Overview

Rara Lake Trek is a 15-day trek around the Rara National Park in western Nepal. The beauty of the route leading to the Rara Lake is a mix of the Himalayas and the Terai. The natural beauty and the serene trekking trails best describe the Rara Lake Trek. Moreover, the trek also introduces the bio-diversity of the smallest national park of Nepal- the Rara National Park. Join the fun of visiting the biggest lake in Nepal!

The Rara Lake Trek highlights both the natural and cultural aspects of western Nepal. The park ranges in altitude from 2,800 m to 4,039 m at Chuchemara Peak to the south of Rara Lake. Rhododendron, brown oak, and birch sub-alpine vegetation are also the habitat for a variety of wildlife species like Himalayan Tahr, Leopard, and Rhesus Macaque.

Firstly, the trip starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Another flight from Nepalgunj leads to Jumla from where the actual trek begins. The trails are mostly off-beaten and head to Danphe Langa. From here, you trek through Thakuri villages to pass Chautha and Dhotu to stop at the Rara Lake. The Rara Lake is a sapphire amongst the emerald forest. The diversity of the plant and wildlife species in the vicinity of Rara Lake is simply amazing. Apart from nature, the trails on the trek are known for their cultural wealth. The locals are true to their roots and follow traditional and religious daily rituals. Overall, Rara Trek is a jam-packed adventure due to cultural aspects along with nature.

Highlights

  • Journey to the largest lake in Nepal, Rara Lake
  • Enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the Rara National Park
  • An unforgettable adventure in the remote lands of Mugu
  • A unique culture and authentic way of life of the Thakuri community

Itinerary

Expand AllCollapse All
Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport and meet our representative who will transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, we can take a quick stroll around the nearby areas. You can prepare for the trek or enjoy Newari cuisine and heritage.

  • Maximum Altitude1300m

Today, we make our way out of the capital city heading for the Terai city of Nepalgunj. The journey takes about an hour and takes us away from the majestic hills to the plain Terai lands. Reaching Nepalgunj, we first check in at the hotel after which you are free to enjoy the local cultures, way of life, and cuisines.

    Today, we make our way towards the hilly town of Jumla. The journey takes us around 30 minutes and flies us over the hilly landscapes to Jumla. One of the most remote areas of the nation, Jumla boasts authentic natural beauty alongside undisturbed culture and way of life. Checking in at the hotel at Jumla you are free to make your way down to the local areas.

      The beginning of the trek and we exit Jumla following the banks of Tila River towards the north. With the high valley of Jumla slowly disappearing, the trail takes us through the forests filled with pine and fir trees. This stretch of the trek is fairly leveled before we climb up the Padmara Valley. Past the final village of the valley, the journey continues through the narrow canyons to Danphe Langa.

        The day begins with a steep descend heading away from the hamlet of Danphe Langa to meet the Sinja Khola. Crossing the river atop an old wooden bridge, we follow the river heading all the way towards the hamlet of Nyawer. Continuing the journey, we climb atop a ridgeline above the river ascending atop a hill. The steep ascent is followed by descent as we reach Chautha.

          Exiting Chautha, the journey ascends deeper into the valley. Reaching Bhulbhule, we enter the lush green forests which lead up to a series of Mani flags and Chortens at the top of Gurchi Lagna. We trek forwards enjoying the pleasant views of the Mugu Karnali River alongside the majestic Tibetan Himalayas. The next stretch of the trek takes us through pleasant fir forests all the way to Dhotu.

            The day is a short one as we begin our trek towards the Rara Lake. Heading away from Dhotu, the journey ascends towards Jhyari. In midst of the cedar trees, the village hosts the ethnic Thakuri people well known for their unique culture and hospitality. Through the cedar forests, the journey climbs atop a ridgeline which boasts glorious views of the entire Rara Lake. Overnight at tented camp on the northern ends of the lake.

              The most exciting day of our entire trip, today, we take the day off to enjoy the beauty of the Rara Lake. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, the lake boasts exquisite natural beauty and is also the largest lake of the country. Protected by the majestic Rara National Park, the region boasts a diverse cast of wildlife and birds including the musk deer, Himalayan Thar, Ghoral, red panda, Snow coots, Mallard, Eurasian teal amongst others. You can explore the lake premise and the national park for the rest of the day.

                Trekking alongside the Rara Lake, we begin our journey alongside the stream of Khatyar Gad. Making our way past Murma, we cross the stream over a log bridge which brings us to an ascending route heading up the hill. After reaching the top, the descending trail begins as we head past the forested trail to the eastern ridgeline of Chuchemara Danda. The final stretch of the trek is a steep one to take us to Ghorosingha.

                  Making our way away from Ghorosingha, we head towards a hilltop which boasts mesmerizing views of the entire Rara Valley alongside the majestic Himalayas. Through the fields of Lumsa, we head further south descending to the hamlet of Okharpati. The final bit of descending takes us all the way to Sinja. Alternatively, you can also climb the valley heading towards the hamlet of Botan and then down to Sinja.

                    The day begins early as we exit Sinja and head towards Jaljala. Crossing the Hima River due east, we make our way through the southern bank of Syaule River over to Dhobighat and then onto Garja. Ascending the ridge high above the river, we continue our journey clinging to the southern edge of the valley. As we continue further, we reach the mountain pass which leads to Jaljala.

                      The final day of the trek and we make our way back to Jumla ending our adventure. The trail is a straightforward one and is fairly leveled as we descend alongside the banks of Syaule River heading east towards Chere Chaur. The final stretch of the trek is a pleasant one as we exit the valley to reach Jumla.

                        An early day as we head back to the town of Nepalgunj bidding goodbye to the high valley of Jumla. Touching down at Nepalgunj, we take some time off before boarding another flight back to Kathmandu. Reaching the capital city, we head directly back to the hotel ending all the activities for the trip.

                          The final day of the trip and you are free to head down to the local regions in search of your own adventures or stay back at the hotel resting from your travels. We can also arrange tours around the UNESCO world heritage sites spread around the valley for you to enjoy. The day ends with a lovely farewell dinner as we prepare for departure.

                            Today is your last day in Nepal and our representative will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. We hope that your adventure with us has been a memorable one and look forward to seeing you again.

                              Cost Details

                              • Airport picks up and Drop by private vehicle.
                              • 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu with bed and breakfast basis.
                              • Guided city tour in Kathmandu and Pokhara by private vehicle
                              • Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu flight fare.
                              • Nepalgunj – Jumla– Nepalgunj flight fare.
                              • Your standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trekking.
                              • All necessary paper works and conservation entry permits.
                              • All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle
                              • All accommodations in hotel/ lodges/tea houses during the trek.
                              • An experienced Government licensed guide and porters
                              • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
                              • All government and local taxes.
                              • Entrance fees for sightseeing/monument visits as per the itinerary
                              • International Airfare
                              • Nepal entry visa
                              • Personal Expenses
                              • Travel and Rescue Insurance
                              • Extra accommodation and food charges in Kathmandu
                              • Tips and gratitude to the guide, porters and drivers

                              Useful Info

                              The Rara Lake Trek is a fairly easier one in western Nepal. The trails are off-beat but offer a gradual ascent all the way to the Rara Lake. Similarly, the trek can be done throughout the year but, is best during the spring season (March-May).

                              Eternal Himalaya offers a number of trips in Nepal and Tibet as well. As such, we have expert guides and porters to company you along with these trips. We also offer you the option to modify your trips as per your preferences.