13 Days Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek Itinerary with Map
Trip Overview
Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek is a remote, off-the-beaten-path journey into the Rolwaling Valley, located between the Everest and Langtang regions. This trek explores the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, known for its rich Sherpa culture, diverse biodiversity, and the magnificent Tsho Rolpa Glacial Lake.
This trek is an excellent choice if you enjoy pristine wilderness, less-crowded trails, and views of towering 7,000-meter peaks.
This is a 13-day trip, of which seven days are spent trekking from Chetchet to the glacial lake and back. The remaining days cover travel, acclimatization, and cultural exploration in Kathmandu.
The Rolwaling Valley is often called the “Grave” by locals due to its steep, narrow gorges, but it opens up into a stunning alpine sanctuary near the lake.
It is famous as one of the seven hidden valleys (Beyul) consecrated by Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava).
Unlike the Everest Base Camp trek, this route sees fewer trekkers, preserving its raw, authentic charm.
Travel To Nepal guides are locals of this region or have decades of experience navigating its rugged terrain. We ensure your safety while helping you connect with the legends of the Yeti and the spiritual heritage of the Rolwaling Sherpas.
What Are the Main Attractions of the Trek?
The Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek offers 10 key attractions including glacial lakes, sacred mountains, and hidden waterfalls, which are listed below:
- Tsho Rolpa Glacial Lake: At 4,580 meters, this is one of Nepal’s largest glacial lakes. It spans approximately 1.54 square kilometers and offers a surreal, icy-blue landscape flanked by snowy peaks.
- Mt. Gaurishankar Views: The trail is dominated by Mt. Gaurishankar (7,134 m), a sacred peak worshipped as Jomo Tseringma by Buddhists and Lord Shiva by Hindus.
- Rolwaling Valley: You will walk through a “Beyul”—a hidden valley of refuge in Buddhist mythology—filled with mani stones, prayer flags, and spiritual tranquility.
- Beding Village: This traditional Sherpa village (3,740 m) is known as the “Village of Everest Summiteers.” It has produced the highest number of Everest climbers relative to its population.
- Na Gaun: A summer settlement for yaks at 4,180 m, Na offers a flat, open valley floor surrounded by vertical cliffs and waterfalls.
- Drolambau Glacier: Trekkers can view the massive icefalls of the Drolambau Glacier, which feeds the Tsho Rolpa lake.
- Biodiversity: The Gaurishankar Conservation Area is home to the Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear, and Snow Leopard.
- Waterfalls: The trail from Chetchet to Simigaon and Dongang features numerous cascading waterfalls, including a massive one near the suspension bridge at the trail start.
- Buddhist Heritage: Visit the 400-year-old Beding Monastery (Gompa), the spiritual heart of the valley.
- Yeti Folklore: Rolwaling is famous for “Yeti” sightings and expeditions. Locals still share stories of the elusive creature roaming the high ridges.
Who Is This Trek Right For?
Tsho Rolpa Trek is highly recommended if you want to escape the crowds of Everest and Annapurna, seek glacial landscapes, and immerse yourself in authentic Sherpa culture.
We have listed additional criteria below so you can determine whether this trek is a good fit for you:
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging. You will walk an average of 6–7 hours per day. The trail involves steep stone steps near Simigaon and rocky moraines near the lake.
- Accommodation: Basic Teahouses. Lodges in Beding and Na are simple, offering twin beds and shared bathrooms. Heating is limited to the dining hall.
- Food and dietary options: Vegetarian and local meals are standard. Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), noodle soup (Thukpa), and potatoes are staples.
- Age requirement: No legal age limit. However, due to the altitude (4,580 m), we recommend this trek for individuals aged 12 and above who are physically active.
- Group size: Flexible. We arrange private treks for solo travelers or organized groups.
Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek Complete Itinerary
This 13-day Tsho Rolpa itinerary outlines each stage of the trip with elevation details, route segments, and key highlights for every day.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu City
Trekkers arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), receive a private hotel transfer, and attend a pre-trek briefing to prepare for the Rolwaling adventure.
Overview
- Meals Included: None
- Average Elevation: 1,300 meters / 4,265 feet
- Overnight Stay: Kathmandu
Full Description
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, you will complete the on-arrival visa process and customs clearance. This typically takes 30–45 minutes. After exiting the terminal, our representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel in a private vehicle.
The remainder of the day is reserved for rest to recover from jet lag.
In the evening, a pre-trek briefing will be held at the hotel. During this session, you will:
- Meet your guide.
- Review the Tsho Rolpa itinerary.
- Check your gear (down jackets, boots, sleeping bags).
- Settle any remaining payments.
This is the time to verify you have all essentials, as Day 2 offers a final chance for shopping.
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Trekkers visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath, followed by gear shopping in Thamel.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast
- Average Elevation: 1,300 meters / 4,265 feet
- Sightseeing Duration: 3 hours
- Overnight Stay: Kathmandu
Full Description
We include a buffer day in Kathmandu to ensure all permits (GCAP and TIMS) are processed and gear is ready.
You will visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), a 2,000-year-old Buddhist site on a hill overlooking the valley.
Next, you may visit Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu cremation site on the banks of the Bagmati River.
The afternoon is free for shopping in Thamel. You can rent sleeping bags or buy trekking poles here.
We recommend packing efficiently, leaving non-essential luggage at the hotel.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Chetchet, Trek to Simigaon
Trekkers drive 8–9 hours from Kathmandu to Chetchet via Charikot and trek 2 hours uphill to Simigaon.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Endpoint Elevation: 2,020 meters / 6,627 feet (Simigaon)
- Drive Duration: 8–9 hours
- Walking Duration: 2 hours
- Overnight Stay: Simigaon
Full Description
The journey begins with an early morning drive along the Arniko Highway and later the Tamakoshi river bank.
You will pass through Charikot, the headquarters of Dolakha district, with views of Mt. Gauri Shankar.
The drive ends at Chetchet (1,377 m), a small settlement by the river.
From Chetchet, you cross a suspension bridge over the Tamakoshi River.
The trail ascends steeply via stone steps for 2 hours to reach Simigaon.
Simigaon is a terraced village inhabited by Sherpas and Tamangs, offering the first clear view of Gaurishankar.
Visit the local monastery perched on the ridge before dinner.
Day 4: Trek from Simigaon to Dongang
Trekkers walk 6 hours through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests to reach the riverside settlement of Dongang.
Overview
- Trek Start Point: Simigaon
- Trek End Point: Dongang
- Walking Duration: 6 hours
- Maximum Altitude: 2,790 meters / 9,153 feet
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight Stay: Dongang
Full Description
You begin the day by ascending from Simigaon into the Rolwaling Valley proper.
The trail enters a deep, moss-covered forest of rhododendron and oak.
You will pass the small teahouses of Surmuche and Kyalche.
The path undulates along the steep valley walls, with the Rolwaling River roaring below.
Keep an eye out for Langur monkeys and vibrant birdlife in this dense canopy.
You arrive at Dongang, a small clearing by the river with a few basic lodges, in the late afternoon.
The sound of the river provides a soothing backdrop for sleep.
Day 5: Trek from Dongang to Beding
Trekkers ascend 5–6 hours to Beding, the largest Sherpa village in the valley and the hub of Rolwaling culture.
Overview
- Trek Start Point: Dongang
- Trek End Point: Beding
- Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
- Maximum Altitude: 3,740 meters / 12,270 feet
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight Stay: Beding
Full Description
The trail climbs gradually through the forest, which thins out as altitude increases.
You will cross several wooden bridges over tributary streams.
Views of Mt. Gaurishankar (7,134 m) become imposing and close.
Upon reaching Beding, you enter a classic U-shaped glacial valley.
Beding is the headquarters of the Rolwaling region and home to many famous Sherpa climbers.
You will see stone houses, yak pastures, and a large prayer wheel near the village entrance.
Rest and acclimatize, as you are now approaching 4,000 meters.
Day 6: Acclimatization and Exploration in Beding
Trekkers spend the day in Beding to adjust to the altitude, hiking to the monastery or a nearby ridge for views.
Overview
- Activity: Acclimatization Hike
- Maximum Altitude: 3,740 meters (sleeping)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight Stay: Beding
Full Description
Proper acclimatization is crucial before heading to Na and Tsho Rolpa.
You will hike up to the Beding Gompa (Monastery), a 400-year-old site that houses ancient Buddhist scriptures.
For those feeling energetic, a hike toward the Menlung La pass viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the valley and peaks.
Spend the afternoon interacting with locals, drinking butter tea, and observing the daily life of the high-altitude herders.
This rest day significantly reduces the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Day 7: Trek from Beding to Na Village
Trekkers walk a short 3–4 hours to Na Village, a summer settlement located in a wide alpine amphitheater.
Overview
- Trek Start Point: Beding
- Trek End Point: Na Village
- Walking Duration: 3–4 hours
- Maximum Altitude: 4,180 meters / 13,710 feet
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight Stay: Na Village
Full Description
The walk to Na is relatively short and follows the river bank on an easy gradient.
As you leave Beding, the valley floor widens, revealing vast yak pastures.
You will see Dhugre (a temporary herding settlement) and massive boulders painted with Buddhist mantras.
Na Gaun is situated in a flat, sandy plain surrounded by spectacular peaks like Chobutse (6,685 m) and Kang Nachugo (6,735 m).
Na is traditionally a summer settlement (Yersa) where villagers bring yaks for grazing.
Arrive by lunch and spend the afternoon exploring the glacier edges or resting.
Day 8: Hike to Tsho Rolpa Lake and Return to Na
Trekkers hike 4–5 hours round trip to witness the majestic Tsho Rolpa Glacial Lake at 4,580 m, then return to Na.
Overview
- Route: Na – Tsho Rolpa Lake – Na
- Walking Duration: 4–5 hours
- Maximum Altitude: 4,580 meters / 15,026 feet
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight Stay: Na Village
Full Description
Today is the highlight of the trip. You start early to reach the lake before the afternoon winds pick up.
The trail climbs the lateral moraine of the Rolwaling Glacier.
After a steep push, you reach the ridge overlooking Tsho Rolpa Lake.
The lake is a stunning expanse of turquoise water, reflecting the surrounding snow peaks.
You can walk along the lake shore and hear the cracking of the ice from the Drolambau Glacier.
This is a prime spot for photography and meditation.
After spending an hour soaking in the views, you retrace your steps back to Na Village for the night.
Note: Some trekkers choose to camp at the lake, but teahouse trekkers return to Na.
Day 9: Trek from Na Village to Dongang
Trekkers retrace their steps, descending from Na past Beding to the forest line at Dongang.
Overview
- Trek Start Point: Na Village
- Trek End Point: Dongang
- Walking Duration: 6–7 hours
- Maximum Altitude: 2,790 meters
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight Stay: Dongang
Full Description
The return journey is faster as you descend.
You bid farewell to the high alpine peaks and walk back through Beding.
It is a good opportunity to say goodbye to any local friends you made.
The trail drops back into the tree line, offering relief from the thin air.
You arrive in Dongang in the late afternoon, enjoying the richer oxygen levels and warmer temperatures.
Day 10: Trek from Dongang to Chetchet
Trekkers descend steeply from Dongang back to the suspension bridge at Chetchet.
Overview
- Trek Start Point: Dongang
- Trek End Point: Chetchet
- Walking Duration: 6–7 hours
- Maximum Altitude: 1,377 meters
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight Stay: Chetchet (or nearby lodge)
Full Description
You continue your descent through the bamboo and rhododendron forests.
The trail passes through Simigaon again, where you can stop for tea and a final view of the valley.
The final descent involves the steep stone steps down to the suspension bridge at Chetchet.
Crossing the bridge marks the end of your foot journey.
You will stay at a lodge in Chetchet or Gonggar, celebrating the completion of the trek with your guide and porters.
Day 11: Drive from Chetchet to Kathmandu
Trekkers take a 9-hour jeep drive back to Kathmandu, concluding the mountain adventure.
Overview
- Drive Duration: 9 hours
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
- Endpoint Elevation: 1,300 meters
- Overnight Stay: Kathmandu
Full Description
Board your private jeep or local bus for the return drive to Kathmandu.
The drive retraces the scenic route along the Tamakoshi and Bhote Koshi rivers.
You arrive in Kathmandu by late afternoon.
Check into your hotel and enjoy a hot shower and a comfortable bed.
In the evening, you can relax or explore the nightlife in Thamel.
Day 12: Buffer Day / Sound Healing Session
A relaxed day in Kathmandu for recovery, souvenir shopping, or a sound healing session.
Overview
- Activity: Leisure / Sound Healing
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
- Overnight Stay: Kathmandu
Full Description
We reserve this day as a safety buffer in case of travel delays on Day 11.
If the schedule goes as planned, you enjoy a free day in the city.
In the afternoon, we organize a Sound Healing Session to help your body recover from the physical exertion of the trek.
Tibetan singing bowls are used to induce deep relaxation and muscle recovery.
At 6:00 PM, join the Farewell Dinner hosted by Travel To Nepal to celebrate your successful journey.
Day 13: Departure
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast
Full Description
Depending on your flight schedule, you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast.
Our representative will transfer you to the airport 3 hours before your flight.
You leave Nepal with memories of the “Grave” valley that turned out to be a paradise.
Cost Inclusion & Exclusion
Included Service & Amenities
- Transportation: Private Jeep/Bus for Kathmandu–Chetchet–Kathmandu.
- Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Kathmandu (3 nights) and basic Mountain Lodges/Teahouses during the trek (9 nights).
- Permits: Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
- Guide: Licensed English-speaking trekking guide with Rolwaling expertise.
- Meals: Breakfast in Kathmandu. Note: Trekking meals are usually self-pay to give you flexibility, or can be included upon request. (Standard package usually excludes trek meals to keep upfront cost low/flexible).
- Porter: 1 Porter for every 2 trekkers (carrying up to 20kg).
- Staff Insurance: Insurance, food, salary, and gear for guide and porters.
- Safety: First Aid kit and Oximeter for altitude monitoring.
- Extras: Duffel bag, sun hat, and Trip Completion Certificate.
- Wellness: Sound Healing Session in Kathmandu.
Excluded From The Package
- Trek Meals: Lunch and Dinner during the trek (Allow ~$25-30 per day).
- Beverages: Hot water, tea, coffee, sodas, and alcohol.
- Visa: Nepal entry visa fee ($30 for 15 days / $50 for 30 days).
- Insurance: Travel medical insurance (Must cover emergency helicopter evacuation up to 5,000m).
- Personal Gear: Clothing, sleeping bag (can be rented), and trekking poles.
- Tips: Tipping for guide and porter (Expected culture in Nepal).
- Wifi/Charging: Extra costs for hot showers or battery charging at teahouses.
Key Points to Know Before Trekking Tsho Rolpa
Permits & Regulations
Unlike Nar Phu or Upper Mustang, the standard Tsho Rolpa trek does not currently require a hefty Restricted Area Permit if you do not cross the Tashi Lapcha pass into Khumbu. You need:
- Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP): ~NPR 3,000.
- TIMS Card: ~NPR 2,000.Note: Always check for the latest updates as local regulations can change.
Accommodation Standards
Facilities in the Rolwaling Valley are basic.
- Simigaon/Dongang: Simple wooden lodges.
- Beding/Na: Stone tea houses. Rooms are unheated with foam mattresses.
- Toilets: Squat style, often shared and outside the main building.
- Dining: A central heated dining hall is the social hub.
Safety & Altitude
- AMS Risk: The jump from Beding (3,740m) to Na (4,180m) and the Lake (4,580m) is significant. Do not skip the acclimatization day in Beding.
- Glacial Terrain: The trail near the lake involves walking on moraine (loose rocks). Good boots with ankle support are mandatory.
- Weather: Weather can turn quickly at the lake. Start early (7 AM) to return before afternoon winds/clouds.
Best Time to Trek Tsho Rolpa
Spring (March to May)
- Highlights: Rhododendrons bloom in the lower forests (Simigaon to Dongang).
- Views: Clear mornings, slightly hazy afternoons.
- Temp: Warmer, melting snow adds to the waterfalls’ volume.
Autumn (October to November)
- Highlights: Crystal clear skies and sharpest mountain views.
- Festivals: Experience Dashain or Mani Rimdu if dates align.
- Temp: Cold nights, stable sunny days. Best for photography.
Winter & Monsoon
- Winter: Not recommended. Teahouses in Na and Beding often close as villagers migrate down. Snow blocks the trail.
- Monsoon: Leeches are rampant in the lower forests. Rain obscures views. Avoid.
Packing Guide for Tsho Rolpa
The packing list is similar to other high-altitude treks but focus on warm layers as the Rolwaling valley is narrow and gets less direct sun hours than open circuits.
Clothing
- Head: Warm beanie, wide-brim sun hat, UV sunglasses.
- Upper Body: Thermal base layers, fleece jacket, Down Jacket (-20°C), Waterproof hardshell.
- Lower Body: Thermal bottoms, trekking pants, waterproof over-pants.
- Feet: Woolen socks (3-4 pairs), broken-in Trekking Boots (waterproof), Camp sandals.
Gear
- Sleeping Bag: Rated to -15°C or -20°C (Teahouse blankets are not enough).
- Daypack: 30-40L with rain cover.
- Poles: Trekking poles (crucial for steep steps and moraine).
- Water: 2L capacity (bottles or bladder) + Purification tablets/filter.
First Aid
- Diamox (for altitude – consult doctor).
- Blister plasters.
- Painkillers (Paracetamol/Ibuprofen).
- Sunscreen (SPF 50).
Why Choose Travel To Nepal?
- Local Expertise: Our guides have intimate knowledge of the Rolwaling valley and Sherpa customs.
- Safety First: We carry Oximeters and have established evacuation protocols.
- Fair Employment: We ensure our porters and guides are paid fair wages and insured.
- Small Groups: We prioritize small group experiences for minimal impact and maximum connection.
Scenic Spots & Photography
- Chetchet Waterfall: A massive waterfall right at the start of the trek. Best Shot: Slow shutter speed from the suspension bridge.
- Simigaon Monastery: Perched on a ridge. Best Shot: The monastery with Gaurishankar in the background at sunrise.
- Beding Village: Stone houses nestled under cliffs. Best Shot: Wide angle of the village with prayer flags and the U-shaped valley.
- Tsho Rolpa Lake: The crown jewel. Best Shot: Reflection of the peaks in the turquoise water. Climb the side ridge for a top-down perspective.
- Na Gaun: The flat alpine valley. Best Shot: Yaks grazing with Chobutse peak towering behind.
FAQ
Is Tsho Rolpa Trek difficult?
It is rated moderate to challenging. While it doesn’t cross a high pass like Thorong La, the terrain is rugged, and the altitude (4,580m) demands good fitness.
Is there a risk of GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Flood)?
Tsho Rolpa was considered dangerous, but engineering works (siphons) have lowered the water level to safer limits. It is monitored and safe for trekking.
Can I do this trek solo?
Technically yes (no restricted permit required for the lake only), but highly discouraged. The trail is remote, and in case of injury, help is far away. A guide is essential for safety and cultural access.
Do I need crampons?
Usually no, unless you plan to trek in late November or very early spring when there might be ice on the trail. Microspikes are a good safety backup.