Tsho Rolpa Trek
Tsho Rolpa Trek Overview
The Tsho Rolpa Trek takes you to one of Nepal’s largest and highest glacier lakes – Tsho Rolpa (4,580m), situated in the remote Rolwaling Valley. This pristine trek lies within the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, between Langtang and Sagarmatha National Parks. It is a moderate trek offering breathtaking views of the Rolwaling Himal range, including Mt. Gaurishankar (7,134m) and Melungtse (7,181m).
The trail follows the Rolwaling River through dense forests, suspension bridges, and traditional Sherpa villages like Simi Gau, Dongang, Beding, and Naa Gau. You will experience the unique culture of the Sherpa people, and after Kyalche village, the region is a “no‑kill zone” – only vegetarian food is available, reflecting deep respect for nature.
This 12‑day trek is ideal for those seeking an off‑the‑beaten‑path adventure with fewer crowds. Global Nepal Treks provides experienced guides, porters, all necessary permits (Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit, TIMS), comfortable lodge accommodation, and full board meals during the trek.
Things That You Need to Know
Duration & Difficulty:
This is a 12‑day moderate trek. Daily walking averages 4‑6 hours, with a maximum altitude of 4,580m. Suitable for trekkers with good fitness and some previous experience.
Best Season
Spring Trekking Conditions (March–May) — Clear skies, moderate temperatures.
Autumn Trekking Conditions (September–December) — Stable weather, best visibility.
Winter Lake Freeze (December–February) — Tsho Rolpa freezes over; not recommended for lake viewing during this window.
Best For Experienced trekkers seeking an uncrowded, off-the-beaten-path alternative to Everest/Annapurna
Limited Teahouse Facilities — Basic amenities only; hot showers may cost extra where available.
You need a Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit and a TIMS card. Global Nepal Treks arranges these for you.
Accommodation & Meals:
Accommodation is in basic lodges/teahouses (twin sharing). Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are included during the trek. After Kyalche, only vegetarian food is available.
wilderness experience.
Reaching Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580m)
Why It's Called Nepal's Largest Glacial Lake — Formed by the retreat of the Trakarding Glacier, one of the fastest-melting glaciers in the Himalayas.
The No-Kill Zone Beyond Kyalche
What This Means for Meal Planning — No meat dishes served in Beding, Naa Gau, or surrounding villages.
Winter Lake Freeze (December–February)
Alternative Trekking Window — Consider late February onward if targeting an early-season slot before spring crowds.
Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. Our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Evening welcome dinner and trip briefing. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Drive to Charikot
Morning drive to Charikot (7 hours) via Araniko Highway. Pass through Bhaktapur, Banepa, Dhulikhel, and Dolalghat. Enjoy mountain views. Overnight in Charikot.
Drive to Chet Chet & Trek to Simi Gau
Drive to Chet Chet (2.5 hours). Start trekking to Simi Gau (2,000m) – 2 hours. Cross a long suspension bridge and ascend stone steps. Overnight in Simi Gau.
Trek to Dongang
Trek from Simi Gau to Dongang (2,790m) – 5 hours. Pass through dense forest, cross wooden and suspension bridges. Overnight in Dongang.
Trek to Beding
Trek to Beding (3,690m) – 4 hours. Walk along the Rolwaling River, cross a suspension bridge to Thandding, then easy trail to Beding. Overnight in Beding.
Trek to Naa Gau
Trek to Naa Gau (4,180m) – 3 hours. Short day; explore monasteries in Beding. Overnight in Naa Gau.
Hike to Tsho Rolpa Lake & Return to Beding
Reaching Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580m) — Nepal's largest glacial lake, with views of Mt. Chobutse and Mt. Pachermo. Rolwaling Himal Views — Mt. Gaurishankar (7,134m) and Melungtse (7,181m) are visible along the route.
Trek back to Dongang
Retrace trail to Dongang (2,790m) – 4 hours. Walk through dense forest and cross suspension bridges. Overnight in Dongang.
Trek back to Simi Gau
Trek back to Simi Gau (2,000m) – 4 hours. Descend through forests and waterfalls. Overnight in Simi Gau.
Trek to Chet Chet & Drive to Charikot
Hike down to Chet Chet (1.5 hours). Drive to Charikot (3 hours). Overnight in Charikot.
Drive back to Kathmandu
Morning drive back to Kathmandu (7 hours). Transfer to hotel. Evening farewell dinner with cultural show. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Final Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Airport transfers as per itinerary
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on BB plan
- All ground transportation by private vehicle/tourist bus
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- 9 nights lodge/guesthouse accommodation during the trek (twin sharing)
- Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit and TIMS card
- Professional English‑speaking trekking guide (government licensed)
- Porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers) to carry luggage
- Sleeping bag and duffel bag (refundable after trek)
- Comprehensive medical kit
- All government and local taxes
Excluded
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fees (US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days, US$125 for 90 days)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except where noted)
- Travel insurance (mandatory, covering medical emergencies and evacuation)
- Beverages, alcoholic drinks, mineral water, boiled water
Essential Information
Trip Code
TSho-03
Trip Type
Global Nepal Treks | 12 Days | Max Altitude: 4,580m | Moderate
Accommodation
Hotels in Kathmandu; basic lodges/teahouses on trek
Meals
Full board on trek (vegetarian-only beyond Kyalche village)
Transportation
Car,Jeep
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) offers stable weather, blooming rhododendrons, and crystal-clear mountain views — the most popular season for this trek. Autumn (September to December) delivers dry skies and sharp Himalayan panoramas, making it equally ideal for reaching Tsho Rolpa Lake. Winter (December to February) is possible but extremely cold; the lake freezes over completely, limiting the full experience. Monsoon (June to August) is not recommended — heavy rainfall makes trails slippery, and mountain views are mostly blocked by clouds.
Difficulty Level
Fitness Level Needed — Good general fitness and some prior trekking experience are recommended; not a beginner-first trek.
Fitness Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of Tsho Rolpa Trek?
The trek is moderate. Daily walking is 4‑6 hours on well‑marked trails with some stone steps and ascents. The highest point is 4,580m at Tsho Rolpa Lake.
What is the best time to do this trek?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–December) offer the best weather and clear views. The lake is frozen from December to February.
What permits are required?
You need a Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit and a TIMS card. Global Nepal Treks arranges all permits for you.
Is there vegetarian food available?
The No-Kill Zone Beyond Kyalche — Only vegetarian food is available past this point, reflecting local Buddhist respect for wildlife.
What is the accommodation like?
Limited Teahouse Facilities — Basic amenities only; hot showers may cost extra where available.