Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek is among the most infrequently traveled trekking paths found in the Rolwaling area, leading to Nepal’s largest glacial lake, Tsho Rolpa. Despite being adjacent to the well-known trekking hotspot of the Everest region, Tsho Rolpa stays tranquil and untouched in all its splendor. In addition to the unspoiled lake Tsho Rolpa, the trek offers an uninterrupted view of Gaurishankar Himal (7134m), enhancing the trek’s allure. The distant journey to Tsho Rolpa Lake can be tough, yet it is packed with stunning aspects of nature that make it a worthwhile adventure.
The Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek starts in Dolakha, close to Charikot, a drive of eight hours from Kathmandu. The path primarily runs beside the Tama Koshi River during much of the hike and additionally tracks the Rolwaling River in the higher areas. During the hike, you will enjoy stunning views of Gaurishankar Himal (7134m) while passing through the quaint villages of the Rolwaling valley. The main attraction of this hike, Tsho Rolpa Lake, is situated between gentle hills and nearby peaks that create an otherworldly vista. Moreover, the peaceful surroundings of the lake make the journey rewarding. As the path leads you to the Tibetan border, a significant presence of Buddhism is noticeable in the region. Nevertheless, we can observe the lifestyle and culture of Sherpa, Chhetri, and Brahmin communities. The trek enables trekkers to immerse in the Sherpa culture of Rolwaling valley while visiting villages such as Chhetchhet and Beding. The path mainly features waterfalls, rivers, Mani walls, rice paddies, and meadows, all contributing to an unforgettable trek.
Main Highlights
Welcome to Nepal! You will be greeted by our representatives at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and will be transferred to the hotel. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, we set out on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dolakha in a private vehicle. The journey follows the winding paths alongside the Sunkoshi and Bhote Khosi rivers, offering great views of the countryside. We stop for lunch at Mude, a quiet mountain town, before continuing towards Chhetchhet. The drive takes about 7–8 hours in total. From Chhetchhet, we begin our trek, crossing a suspension bridge and climbing gradually through forested trails and terraced fields. Passing a traditional Chorten, we reach Simigaon, a peaceful Sherpa village with views of Mt. Gaurishankar (7,134m) towering above the valley. In the evening, visit the local monastery and explore the village. Overnight at a lodge in Simigaon.
We begin the day leaving Simigaon from the monastery area, descending along a sloped path before climbing up steep stone steps that hug the hillside. The trail leads us into a dense forest, with a mix of ascents and descents until we reach the banks of the Rolwaling River. From here, the route climbs steadily through lush forest, with occasional glimpses of the towering Gaurishankar (7,134m) in the distance. After a steady uphill hike, the trail eventually evens out, leading us to the peaceful settlement of Dongang. Overnight at a lodge in Dongang.
Today’s trail winds through forested paths with a mix of gentle ascents and descents, gradually leading us to the small village of Nyamare. We stop here for lunch and a short rest. Afterward, we continue our hike towards Beding, the largest and most prominent Sherpa village in the Rolwaling Valley. The trail offers scenic views of cascading waterfalls and snow-covered peaks along the way. As we approach Beding, we pass an old monastery marking the village entrance. Overnight at a lodge in Beding.
We begin with a gentle climb along the right side of the Rolwaling River, passing through alpine meadows and yak pastures. At Dhogre, a small kharka (grazing area), the view of Mt. Gaurishankar (7,134m) appears strikingly different from this new angle. As we continue, the narrow valley gradually opens into a broad U-shaped glacial basin with wide grassy plains. Along the way, we pass sacred Mani walls draped in prayer flags and a large rock bearing a painted image of the Bodhisattva. Eventually, we arrive at Na Gaon, a quiet village surrounded by stone fences and nestled beneath towering Himalayan peaks. Overnight at a lodge in Na Gaon.
This is the highlight of the entire trek — a visit to the stunning glacial lake of Tsho Rolpa. We start early from Na Gaon, crossing a bridge over the Rolwaling River before climbing gradually through alpine meadows, where edelweiss flowers bloom in the wild. The trail leads us between two glaciers and into a broad valley, eventually bringing us to the shores of Tsho Rolpa, Nepal’s largest glacial lake. Sitting at over 4,500 meters, the lake’s turquoise waters reflect the surrounding barren cliffs and snow-covered peaks, creating a surreal and unforgettable view. We take time to explore, soak in the stillness, and capture the moment with photos before heading back to Na Gaon. Overnight at a lodge in Na Gaon.
After experiencing the beauty of Tsho Rolpa, we begin our return journey by retracing the trail back toward Dongang. The day starts with a gradual descent alongside the Rolwaling River, heading first toward the familiar village of Beding. We take a short break there to rest and explore before continuing on. The trail then leads us through lush forests with glimpses of Mt. Gaurishankar (7,134m) appearing between the trees. Expect a mix of ups and downs along the way as we make our way back to Dongang. Overnight at a lodge in Dongang.
After breakfast, we begin our descent by following the same trail we took on the way up. The route takes us through a series of ups and downs, with several suspension bridges crossing over the river below. We pass by small, scattered villages and quiet forest sections before arriving back at Chhetchhet. Overnight at a lodge in Chhetchhet.
After breakfast, we leave the Rolwaling Valley behind and begin our drive back to Kathmandu. The journey takes us through scenic rural landscapes, with views of terraced hillsides, flowing rivers, and traditional villages along the way. Once we reach the city, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for some well-earned rest. Overnight stay at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Your journey comes to an end today. We’ll transfer you to the airport a few hours before your flight, with warm wishes for a safe journey and unforgettable memories from the Himalayas.
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