Overview

The Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek is a hidden gem tucked away in the pristine Rolwaling Valley of eastern Nepal. Perfect for adventure seekers looking for a short yet rewarding Himalayan experience, this 6-day trek offers a captivating journey through remote Sherpa villages, lush forests, and glacial rivers. At the heart of the trek lies Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580 m)—one of Nepal’s largest and most stunning glacial lakes—surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks. The trail is less crowded compared to popular routes like Everest or Annapurna, making it ideal for trekkers craving solitude and raw natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, FroxHolidays ensures a well-organized and unforgettable experience, combining local expertise with genuine Himalayan hospitality—all within just a week.

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Itinerary

Day: 1

Drive from Kathmandu to Gongar Khola – Trek to Simigaun (2,000m)

Drive from Kathmandu (approx. 7-8 hours) via Charikot to Gongar Khola.
Enjoy scenic views of rural landscapes and the Bhote Koshi River.
Begin trek with a gradual ascent through terraced fields and forest.
Reach Simigaun, a Sherpa and Tamang village with cultural charm.

Day: 2

Trek from Simigaun to Dongang (2,790m)

Start the trail with a steep climb through lush rhododendron and pine forests.
Cross multiple small streams and wooden bridges.
Pass through beautiful, forested trails with glimpses of Gauri Shankar.
Overnight at Dongang, a peaceful spot by the river.

Day: 3

Trek from Dongang to Beding (3,690m)

Continue uphill through dense forest and alongside the Rolwaling River.
Witness dramatic changes in vegetation as altitude increases.
Enter the Rolwaling Valley and visit yaks grazing in pastures.
Reach the village of Beding, the largest settlement in the valley.

Day: 4

Trek from Beding to Na Gaon (4,180m)

Enjoy a relatively easy and short trek to aid acclimatization.
Trek along the flat valley floor with views of Melungtse and surrounding peaks.
Explore Na Gaon, a small seasonal village used by local herders.
Rest and prepare for the lake visit the following day.

Day: 5

Hike to Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580m) – Return to Na Gaon

Begin an early morning hike to Tsho Rolpa Lake, one of Nepal’s biggest glacial lakes.
Ascend alongside moraines with stunning Himalayan vistas.
Reach the tranquil turquoise Tsho Rolpa Lake, surrounded by snow peaks.
Spend time capturing photos and appreciating the glacial environment before returning to Na Gaon.

Day: 6

Trek back to Beding – Return drive to Kathmandu

Retrace steps to Beding and then trek down to Gongar Khola.
Enjoy the last glimpses of the valley and local settlements.
Drive back to Kathmandu.

Permits and Essential Documents for Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek:

TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card: A necessary permit for all trekkers in Nepal. It can be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or through your trekking agency.
Gaurishankar Conservation Area (GCA) is a protected area located in the central Himalayas of Nepal, covering parts of the Rolwaling Valley, including areas around Tsho Rolpa Lake. This area is home to the Gaurishankar Himal, considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists.
Local Permits: Depending on the route, additional local permits may be required to enter certain restricted areas in the Rolwaling Valley.

Best Time to Trek:

The best seasons for the Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is clear, and the views are most spectacular. Winter (December to February) and monsoon (June to August) bring harsher conditions, with snow and rain making the trail more challenging.

Accommodation:

Accommodation during the trek primarily consists of local teahouses and lodges along the route, where you can experience the hospitality of the Sherpa and Tamang communities.
Rooms are typically basic but clean, with shared bathrooms. Expect to stay in dormitory-style rooms in some villages.

Food:

Meals along the trek are mostly Nepali, Tibetan, and Sherpa cuisine, with options like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), and noodles.
Vegetarian options are widely available, but the further you go, the fewer options you might have.

Packing Tips:

Trekking Gear: Make sure to pack warm clothing, a sturdy pair of trekking boots, a sleeping bag, a rain jacket, and trekking poles. High-altitude gear such as insulated jackets and gloves are important.
Water: Always carry a water bottle and purification tablets, as access to clean drinking water may be limited at higher altitudes.
Health Kit: A personal first aid kit with basic medication (including Diamox for altitude sickness), bandages, and antiseptics is recommended.

Altitude Awareness:

The highest point on this trek is Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580m), so it’s crucial to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
Rest days at Beding and Na Gaon help your body adjust to the increasing elevation, reducing the risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).

Inclusion

All ground transportation (Kathmandu to Gongar Khola and return) in private or tourist vehicle
All necessary permits, including
Licensed and experienced guide throughout the trek
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Basic tea house accommodation during the trek
Government taxes and service charges

Exclusion

International airfare to and from Nepal
Nepal visa fee
Meals in Kathmandu (lunch and dinner) before and after the trek
Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging)
Travel and medical insurance (mandatory for all trekkers)
Tips for guide and porter (customary but not mandatory)
Extra accommodation or transportation costs due to unforeseen delays (weather, landslides, etc.)