-
Duration
15 Days
-
Max Elevation
5,357m
Nestled high in the remotest corners of Nepal lies one of the country’s most pristine and magical natural wonders – Tsho Rolpa Glacier. This massive frozen river, enveloped by towering Himalayan peaks, remains far less traversed by tourists. For intrepid trekkers seeking to go off the beaten path and discover hidden gems, the Tsho Rolpa trek offers immense rewards.
Overview of Tsho Rolpa Trek
The Tsho Rolpa trek leads you on an incredible journey to the expansive Tsho Rolpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, located at an altitude of 4580m (15,026 ft). To reach it, you’ll trek through the wilderness of Rolwaling Valley for around two weeks, walking 75-90 miles (120-145 km) depending on the route taken.
You’ll traverse serene rhododendrons and pine forests, gurgling rivers, high mountain passes adorned with prayer flags, and Sherpa villages where time stands still. The route eventually opens up to spectacular views of Tsho Rolpa itself, framed by elevation giants like Gaurishankar (7,134m), Melungtse (7,023m) and Chugimago (6,297m). The views along the way and the glacier itself exceed expectations.
The best times are March-May and October-November. Permits from the Rolwaling Rural Municipality are required, along with a TIMS card. While challenging, the Tsho Rolpa trek is suitable for fit hikers with moderate prior trekking experience at high elevations.
Trip Highlights
- Raw Himalayan wilderness barely touched by modernization
- Full days immersed in nature without distractions
- Discovery of Nepal's largest and most pristine glacier
- Opportunity to catch photos that your friends have seen before
- A glimpse into timeless Sherpa culture far from the ever-growing cities
- Sense of achievement after completing such a challenging trek off-the-beaten-path
- Memories to last a lifetime of a very special corner of the Himalayas
Tsho Rolpa Trek: A Glacial Gem of Nepal ~ Itinerary
Day 1
Drive Kathmandu to Bedding (8-9 hours)
Day 2
Beding to Na Gaon (4-6 hours)
Day 3
Na Gaon to Tashi Lapcha Pass (4,755m) to Thadepati (7-8 hours)
Day 4
Thadepati to Kalo Buk (5-6 hours)
Day 5
kalo Buk to Lamobagar (6-7 hours)
Day 6
Acclimatization and rest day in Lamobagar
Day 7
Lamobagar to Na (6-7 hours)
Day 8
Na to Dragnak (6-7 hours)
Day 9
Dragnak to Tsho Rolpa Glacier (7-8 hours)
Day 10
At Tsho Rolpa Glacier - Explore and acclimatize
Day 11
Tsho Rolpa to Dragnak (7-8 hours)
Day 12
Dragnak to Tharepati (8-9 hours)
Day 13
Tharepati to Simigaon (6-7 hours)
Day 14
Simigaon to Bharku via Sangamattha (7-8 hours)
Day 15
Bharku to Dolakha (Jeep or Private Vehicle)
Frequently Asked Questions
Due to high elevations, Tsho Rolpa is only accessible during certain seasons:
- Spring (March to May) – Moderate temps make for pleasant trekking conditions. Blossoming rhododendrons are stunning.
- Autumn (October to November) – Clear skies after monsoons recede reveal the best mountain views. Peak foliage colours.
- Winter (December to February) – Possible but extremely cold. Expect snow and ice, especially around the glacier. Fewer teahouses are open.
- Monsoon (June to September) – Heavy rainfall makes trails slippery and prone to landslides. Low visibility obscures views. Avoid this season.
For ideal weather, scenery and trekking conditions, Spring and Autumn are the best seasons for embarking on the Tsho Rolpa trek.
To access the Tsho Rolpa region, you will need certain permits and paperwork:
- TIMS Card – All trekkers in Nepal need this tourism management system permit. It can be issued in Kathmandu or on the trail.
- Rolwaling Gaunpalika Entry Permit – Required to enter the Rolwaling rural municipality zone. Available in Kathmandu or Simigaon.
- Makalu Barun National Park Permit – Needed if you trek via Suri Dobhan instead of Simigaon. Issued in Kathmandu.
Be sure to carry your passport, valid Nepal visa and two passport photos to obtain the permits before commencing the trek.
The Tsho Rolpa trek is significantly more demanding than popular regional treks like Everest Base Camp. Here is an overview:
- Duration – 14-15 days is longer than average Nepali teahouse treks of 10 days. Requires more fitness stamina.
- Terrain – Steep ascents and descents on rough, undeveloped mountain trails with glacial moraine, boulders and rhododendron roots.
- Altitude – You will reach 4500-5000m, including high passes. Good acclimatization is critical.
- Teahouses – Available but quite basic. Bring sufficient snacks/supplements and a warm sleeping bag.
- Remoteness – Far from roads or villages once past Thadepati. Medical help is days away.
Tsho Rolpa trek requires high levels of cardiovascular fitness, strength training, prior hiking experience and comfort in remote mountain environments. Don’t underestimate the demands.
To trek safely and smoothly, here are some recommendations:
- Go with a guide – Do not attempt this trek solo without an experienced guide. Dangerous if lost and helpful for permits.
- Porters – At least one porter for two trekkers is strongly recommended, due to the lack of lodges, to carry gear overpasses.
- BOOK EARLY – Only licensed guides can arrange permits. Rolwaling limits the number of trekkers permitted, so book 6-9 months in advance.
- Flexible Itinerary – Be prepared to modify the schedule based on weather, acclimatization needs and pace. Don’t rush.
- Contingencies – Discuss emergency plans and locations to get helicopter evacuation if required.
With the right guidance and porter support, Tsho Rolpa is an incredible adventure!
While challenging, the rewards of trekking deep into the remote Rolwaling valley and witnessing the massive Tsho Rolpa glacier up close are immense. Here are some highlights:
Diverse Landscapes
Walk through oak and rhododendron forests, cross flower-filled meadows, and traverse moraine rubble and boulder fields surrounding the glacier.
Sherpa Villages
Get a glimpse of traditional life in timeless villages like Na, Simigaon and Gongar Khola.
Magnificent Mountains
Marvel at towering Himalayan giants like Gaurishankar, Melungtse, Chugimago and Numbur throughout the trek.
Tsho Rolpa Glacier
The highlight! Spend days exploring this massive frozen river, the largest glacier in Nepal, which dwarfs trekkers in size.
Gokyo Ri Views
Climb the 5,357m Gokyo Ri for incredible panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and more.
Tibetan Buddhist Culture
Discover ancient Buddhist monasteries, shrines, prayer flags and more as you enter the Tibetan borderlands.
With so much natural beauty and cultural richness, Tsho Rolpa undoubtedly deserves a spot on your Nepal bucket list!
To trek safely and comfortably in the remote Rolwaling and Tsho Rolpa region, keep these travel tips in mind:
- Obtain permits and trekking insurance well in advance of arrival in Nepal
- Fly to Kathmandu with extra buffer days in the schedule in case of flight delays in/out of Nepal
- Book an experienced licensed guide and porter team months in advance
- Get proper hiking boots, trekking poles, layers and a sleeping bag for subzero temps
- Pack sufficient extra snacks, supplements and medications since villages have limited shops
- Arrive fit – train for months ahead by hiking with a weighted backpack for long distances
- Slowly acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness before ascending high passes
- Carry enough cash for the whole trek, as ATMs are unavailable along the route
- Consider adding on a few days in Kathmandu at the end to rest and see sights before flying home
With prudent preparation and packing, Tsho Rolpa will exceed your expectations! Let this hidden gem refresh your perspective.
You may also like
Menu
