Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling
In Nepali: छो रोल्पा र रोल्वालिङ
Rolwaling ('the furrow') is a narrow Sherpa valley regarded as a beyul, a hidden sacred land. At its head, at about 4,580 m, lies Tsho Rolpa, a glacial lake over 3 km long dammed by moraine. Engineers lowered its level in 2000 to reduce the risk of a catastrophic outburst flood, and it remains closely monitored.
The trek up the Rolwaling valley via Simigaun and Beding takes about a week to ten days. Experienced parties continue over the Tashi Lapcha pass into the Khumbu. Permits are required.
What to see and do
Walk up the Rolwaling valley past Simigaun's monastery and the Sherpa village of Beding, visit the high summer settlement of Na, and reach the lake's edge with views of the Trakarding glacier. The outlet engineering works show how glacial lakes are being managed in a warming climate.
Good to know
This is a remote trek with basic lodges and homestays; carry supplies. Permits are required. Crossing the Tashi Lapcha pass (5,755 m) to the Khumbu is a mountaineering route requiring equipment and experience.
Quick answers
- Where is Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling?
- Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling is in Dolakha district, Bagmati Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling?
- About 4,580 m (15,027 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling?
- For a 12-day trip from Kathmandu, about NPR 67,500 (≈ US$500) per person on a budget, or NPR 99,000 (≈ US$735) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 34,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling?
- Plan 9 nights there for the trek; with travel from Kathmandu and back, about 12 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter the Gaurishankar Conservation Area (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling?
- October–November; April–May
- How do I get to Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling?
- Drive to Chhetchhet or Simigaun area from Charikot, then trek. It is about 114 km (straight line) from Kathmandu.
- What is Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling called in Nepali?
- छो रोल्पा र रोल्वालिङ
Photo gallery
1 / 9.jpg?width=960)
