Rara Lake Trek

5/5

Dolpo Region

Fully Customizable Trip

Duration

14 Days

Max. Altitude

3010

Activity

Trekking

Stay

Tea House/ Hotel

Group Size

Min 2-Max 18

Trip Date

Flexible

Private Trip

Available

Group Trip

Available

The Rara Lake Trek is a remote and off-the-beaten-path trekking route in the far-western region of Nepal. The main highlight of the trek is, of course, Rara Lake itself, which is the largest lake in Nepal and offers stunning natural beauty.

Established in 1979, Rara National Park is called after the breathtaking lake at its center, the largest in Nepal, whose crystalline waters lay at an elevation of 2,990 meters. The park maintains not only the beauty and allure of the lake, but also a significant portion of the rich flora and wildlife of central Himalaya. As such, it provides a superb opportunity to explore a panoramic and tranquil region that resembles a Maxfield Parrish painting brought to life.

The journey begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by another flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla the next day. From there, we go on a trek to Chere Chaur and Chalachaur over the course of the following days, ascending Sinja Valley through mountain trails en route to our primary destination, Rara Lake. We utilize a combination of teahouses and individual homestays for lodging and meals en route, adding a cultural touch that accentuates the uniqueness of the experience. After completing the lake’s circumnavigation, the trek descends to Jumla for the return route to Kathmandu.

Rara Lake Trek Highlights

The Rara Lake walk is one of the most unusual and exciting of all treks, as it focuses on communing with Nepal’s forests and lakes rather than the more common mountain trails. Less busy and relatively undisturbed, the trail meanders tranquilly through glades of juniper, spruce, and pine, with the ever-present Himalayan peaks on one side and the pure waters of Rara Lake on the other. Here are some of the highlights of the Rara Lake Trek.

Rara Lake: The centerpiece of the trek, Rara Lake is a pristine alpine lake surrounded by lush forests, towering peaks, and peaceful serenity. The clear blue waters of the lake, along with the reflection of the surrounding mountains, create a breathtaking scene.

Natural Diversity: The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including pine and rhododendron forests, high alpine meadows, and rugged terrains. The contrast between the various ecosystems adds to the beauty of the trek.

Flora and Fauna: The Rara region is home to a variety of wildlife, including musk deer, Himalayan black bear, red panda, and numerous bird species. The trek offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Shey Phoksundo National Park: The trekking route falls within the Shey Phoksundo National Park, a protected area that houses unique ecosystems, flora, and fauna. The park’s conservation efforts contribute to the pristine nature of the region.

Cultural Encounters: Along the way, you’ll pass through villages inhabited by local communities, including Thakuri and Magar. This provides opportunities to learn about their cultures, traditions, and way of life.

Peaceful Wilderness: The Rara Lake region is relatively less visited by trekkers, offering a peaceful and remote trekking experience away from the crowds.

Chuchemara Ridge: The trek includes a hike to Chuchemara Ridge, which provides panoramic views of Rara Lake and the surrounding mountains. The viewpoint is a highlight for photography.

Beautiful Campsites: The trekking route has camping sites with stunning views, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: The Rara Lake Trek is ideal for trekkers looking to explore a lesser-known and less-touristy area, providing a more authentic and tranquil experience.

Tibetan Influence: The region’s proximity to the Tibetan border has led to cultural and architectural influences from Tibet, adding a unique touch to the trek.

The Best time for Rara Lake Trek

The best time for the Rara Lake Trek is during the pre-monsoon spring season (March to May) and the post-monsoon autumn season (September to November). These months offer the most favorable weather and trekking conditions for a successful and enjoyable trek. Both spring and autumn offer excellent trekking conditions, and your choice between the two depends on your preferences. Spring is known for its vibrant flora, lush landscapes, and blooming flowers, while autumn provides clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and excellent photography opportunities.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Nepal. :

When you arrive at Tibhuvan International Airport, our guide will pick you up and take you to your hotel in the bustling Thamel district of Kathmandu. Depending on your arrival time, you can choose to relax for the next journey, see the city’s attractions, or shop for adventure gear in one of Kathmandu’s many adventure supply stores. We’ll assemble our bikes and be ready for the journey in the afternoon.

Day 2 - Fly to Nepalgunj.:

Leaving the metropolis of Kathmandu behind, we fly to Nepalgunj while enjoying the gorgeous trip. Due to its location in western Nepal, close to the Indian border, Nepalgunj is an important business hub for several regions. Later in the evening, we can stroll through Nepalgunj’s bustling markets.

Day 3 - Fly to Jumla(2,540m) then trek to Chere Chaur(3055m).:

After breakfast, we board another brief flight, this time to Jumla, where the trip begins with a half-day march through scenic pasturelands and towns to Chere Chaur and a restful first night.

Day 4 - Trek to Chalachaur(2980m ).:

The second day of the trek begins with a very simple stretch that gradually ascends to the trail’s first pass, Jaljala La (3580m), and then continues to Jaljala Chaur. From there, the trail becomes very difficult as it curves abruptly towards Chala Chaur.

Day 5 - Trek to Sinja Valley(2490m).:

The trail to Sinja follows the Jaljal Khola downstream through terraced fields, pine-covered slopes, and a formidable gorge. Sinja itself contains various intriguing antiquities, including the ruins of a frightening ancient temple.

Day 6 - Trek to Ghorosingha(3050m).:

Another half-day climb as the trail goes beside the Ghatte Khola through a classic Nepalese rural scenery with patchwork farms, tranquil villages, and waterwheels leisurely spinning to the flow of the icy river waters.

Day 7 - Trek to Rara Lake(3010m).:

From Ghorosingha, the trail passes directly into Rara National Park, ascending to the trek’s highest point on the ridge of Chuchemara Danda (4260m), with sweeping views of the Himalayas and the valley below. The trail then gradually descends through densely forested hills to Rara Lake and the lakeside campground.

Day 8 - Explore Rara Lake.:

A day of leisure and relaxation, with opportunity to appreciate Rara Lake’s tranquil waters and surreal atmosphere. When the park was built, many of the surrounding residents were moved, allowing nature to reign supreme.

Day 9 - Trek to Pina(2440m).:

The hike resumes with an easy trekking day towards Gamggadhi and the descent to the settlement of Pina.

Day 10 - Trek to Bumra(2850m).:

The day’s ultimate objective is the serene village of Bumra, which is reached after one final pass, Ghurchi Lagna (3480m), and a descent to the main valley and a string of settlements dotting the tranquil countryside.

Day 11 - Tek to Jumla(2540m).:

On the final day of trekking, we will return to our starting point in Jumla after a day of leisurely walking through a verdant valley and experiencing the full range of the region’s offerings, including rhododendron and pine forests, patchwork quilts and vibrant crop fields, tranquil villages, and the ever-smiling faces of children waiting to greet each and every visitor passing through. It is the ideal day to conclude a fantastic hike.

Day 12 - Fly From Juphal To Nepalgunj; Return Trip To Kathmandu In The Afternoon..:

We take an early morning beautiful flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj. When we reach Nepalgunj, we board the next flight to Kathmandu. You are transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu, and the remainder of the day is at your leisure. In the evening, you can dine at one of the local restaurants in the capital city.

Day 13 - Weather-Related Flight Delay And Cancellation Buffer Day.:

We reserve one additional day in case the flight is canceled due to bad weather or delayed for other reasons. Stay at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu for the night.

Day 14 - Departure from Nepal.:

Today we will take you to the airport to catch your flight out of Nepal. Alternatively, if you’d like to stay longer, we may make additional travel arrangements to assist you continue your Nepal experience.

What's included