The Tsho Rolpa Trek is a breathtaking journey to Nepal’s hidden gem, offering an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Rolwaling Valley. Tsho Rolpa, one of Nepal’s largest glacial lakes, sits at an altitude of 4,580 meters and is managed under the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project (GCAP) by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). Over the past five decades, the lake has expanded significantly due to glacial melting and climate change, making it a unique and ever-changing destination.
The name Rolwaling translates to “valley carved by a plough,” and the dramatic cliffs truly give the impression of a plough-carved landscape. This trek is a hidden gem, offering pristine natural beauty, challenging trails, and a sense of adventure that is hard to find elsewhere.
Travel Details:
Excited for my long-awaited adventure, I woke up at 5:30 AM and headed to the bus station. The journey to Chet Chet took about nine hours. As we arrived, a light drizzle welcomed us, making the surroundings even more refreshing.
After crossing a suspension bridge over the stunning Upper Tamakoshi River, we began our trek to Simi Gaon. The village, with its lush green terraces and traditional homes, was picturesque. We checked into a cozy homestay, enjoyed a warm Nepali dinner, and prepared for the trek ahead.
Trek Details:
We started the day with a hot cup of tea and a hearty breakfast before heading toward Kyalche. The uphill trail took us through dense forests, with occasional glimpses of Mt. Gaurishankar (7,134m). We paused at Surmuche (2,470m) for a quick water break before continuing to Kyalche (2,760m).
At Kyalche, we stopped at a small lodge for a traditional Nepali lunch. The break energized us for the final stretch to Dongang, where we arrived around 2 PM. The evening was spent relaxing by the riverside, sipping tea, and soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Trek Details:
We started our day at 7 AM with breakfast and then began our journey to Beding Village (3,693m). The trail was peaceful, with occasional steep inclines. Along the way, we caught our first glimpse of the magnificent Mt. Gaurishankar (7,134m), the second-highest peak in the Rolwaling range after Melungtse (7,181m).
Below, the Rolwaling River raged beneath a suspension bridge, offering another spectacular sight. After crossing the bridge, we ascended a steep but comfortable trail to Beding. This charming village, known for its monasteries and traditional culture, was a perfect spot for a break. I stopped for lunch at a local lodge, enjoying the most delicious meal of the trek.
After lunch, we continued to Na Village (4,183m), a three-hour trek from Beding. As we approached Na Gaon around 4:30 PM, thick clouds rolled in, reducing visibility. The foggy conditions made the final stretch more challenging. However, once we arrived, we checked into a local lodge, sipped warm butter tea, and enjoyed a hearty dinner before calling it a night.
Trek Details:
We woke up early for our much-anticipated journey to Tsho Rolpa. The two-hour hike was relatively easy, with a comfortable flat trail for the first hour. Along the way, we admired the beautiful Chekkigo Mountain.
Finally, we reached Tsho Rolpa, and the breathtaking view of the lake left me speechless. Seeing the pristine glacial waters reflecting the surrounding peaks was an emotional experience. I felt a deep connection to nature, standing in such a remote and untouched landscape.
Encouraged by the beauty of Tsho Rolpa, we decided to push further to Dudhkunda (4,900m). The shortcut we took was incredibly challenging, involving steep rocky paths and crossing the Rolwaling River. The exhaustion was worth it when we arrived at Dudhkunda Lake.
This sacred lake, adorned with prayer flags and a chorten, held great religious significance. Locals from Na Village visit every year for prayers and ceremonies. We freshened up with the chilling lake water and enjoyed our packed lunch before heading back to Na Village.
Trek Details:
Having pre-booked our bus tickets, we set off early. The drive back felt nostalgic as we reflected on the incredible journey. A lunch stop in Mude broke up the ride, and by 4 PM, we arrived back home—grateful, fulfilled, and in need of well-earned rest.
The downhill trek to Chet Chet was easier, retracing our previous steps through forests and riverside trails. By evening, we settled into our accommodation, exhausted yet satisfied.
Travel Details:
Having pre-booked our bus tickets, we set off early. The drive back felt nostalgic as we reflected on the incredible journey. A lunch stop in Mude broke up the ride, and by 4 PM, we arrived back home—grateful, fulfilled, and in need of well-earned rest.
The Tsho Rolpa Trek is truly a breathtaking journey to Nepal‘s hidden gem, offering an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and trekkers alike. From the pristine glacial lakes to the challenging trails and the untouched beauty of the Rolwaling Valley, this trek is a must-do for anyone seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in the Himalayas.