- Trek to the largest freshwater lake in Nepal, 9.8 sqr KM.
- Watching different varieties of birds on the trail.
- Outstanding landscapes and mountain views during the trek.
- Exploring the isolated and mysterious beauty of remote Nepal.
- Witnessing the scenic beauty of Rara Lake, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and lush forests.
- Discover diverse flora and fauna in the Rara National Park, home to various rare species.
- Gain a solitude trekking experience on a less crowded trail, providing a deeper connection with nature.
- Visit the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites of Kathmandu Valley.
Rara Lake Trek
15 Days
$ 2200
Grade:
Moderate
Group Size:
Min 2 pax
Transport:
Plane, Car, Jeep
Altitude:
3,690m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel, Guest House, Tent
Starts At:
Kathmandu
Ends At:
Kathmandu
- Best Price Guaranteed
- Well Crafted Itinerary
- Group Discount Available
- Instant Online Booking
Why You’ll Love Rara Lake Trek
All About the Rara Lake Trek
Rara Lake Trekking is to discover what lies in the far western region of Nepal, home to the highest and biggest lake in Nepal, Rara Lake. This trek puts you on a solitary path, wherein you follow the off-the-beaten trail and enjoy the gifts of nature in full swing; above all, you experience a variety of nature. All these that you see and where you walk occur in the Rara National Park. The national park is a habitual place for musk deer, Himalayan black bears, leopards, Himalayan goral, Red Panda, and “Danfe.” Moreover, the founder of the Great Outdoors Recreation Pages, Bill Greer, described Rara Lake as “a shimmering blue jewel set in a ring of snowy peaks.”
The trekking trail to Rara Lake traverses through the lush green forest; it takes you on the journey of flora and fauna and ultimately to Rara Lake, in whose water you see the reflection of mighty and majestic Himalayas, which are overlooking you. As you look at these mountains, you will be inspired by their splendid beauties to conquer them. The neighboring area of the lake is composed of one thousand and seventy-four species of flowers and is home to fifty-one species of mammals and two hundred fourteen species of birds. The journey to Rara Lake Trekking also means a journey to the region of the medicinal plants.
The trekking trail that is ‘off the beaten trail’ in nature has the characteristics of crossing the Ghurchi Lagna Pass at 3450m and a lot of ridges at 3000 m, respectively, and heads to the quaint villages, where the life of the people exists not only at a high altitude but is completely different from yours. Rara Lake Trekking shows the best of the above and beyond of the harder trekking trail, where you will be swallowed by the beauties of the arresting nature you have decided to explore from your country. The trek to Rara Lake is free from crowds and ends from where it began.
Why You Should Go for the Rara Lake Trek?
Often referred to as the “Queen of Lake,” Rara Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Nepal, located at an elevation of 3010m. One of the main reasons to go for Rara Lake Trek is to encounter the region’s astonishing natural beauty. From the clear lake to beautiful trails filled with flora, fauna, and villages, fascinating views meet one’s eyes at every turn.
The region’s rich culture is another reason to proceed on the Rara Lake Trek. Moreover, the towering summits of the Himalayas on a peaceful trail are other reasons to go for the Rara Lake trek. During the entire trek, trekkers will be accompanied by this dazzling view of the rugged mountain on the trail. Views of Mount Malika Kand, Ruma Kand, Chuchemara Danda, Murma, and Saipal Mountain will make the trek even more enchanting. Additionally, the trek takes place in a tranquil location; thus, people seeking tranquility should not miss this destination.
Outline Itinerary of Rara Lake Trek
Day | Itinerary | Altitude | Elevation Gain | Walking Duration |
---|---|---|---|---|
01 | Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel | 1,355m | – | – |
02 | Kathmandu sightseeing tour and trip preparation | 1,355m | – | – |
03 | Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj | 150m | – | 45 mins (flight) |
04 | Fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla | 2,514m | 2,364m | 1 hr (flight) |
05 | Trek from Jumla to Chere Chaur | 3,050m | 536m | 6 hrs walk |
06 | Trek from Chere Chaur to Chala Chaur | 2,980m | -70m | 6 hrs walk |
07 | Trek from Chala Chaur to Sinja Valley | 2,485m | -495m | 5/6 hrs walk |
08 | Trek from Sinja Valley to Gorusinga | 3,050m | 565m | 6 hrs walk |
09 | Trek from Gorusinga to Rara Lake | 3,010m | -40m | 6 hrs walk |
10 | Rara Lake exploration day | 3,010m | – | – |
11 | Trek from Rara Lake to Pina | 2,435m | -575m | 6 hrs walk |
12 | Trek from Pina to Burma | 2,850m | 415m | 6 hrs walk |
13 | Trek from Burma to Jumla | 2,514m | -336m | 6 hrs walk |
14 | Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj | 1,355m | -1,159m | 1 hr (flight) |
15 | Departure to your home | – | – | – |
15 Days Rara Lake Trek Detailed Itinerary
Arrival Kathmandu and transfer to hotel (1355m)
Welcome to the Himalayas! We will receive you outside the international airport terminal of Kathmandu. You will then be transferred to your respective hotel via a private vehicle (Jeep/Bus/Van: Depending upon group size). After some refreshments, you can either rest or explore the street of Thamel and be familiar with the neighborhood In the evening, our senior guide will give you a briefing about the upcoming trip.
You will also be invited to a welcome dinner organized by our company, which includes typical Nepali cuisine and a cultural dance. This is possibly your first overnight in the Himalayan land. Overnight at the hotel (breakfast included).
Kathmandu sightseeing tour and trip preparation
After breakfast, our tour guide will receive you at your hotel with a tourist vehicle. Our valley tour includes Syambhunath (The Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath (The Largest Temple), and a visit to Boudhanath. We will also visit Kathmandu Durbar Square at the end of the day and then drive back to your hotel. Later, our senior trekking guide will give you a briefing about the trek.
Overnight at the hotel inclusive breakfast. All these sites carry a lot of cultural significance that traces back to an ancient civilization and are definitely worth visiting. However, you will visit 3 to 4 places out of all, for a tour, as visiting all sites is not possible in a single day.
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m.)
We take a picturesque 1 hr flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu in the evening. Nepalgunj is one of the biggest towns and also one of the hottest places in Nepal located in the Nepal-India border in western Nepal. Also, it is the gateway to Kailash via Simikot. You will be transferred to the hotel for the night stay. Overnight at the hotel on full board meals. (lunch, dinner, breakfast)
Fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla (2514m)
After a hot breakfast, we leave Nepalgung and head to the airport for the flight to Jumla. Jumla is one of the most rural and also the least developed districts in Nepal. Most of the parts of Jumla are yet to be discovered by trekkers. We set up our camp for the night at Jumla and acclimatize for a night. Overnight at tented camp with full board meals
Trek from Jumla to Chere Chaur (3050m)
After breakfast, we start our trek by heading to Chere Chaur. Our journey starts with an inclined hike along the Jugad river. We pass through the lush green forest, ancient monasteries, beautiful villages, markets with amusing landscapes views. Overnight at a tented camp in Chere Chaur with full board meals.
Trek from Chere Chaur to Chala Chaur (2980m.)
On the second day of our trek, we start with a hot breakfast and the hike along the trail goes ascending until the Jaljala pass. Jaljala pass is relatively easier than other passes like Thorong La Pass because it measures only 3,580m from sea level. After crossing the pass, our trek continues straightway to Jaljala Chaur.
Upon reaching the Jaljala Chaur we rest for some moments and continue walking along the trail that ascends up to Chala Chaur. Overnight at a tented camp in Chala Chaur with full board meals.
Trek from Chala Chaur to Sinja Valley (2485m)
After early breakfast, we start our trek with an ascend hike to Sinja Valley. The trail to Sinja Valley passes through numerous villages, the lush forest along the Jaljala stream. Sinja is an ancient capital city of the Khasa kingdom which ruled this region from the 12th to 14th century. Overnight at a tented camp with full board meals (Lunch, dinner, breakfast)
Trek from Sinja Valley to Gorusinga (3050m)
After having breakfast, we continue our journey starting with an uphill hike along the Hima River, crossing the forest, Laha village, and beautiful valleys. Along the way, we will also cross a suspension bridge before finally reaching Gorusinga, where we end our today’s trek. Overnight in a tented camp at Gorusinga with full board meals.
Trek from Gorusinga to Rara Lake (3010m)
After a hearty breakfast, we go through Chuchhema Danda, which is one of the optimum viewpoints to capture the spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges and spellbinding Rara lake. Along the way, we pass through Khatyar stream and few settlements including Murma village before we reach Rara Lake. A beautiful lake in the highlands of the Himalayas in some of the best experiences you can have. Overnight at tented camp in Rara Lake with full board meals.
Rara lake exploration day
Today is a day to explore around Rara Lake. Rara Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Nepal located at an altitude of 2,290m and has a surface of 9.8 sq km. We do boating to admire the picturesque setting of the lake and observe verities of fish. Moreover, hike around the Rake Lake for stunning views of Himalayan peaks on the southern and northern side of the Lake. Overnight at tented camp in Rara Lake on full board meals.
Trek from Rara Lake to Pina (2435m)
After breakfast, we leave Rara Lake and trek to Pina village. The beginning part of our hike starts with an easy and straight trail until Gamgadi. Gamgadi is the headquarter of the Mugu district where government offices are located. Further, we walk down to reach Pina village and Stay there for the night in a tented camp. (full board meals.)
Trek from Pina to Burma (2850m)
Today’s trek begins with a descending hike by crossing Ghurchi Lagna pass (3485m) with me mesmerizing mountain views and several settlements to get to Burma. Burma Village is one of the attractions in this region. This village is also known as Nauri Ghat. Overnight at Burma in a tented camp on full board meals.
Trek from Burma to Jumla (2514m)
After having breakfast, we start our final trek day by hiking along the Hima River and crossing a suspension bridge. The trail further goes downhill then we enjoy a natural hot spring bath and get some relief from your aches. We march forward by crossing Danphe Lagna pass (3690m) and finally reach Jumla. Overnight at Jumla in a tented camp with full board meals.
Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj
After an adventurous journey with lots of ascends and descends, we take a flight back to Nepalgunj early in the morning, and then in the evening, we take the next flight for Kathmandu on the same day. We transfer to the hotel from the airport for freshening up. Finally, we will have a farewell dinner at a typical local Nepalese restaurant with a cultural dance show. Stay a night at a hotel inclusive breakfast.
Departure to your home
This is your last day in Nepal! After breakfast, our escorts and vehicle will be on standby to drop you at the international airport. We will leave the hotel at least 3 hours prior to your actual flight. It was a wonderful and great time spent together! We hope to see you again! Have a safe journey!!
If our above-designed itinerary does not meet your expectation, we’ll craft an itinerary based on your requirements. Just tell us your holiday plan.
Rara Lake Trip Includes
- All the surface transportation, including airport and hotel transfers, is per the itinerary.
- All the essential trekking permits.
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu city inclusive of breakfast.
- An English-speaking license holder trekking guide for the trek.
- Supporting porters are required to carry your food, luggage, and camping equipment.
- An expert trekking cook will prepare the meal.
- All the trekking and camping equipment includes tents, kitchen utensils, etc.
- Domestic flight tickets as per the itinerary.
- One night tourist category hotel accommodation in Nepalgunj city.
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with hot tea and coffee during the trekking days.
- Tented accommodations during the trek.
- A comprehensive medical kit box.
- Farewell dinner program in a typical Nepali local restaurant.
Rara Lake Trip Exclude
- International airfares and Nepal’s travel visa.
- Alcoholic beverages, bottled mineral water, soft drinks and snack foods
- Riding a horse along the trek
- Entrance fees for Kathmandu sightseeing.
- Tips to the guides and porters.
- Any other extra costs that are beyond our scope include:
Join Our Fixed Departures
Go with the right number of like-minded travellers
Kathmandu to Rara Lake Trek Route
The Rara Lake trek route takes trekkers through diverse and remote locations. The journey to the Rara Lake trek begins with a flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu. From Nepalgunj, you travel to Jumla, where your official trekking journey begins. Jumla is a small village in the Karnali region of western Nepal. The trekking route passes through the picturesque villages of Chere Chaur, Chala Chaur Sinja Valley, and Gorusinga before reaching the final destination, Rara Lake.
The Rara National Park houses rare animals and bird species that the trekkers will encounter. Reaching Rara Lake is the most excellent highlight of the trek, offering eye-appealing sceneries of blue water surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests. Afterward, the route returns to Jumla through the same trail.
Rara Lake Trek Altitude Chart
Location | Altitude (meters) | Altitude (feet) | Elevation Gain |
Nepalgunj | 150 | 492 | – |
Jumla | 2,514 | 8,249 | 2,364m |
Chere Chaur | 3,050 | 10,006 | 536m |
Chala Chaur | 2,980 | 9,777 | -70m |
Sinja Valley | 2,485 | 8,153 | -495m |
Gorusinga | 3,050 | 10,006 | 565m |
Rara Lake | 3,010 | 9,875 | -40 |
Is Rara Lake Trek a Popular Trek?
Yes, the Rara Lake trek is one of the popular treks in Nepal. However, its remote location and isolation make the destination less crowded, even during peak season. Yet, its majesty is no less than that of the other popular treks. Its daily popularity is due to its untouched beauty, tranquility, rich biodiversity, and unique cultural encounters.
Due to being a pure nature trek, the Rara Lake hike is one of the world’s most popular treks due to its being a pure nature trek. Its crystal-clear lake, surrounded by forested hills, becomes the focus point of attraction, which increases its popularity. Likewise, the trek becomes popular for trekkers who choose less crowded areas and look for a peaceful time. Also, its rich biodiversity and its rare species make it popular all over the world.
What to See on the Rara Lake Trek
Rara Lake Trek offers all the attractions from the beginning of the trek to the lake, including Rara National Park, the scenic landscape, snow-capped peaks, and the authentic local life culture of the village.
Rara Lake
Rara Lake is the ultimate attraction of the journey to the Rara Lake trek. Its turquoise blue water reflects the surrounding mountain peaks and appeals to the eye of anyone. Likewise, its location offers a peaceful environment and a serene experience, free from distractions or crowds.
Rara National Park
The Rara National Park encompasses the region, and Rara Lake is another attraction on the trek. The national park is home to 500 species of plants and rare animals like red panda, musk deer, and other bird species. Similarly, spotting rare wildlife in its natural habitat is a major national park attraction that draws many adventures.
Scenic Landscape
The Rara Lake trek offers a few of the most spectacular landscapes of Nepal, pleasing the trekkers with its various terrains. It is ever-changing from the lush pine and rhododendron forest to open alpine meadows and rolling hills. Variety in different ecosystems makes every step visually appealing. The continuous views of valleys and the spectacular mountain ranges have made the trek heaven for adventurous people who love varied.
Mountain Peaks and Karnali River
The summit of several mountains and the Karnali River following the trail up to Rara lakes are the major attractions of the trek. The panorama of Mount Chuchemara Danda, Murma, Saipal Mountain, Ruma Kand, and Malika Kand will encourage you to trek during your tired time. As trekkers get closer to Rara Lake, the majestic peak of Kanjiroba Himal and other surrounding mountains keep trekkers in awe.
Likewise, the flowing Karnali River offers trekkers a unique experience with the sound of rushing water accompanying them throughout the journey. The scenic presence of the river on the trek route has made it a point of focus for trekkers who enjoy the river landscape along with mountain views.
Lifestyle and Culture
The journey to Rara Lake is more than just breathtaking landscape and pristine beauty; it offers an authentic local culture of the region. The trek to Rara traverses remote communities where the culture is deeply rooted in tradition and preserved for centuries. Thakuri, Chetteri, and Dalit communities are the inhabitants of the Karnali region who speak Jumli and Khas language.
Can you Complete the Rara Lake Trek?
Everyone can complete the Rara Lake trek if they are physically and mentally fit. As previous trekking experience is not required, first-time trekkers can also complete the trek if they are reasonably fit and well-prepared. The trek is also considered moderate in difficulty, so the chances of achieving it are high. Likewise, the mild elevation of the journey also increases the chances of successful completion.
However, trekkers should be aware of the possible risks and challenges they might face during the trek. This awareness will prepare them mentally for the journey, which will lead to the completion of the trek. For a smooth and safe completion, trekkers should be ready to walk on hilly and rugged terrain for 5-6 hours daily with backpacks. Likewise, they will have to stay in a tea house or camp with basic amenities, and they should be mentally prepared that modern facilities will be unavailable during the trek.
Do You Need Permits for the Rara Lake Trek?
The Rara National Park permit, the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, and the Mugu Restricted Area Permit are required for the Rara Lake Trek. Obtaining those permits ensures that you explore the areas legally. A permit is essential as the journey to Rara Lake takes place within the national park. Likewise, TIMS is mandatory for trekking in Rara as it ensures the safety of the trekkers and keeps their track.
The cost of the Rara National Park Permit is as follows:
Nationality | Cost |
SAARC Nationals | NPR 1,500 |
Other Foreigners | NPR 3,000 |
The cost of the Trekkers’ Information Management System Card is as follows:
Nationality | Cost |
SAARC Nationals | NPR 1,000 |
Other Foreigners | NPR 2,000 |
The cost of the Mugu Restricted Area permit is as follows:
Duration | Cost |
For the first week | $100 per person |
After the first week | Additional $15 per person |
Things to consider during the Rara Lake Trek
Here are some things to consider while trekking in Rara Lake in Nepal:
- Drink plenty of water, as staying hydrated keeps you energetic and minimizes the risk of altitude-related issues.
- Don’t touch flowers or plants you don’t recognize; they may lead to altitude sickness.
- Avoid rushing and walk steadily and comfortably to minimize fatigue and avoid exhaustion.
- Take a break from time to time while walking to adjust to the changed elevation and atmosphere, and listen to your body.
- Wear appropriate clothing as the weather of the Himalayan changes frequently.
- Avoid taking shortcuts without guidance, as it may lead to getting lost.
- Greet and interact with local inhabitants and respect their culture and traditions.
- Carry a bag to collect your trash and practice responsible tourism.
- Eat balanced meals to stay energetic and carry energy bars, nuts, and chocolates for snacks.
- Avoid trekking after dark, as trails can be challenging and weather conditions become harsh.
Planning and Preparation Before the Rara Lake Trek
Proper planning and preparation are crucial for a safe and smooth journey to Rara Lake. Thus, here are some points to take into consideration while planning and preparing for the trek:
- The Rara Lake trek takes place at a high altitude, so trekkers should be prepared for the lower atmospheric pressure and temperature.
- For the best trekking experience, consider trekking in the Autumn and Spring seasons when weather and temperature are stable and ideal.
- Solo trekking is not permitted for the Rara Lake trek. Per the rules and regulations of local authorities, trekkers should hire a licensed guide to embark on the journey.
- Practice walking on uneven terrain and be involved in training, including cardio, strength, and endurance exercises.
- Be mentally prepared to trek in a remote location where trekking can be challenging and where the facilities are basic along the way.
- Obtain all necessary permits, including the Rara National Park permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card.
- Pack appropriately to suit every kind of weather.
How Difficult is the Rara Lake Trek?
Rara Trek is a smooth trek that suits every kind of trekker, whether beginner or experienced. It doesn’t involve any technical knowledge, so trekkers with a general level of fitness can complete it. The highest elevation on the journey is 3,050m, which is quite low, so the chances of altitude-related problems are minimal, although the trekking days are long. The only challenges trekkers may face are due to a rugged, remote location, but practicing in their home country while walking on such a section helps them during the trek.
However, the trek can be quite challenging for trekkers who are not used to walking on rough terrain for longer. Thus, being physically and mentally prepared is essential for the trek. Involving yourself in some exercise practices is necessary in your home country. Likewise, gradual ascents during the trek while listening to your body help you adapt to the changed environment, helping you overall during trekking.
How to Handle Altitude Sickness on Rara Lake Trek
Although altitude sickness is not a big concern during the trek to Rara Lake, staying aware of its symptoms and remedies is helpful. The symptoms of altitude-related issues occur as trekkers move above 2500m, and the journey to Rara Lake takes trekkers up to 3,050m, providing a chance of altitude sickness. Thus, understanding altitude sickness and its remedies is essential for a safe trek.
Headache, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping are the symptoms of altitude sickness that trekkers should be aware of. Proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, consuming a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking and caffeine are the preventive measures of altitude sickness. Moreover, here are the remedies during the Rara Lake Trek:
- Proper Acclimatization: Do not ascend too quickly; instead, let your body adjust to the changes in temperature at high altitudes.
- Stop Ascending: If trekkers feel symptoms of altitude sickness, they should stop and rest instead of continuing to climb higher.
- Descend: If the symptoms of altitude-related issues worsen even after resting, trekkers should descend to lower elevations.
- Use Medication: Cpnsume acetazolamide (Diamox) to prevent and reduce symptoms of altitude sickness. However, it is crucial to consult with a doctor before using it.
Choosing the Right Season for Rara Lake Trek
Spring, early summer, Autumn, and early winter are the best times to do Rara Lake Trek. However, if you want to know the best of the best, Spring and Autumn are generally preferable.
Spring
Spring is a great time for trekking in the Rara, from March to May. The season is ideal due to mild and stable weather, blooming of rhododendrons, and fewer crowds. The trail to Rara Lake comes with vibrant colors, flowers, and forests bursting into color of pink, red, and white blossoms in Spring. The season provides an unobstructed view of mountain peaks and the pristine blue waters of Rara Lake. Moreover, the Spring ensures dry and well-maintained trekking paths and wildlife encounters.
Autumn
Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, including Rara Lake. From September to November, the season has stable weather with clear skies, warm days, and cool nights, making trekking conditions the best. The post-monsoon air clears away any dust, offering crystal-clear views of the lake, mountains, and lush forests. Moreover, Autumn is ideal for spotting wildlife in Rara National Park.
Early Summer
Early summer, just before the monsoon begins, is another good time for the Rara Lake trek. The weather is moderate during this time, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 13°C to 22°C, making the trekking comfortable and enjoyable. The trails and surrounding hills are full of greenery, making the environment eye-appealing.
Early Winter
Early winter is also ideal for trekking in Rara Lake for those who enjoy trekking in colder conditions and want to experience light snowfall. The air is cold yet fresh, with crystal-clear views of the lake and surrounding peaks. The calmness of the season adds a sense of peace and tranquility. Moreover, the temperature drops significantly at night, so proper gearing is crucial.
Food and Accommodation Guide for Rara Lake Trek
Glorious Himalaya takes care of your food and accommodation during the Rara Lake Trek. However, knowing what you’ll get beforehand helps you understand clearly and be mentally prepared accordingly. First, expect basic food and accommodation during the trek as the Karnali region, where Rara Lake takes place, is remote and lacks modern facilities. Moreover, tea houses and lodges are available for accommodation and food points during the journey.
However, Glorious Himalaya offers a tended camp throughout your journey to Rara Lake trek, where you’ll have your meal and accommodation. In the starting phase of the journey, you’ll have an option for food and accommodation at Nepaljung, but as the journey continues, a tented camp is the only option for food and lodging. We offer three times meals a day, cooked freshly by our cook. The food mainly includes Nepali staple food, Dal Bhat. Likewise, tea or coffee, toast, eggs, pancakes, and porridge are options for morning meals.
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