Important Information
Region
Rolwaling Region Treks
Duration
8 Days
Max Altitude 4580 meter
Best Season March- May, September-November
Activity Per Day
5-6 hours
Grade
Level Level 2
Group Size
2 - 12 people
Transportation Jeep
The Tsho Rolpa Trek is one of the less-explored trekking routes in Nepal, offering an exciting adventure to one of the country's largest and highest glacier lakes, Tsho Rolpa Lake. Sitting at an altitude of 4,580 meters, this stunning lake is nestled in the Rolwaling Valley of the Dolakha district. If you're looking for a trekking experience combining natural beauty, serenity, and a challenge, the Tsho Rolpa Trek is perfect.
The Tsho Rolpa Trek offers a perfect mix of challenges and rewards. Along the way, trekkers encounter diverse terrains, from lush alpine forests filled with rhododendron blossoms to the rugged glacier moraines that make the trek unique. You will experience the thrill of walking on glaciers and the awe of trekking through peaceful villages where you can get a glimpse of the Sherpa’s way of life.
The trek is physically demanding, especially as you ascend toward the lake. But every step brings you closer to the breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, including the Gaurishankar (7,134 meters) and Melungtse (7,181 meters), which dominate the skyline. You’ll have the chance to camp in areas far from the crowds, making the trek even more special.
One of the highlights of this trek is the chance to interact with the locals. The Rolwaling Valley is home to the Sherpa people, known for their hospitality and connection to the mountains. As you pass through their villages, you'll have the opportunity to learn about their culture and traditions, making the trek not only physically challenging but also deeply enriching.
Why You Should Choose the Tsho Rolpa Trek
- Less Crowded: Unlike other famous treks in Nepal, Tsho Rolpa remains relatively peaceful and quiet. If you want to enjoy nature without the crowds, this is the trek for you.
- Beautiful Scenery: From lush forests to stunning mountain views, this trek offers a wide range of landscapes that are sure to captivate every adventurer.
- Cultural Experience: The trek takes you through Sherpa villages where you can learn about their traditions, customs, and daily life.
- A Hidden Gem: Tsho Rolpa is still a hidden gem in the Nepalese trekking world, offering a unique and unspoiled adventure for those willing to venture into the less-traveled paths.
If you are looking for a different itinerary than the itinerary here, please customize your trip.
Include
Private Transportation from Kathmandu to Chetchet and Pick Up after Trek
All required permits for trekking and Gaurishankar national park entry permits.
Twin/double sharing accommodation in the mountain during the trekking
Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
Trekking route maps
1 Porter for two trekkers
Himalayan Wander Walkers Company Duffle Bag for porter to carry trekker's luggage
Exclude
Personal trekking equipment and Expenses
Travel/medical insurance
Phone calls, internet, international air ticket fare
Tips for your trekking guide & porters at the end of the trek
Nepal entry visa Fee.
Everything not mentioned in the ‘includes section’
Route Map
Important Information
What Makes the Tsho Rolpa Trek Special?
Tsho Rolpa Lake is a magnificent sight, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and beautiful alpine scenery. In the Sherpa language, "Tsho" means lake, and "Rolpa" is derived from the word "Rolwaling," which means “valley carved by a plow.” This region’s cliffs truly look like they were carved by a giant plow, adding to the dramatic beauty of the area.
The trek takes you through the Gaurishankar Conservation Area (GCA), a pristine region that's not overcrowded with trekkers, making it an ideal choice for those who seek a more peaceful and personal experience in the Himalayas. Due to its remoteness, you’ll be immersed in nature, passing through dense forests, quaint Sherpa villages, and breathtaking landscapes.
Tsho Rolpa Lake itself has been growing over the past 50 years due to glacial melting and global warming, and it’s become an increasingly popular site for trekkers. Visiting this beautiful and tranquil lake allows you to witness firsthand the impact of climate change on the Himalayas, while also offering an unforgettable trekking experience.
Best Time to Trek
The autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons are the best times to trek to Tsho Rolpa. During autumn, the skies are clear, offering perfect visibility and stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Spring is equally beautiful, with rhododendrons in full bloom, coloring the forests in shades of pink, red, and white. The pleasant weather during these seasons ensures an enjoyable trekking experience.
However, the Tsho Rolpa Trek is accessible throughout the year, though winter and summer can be more challenging. In winter, temperatures can drop significantly, but the views are clear and the region remains peaceful, offering a quieter experience. Summer brings the monsoon rains, which can make the trails slippery and harder to navigate, so it’s best to avoid this season if you want to enjoy the trek comfortably.
Is the Tsho Rolpa Trek Right for You?
While the trek offers great rewards, it does come with its challenges, especially for beginners. The trek involves some high-altitude sections and requires a good level of fitness. However, with proper preparation, including acclimatization and packing the right gear, even relatively new trekkers can take on this adventure.
This trek is perfect for those who want to get away from the well-trodden paths of more popular treks like Everest and Annapurna. It’s an opportunity to explore a remote region, experience the culture of the Sherpa people, and see a glacier lake that’s increasingly becoming a symbol of the effects of global warming.
Frequently Asked Question
Yes, you can customize the Tso Rolpa Trek according to your preferences. Whether you want to stop and spend a day or night in a specific location or tea house, or you want to add a side trek, just let us know what you're looking for, and we’ll be happy to accommodate your wishes: “Customize Your Trip.”
Yes, a guide is highly recommended, especially trekking to remote areas of Nepal, including the Rolwaling Valley where there are rugged terrains and no proper trekking routes. Guides also provide valuable insights into the local culture, history, and landscapes, and they can assist with any issues, such as altitude sickness or changing plans due to weather-related issues.
For the Tso Rolpa trek, one needs to have the Lapche Restricted Permit and Gaurishankar Conservation Permit, which can be obtained from the Nepal Immigration Department through registered and authorized trekking agencies. Read more about trekking permits for the Rolwalling Region.
Normally, altitude sickness can occur in regions above 2,500 meters, and Tso Rolpa lies at an elevation of 4580 meters, so you might get some symptoms of altitude sickness. Staying hydrated, eating well, and ascending gradually are the best ways to prevent altitude sickness. If you experience symptoms like dizziness or headaches, inform your guide immediately so they can follow the necessary protocols.
For the Tso Rolpa trek, Spring and autumn is the best season, avoiding the monsoon. There will be plenty of greenery along with stable weather and clear sky during these seasons and one will have less risk of altitude sickness and with a chance to see the Rhododendrons along the routes. Read more about the best season for trekking in the Rolwaling Region.
The cost of the Tso Rolpa trek starts from USD 760(all inclusive price) per person and depends on many factors including the season or time one chooses to trek, the mode of transportation, accommodations and lodging and many more. Read more about trekking costs in the Rolwaling Region.
For the Tso Rolpa trek, the essentials include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothes, a sleeping bag, water bottles, sunscreen, a hat, and a small first-aid kit. Be sure to pack light but adequately for the weather conditions and trek duration. Please visit our blog for more information on trekking gear and equipment.
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