RARA LAKE

The Rara Lake, located in the northwest part of Nepal in the Mugu district of the Karnali zone, stands as the largest and most renowned lake in the region. It sits at an altitude of 2990m and covers an area of 10.8 square kilometers. Locally referred to as Mahendra Taal or the Queen of Lakes, Rara Lake offers a picturesque landscape surrounded by lush green hills.

Its natural beauty is further accentuated by the diverse flora and fauna it hosts. With over 500 species of flowers, 20 species of mammals, and 214 species of birds, Rara Lake and its surrounding area serve as a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

The trek to Rara Lake provides an opportunity for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure to experience the raw and authentic beauty of Nepal. Against the backdrop of snow-capped Himalayan peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Dolpo, Kanjirowa, and the Tibetan Himalayas, the trek offers breathtaking vistas that differ markedly from the more frequented trails in Nepal.

Activities such as boating on the clear waters of the lake and hiking to nearby hills, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains, are among the highlights of a visit to Rara Lake. Surrounded by the Rara National Park, which boasts pine, spruce, and juniper forests, the lake is a serene and tranquil destination for those seeking solace in nature's embrace.

Access to Rara Lake typically involves a flight to Jumla, which takes a little over an hour from Kathmandu, or from the nearest hub of Nepalgunj. From there, the journey continues along mountain paths, passing through quaint villages, until reaching the shores of Rara Lake. Alternatively, Rara Lake can also be accessed via jeep, providing another option for travelers to explore this hidden gem in the heart of the Himalayas.

Major attractions of Rara Lake

● Rara National Park

● Himalayan Black Bear, musk deer, Goral, Himalayan Thar, and wild boar

● Rara lake itself

● Patmara, Chautha Jhyari; a thakuri village

Best season to visit Rara Lake

The most favorable time to visit Rara Lake is during September/ October and April to May. From December to March the temperature goes to its lowest and heavy snowfall occurs which is why it is hard to travel during winter as the snow blocks the way to Rara. 

How to reach Rara Lake?

Day 1- Fly to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu

Today, we will be taking a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj with a great view of Annapurna all around.

Day 2- From Nepalgunj fly to Jumla (2370m)

The next day we will be taking an early morning flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla and exploring Jumla. Overnight at Jumla.

Day 3- From Jumla, a trek of 5 to 7 hours to Patmara (2910m)

So our trek starts today. We will start our trek after having early morning breakfast. The trail goes along with the Tila Khola and passes through fields and pine forest. The ascending trail leads towards Padmara valley and finally, we arrive in the last village of Patmara after 5 to 6 hours of walk.

Day 4- Walk around 6 hours to Chautha (2770m)

After having an early morning breakfast, we will start our trek from Patmara following the steep trail through forests of fir, birches, walnuts, and bamboo and reach Chautha after a walk of approximately 6 hours.

Day 5- 5 to 6 hours of walk from Chautha to Jhyari (2635m)

Today’s trail leads uphill towards the stream, crossing it as the wooden valley becomes narrower. We will have to cross a bulbul where we will have to enter our permit and follow the treeless path and climb to an assortment of Chhoertens, cairns, and prayer flags atop the Ghurchi Lagna with a view of Mugu Karnali river and snowy peaks bordering Tibet. And finally, reach Jhyari after 5 to 6 hours of walk and overnight stay in a homestay or lodge.

Day 6- 3 to 4 hours walk to Rara lake (3040m)

After having an early morning breakfast we will start our trek, so today's destination is Rara lake. To reach Rara lake we will have to cross the stream and climb towards Thakuri village of Jhyari and follow the path of cedar forest and reach rara lake walking for approximately 3 to 4 hours of hike. Overnight stay at Rara.

Day 7- Exploration Day at Rara Lake

So, it will be our exploration day today. We will be taking a tour around Rara lake and its environment. We can visit Rara National Park headquarter and climb up the wooden observation tower for a better view of Rara Lake. Second night stays at Lake.

Day 8 - 7 to 8 hours walk to Gorusinha (3190m)

We will be leaving Rara lake today after having an early morning breakfast. We will be following the Khatyar Khola River and climb up a small trail surrounded by spruce and rhododendron forest and reach Gorusinha walking approximately for 7 to 8 hours.

Day 9- Trek to Sinja (2440m), 5 to 6 hours walk.

Our destination today is Sinha valley which used to be the capital of the Malla dynasty that ruled western Nepal from the 12th to 14th century. So, our tail leads towards the Ghatta valley following the Sinja Khola river. 

Day 10- Trek to Jaljala Chaur (3531m)

From Sinja valley we will be crossing the wooden bridge and after that following the trail covered with pine forest, birch and oak, and fields of barley and corn, and reaching Jaljala Chaur after walking for 5- 6 hours. 

Day 11- Trek from Jaljala Chaur to Jumla (2370m), 5 to 6 hours walk

So today will be our final trek day, we will be returning to Jumla from Jaljala Chaur and spending the night at Jumla.

Day 12- Fly from Jumla to Nepalgunj and take second flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu

Early in the morning, we will catch a flight to Nepalgunj and then take a second flight to Kathmandu valley.

FAQs 

Why trek to Rara Lake?

Trekking to Rara Lake offers a unique opportunity to explore the untouched beauty of the western part of Nepal, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience amidst breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Duration to reach Rara Lake?

The trek typically takes around 12 days to complete, although the duration can be adjusted based on individual preferences and time availability. 

Flight arrangements?

We can assist in organizing flights to Nepalgunj and Jumla from Kathmandu, as well as return flights from Jumla and Nepalgunj back to Kathmandu. 

Difficulty level of Rara Lake Trek?

The trek to Rara Lake is not that difficult it is moderate type of trek, suitable for most trekkers. However, beginners may find it challenging due to its duration and elevation gain.

Drinking water options?

Natural spring water is available along the trekking route, and it can be purified using tablets. Boiled and filtered water is also obtainable for purchase. 

Availability of wifi and electricity?

Electricity is accessible in the region, and most tea houses offer wifi, although the connection speed may vary.

Accommodation types?

Accommodations like tea houses, some of which have attached bathrooms, though not all. Treehouses are also available for lodging.

Best time for Rara Lake trek?

The optimal times for the Rara Lake trek are September and October, offering cool weather and misty views, or April and May, characterized by pleasant sunny conditions.

Booking procedure?

To book the trek, you can contact us directly or send an email to info@shivalayaholidays.com.