Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek - 10 Days

A Pristine High-Altitude Trek
Know before you go
  • Duration 10 Days
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Season March to May and September to November
  • Trip Area Rolwaling
  • Maximum Altitude 4580m.|15026ft.

Highlights

  • The Turquoise giant of Tsho-Rolpa is one of the largest glacial lakes, which is famous for its mesmerizing blue waters.
  • We will trek directly beneath the holy Mt. Gaurishanker, revered as a form of Lord Shiva.
  • We will enter the mystical Rolwaling Valley, also known as a hidden valley in Buddhist mythology.
  • The Sherpa heartlands of Beding, which is an authentic Sherpa village and rich in mountaineering history.
  • The alpine wilderness of Na Gaon at 4180m will reward us with amphitheaters of snow peaks and grazing yak herds.
  • The secluded solitude and the true off-beaten path experience in the Gaurishanker Conservation Area.
  • We will hike along the ridge of the massive Rolwaling Glacier and witness the raw power of shifting ice and moraines.
  • Nature’s transition with a dramatic shift in the landscape where we will walk from the humid rhododendron and bamboo forests.

Tsho Rolpa Trek: Journey to the Hidden Valley

Tsho Rolpa Trek is one of the most beautiful and mystic heart of the Himalayas. It is a pilgrimage into the Beyul, a sacred and hidden valley of Buddhist mythology nestled between the Everest and Langtang regions. Nepal Nirvana Trails brings you the most adventurous off-the-beaten path at a relatively lower altitude away from the crowded trails of the commercial routes. We will touch the wilderness of the Rolwaling Valley on this 10-day adventure.

Our expedition will begin in the lush lower foothills that wind through the dense forests. The rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests will cover the trail before we ascend into the stark and dramatic beauty of the looming shadow of Mt. Gaurishanker. Mt. Gaurishanker (7134m) is one of the most sacred mountains revered as the form of Lord Shiva. We will traverse the rugged suspension bridges and ancient stone staircases to reach the authentic Sherpa settlements. The centuries-old traditions thrives and the legends of Yeti are whispered by the heart.

Our Tsho-Rolpa Trek’s miraculous crown jewel is Tsho-Rolpa, which is also one of the country’s largest glacial lakes. We will stand before its vast and milky turquoise waters that reflect the icy giants. The experience will be of pure spiritual awe.

At Nepal Nirvana Trails, we will prioritize your safety and experience. Our local experts and guides ensure that proper acclimatization will provide deep cultural insights and bridge the gap between the trekker and the locals. Our 30-year experience in Nepal’s trekking will make sure you have an unforgettable expedition to the blue turquoise jewel of the Rolwaling Valley. Join Nepal Nirvana Trails for the unforgettable trekking memories of Nepal.

Why Choose This Trek

Tsho Rolpa Trek means stepping away from the commercial crowds and into the sacred silence of the Rolwaling Valley. The trek will offer a rare privilege of experiencing the Himalayas in their most primal form. The shadow of the holy Mt. Gaurishanker falls into the turquoise glacial lakes. The adventure and authenticity of the trek will all be undertaken under the safe wing of Nepal Nirvana Trails.

  • We will escape the huge traffic of the commercial routes like Everest and Annapurna.
  • We will get to stand before the Tsho Rolpa, which is one of the largest glacial lakes in Nepal.
  • The Sherpa heritage of Beding and Na Gaon will be immersive, as the culture has thrived for centuries.
  • The imposing gaze of Mt. Gaurishanker is a holy peak revered by Lord Shiva, which adds a spiritual dimension to every step of our journey.

Must-See Landmarks: The Giants of the Rolwaling

1. Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580m)

Tsho Rolpa Lake is an undisputed crown jewel of the Tsho-Rolpa Trek. The lake is also one of the largest and most dangerous glacial lakes. The lake sits at an altitude of 4580m, which is stretched over three kilometers. The fragile natural moraine dam makes this lake more dangerous. The view from the Tsho Rolpa Lake is nothing short of cinematic, where the icebergs float and drift silently along the surface. The lake is a reminder of the effect of climate change in the Himalaya’s which is monitored closely by the scientists for potential outburst floods.

2. Mt. Gaurishanker (7,134m)

Mt. Gaurishanker dominates the skyline for most of our journey of Tsho-Rolpa Trek. The peak is forbidden to climb and is a sacred site. The peak is highly revered by the Hindus as the physical form of Lord Shiva and his consort Pārbati. The dual summit reciprocates the belief. The Nepal Standard Time is also set on the location of this mountain. Trekking beneath its formidable shadow will offer a spiritual connection to the Rolwaling Valley’s serenity.

3. Beding Village (3,740m)

Beding Village is known as the heart of Rolwaling Valley. The largest permanent settlement in the region. The narrow and stone-built village of Beding is squeezed between the river and towering vertical cliffs. The village is also known as “Village of Everest Summiteers”. The village centers on an ancient Buddhist Gompa, which is built directly into the rock face. The century-old rituals and murals offer a deep dive into the authentic Sherpa culture without much commercialization of the community.

4. Na Gaon (4,180m)

Na Gaon is a vast U-shaped valley that is surrounded by an amphitheater of peaks. The Na Gaon valley is a seasonal summer settlement primarily used by the yak herders. The valley becomes uninhabitable in the winter season due to heavy snow. The valley feels like the edge of the world, and the landscape here shifts from the forests and lush greenery to the raw and alpine desert. Na Gaon will be a perfect base for rest and calming our legs before we ascend to the Tsho-Rolpa Trek. We can also witness the brilliant Milky Way, making it perfect for stargazing.

5. The Sacred 'Beyul' & Yeti Lore

The Rolwaling Valley is highly celebrated in Buddhist mythology as a “Beyul”. Beyul is a hidden sanctuary of peace and refuge consecrated by Guru Rinpoche. One of the most sacred places in the Himalayas is Tsho-Rolpa, according to Buddhist beliefs. The valley is also a mystic epicenter of the Yeti legends. The locals claim that their ancestors have seen the abominable snowman. The spiritual energy and the sense of mystery in the region are palpable and intense.

6. Rolwaling Glacier

We must traverse the lateral moraine of the massive Rolwaling Glacier before we reach the Tsho-Rolpa Lake. The dramatic and chaotic landscape of grey ice and black rock pools that seem to go on forever. The frozen river of ice will allow us to hear the heart of the mountains. The cracks of shifting ice deep beneath the feet will be more intense. The raw and sensual display of nature’s power that connects the high peaks to the valley and feeds the river system beneath the ground.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at TIA, transfer to the hotel (1400m.|4593ft.)
Day 2: Private Jeep Drive from Kathmandu to Chetchet, then hike to Simi Gaon (2000m.|6561ft.) - 7 hrs drive and 3 hrs trek
Day 3: Trek from Simi Gaon to Dongang (2790m.|9153ft.) - 5 to 6 hrs trek
Day 4: Trek from Dongang to Beding (3692m.|12112ft.) - 5 to 6 hrs trek
Day 5: Trek from Beding to Na Gaon (4180m.|13713ft.) - 4 to 5 hrs trek
Day 6: Hike to Tsho Rolpa Lake (4580m.|15026ft.) and back to Na Gaon - 4 to 5 hrs
Day 7: Na Gaon to Dongang (2790m.|9153ft.) - 7 to 8 hrs trek
Day 8: Dongang to Chetchet (1525m.|5003ft.) - 6 to 7 hrs trek
Day 9: Local Bus Drive from Chetchet to Kathmandu (1400m.|4593ft.) - 8 hrs Drive
Day 10: Onwards to other program or depart from Nepal

Day to Day Details

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Upon your arrival at the Kathmandu Airport, one of our office representatives will be waiting for you outside the Arrival Hall. He will greet you with a flower garland or Khada (a type of scarf) and drop you at the hotel. He will remind you of the meeting time at our office, where you will be introduced to the trekking guide. You have the rest of the day free to explore on your own.

  • Hotel Vistara or Similar
  • 1400m.|4593ft.

Our journey of the Tsho-Rolpa Trek will begin with the scenic drive as we
leave Kathmandu behind in a private jeep, which will pick you up directly from your hotel. We will head to the eastern region of Kathmandu along the winding Araniko Highway. The lush foothills and green landscapes will be passed along the roaring Bhote Koshi and Tamakoshi rivers at our glance. As we pass through Charikot and head deep towards the Dolakha district, the landscape transitions through terraced fields and rustic settlements. After arriving in Chetchet, we begin our hike officially towards Simi Gaon, which serves as our overnight stop.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2000m.|6561ft.

Today, we shall depart from the inhabited hills. As the trail enters a thick forest, we will be entering the Rolwaling Valley. In the spring, the oak and rhododendron trees will be covered in wildflowers. Above the Rolwaling Khola range that soars behind us, the trail will incline. It will be a serene day where singing birds replace human noise. Before arriving in Dongang, we will pass through the smaller settlements. Dongang is a major stopover and a secluded spot nestled by the river.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2790m.|9153ft.

From Dongang, the trail gradually ascends deeper into the heart of the Rolwaling Valley, revealing rugged alpine landscapes and a sense of growing remoteness. Along the way, you cross suspension bridges and pass many walls carved with Buddhist mantras. As the altitude increases, the landscape begins to change, signaling your approach to Beding, a small Sherpa settlement. After around 5–6 hours of trekking, you arrive at this traditional Sherpa village, surrounded by dramatic mountain views. Beding is home to a small gompa and offers a glimpse into the rich Sherpa culture, making it a meaningful place to rest and connect with local life. Overnight stay in Beding.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3692m.|12112ft.

The trek from Beding to Na Gaon becomes more challenging as the altitude increases and the air begins to thin. The trail follows the Rolwaling River, offering a steady climb with beautiful views of Gaurishanker along the way. As the valley widens into a glacial landscape, you reach Na Gaon, a seasonal yak herder’s settlement and the last village in the Rolwaling Valley, which is the highest sleeping point of the trek. Na Gaon also offers a rewarding side trip to Dudh Kunda Lake for those with extra time and energy. Overnight at a teahouse in Na Gaon.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4180m.|13713ft.

Today is the highlight of the Tsho Rolpa Trek. We start early from Na Gaun and hike toward our final destination, Tsho Rolpa Lake, passing close to the Rolwaling Glacier. Upon reaching the lake, the vast turquoise waters set against towering Himalayan peaks offer a truly unforgettable sight. After spending some quiet time by the lake, we return to Na Gaun by evening for an overnight stay. If time and energy permit, an optional side trip to Dudh Kunda (Milky Lake) can also be added.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4580m.|15026ft.

From Na Gaon, we begin our descent back into the valley. The walk feels easier as we retrace familiar trails, gradually leading us back to the quiet village of Dongang along the river, where we spend a peaceful evening resting.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2790m.|9153ft.

From Dongang, we begin our descent back toward Chetchet, retracing our steps through forested trails and quiet mountain paths. This return journey offers time to slow down, notice the landscape more closely, and reflect on the experiences of the Rolwaling Valley trek. Reaching Chetchet, the gateway of our journey, we rest for the day and enjoy our final night in the foothills.

  • Teahouse
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 1525m.|5003ft.

After breakfast, we begin our scenic drive back to Kathmandu, following the familiar river valleys. As the mountains slowly fade into the distance, it’s a quiet time to reflect on the journey you’ve completed. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will transfer you to your hotel, officially marking the end of your trek into the beautiful Rolwaling Valley.

  • Hotel Vistara or Similar
  • Breakfast and Lunch
  • 1400m.|4593ft.

On your return day, we will arrange a timely transfer to the airport in accordance with your scheduled departure from Nepal. Our team will ensure a smooth and comfortable end to your Tsho Rolpa Trek experience.
If you are not departing from Nepal and will be continuing with another program, you can contact us for further arrangements and assistance. Otherwise, you will be considered free from our Tsho Rolpa Trek Package after the completion of the itinerary.

  • Breakfast

Share your travel plans, and our experts will craft a fully customized journey just for you. From thrilling treks and adventure activities to cultural experiences and nature explorations, we create every detail for a safe, seamless, and unforgettable holiday in 2026.

What's Included

  • Complimentary Airport Pickup and Drop 
  • 2-night Hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast (Hotel Vistara or Similar)
  • Private Jeep from Kathmandu to Chetchet
  • Local Bus from Chetchet to Kathmandu
  • Accommodations during the treks 
  • Meals (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) while on the treks
  • Tea/coffee during breakfast
  • Experienced English-speaking government-licensed trekking guide
  • Guide and salary, food, equipment, and insurance 
  • All applicable National Park and Local permits
  • Sleeping bag if needed (To be returned after the trek)
  • Water purification tablet
  • First aid kit with basic medications
  • Trekking map
  • Official expenses and government taxes/VAT

What's Excluded

  • International flight tickets
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
  • Recommended 1 porter between 2 trekkers - USD 200 per porter
  • Travel and health Insurance which covers emergency Rescues and evacuations
  • During the trekking time, personal expenses, snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, bottled and hot water, hot shower, WI-FI, battery charging, etc.
  • Tips for treks guide, porter (it is appreciated)

Upcoming Departures

    
Start DateSaturdayFebruary 07, 2026End DateMondayFebruary 16, 2026PriceAvailableUS $0
Start DateWednesdayFebruary 11, 2026End DateFridayFebruary 20, 2026PriceAvailableUS $0
Start DateSundayFebruary 15, 2026End DateTuesdayFebruary 24, 2026PriceAvailableUS $0
Start DateThursdayFebruary 19, 2026End DateSaturdayFebruary 28, 2026PriceAvailableUS $0
Start DateMondayFebruary 23, 2026End DateWednesdayMarch 04, 2026PriceAvailableUS $0
Start DateFridayFebruary 27, 2026End DateSundayMarch 08, 2026PriceAvailableUS $0
  • We have fixed departure dates for the Tsho Rolpa Trek 2026, and you may choose any date that best suits your schedule to secure your booking. If your preferred date is not listed, please contact us to arrange a custom departure.
  • All scheduled departure dates are open for booking. If any trekkers are already confirmed on a particular date, this will be clearly mentioned, allowing you to join an existing group and enjoy a shared trekking experience. These departures are suitable for both solo travelers and groups, and you are always welcome to contact us to discuss booking details or alternative arrangements.

Useful Info

Weather Watch: The Best Seasons for the Trek

Spring 2026 (March to May)

Spring is the season of vibrancy and rebirth of the Rolwaling Valley. The season in Rolwaling Valley, along with the turquoise jewel of Tsho-Rolpa Lake, will be a photographer’s dream. The winter snow melts, and the lower trails from Simigaon to Dingdong will be colorful. The wildflowers like rhododendrons and magnolias will be painted in the hillsides with their vibrant red, pink, and white. The weather will be generally stable and pleasant. The daytime temperatures will rise to 15-20 degrees, but the nights will be colder. The season also brings up the wildlife being active, so you will have a great chance to spot Danphe (Nepal’s national bird) and Himalayan Tahr. Spring will be a perfect time for the nature lovers who want to see the Beyul in full bloom inside the periphery of Rolwaling Valley.

Autumn 2026 (September to November)

Autumn is undoubtedly the best and premium season to trek in Nepal. The season also offers the most reliable weather and spectacular visibility. The summer monsoon clears up, providing the spotless beauty of nature and the gigantic Mt. Gaurishanker. The white snow contrasts dramatically against the deep blue sky. The trails will also be dry, and the risk of rain will be minimal. The temperatures will be moderate and invigorating. Overall, the season for the trekkers will be perfect with the weather and some brilliant photogenic moments. This season coincides with Nepal’s major festivals like Dashain and Tihar, infusing the lower villages with festive vibes. The villagers will also celebrate with you if you want to. The autumn season in the Rolwaling Valley for the Tsho Rolpa Trek will be an immersive and rewarding one for a lifetime.

Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek Cost

The Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek is a budget-friendly Himalayan adventure that offers untouched natural beauty, peaceful trails, and a truly remote trekking experience. The cost of the trek generally ranges from USD 500 to USD 900, depending on factors such as itinerary length, group size, and service level. This price usually includes trekking permits, an experienced guide, meals, accommodation during the trek, and transportation to and from the trailhead.

While the package covers essential expenses, trekkers are advised to carry extra personal cash for snacks, drinks, guide and porter tips, souvenirs, or personal gear purchases. Overall, the Tsho Rolpa Trek provides excellent value for money, making it an ideal choice for trekkers seeking an authentic and cost-effective high-altitude adventure in Nepal.

Difficulties of the Trek

The Tsho-Rolpa Trek typically does not require technical trekking skills as it is graded as a moderate adventure. However, the trekking route demands solid physical fitness and mental willingness to make this trek a successful one. With Nepal Nirvana Trails, you will be taken care of meticulously.

  • We will reach the highest altitude of 4580m, where the oxygen levels are significantly lower than in Kathmandu. The risk of Acute Mountain Sickness will be progressive.
  • The trail is not manicured in the higher regions. Having a good balance and sturdy boots will be inevitable.
  • Unlike the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp routes, the Tsho-Rolpa Trek route is more remote and isolated. There are no luxury lodges, and the evacuation will also be very difficult.
  • The weather conditions in the higher regions are always unpredictable. The temperatures go below freezing levels even in the peak seasons.
  • Overall, the Tsho-Rolpa Trek is on the difficult side, but with basic care of your health and gradual ascent, will adjust to the rising altitude.

Local Festivals and Traditions

Rolwaling Valley is a rich and sacred hidden sanctuary. It is also known as the Beyul consecrated by Guru Rinpoche. The Buddhist principles of non-violence are strictly observed here. The spiritual heart of the region is Beding Gompa, where the Sherpa community gathers for their festivals like Dumji and Lhosar. They perform masked dances to subdue the evil spirits.

Beyond Buddhism, the valley will be steeped in the Shamanistic and Yeti lore. The locals believe their ancestors were aligned with the existence of the Yeti. Also, the Hindu community reveres Mt. Gaurishanker as a physical form of Lord Shiva and Goddess Pārbati. We will also witness the unique communal systems like the Naua System, where the officials of the village regulate the grazing and forest usage to protect the ecosystem of the sacred Rolwaling Valley.

Required Permits for the Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek

To protect the pristine environment and ensure trekkers’ safety in this remote Himalayan region, certain permits are mandatory for the Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek. These permits help regulate trekking activities and provide security while traveling through less-traveled trails.

Before starting the trek, you must obtain a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, which is essential for monitoring trekkers in remote areas. Additionally, a Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit and the required local entry permit are needed to access the protected region. All necessary permits are included in the trek package cost and will be arranged prior to departure. We will require your passport details and a photo for the permit application, which you need to send us after the trip confirmation.

Getting to the Tsho Rolpa Trek Trailhead

The journey to the Tsho Rolpa Trek starts with an overland drive from Kathmandu to Chhetchhet, the main trailhead. A private jeep ride takes around 7 hours and is the most comfortable option, followed by a short 2–3 hour walk to Simi Gaon on the first day. The drive offers scenic views of terraced farmland, rural villages, and mountain landscapes, making it a pleasant start to this remote trek.

On the return journey, our package includes a local bus ride, as a trekkers could experience comfort as well local travel experience, though some sections may be rough due to road conditions. For added convenience, the bus can be upgraded to a private jeep at an additional cost.

Food and Accommodations

Accommodation in the Rolwaling Valley will be comfortable but authentically rustic. We have to stay in the local family-run teahouses that will offer you twin-sharing rooms with comfortable beds and blankets. Due to the cold nights, you may need a sleeping bag to have a comfortable night’s sleep. The facilities, like hot showers and device charging, will be available but may incur a small extra cost. The experience of accommodation will be lively.

The dining menu will be organic and wholesome. We will get fueled by the valley’s rich potatoes. The hearty Nepali staples like Dal bhat for limitless energy and carbs will be provided. The Sherpa specialties like potato pancakes, thukpa, and Syakpa (Himalayan stew) are also available. Fresh meat will be rare as the hunting or slaughter of animals is forbidden in the valley. We recommend that you stick to a vegetarian diet for freshness, or add some dry fruits and protein bars to incorporate your protein needs.

Your Support Team: Professional Guides & Porters

Nepal Nirvana Trails has proficient guides and hard-working porters working with us. We always employ the government-licensed guides who are the experts in their related fields. This will ensure you have complete, safe, and navigator services. The guides will also be experts in navigation and will provide you with deep insights. Your safety is paramount while undertaking a mission with us, so our guides will be trained in wilderness and first aid. They will carry oximeters to monitor your health daily, along with a mobile phone to stay connected with us in Kathmandu.

The porters, as well, are the true backbone of the trek, as they will provide you with the comfort of carrying luggage during the trek. As a professional trekking agency, we strictly advocate ethical trekking policies and provide fair wages to the porters. By travelling with Nepal Nirvana Trails, your Tsho-Rolpa trek and other treks will be more than fun with knowledgeable guides and hard-working porters.

Travel Insurance for the Tsho Rolpa Trek

While trekking in Nepal, there can be many unfortunate events like sudden weather changes, avalanches, and health issues as we are venturing into the remote region. The primary risks here are Acute Mountain Sickness and sudden physical injury that may require an immediate helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu. The rescues are complex and can become very expensive.

A comprehensive travel insurance should cover the high altitude trekking up to 4500m, as our Tsho Rolpa Trek also touches 4580m altitude during the Tsho-Rolpa Lake. Nepal Nirvana Trails require a copy of your travel insurance before the scheduled departure to the trekking route. Having travel insurance is not just a formality but a security against the potential unpredictability. This will also allow you to enjoy nature with the sheer peace of mind.

Booking Process for the Tsho Rolpa Trek

To confirm your remote trek to Tsho Rolpa, a 20% advance payment of the total trip cost is required. Along with the deposit, please share a copy of your passport, one recent passport-size photograph, and your flight details once they are finalized. The advance payment can be made securely through our website, and an automatic confirmation receipt will be sent to your email immediately after payment.

The remaining balance can be settled after your arrival, either in cash or by credit card. This flexible and secure booking process ensures a smooth and hassle-free start to your trekking adventure.

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