The Tsho Rolpa Trek, offered by Hairy Yak Adventures, is an 8-day, approximately 65–70 km teahouse trek in Nepal’s Rolwaling Valley, Dolakha District, within the Gaurishankar Conservation Area. Priced at $870 per person for a group of two or more, this moderately challenging trek ascends to Tsho Rolpa Lake (4,580 m / 15,026 ft), Nepal’s largest glacial lake, fed by the Trakarding Glacier and surrounded by peaks like Gaurishankar (7,134 m / 23,406 ft), Melungtse (7,181 m / 23,560 ft), and Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m / 22,854 ft). Starting with a drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) to Chetchet (1,350 m / 4,429 ft) and ending with a return to Kathmandu, the trek follows the Tama Koshi and Rolwaling Rivers, passing Sherpa and Tamang villages like Simigaun, Beding, and Na. Key highlights include the turquoise lake’s serene beauty, rhododendron forests, ancient Buddhist monasteries (e.g., Bigu Gompa), and legends of the Yeti in this remote valley near the Tibetan border.
This off-the-beaten-path trek, less crowded than Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, offers solitude and an authentic Himalayan experience, with daily hikes of 6–8 hours and a maximum altitude of 4,580 m. It’s ideal for fit trekkers with some high-altitude experience, requiring stamina for steep ascents and rugged terrain. The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for clear skies, mild temperatures (10–16°C daytime, -8 to -10°C nights at higher altitudes), and blooming rhododendrons. Monsoon (June–August) brings slippery trails and landslide risks, while winter (December–February) is cold with potential snow. Permits include the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP) and TIMS card, arranged by Hairy Yak Adventures, supporting conservation and local Sherpa-Tamang communities.
Tsho Rolpa Lake: Visit one of Nepal’s largest glacial lakes at 4,580m, nestled in the Rolwaling Valley, surrounded by dramatic peaks like Gaurishankar.
Rolwaling Valley: Trek through the pristine and remote Rolwaling Valley, known for its rugged beauty and rich Sherpa culture.
Gaurishankar Himal: Marvel at the majestic Gaurishankar (7,134m) and other peaks, offering a serene Himalayan backdrop.
Tsho Rolpa Glacier: Explore the glacier near the lake, a highlight for adventure seekers, with stunning ice formations.
Sherpa Villages: Immerse in authentic Sherpa culture in villages like Na and Beding, with traditional homes and monasteries.
Diverse Flora and Fauna: Encounter unique Himalayan wildlife and alpine vegetation in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area.
Remote Adventure: Experience a less-crowded trek, ideal for those seeking solitude and untouched natural beauty.
Chhukyima La Pass: Cross the challenging Chhukyima La Pass (4,600m) for breathtaking views and a sense of achievement.
The $870 per person cost for an 8-day Tsho Rolpa Trek with Hairy Yak Adventures is competitive for a teahouse trek, aligning with Boundless Adventure’s pricing ($810–$1,040) and slightly above budget estimates from Reddit users ($600–$900 for 5–7 days). This all-inclusive price for a group of two or more covers:
Permits:
Transportation: Private jeep from Kathmandu to Chetchet (195 km, 7–8 hours, $130–$150 each way, split among 4–6 people) and return to Kathmandu.
Accommodation and Meals: Teahouse lodging (twin-sharing, $8–$10/night, ~$50–$60 for 6 nights), three meals daily (Dal Bhat, noodles, $20–$25/day, ~$120–$150), and tea/coffee ($8–$10/day).
Guide and Porter: Licensed, English-speaking guide ($25–$30/day, ~$200–$240), one porter per two trekkers ($20/day, ~$120–$160, carrying 25 kg).
Miscellaneous: Agency fees, government taxes, and emergency support (e.g., first-aid kit, oximeter).
Analysis of $870 Cost: The $870 price is feasible for a guided teahouse trek, covering permits, private transport, quality lodging, meals, and staff wages, as supported by Boundless Adventure’s range ($810–$1,040). It excludes international flights ($800–$1,500), Nepal visa ($30–$125), travel insurance ($50–$100, covering 4,600 m), tips ($30–$50), and personal expenses (snacks, gear, $20–$50). Solo trekkers may pay $1,000–$1,200 due to non-shared costs. The budget supports local communities through porter wages and conservation fees, ensuring sustainable tourism in the Rolwaling Valley.
The 8-day itinerary is ideal for the Tsho Rolpa Trek, as confirmed by Exciting Nepal and Nepal Independent Guide, balancing 5–6 days of trekking (6–8 hours daily), one acclimatization day, and two travel days. Covering 65–70 km from Chetchet to Tsho Rolpa Lake and back, it includes key stops like Simigaun, Beding, Na, and the lake, with sufficient acclimatization at Na (4,180 m / 13,714 ft). Shorter 5–7-day itineraries (e.g., Reddit user reports) rush the ascent, increasing altitude sickness risks, while longer 10–15-day options (e.g., Mount Mania, Nepal Pyramids) add side trips like Tashi Lapcha Pass or Dudh Kund Glacier. The 8-day plan suits fit trekkers seeking a serene, culturally immersive adventure, with Hairy Yak Adventures ensuring safety and engagement with Sherpa-Tamang heritage.
The Tsho Rolpa Trek offers spectacular Himalayan vistas. Tsho Rolpa Lake, at 4,580m, presents a striking view of turquoise waters framed by the Gaurishankar Himal and surrounding snow-capped peaks. Crossing Chhukyima La Pass (4,600m) rewards trekkers with panoramic views of Gaurishankar (7,134m), Melungtse (7,181m), and the Rolwaling range. The trek features lush forests, alpine meadows, and rugged glacial moraines, with the dramatic Rolwaling Valley showcasing cascading waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and serene river valleys, creating a diverse and awe-inspiring visual experience.
This trek is suited for experienced trekkers seeking a remote and moderately challenging Himalayan adventure. With altitudes up to 4,600m and daily treks of 5–7 hours on rugged terrain, it requires good physical fitness and mental endurance. No technical climbing is needed, but prior trekking experience is beneficial due to the high-altitude Chhukyima La Pass and variable weather. Trekkers should be prepared for basic teahouse or camping accommodations and cold nights. If you crave cultural immersion, pristine wilderness, and a less-touristy route, this trek is an excellent choice.
Train for 2–3 months with cardio (hiking, running), strength training (core, legs), and practice hikes with a loaded backpack to prepare for long trekking days and high altitudes.
Wear sturdy, broken-in trekking boots with ankle support. Pack layered clothing (base layers, fleece, waterproof jacket/pants) for temperature changes from warm valleys to cold high altitudes.
Keep your pack to 8–10 kg, including essentials like clothing, trekking poles, and a sleeping bag. Porters may assist, but a lighter load eases strain on steep ascents.
Drink 3–4 liters of water daily to stay hydrated. Carry altitude sickness medication (e.g., Diamox) and monitor for symptoms like dizziness or fatigue. Descend if symptoms persist.
Incorporate rest days in Beding (3,690m) or Na (4,180m) to adjust to altitudes above 4,000m. Avoid rapid ascents to reduce the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees from Kathmandu, as ATMs are unavailable past Charikot. Wi-Fi is scarce; a local SIM or satellite device is recommended for emergencies.
Bring a power bank or solar charger, as electricity in teahouses or campsites is limited and may incur additional costs.
Pack toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and soap, as facilities in remote areas are basic or nonexistent.
Ask permission before photographing locals or sacred sites. Dress modestly and follow etiquette at monasteries to respect Sherpa and Buddhist traditions.
Obtain the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, typically arranged by your trekking agency. Restricted area permits may be needed for parts of the Rolwaling Valley.
The Tsho Rolpa Trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Charikot, followed by a jeep or trek to trailheads like Jagat or Simigaon. The route passes through Sherpa villages like Beding and Na, leading to Tsho Rolpa Lake and the optional Chhukyima La Pass. The trek, spanning 7–12 days, concludes with a return to Charikot and a drive back to Kathmandu. Weather can affect trails, especially during monsoon season (June–August), so plan for buffer days. This trek blends high-altitude adventure, cultural immersion, and stunning scenery, requiring thorough preparation.
Contact – Hairy Yak Adventures
+977-9801214198
info@hairyyakadventures.com
The best seasons are spring (March–May) for blooming flora and clear views, and autumn (September–November) for stable weather and stunning Himalayan vistas. Avoid the monsoon (June–August) due to slippery trails and potential landslides.
The trek is moderately challenging, with altitudes up to 4,600m (Chhukyima La Pass) and 5–7 hours of daily trekking on rugged terrain. It requires good fitness and some trekking experience, but no technical climbing skills are needed.
You need the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. Restricted area permits may also be required for parts of the Rolwaling Valley, typically arranged by your trekking agency.
Expect basic teahouses in villages like Beding and Na, with simple rooms and shared facilities. Higher altitudes may require camping, so bring a sleeping bag. Facilities are basic, so pack essentials like toiletries.
Acclimatize with rest days in Beding (3,690m) or Na (4,180m). Drink 3–4 liters of water daily, carry Diamox, and monitor for symptoms like headaches or nausea. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen.