Why Tsho Rolpa?
Tucked away in Nepal’s remote Rolwaling Valley, Tsho Rolpa (4,580m) is one of the country’s largest glacial lakes—a shimmering turquoise jewel surrounded by towering peaks. Unlike the crowded Everest and Annapurna trails, this trek offers:
✅ Untouched wilderness – Few trekkers, pristine nature.
✅ Adventure challenge – Steep climbs, high altitude, and rugged terrain.
✅ Cultural immersion – Traditional villages and warm Sherpa hospitality.
Best Time to Go: October-November (autumn) & March-April (spring)
My 6-Day Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu → Simigaun (2,019m)
- Scenic (but bumpy!) 10-hour drive to Chetchet.
- 2-hour steep hike to Simigaun—home to terraced farms and cozy teahouses.
- Pro Tip: Try the dal bhat at "Simigaun Aunty’s" guesthouse—best meal of the trek!
Day 2: Simigaun → Thanding (3,330m)
- Lush forests → rocky trails with waterfalls along the Rolwaling River.
- Stay at Thanding’s lone teahouse—moonlit mountain views included.
Day 3: Thanding → Naa Gaun (4,185m)
- Thin air, tough climb, but worth it for the starry Himalayan night sky.
- No electricity or networks—pure digital detox!
Day 4: Naa → Tsho Rolpa (4,580m) → Dudhkunda (4,800m) → Beding (3,690m)
- Tsho Rolpa Lake: Expansive, icy, and surreal.
- Dudhkunda: A sacred glacial pond—tough scramble but magical.
- Descend to Beding—wild winds and exhausted smiles.
Days 5-6: Return to Kathmandu
- Long descent, retracing waterfalls and suspension bridges.
- Final night in Simigaun, reminiscing over the adventure.
Essential Trekking Tips
✔ Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes—trails are rocky and unstable.
✔ Layers: Freezing nights, windy days—pack thermal wear & windproof jackets.
✔ Power: No electricity beyond Beding—bring power banks.
✔ Connectivity: Only NTC SIM works (NCELL has no signal).
✔ Altitude: Acclimatize well—Beding (3,690m) is a good rest stop.
✔ Booking: Teahouses in Naa Gaun are limited—reserve early!
Final Verdict: Should You Go?
YES, if you:
- Want a less crowded, challenging Himalayan trek.
- Love glacial lakes, rugged trails, and raw nature.
- Enjoy cultural encounters in remote villages.
NO, if you:
- Prefer easy, well-trodden routes.
- Aren’t prepared for basic teahouses and no electricity.
An Adventure Worth Every Step
Tsho Rolpa isn’t just a trek—it’s a journey into the wild heart of the Himalayas. If you’re ready for solitude, stunning landscapes, and a true test of endurance, this is your trail.
Ready to take on the challenge? 🚀🏔️