Rara Lake Trek

Rara Lake Trek - 16 Days

Rara Lake nestles like a sparkling jewel among green forested hills at the heart of Nepal’s second last visited National Park and situated at an altitude of 3460 meters. Rara Lake is one of the best destinations for trekking in western Nepal.

This area is surrounded by Rara National park. It is the largest lake in Nepal. The route is well off the beaten track and affords glimpses of culture and scenery quite different from other parts of Nepal. Rara Lake Trek takes you to this beautiful region of the country.

The Rara Lake Trek offers a dramatic display of clear high altitude lakes mixed with pine, spruce, and juniper forests as well as breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. In some places, Rara Lake is as deep as 167 meters and drains through Nijar Khola into the Mugu Karnali river.

The National Park of Rara is home to the endangered red panda, common langur and macaque rhesus. This area’s rich vegetation is Rhododendron, Juniper, Oak, Spruce and Cyprus.

The Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) Upper and Lower paths pass along the shores of Rara Lake, this region is really off the beaten path, only 170 people visited Rara Lake in 2010, Our trek begins from Jumla, the biggest upland hill town in western Nepal.

The trek offers beautiful views over Mugu, Humla’s southern hills and Tibet’s border. The path leads us through grassy alpine pastures and distant villages before steeply descending to Jumla from the second pass. From here we fly back through Nepalgunj to Kathmandu.

Why you should trek to Rara Lake?

For all of you who are second to guess and wonder why you should start on this amazing journey and trek to Rara Lake, we have some great reasons for you to consider this trek:

  • Seeing and feeling Nepal’s side once in a lifetime.
  • Take a break from the monotony of urban life and get in touch with nature.
  • Come close to seeing different animal species.

Accessing Rara Lake Trek

Unfortunately, Rara Lake is not the easiest place to travel to. Maybe that’s part of its uniqueness! Still, there are other ways to go to Rara Lake. So, y ou can reach there by bus, jeep or flights.

While Trekking to Rara Lake

It’s possible to reach Rara Lake by going on either a guided solo or group trek. We recommend that you take a guide or guide-porter someone who can translate for you because this is a remote area of Nepal.

The trek itself isn’t difficult, but it’s difficult to speak with the locals and the trail isn’t well-marked, so you can get lost. Of course, it depends on whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner.

Traveling by bus to Rara Lake

You can also take a local or luxury bus to Rara Lake. The road is pretty bad, so we would not advise this option. We have seen parts of the road ourselves and it’s quite tough.

Traveling by jeep to Rara Lake Trek

Going by jeep is another alternative, and while the road conditions are poor, it is still better than taking the bus. A jeep can access the mountains much more easily than a big, bulky bus.

Flying to Rara Lake Trek

The last option is traveling by airplane. You can fly directly from Kathmandu to Talcha airport, which is closest to Rara Lake.

Day 1
Arrive in Kathmandu (1400 meters)

Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport after completing your custom formalities Visa, etc. pick up your luggage and look for our airport representative from Himalaya Discovery who will display your name on the board at the arrival gate. You will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the hotel by private tourist vehicle.

Day 2
Free in Kathmandu for sightseeing and pre trip briefing and gear check.

Today is free for sightseeing in Kathmandu. You may wish to visit Durbar Square in the heart of the old city where the old Royal Palace, with its intricate woodcarving is located. The whole area is a maze of temples and images. Leading away from the square in all directions are narrow alleys, full of the most amazing variety of shops and stalls.

Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ Swayambhunath and Buddhists shrine Buddhanath which is one of the largest Stupas in the world.

There will also be a full trip briefing today with gear check. In case you need to hire or buy equipment locally there will be time to do this today.

Day 3
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj.

As per the flight schedule for Nepalgunj, we transfer to the domestic airport for one and half hour scenic flight to Nepalgung. At Nepalgunj we will have time in the late afternoon or evening to have a look around the town which is situated on the southern Nepal border with India, and stay overnight in this transit city.

Day 4
Fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla (2370 meters)

After a pleasant overnight at Nepalgunj, early morning transfer to airport for the 45 minute flight to Jumla over the Himalayan foothills, with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to the north. On arriving at Jumla our trekking staffs will receive you, who have walked all the way from Nepalgunj with the camping gear and food supply.

Jumla town is in a delightful valley and here are the highest limits of paddy cultivation, growing red rice. The town is the administrative headquarters of the entire Karnali zone and Jumla district.

Day 5
Trek to Uthugaon (2530 meters) 4 - 5 hours.

After breakfast we start our trek by following the North bank of the Tila Khola river and then turn north following the Chaudhabise Khola passing through fields and pine forests.

We will ascent up the Padmara Valley. Our trail keeps following the river until we arrive at the small village of Uthugaon, where we will have a good campsite close to the school on the opposite site of the river.

Day 6
Trek to Danphe Lagna (3500 meters) 5 hours.

After breakfast we follow the trail through the narrow canyon to the village of Padmara. Our path then climbs to the Khali Lagna pass at 3550m/11644ft through a deep forest of pines, spurches and firs. Shortly after this pass both routes come together and the trail then descends gently through mixed forest of spruces, birches and rhododendrons to arrive at our campsite at Danphe Lagna.

Day 7
Trek Lagna to Chautha (2770 meters) 5-6 hours.

After breakfast our trails descend steep passing through fir, birch, and walnut and bamboo forests. After crossing a bridge we follow the river downstream before starting a serious climb passing some water-driven mills to Kabra.

Here is a huge overhanging rock which is the source of silajit, a mineral which is believed to have “healing” properties. Our steep climb continues for a while and then levels out before Bhara village. After this village we then descend to the Chauro Khola river to the village of Chautha.

Day 8
Trek to Dhotu (2380 meters) 6 hours.

After breakfast we continues follow the stream uphill to Bhulbule, the Rara National Park entrance station at 3130m/10266ft. Our path continues climbing gently to Ghurchi Lagna pass 3450m/11316ft which is covered with chortens (round stone Buddhist monuments) and prayer flags.

From the pass the route descends gently at first before dropping down precipitously through spruce forests. We camp at the small settlement of Dhotu village.

Day 9
Trek to Rara Lake (2980 meters) 5 hours.

Today is a short and pleasant trek with fine views to the north. We traverse a steep north facing slope from Dhotu, and cross a series of fields down to a small stream. After crossing the bridge, we climb up to the Thakuri village of Jhyari. From Jhyari, we climb steadily up through cedar forest to a huge meadow atop a 3050m/10004ft ridge with great overhead views of Rara Lake.

We will follow the trail along to the northern side of the Lake, where the park headquarters and the camping ground are situated.

Day 10
Discovery day.

Rara Lake is the largest lake in Nepal. It is almost 13 km around the lake and a day devoted to walk around is well spent. Rara is designated a national park in 1975 and this region offers remoteness and a wilderness experience unlike any other region of Nepal, where birds, flowers and wildlife thrive.

Among the mammals in this region are Himalayan bears, Serows, Gorals, Musk Deer, Red Pandas and both Rhesus and Langur Monkeys. The 180 meter deep lake is a habitat for otters and an important resting place for migrating water fowl.

Day 11
Trek to Gorusingha (3190 meters) 6 hours.

After explore the Rara Lake the trail will follow the Khatyar Khola river. We will keep following this river slowly descending before we climb out following a small trail surrounded by pine, spruce and rhododendron forests.

We follow our path dropping into the Ghatta valley heading towards the small settlement of Gorusingha where there are several excellent campsites.

Day 12
Trek to Sinja (2440 meters) 5 hours.

Our route keeps heading down the Ghatta valley from Gorusingha following the Sinja Khola river downwards to Sinja. From the 12th to 14th century, Sinja was the capital of the Malla dynasty that ruled western Nepal.

The ruins of the old palace can be seen across the river. There is an interesting temple here dedicated to Bhagwati, the goddess of justice who rides atop a tiger.

Day 13
Trek to Jaljala Chaur (3270 meters) 6 hours.

Today the trail crosses the Sinja Khola on a wooden cantilever bridge. After passing a few small villages, the trail crosses back and forth across the river on a series of quaint log bridges.

Most of the trek is through forest of pine, birch and oak and fields of barley and corn. Then the trail makes a steep climb to Jaljala Chaur, a gigantic meadow full of horses.

Day 14
Trek to Jumla (2370 meters) 5 hours.

Keep climbing through forest to yet another meadow, just below the ridge at 3510m/11512ft, then a pleasant descent to Jumla.

Day 15
Fly from Jumla to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj.

Early morning 30 minutes sweeping wonderful flight to Nepalgunj over the Himalayan foothills, overlooking stunning views of the snow capped peaks.

On arrival at Nepalgunj depending upon the connecting flight schedule to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu we are met and transferred back to hotel.

Day 16
Free day / Fly to home.

Today is rest and relax throughout the day. If you get interested to take some gifts from Nepal for friends and relatives, visit to some nearby shops or go out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods which can be assisted by our guide or you can do it yourself too.

Today, we will have a farewell lunch / dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances.

Our representatives will drop you off at the airport according to your flight schedule

Price Include(s)

  • Airport transfer pick-up and drop-off.
  • All necessary trekking permits for Rara National Park, TIMS cards, etc.
  • All accommodation during the trek
  • Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
  • When available, fresh fruit should be eaten every day.
  • English-speaking government-registered native Sherpa guide
  • First-aid kit
  • Flights both ways: Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, and Jumla
  • Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
  • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
  • Porters to carry your luggage during the trek.(1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • Accommodation / salary / food / drinks / insurance / equipment / medicine and transport for all staff.
  • All government taxes.
  • Farewell dinner with culture show.

Price Exclude(s)

  • International airfare and Nepal entry visa.
  • Tips for guide / porters (tipping is expected).
  • Travel insurance which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on the 'Price Includes' section.

Q. Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

A. Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. S/he will be displaying an Himalaya Discovery Adventures sign board outside the airport terminal. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.

Q. When is the best time to travel to Nepal?

A. For the trekking regions of the Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, Jumla Rara Lake, Makalu, Kanchenjunga and Manaslu we recommend the periods February to May and September to December as the best time for travelling.

  •  For trekking in Mustang or Dolpo region we recommend May to September.
  • The Poon hill  trek  in the Annapurna region takes place throughout the entire year.
  • Cultural tours takes place throughout the entire year. For the best mountain views the periods February to May and September to December are recommended.

Q. How is the climate (temperatures) during the seasons?

A. Winter – January and February. Pleasant temperatures. The nights, mornings and evenings can, however, be quite cold (approx. 0°C – 5°C. Throughout the day, it is mostly sunny with cooler temperatures (approx. 18°C – 20°C).

Spring – March to May. Hot and dry pre-monsoon season (approx. 25°C – 30°C during the day, and approx. 7°C – 20°C at night). May is the hottest month in the lowlands. June is the hottest month in the mountains.

Summer – Monsoon from June to August (approx. 28°C – 30°C during the day, and approx. 20°C at night). Strong rainfall, continuous sultriness and high humidity.

Early autumn – From September the monsoon season is constantly interrupted by periods with only a slight rainfall. Towards the end of August the pauses in rainfall become more frequent and longer.

Late autumn – Post-monsoon season from October to December. The nights, mornings and evenings can be relatively cool (approx. 5°C – 10°C). During the day the sun shines and it is warm (approx. 20°C – 27°C).

Q. Where can I change money?

A. Any cash you have taken with you can be exchanged into Nepalese rupees at the banks, large hotels and the numerous bureau de changes.

Q. Can I use my mobile phone in Nepal?

A. The network coverage is meanwhile quite good in the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara and other parts of the Terai (in the rural areas it is very unpredictable).

Basically, foreign SIM cards (providers having international roaming contracts with Nepal) can also be used. However, it is cheaper to buy a local SIM card (Mero Mobile, NTC (GSM) – for approx. NPR 500 or more) and top this up.

Q. Can I use the tap water for drinking and brushing teeth?

A. Tap water is not suitable for drinking in Nepal and it should not be used for cleaning your teeth, either. As there is often a scarcity of water in the countryside, water should be used very sparingly.

Q. What should I concern during my stay in Nepal?

A. Nepali people are very kind and friendly, but there are some things that you should be aware of:

  • Do not take photos of anyone without their permission; always ask permission first!
  • Do not wear hot pants/short paints or stylish clothes in the remote area! (shoulders and legs should be covered)
  • Do not wear hats or caps when you enter a chapel!
  • Do not touch Buddha statues or ritual offerings inside of a monastery!
  • Do not kiss or hug in public places, especially in monasteries!
  • Do not step across someone’s feet, cups or cooking gears!

Q. What documents do I need to visit Nepal?

A. A tourist visa is required for entering Nepal. The tourist visa can be applied for, for different lengths of stay. A visa is required for children under 10 years but no fee is charged. The entry to Nepal must take place within 6 months of issuing the visa.

Q. How much does the Visa for Nepal cost?

A. The fees for the tourist visa (fees valid since 16.07.2008) are staggered as follows:

  • 15 days (several entries possible)  $ 30 (approx. EUR 27.00)
  • 30 days (several entries possible)  $ 50 (approx. EUR 45.00)
  • 90 days (several entries possible)  $ 125 (approx. EUR 115.00)

An extension of the visa to a maximum of 150 days is possible (per year – January to December). The extension must be made at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu. A fee of $ 2.00 is charged in Nepalese rupees (NPR) per day of extension.

Q. Can I find a hospital with western doctors?

A. CIWEC Clinic with western doctors is located in Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Tel. +977 1 442 4111, info@ciwec-clinic.com.

Q. Do I need an international health and travel insurance?

A. It is recommended taking out a travel and health insurance covering the following risks:- Emergency and personal accident transport/emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue, rescue costs in a case of illness or accident), medical and personal accident risks, repatriation, tour cancellation, damages and theft of baggage.

Q. What happens in bad weather periods?

A. There is virtually always a possibility of a flight delay or postponement owing to highly unpredictable weather conditions that may occur in Himalayan regions, in particular, in the Everest region (Lukla), Jomsom, Dolpo, Simikot and the Jumla region, etc.

When trekking in remote areas or those described above, and especially outside the trekking season, the clients are strongly advised to reserve extra days for making  allowance for possible delays, and thereby avoid any frustrating consequences. In the case of a delayed flight prior to commencing the tour, or at the end of the tour, the participants shall pay for their own accommodation, food costs, etc.

Q. Where can I store my unneeded luggage during trekking?

A. As a rule there is the possibility before commencing the trek, of depositing part of the baggage in the hotel in Kathmandu or in Pokhara.

Q. What kind of meals I can have during the trekking?

A. All Meals on full board basis will be provided during trekking. Freshly cooked food is served at all times (western, continental and Nepalese, Chinese, Indian and Tibetan meals are available in all places).

Q. Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

A. There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

Q. Can I re-charge camera batteries along the trek?

A. Yes, Most of the places, you can charge batteries along the trek (per hour USD 2 – 3 for charging).

Q. What kinds of banking facilities in Nepal?

A. Nepal has modern banking facilities and some international banks even have offices in Kathmandu. Almost all foreign currencies along with credit cards such as American Express, Visa, and Master card are accepted in Nepal. Nepal has also ATM facilities as well.

The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. This itinerary can be customized according to the duration of your holiday. We have many options for shorter visits based on your interests and budget.

On an adventure trek of this type, weather, political strikes, transport or a multitude of other factors beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is however very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

Trek Leader and Crew

Here at Himalaya Discovery, we firmly believe that the way to get the most out of your staff is to treat them well; a happy staff is a hard-working staff. And this belief manifests itself in every way we deal with our staff.

We employ only local leaders and staff to help sustain the local communities we work with. We provide training for all our staff and all our trek leaders are trained in the following as a minimum;

  •  Intensive Wilderness First Aid
  •  Trekking Guide Training
  •  Eco Trekking Workshop & Adventure Meet
  •  English Language
  •  Conservation & Biodiversity
  •  Rock & Ice Climbing & Mountaineering (for expedition leaders)

So, we can guarantee you your trip will be led by the best, most professional and experienced guides there are. All of our guides good English-speakers, All our guides are carefully selected for their experience, leadership skills and personal ability. We have learnt that effective leadership is a vital for a trip to be safe, enjoyable and successful.

In fact, not only are all our guides experienced working in these regions, but most of them actually grew up in these mountainous regions of Nepal. Its home for them, it’s in their blood. They’re not only ‘familiar’ with local communities and culture; they’re a part of them and they practice it. They truly love their home and relish getting the opportunity to show travellers.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Rara Lake Trek
From $1,180.00
per Adult

Trip Facts

  • 16 Days
  • Moderate
  • Min. 2 to Max. 12 People
  • February to May, & September to November
  • 3,500m.
  • Remote
  • Nepalgunj/Jumla
  • 5 to 6 Hours
Chhiring Sherpa - Trip Planner

“I was born and raised in Nepal, nearby Everest region. I am proud to be a native Sherpa, and I have been a Mountain guide over a decade now. Following my passion, I decided to start helping travelers with their travel plans! I think life is a journey, a trip where you collect experiences when you share with other people and with nature.”