- An unforgettable adventure to one of the most remote parts of the nation
- Journey to the largest lake of Nepal- Rara lake
- Trek through vibrant hamlets depicting a unique way of life
- Enjoy the mesmerizing natural beauty of the stunning Rara National Park
- Enjoy the panoramic beauty of nature.
Rara Lake Trek
What to see & do
About Rara Lake Trek - 15 days
At a Glance
Durations
15 days
Trip Difficulty
Moderate
Activities
Trekking
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge/Tea House
Meals
All meals included during the trekking
Mx.altitude
3804m.
Vehicle
Flight/Tourist bus/Private vehicle
Max. People
10
Trip Highlights
Trip Overview
Embark on an awe-inspiring journey through the untamed wilderness of western Nepal, where the Rara Lake Trek awaits. Brace yourself for an adventure that will leave you spellbound. This off-the-beaten-path expedition introduces you to the majestic Rara Lake, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the stunning Rara National Park.
Located in the remote region of Mugu and Jumla, this trek takes you far from the beaten tourist trails and immerses you in a world of raw natural beauty. Brace yourself for a wild ride as you soar high above the clouds during a thrilling flight to Jumla, marking the beginning of your unforgettable expedition.
Trekking through rugged landscapes, verdant forests, and enchanting valleys, you'll be greeted by a symphony of sights and sounds that will quicken your pulse. As you ascend, prepare to have your breath stolen away by the sight of majestic snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls that defy gravity, and meadows bursting with vibrant hues. And then, there it is—Rara Lake.
A celestial oasis, its azure waters mirror the pristine forests and towering mountains that guard it jealously. Immerse yourself in the tranquility, be enchanted by the untouched beauty, and allow Rara Lake to leave an indelible mark on your soul. This trek is not for the faint-hearted; it's for those who seek the extraordinary, those who crave the untamed, and those who are willing to embark on a journey that will ignite their spirit of adventure.
Major Attraction of Rara Lake Trek
Rara National Park
Rara National Park, established in 1970, is a protected area spanning 106 km2 and renowned for its rich biodiversity. Within its boundaries, a remarkable variety of flora and fauna are conserved. The park is home to over a thousand species of flora, exhibiting a fascinating range from the hilly regions to the Himalayas. Among the diverse flora, you can find captivating species such as Rhododendron, fir, brown oak, birch, west Himalayan spruce, black juniper, Himalayan cypress, and pine.
The park is equally impressive in terms of its wildlife. It provides a habitat for numerous endangered species, including the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, red panda, Indian leopard, jackal, Himalayan thar, yellow-throated marten, otter, dhole, grey langur, rhesus macaque, black-nested grebes, red-crested kalij pheasant, Himalayan monal, and chukar partridge. As you journey through Rara National Park, you'll have the opportunity to witness these remarkable creatures in their natural environment, adding to the allure and fascination of the trek.
Ethnic Cultures
Embarking on the Rara Lake trek allows you to immerse yourself in a tapestry of vibrant ethnic cultures. Along the trekking trails, you'll encounter a multitude of charming villages, each offering a unique cultural experience. From Chautha and Dhoti to Ghorsingha, Sinja, and Jaljala, every village welcomes you with its distinct traditions and way of life.
One of the major attractions of the Rara Lake trek is the opportunity to witness the diverse array of castes, creeds, languages, lifestyles, and cultural practices that exist within these communities. The richness of Nepalese culture comes alive as you interact with the locals and gain insights into their customs and traditions.
Moreover, the trek presents a culinary adventure as well. Nepalese cuisine, known for its delicious flavors and distinctive dishes, tantalizes your taste buds along the way. Indulge in mouthwatering local delicacies, savoring the unique blend of spices and ingredients that contribute to the rich tapestry of Nepalese gastronomy.
Scenic natural views
The trail then leads you to the trailhead at Jumla, an area often perceived as underdeveloped and remote. However, Jumla's true beauty lies in its rich culture and warm hospitality. Despite its humble reputation, Jumla offers a captivating charm that entices travelers to explore its hidden treasures. Immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with the friendly locals, and embrace the authentic traditions that make Jumla a unique destination.
Another highlight of the Rara Lake trek is the majestic Sinja Valley. This enchanting valley holds significant historical, ancient, and religious importance. Founded by Nagraj, Sinja Valley exudes a timeless beauty that is enhanced by the flowing waters of the magical Sinja River. Delve into the valley's heritage, discover ancient ruins, and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance that emanates from this remarkable site.
Alternative Package
The Mohare Danda Trek is a hidden gem that offers panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. This community-based trek takes you through off-the-beaten-path trails, allowing you to experience the authentic hospitality of local communities.
The Nar Phu Valley Trek takes you to the remote and culturally rich valleys of Nar and Phu, situated in the Annapurna region. This trek offers a glimpse into the traditional Tibetan culture, as you explore ancient monasteries, visit remote villages, and interact with the local people.
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a challenging and adventurous journey that takes you to the base camp of Mount Makalu, the fifth highest peak in the world. This trek offers a pristine wilderness experience, with rugged terrains, dense forests, and high mountain passes.
Itinerary
Trip day to day detail itinerary
- Day01:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,320m/4,330ft)
- Day02:
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m/492ft)
- Day03:
Fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla (2370m/7776ft)
- Day04:
Trek from Jumla to Danphe Langa (3130m/10269ft)
- Day05:
Trek from Danphe Langa to Chautha (2770m/9088ft)
- Day06:
Trek from Chautha to Dhotu (2380m/7808ft)
- Day07:
Trek from Dhotu to Rara Lake (3040 m/9974ft)
- Day08:
Exploring Rara Lake (3040m/9947ft)
- Day09:
Trek from Rara Lake to Ghorosingha (3190m/10466ft)
- Day10:
Trek from Ghorosingha to Sinja (2440m/8005ft)
- Day11:
Trek from Sinja to Jaljala (3270m/10728ft)
- Day12:
Trek from Jaljala to Jumla |2370m/7776ft
- Day13:
Fly from Jumla to Nepalgunj |150m/492ft| and afternoon fly back to Kathmandu
- Day14:
Take leisure day in Kathmandu and Farewell Dinner
- Day15:
Final Departure from Kathmandu
Cost Details
Good to know before trip booking
What's Included
- Airport picks up and drops off, upon arrival and departure.
- Pre trek meeting.
- City entrance fees in Kathmandu.
- 3-star Hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights.
- Full day city tour in Kathmandu by a private vehicle.
- Flight tickets from Kathmandu - Nepalgunj - Jumla.
- Flight tickets from Jumla - Nepalgunj - Kathmandu.
- All necessary paperwork and permits.
- Trekking equipment: down-filled sleeping bag, walking poles and a duffel bag.
- An experienced English-speaking Govt. registered trekking guide and local porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
- Guide and porter salaries, insurance, equipment, transport, food, and lodging.
- Full meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on your choice.
- Supplementary snacks: energy bar and cookies.
- Fresh seasonal fruits after dinner.
- Unlimited Chlorine treated Safe Drinking water.
- Oxi-meter: To check pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation.
- All mountain accommodation (Soft, comfort, private room with shared toilet).
- A comprehensive First Aid kit.
- All government and local taxes.
- Souvenir: Himalaya Land treks t-shirt and Trekking Route map.
- Farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese Restaurant with traditional ethnic music and dance.
What's Not Included
- Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days and USD 50 for 30 days).
- Your international flight to and from Nepal.
- Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner.
- The cost incurred during the tour around the city
- Cost for additional trips.
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi & battery charging on a trek.
- Travel insurance (for helicopter evacuation if needed whilst on trekking).
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, internet/e-mail, etc.
- Bar and beverage bills.
- Tip for guide, porter, and drivers.
Dates & Prices
Book your trip with confidence
Useful Information
Good to know before you travel
Rara Lake Trekking is one of the most beautiful and adventurous treks in Nepal. The trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Before you book your Rara Lake Trekking adventure, there are a few things you need to know to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip. In this article, we will discuss some important factors to consider before booking your Rara Lake Trekking adventure.
Trekking Difficulty
Rara Lake Trekking is considered a moderate to difficult trek, which means you need to be physically and mentally prepared for it. The trek is about 8-10 days long, and you will be walking for 5-7 hours per day. It is essential to train yourself before embarking on this trek to ensure that you are in good shape to complete it.
Weather
The weather conditions in Rara Lake can be unpredictable, and it's important to pack accordingly. It is recommended to visit during the Spring (March-May) or Autumn (September-November) season as the weather is stable, and the views are stunning. During the winter season, the lake is frozen, and it can be challenging to navigate through the snow.
Permits
To trek in Rara Lake, you will need to obtain the necessary permits. You will need to obtain a TIMS card, a National Park entry permit, and a restricted area permit. These permits can be obtained through a registered trekking agency or the Nepal Tourism Board.
Accommodation
During the trek, you will be staying in teahouses or lodges. It's important to note that the accommodation facilities in Rara Lake are basic, and you will not have access to modern amenities. Therefore, it's recommended to pack accordingly and carry essential items like sleeping bags and warm clothing.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is a common problem among trekkers. Rara Lake Trekking takes you to an altitude of over 3,000 meters, which means you are susceptible to altitude sickness. To avoid altitude sickness, it's recommended to take proper acclimatization breaks, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol and smoking.
Trekking Agency
Choosing the right trekking agency is crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. It's essential to choose a licensed and registered trekking agency that has experienced guides and porters who are familiar with the trek. Research different trekking agencies and read reviews to find the right one for you.
In conclusion, Rara Lake Trekking is a beautiful and adventurous trek that requires careful planning and preparation. It's essential to train yourself physically and mentally, pack accordingly, obtain the necessary permits, and choose a licensed and experienced trekking agency. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in Rara Lake.
FAQS
frequently asked questions - Rara Lake Trek
Where is Rara Lake located?
How do I reach Rara Lake?
What is the best time to do the Rara Lake Trek?
How many days does the Rara Lake Trek take?
Is the Rara Lake Trek difficult?
Do I need a permit for the Rara Lake Trek?
What kind of accommodation can I expect during the trek?
Are there any health considerations for the Rara Lake Trek?
What should I pack for the Rara Lake Trek?
Is it possible to combine the Rara Lake Trek with other treks or tours in Nepal?
MAKE AN INQUIRY
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Rara Lake Trek - Itinerary
Day01 Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,320m/4,330ft)
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After checking in and freshening up, you can take a stroll around the vibrant streets of Thamel or simply relax at the hotel to overcome the jet lag. In the evening, there will be a brief meeting with your trekking guide to discuss the trip itinerary and necessary preparations. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day02 Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m/492ft)
After breakfast in Kathmandu, we will take a domestic flight to Nepalgunj, which takes around 45 minutes. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, we will transfer to our hotel and rest for a while. Nepalgunj is a town located in the southern lowlands of Nepal, near the Indian border. It is the gateway to the western part of Nepal and the Rara Lake trek. We can spend the rest of the day exploring the town and its local market. Overnight stay at the hotel in Nepalgunj.
Day03 Fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla (2370m/7776ft)
After breakfast, we will take a short flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla, which will take around 35 minutes. The flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains, so be sure to have your camera ready. Once we arrive in Jumla, we will check into our hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the town and getting acclimatized to the high altitude.
Day04 Trek from Jumla to Danphe Langa (3130m/10269ft)
After breakfast, you will start your trek from Jumla. The trail follows the Tila Khola river and passes through forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. You will also pass through several small villages and settlements of the local ethnic group, the Thakuris. You will cross the suspension bridge over the Hima River and continue along the river until you reach Danphe Langa. Along the way, you will have stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
Danphe Langa is a small settlement with a few lodges and teahouses where you will spend the night. The area is also known for its beautiful forests and birdlife, including the Danphe, the national bird of Nepal.
Day05 Trek from Danphe Langa to Chautha (2770m/9088ft)
You start the day with a steady climb through a forested area of birch, walnut, and bamboo trees. The trail is narrow and steep, so you will need to be cautious while walking. You will come across a few streams and waterfalls on the way, which will provide a refreshing break from the uphill climb.
After about 3-4 hours of trekking, you will reach a small village called Tharamara, which is a good place to rest and have some snacks. From here, the trail gets steeper and more challenging. You will cross a few small ridges and walk through dense forests before reaching a ridge that provides a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
The trail then descends through a beautiful forest of rhododendron and oak trees, where you can spot different species of birds and wildlife. After about 3-4 hours of trekking, you will reach the village of Chautha, where you will stay for the night.
Chautha is a small but beautiful village located on a ridge with stunning views of the mountains. You can explore the village and interact with the locals, who are mostly farmers and shepherds. You can also visit the local monastery, which is located at the top of the hill and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.
Day06 Trek from Chautha to Dhotu (2380m/7808ft)
After breakfast, you'll begin the trek from Chautha to Dhotu. The trail takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests and pastures. You'll be walking alongside the Tila Khola river and crossing it several times on suspension bridges. The trek also offers stunning views of the mountains in the distance.
Upon arrival at Dhotu, you'll check into a teahouse or guesthouse for overnight stay. Dhotu is a small village with a few lodges and basic facilities. You can rest and relax after the long day of trekking and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains.
Day07 Trek from Dhotu to Rara Lake (3040 m/9974ft)
After breakfast, you will start trekking towards the beautiful Rara Lake. The trail goes through forests of pine, spruce, and juniper with a few rhododendrons as well. You will walk along the Khatyar Khola and cross several streams before arriving at the picturesque Rara Lake, which is the largest lake in Nepal.
The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and is a haven for various bird species. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the lake and its surroundings. You will spend the night in a tented camp near the lake.
Day08 Exploring Rara Lake (3040m/9947ft)
On this day, you get to take a break from trekking and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Rara Lake, located at an altitude of 3040m. The lake offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is home to a diverse range of wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan Thar, Ghoral, red panda, Snow coots, Mallard, Eurasian teal, and more.
The lake covers a total of 13km, is the deepest in Nepal, and is known for its mesmerizing beauty. You can spend the day exploring the area around the lake or simply relaxing by its shores. You will spend the night at Rara Lake.
Day09 Trek from Rara Lake to Ghorosingha (3190m/10466ft)
After breakfast at Rara Lake, you will start trekking towards Ghorosingha. The trail descends through the same route to the border army camp and enters the pine and birch forest. You will be trekking along the Khatyar Khola and enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
After a few hours of trekking, you will reach the village of Murma, where you can take a short break and enjoy some tea. From there, the trail gradually ascends through the forest and leads to the small village of Jhyari. You will then cross a suspension bridge over the Ghurchi Khola and continue trekking uphill to reach Ghorosingha, where you will spend the night.
Day10 Trek from Ghorosingha to Sinja (2440m/8005ft)
After having breakfast at Ghorosingha, you will begin your trek towards Sinja. The trail passes through beautiful forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron with a gradual descent. Along the way, you will come across a few villages and farm terraces. You will also cross several small streams and suspension bridges before reaching the historic town of Sinja.
Sinja is an ancient capital of the Malla dynasty and is home to many historical ruins, including the palace of King Raghupal, the founder of the Malla dynasty. You will spend the night in a local teahouse in Sinja.
Day11 Trek from Sinja to Jaljala (3270m/10728ft)
After breakfast, we start our trek from Sinja. The trail gradually ascends towards Jaljala, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. We will pass through several small villages and cross a suspension bridge over the river before reaching Jaljala. The trail is relatively easy, but we need to walk for around 6-7 hours to reach Jaljala. The duration may vary depending on your pace and the number of breaks you take in between.
Along the way, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, interact with the locals and learn about their culture and way of life. Once we reach Jaljala, we will set up our campsite and spend the night there.
Day12 Trek from Jaljala to Jumla |2370m/7776ft
On this day, we will trek from Jaljala to Jumla. We start our trek early in the morning, and walk through beautiful forests and green landscapes. We will have several uphill and downhill sections along the way, and will cross several streams and bridges.
We will also pass through small villages and settlements, where we can interact with the locals and learn about their culture and way of life. The entire trek will take around 6-7 hours, and we will reach Jumla in the late afternoon.
In Jumla, we can relax and rest, and explore the town if we have the energy. We will spend the night in a local guesthouse.
Day13 Fly from Jumla to Nepalgunj |150m/492ft| and afternoon fly back to Kathmandu
On this day, you will fly from Jumla to Nepalgunj, which will take about 35 minutes. From there, you will take another flight back to Kathmandu in the afternoon. The flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu takes around 1 hour. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the city on your own.
Day14 Take leisure day in Kathmandu and Farewell Dinner
On this day, you can take some time to relax and explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu on your own. You can visit some of the popular tourist spots such as Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, or Durbar Square, among others.
In the evening, we will organize a farewell dinner for you at a traditional Nepali restaurant. You can enjoy delicious Nepali cuisine while reflecting on your trip and exchanging stories and memories with your fellow travelers. This will be your last night in Nepal, so make the most of it and enjoy the warm hospitality of Nepali people.
Day15 Final Departure from Kathmandu
On your final day in Nepal, you will have some free time to explore Kathmandu and do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs or gifts. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure. Our staff will assist you with your luggage and bid you farewell. We hope you had a wonderful time in Nepal.
What's Included
- Airport picks up and drops off, upon arrival and departure.
- Pre trek meeting.
- City entrance fees in Kathmandu.
- 3-star Hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights.
- Full day city tour in Kathmandu by a private vehicle.
- Flight tickets from Kathmandu - Nepalgunj - Jumla.
- Flight tickets from Jumla - Nepalgunj - Kathmandu.
- All necessary paperwork and permits.
- Trekking equipment: down-filled sleeping bag, walking poles and a duffel bag.
- An experienced English-speaking Govt. registered trekking guide and local porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
- Guide and porter salaries, insurance, equipment, transport, food, and lodging.
- Full meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on your choice.
- Supplementary snacks: energy bar and cookies.
- Fresh seasonal fruits after dinner.
- Unlimited Chlorine treated Safe Drinking water.
- Oxi-meter: To check pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation.
- All mountain accommodation (Soft, comfort, private room with shared toilet).
- A comprehensive First Aid kit.
- All government and local taxes.
- Souvenir: Himalaya Land treks t-shirt and Trekking Route map.
- Farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese Restaurant with traditional ethnic music and dance.
What's not Included
- Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days and USD 50 for 30 days).
- Your international flight to and from Nepal.
- Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner.
- The cost incurred during the tour around the city
- Cost for additional trips.
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi & battery charging on a trek.
- Travel insurance (for helicopter evacuation if needed whilst on trekking).
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, internet/e-mail, etc.
- Bar and beverage bills.
- Tip for guide, porter, and drivers.
Check List
Documents and Money
- A valid passport and a few passport-sized photographs
- Nepalese visa
- Travel insurance
- Cash/Credit card (cash is recommended in the trek)
Clothing
- Warm hat, sunhat/bandana, scarf, sunglass, gloves - wool or fleeced and Gore-Tex
- 3-4 Long and short sleeve t-shirts
- Heavy fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof jacket with hood
- Wind and waterproof jacket & pants
- Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes (often worn before departure)
- Running shoes or evening sandals
- Hiking socks (ensure boots fit socks combination)
- Wool jumper/sweater/fleece (1 lightweight during summer and one heavyweight or two lightweights during winter)
- Long sleeve shirts
- Top and bottom thermals
- Extra warm clothes during winter (December to March)
- Underwear
Trekking Gear & Supplies
- A duffel bag (provided to each trekker for trekking by Himalaya Land Treks in Kathmandu) Waterproof day pack (25-30 liter) to carry your personal belongings during the day
- Minimum 1-liter refillable aluminum or Nalgene polypropylene water bottle
- Down (rated for -18 degree centigrade) sleeping bag (provided by Himalaya Land Treks in Kathmandu)
- Trekking poles
- Torch/flashlight - headlamp style is ideal
Health Care
- Insect repellent, sunscreen, and lip balm
- Wet wipes, toilet paper (as necessary)
- The first-aid kit; should contain lip balm, aspirin, bandages, anti-histamine, Imodium, or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea.
- Personal medical prescriptions
- Soap, toothbrush/toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, hairbrush, face lotion
- Mask, hand sanitizer
- Rehydration powder
As per your interest
- Book
- Writing pad
- Boards games or playing cards
- Power bank
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards