
Day 8: Dongang to Simigaun
Trek duration is around 8 hours through the same villages and forests that were climbed when going up to the Lake.
Day 9: Trek to ChetChet and drive back to Kathmandu.
Start your journey very early in the morning and take a bus or a Jeep to Kathmandu.
Note: This is the normal itinerary people follow to reach there. The itinerary for the Tsho Rolpa Trek can extend for a longer time if you have more time to explore.
Require Permits for Tsho Rolpa Trek
Like most of the other trekking trails in Nepal. Will need permits to embark on the journey to the Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek. These usually include the TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and the Conservation Area Entry Permit. Conservation Area Permit costs USD 30, andthe TIMS card costs USD 20. If you want to do the entire Rolwaling Trek, it will cost an extra USD 20 per week as restricted area.
It’s best to check the latest permit requirements and regulations before starting on the trek. Sometimes the rules and regulations change, and you can follow and check the Nepal Immigration Website or the TAAN Website.
Available Accommodation During the Trek.
Along the trekking trail, there are teahouses or lodges where you can spend the night. These basic lodging places will provide basic meals and a place to sleep. However, the teahouses might be more basic and less crowded compared to popular treks like Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang. But those tea houses are run by good and kind-hearted people.
Best Time to Do Tsho Rolpa Trek
The best time to do the Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek is during the Spring and Autumn. These months offer steady weather, precise skies, and advantageous trekking conditions.
Spring Season: March, April, and May
Autumn Season: September, October, and November
As with any trek in the Himalayas of Nepal, it’s better to go with an experienced trekking guide or trekking agency. Need to pack proper trekking gear, and be sure you are physically and mentally prepared for the challenges.
Tsho Rolpa Trekking Cost
Trekking to Tsho Rolpa Lake costs will be different based on travel and trekking style – group trek, solo, or budget trek, fully organized or guided trek. Typically, trek costs include:
Transportation – Kathmandu – Chet Chet – Kathmandu by local Bus approximately 15 to 30 USD, and private Jeep approximately 500 USD.
Trekking Permit – Gaurishanker Conservation Area Permit: USD 10 for SAARC nationals and USD 30 for other nationalities.
Restricted Entree Permit: USD 20
Guide and Porter – Professional Guide will charge per day USD 30 to 40, and Porter will cost per day USD 25 to 30.
Food and Accommodation: Tea house up the route will cost USD 5 to 10, and Food per day USD 25 to 30.
Total trip cost
- Budget Trek: USD 500 to 700
- Group Trek Package: USD 600 to 1200
- Private and Mid Range Package: Up to USD 1500, depending on what kind of services looking for
Packing and Essentials
Clothing – Warm down jacket, gloves, beanie, socks, fleece, thermal, hat, layered trekking clothes like quick dry T-shirt, pants,
Waterproof shell – Raincoat, Back cover, or Umbrella, etc
Gear – Trekking poles, Trekking boots, Sleeping Bag, Head Lamp,
Health and Safety – Water purification tablets or filter, First Aid Kit, Sunscreen, and Sunglasses
Money & Connectivity – Cash (NPR) because it only accepts local currency, and along the way, there are no banks or ATMs. SIM card with date and voice pack, although network connection is not always available.
Toiletries – Towel, soap or shampoo, Toilet paper, and wet tissue. Minsuration Pad.
Other – Powerbank, extra batteries, universal adaptor.
Energy bars – Mars Bar, Snickers, Musli Bar, dry fruits, etc.
Conclusion – Why the Tsho Rolpa Trek is the best choice?
Tsho Rolpa Trek is the best choice for trekkers. Who wants to experience the authentic Himalayan trekking? Is it in one of the off-the-beaten-path trekking routes in Nepal? This trek offers a stunning glacier view, a peaceful and quieter Trail compared to the Everest and Annapurna Trekking.
You can plan it for 10 days or extend it for more days with acclimatization and cultural exploration. This trek promises deep immersion in mountain culture, challenging hikes, unforgettable adventure, dramatic landscapes, and the beauty of a glacier lake.
