Tsho Rolpa
The Rolwaling valley of central Nepal for years has laid under the shadow of its neighbouring Everest region. Its possibility as a tourism destination has for years been talked about by tourism specialists. But lack of interest made this valley a hidden gem.
Its crown jewel is the Tsho Rolpa (Cho Rolpa) glacial lake situated at 4,580 m (15,030ft). In recent years, it garnered attention due to the accelerated melting of the glacier.
Reaching Tsho Rolpa is a challenging trek, but the tranquil glacial water is worth the hardship. This area is home to the Sherpa community, dispersed in beautiful villages. This trek also allows one to experience their traditional culture and lifestyle. An extended itinerary to explore the Daldlung Pass features splendid views of the high Himalayas.
A generic itinerary features an 8-hour drive from Kathmandu to Singati Bazar. The trek further is anywhere between 7-9 days. The route has a circuit pattern and is best during the months of spring and autumn.
Rupa
This lake for years has been under the shadow of Phewa and Begnas in the district of Kaski. The region only gained popularity a few years ago with sound investment in tourism infrastructure. At an altitude of 600 meters, Rupa is a 30-minute bus ride away from the valley of Pokhara.
It over the years has developed into an independent attraction with ample activities to indulge in for a traveller. The lakes wetland ecosystem is home to 36 species of waterbirds and plenty of flora and fauna. The region's economy largely encompassed fish farming before investment in tourism and hospitality.
Today, Rupa is a bustling destination with itineraries such as a village tour, eco tour, three lakes (Phewa, Rupa and Begnas) tour and others.
Gokyo Ri
The valley of Gokyo is an intricate complex of 19 lakes under the shadow of Mt. Cho Oyu. The clear freshwater is a sight to behold after a strenuous trek. An average itinerary ranges anywhere between 14-20 days. The longest features an ascent to Gokyo valley, followed by a walk to Everest Base Camp through the Cho La Pass. It also includes a hike to Kala Pathar for an up-close view of Mount Everest. The descent features a visit to the stunning Tengboche Monastery and Khumjung village.
There are six prime lakes in the valley. Thonak Cho is the largest amongst them. Gokyo Cho, one of the six, is also known as Dudh Pokhari due to its milky appearance.
Tilicho
In the far lands of Manang district at an altitude of 4919m lies the mystic waters of Tilicho. Heavenly, tranquil and beautiful are general synonyms used to describe this destination. It is accessed either via the Annapurna circuit route or an independent trek to Tilicho. Trekkers need to cross the Thorong La Pass at 5416 m to reach the lake.
The journey through the pass is quite demanding. Thus, this lake is also known as the fruit of Thorong La. An alternate route that skirts the lake from the north is slowly gaining popularity. But it requires at least one night of camping due to the lack of teahouses and lodges.
It also has high significance in Hinduism as this lake is often referred to as the ancient Kak Bhusundi Lake mentioned in the epic Ramayana. Peaks such as Khangsar, Nilgiri, Tilicho and Muktinath flank the lake, adding their magnificent reflections: accentuating the view.
In the next article we shall look into Phewa and Begnas of Pokhara, Gosaikunda and Dhumba lake.
