Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek

Tips For A Successful Tsho Rolpa Cultural Trek

• Long hours of trekking on varied terrain require physical fitness prior to departure.
• Ascend gradually to allow time for acclimatization and minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
• Stay well-hydrated by consuming a minimum of 3 to 4 liters of water each day.
• Guides are recommended for guidance in navigation, and porters can minimize fatigue.
• Be conscious of the fact that weather in the region is unpredictable and likely to change suddenly; prepare for rain, snow, and sunshine conditions in mind.
• Always seek permission to take pictures of local residents and be respectful in interactions with communities.

Food During The Tsho Rolpa Cultural Trek

The lunch and dinner in the Tsho Rolpa Cultural Trek are nutritious and well-provided, typically carbs, protein, and vegetables. Fresh Nepalese food is provided by all the teahouses on the route. Although the trek is remote, the food for meals is locally produced and fresh. Actually, menu items provided regularly are Dal Bhat Tarkari (lentils, rice, and curry), momo, eggs, porridges, Tibetan bread, noodles, pasta, toast, chapati with tea, etc.

Note: Dal Bhat Tarkari (lentil soup, rice, and curry pickle) is a common Nepali Thali and the main meal of most Nepalese, consumed twice daily. Likewise, every teahouse has this meal, each having a unique combination of vegetables, beans, and spices.

In addition, food is prepared using fresh, locally purchased ingredients. Dal Bhat Tarkari not only consists of balanced calories, but it is also the sole menu item offered unlimited. For a healthy meal, Dal Bhat Tarkari is highly recommended during Tsho Rolpa Trek. There is a popular proverb: "Dal Bhat Power, 24 Hour."

Accommodation During The Tsho Rolpa Cultural Trek

Along the way, accommodation in the remote Rolwaling Valley is tea houses, with a rustic refuge and excellent services, an insight into the local way of life. Tea houses are typically twin-bedded rooms, and washrooms have squat Asian toilets.

Meanwhile, basic amenities such as electricity, Wi-Fi, and hot showers are available, though with decreasing availability at higher altitudes. Likewise, charging for hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging is an additional $2–$3 per use.

Transportation To The Remote Trek to Tsho Rolpa

Tourists should travel to the trailhead by bus prior to the trek. Actually, the journey begins with a bus trip from Kathmandu to Chhetchhet, lasting seven hours. In fact, the travel is scenic as one experiences landscapes, fields, and vibrant rural markets during the route. While the ride is generally smooth, certain routes may be rough due to road conditions.

Alternatively, trekkers can rent a private jeep at an additional cost. Based on 25 years of experience in trekking, a private jeep would be recommended for a luxurious and value-for-money Himalayan travel experience. The cost of a private jeep is normally $200 per way.

Internet, Telephone, And Battery Charging During The Tsho Rolpa Lake Expedition

Electricity, Wi-Fi, and mobile phone charging points are available at lower levels, though not in many cases as height increases. Likewise, internet connectivity is bad and is typically only accessible in some villages. NCELL and NTC SIM card mobile receptions are typically available in large villages, but the coverage is lower at higher altitudes.

Battery charging is usually available at lower rates, even within a room at times; charging stations are usually available in communal spaces at high altitudes. Actually, there is a nominal fee for charging the devices. Carrying a power bank or extra battery is recommended.

Insurance

Before departing on the Tsho Rolpa Lake Expedition, it is wise to acquire a full-travel coverage insurance policy so that you can travel with peace of mind. Due to the rugged and remote nature of the trek, insurance will cover you against any unexpected expenses like medical issues, evacuation, or trip cancellation.

Actually, it is advisable to select an insurance plan that specifically includes high-altitude activities and emergency helicopter evacuation coverage. Furthermore, verify that your policy provides coverage at high elevations and offers upfront payment for claims rather than reimbursement after the fact.

Porter

For the Tsho Rolpa High Altitude Trek, employment of a porter is a reasonable option, as it significantly lowers the physical burden of trekking. Often, there is one porter per two and can handle 20 kg of gear. In fact, Employment of a porter makes trekking more comfortable.

Nepal Gateway Trekking Experts recommend hiring a local porter because they are fully aware of the path and the region in general. In addition, local porters can offer you valuable advice on your trekking tour.

Additionally, hiring a porter directly contributes to the benefit of the local people and economy. Should you desire assistance in locating an experienced, local porter, Nepal Gateway Trekking Experts are willing to help.

Trekking Equipment for Tsho Rolpa High Altitude Trek

In order to be able to travel safely over the rough terrain of the Tsho Rolpa High Altitude Trek, the right equipment is essential. The season will determine the need for extra warm clothing.

Selling out and splurging for good gear and clothing will not only keep you safer but also allow you to properly enjoy the natural beauty of the Rolwaling Valley.

Clothing

• Inner thermals
• Wind and waterproof jacket and trousers 
• Waterproof pants
• Lightweight, quick-drying trekking pants
• Shorts
• Underwear
• Gloves
• Moisture-wicking, quick-drying trekking socks
• Muffler or scarf
• Gaiters (optional, depending on the season)
• Sandals
• Good-quality trekking boots

Other Gear

• Sun hat
• Sun spectacles
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Wet wipes
• Soap bar
• Female hygiene
• First-aid kit
• Adapter
• Power bank
• Camera
• Water bottle
• Trekking poles
• Towel
• Sanitizer

Nepalese Money and Payment

The rupee is the national currency in Nepal. The best currencies to exchange are the US dollar, Australian dollar, British pound, Canadian dollar, Singapore dollar, and the euro, which can be exchanged with ease in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Actually, major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted by tourist-class hotels, restaurants, airlines, and major shops in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, and Pokhara. A surcharge of approximately 3.5% is normally levied on all card transactions.

Likewise, ATMs are plentiful in Kathmandu and Pokhara, particularly in the Thamel district. Some ATMs have a withdrawal limit of Rs 10,000 a day, while others offer up to Rs 35,000. An additional charge of USD 5 is commonly levied per transaction, in addition to any fee your bank may impose.

On-Arrival Visa in Nepal

When you actually do arrive in Nepal, you can obtain a visa upon entry at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or choose to apply in advance through a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country. You can also obtain visas at the following border crossings on land: Birgunj, Kakarbhitta, Bhairawa, Belhiya, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi, Mahendranagar, and the Kodari Pass from Tibet.

Actually, it is advisable to keep cash in the below-mentioned currencies to pay for a visa: US dollars, euros, Swiss francs, British pounds, Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Singapore dollars, or Japanese yen. Payment with a credit card is also accepted nowadays.

As per the latest information, visa fees are as below:

• Multiple entries for 15 days: USD 30 or its equivalent
• Multiple entries for 30 days: USD 50 or its equivalent
• Multiple entry for 90 days: USD 125 or equivalent

Passports must be valid for at least six months. Visas can be extended from Nepal Immigration offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara. For further information, please check the Nepal Immigration website or call us directly.