Rara Lake Trek

Walk through quiet pine and juniper forests to Nepal’s largest and bluest lake, Rara, in the remote far west, far from the crowds of the popular trekking routes.

Rara lake lies at an elevation of 2990m (9,810 ft). has a water surface of 10.8 km(4.2 ^{sq mi}), a maximum depth of 167m (548ft), is 5.1km (3.2mi) long and 2.7 km (1.7mi) wide. It drains into the Mug Karnali River Via the Nijar River. The color of Rara is crystal-clear water, untouched wilderness of its banks and its calm waters would easily win it the title. Rara Lake trekking is an amazing activity to reach out to the Rara Lake, which offers some of the most breathtaking views you could ever imagine. In addition to that, not many people know, it changes its hues all the time.

They say that if you sit on the banks of the lake for a long time, you get to see almost all colors of nature. It is oval-shaped with an east-west axis. Rara National Park is managed by the Department of National Parks and wildlife conservation and protected with the assistance of the Nepal Army. Rara Lake was popularly known as Rara Daha for years, but that was changed when late king Mahendra visited the area in 1963 and named it the ‘Rara Lake’

Rara Lake has been a popular destination for trekking in the west. The route is very much “off the beaten path” and offers glimpses of culture and scenery and is very different from other places in the rest of the country. Along mountain paths and a series of picturesque villages, one reaches the magnificent banks of Rara Lake. The parks includes trans- Himalayan Valley with high rides covered with forest and alpine pastures. Rara Lake is surrounded by Rara National Park and has unique floral and fauna values with extinct and vulnerable species.

The park flora consists of 1074 species of which 16 are endemic to Nepal, the fauna 51 species of mammals and 214 species of birds. Rara National  Park, considered as one of the finest parks in the world, which abounds in coniferous forest and is the ideal habitat for the Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and other fauna. The Danfe, the national bird of Nepal flies above while a variety of fish, the snow trout, inhabit the Rara lake. Adding extra charm to the region is its open-hearted and friendly people. The lake is surrounded by pine, spruce and juniper forest.

Various ways to reach out to Rara Lake, where all adventure starts with a flight or drive from Nepal Far South in Nepalgunj city, further to that, reaching the suburb of Rara area where short walks of a few days reach to this beautiful destination of great charming scenery. All Nepal Excursion to make the trek shorter we have designed the itinerary of less than a week duration so that all travelers can enjoy the journey to Rara Lake in a limited duration and to make your holiday in Nepal worthwhile and enjoyable.

Enjoy glorious moments around Rara Lake where trekking takes you on the same exciting route back at Talcha town for the scenic flight to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj city after a most wonderful adventure and experience on Rara Lake Trekking. In conclusion, if you want to experience Nepal’s natural beauty in terms of its beautiful lakes, Rara will hold a special charm. The journey to this lake is worthwhile because it is a distinctive and gorgeous location. The stunning scenery and peaceful environs of Rara lake are likely to make an impression on anybody visiting, whether they are a seasoned hiker or a first time visitor. So prepare for a once in a lifetime experience and park your Bags.

Why Choose Rara Lake Trek?

• Nepal’s largest lake: Rara Lake sits at about 2,990 m, inside Rara National Park. It is a deep blue that changes with the light.
• Untouched wilderness: The trek passes through one of Nepal’s least-visited regions, with few other trekkers on the trail.
• Rich nature: Rara National Park has forests of pine, spruce, juniper and rhododendron. It is home to red panda, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, thar and many bird species.
• Local culture: Villages along the way let you see the daily life of the people of Karnali and Jumla.
• Mountain views: Look out for views of the Api and Saipal ranges and the surrounding western Himalaya.
• Moderate effort: The altitude is lower than on most Himalayan treks, so it suits first-time trekkers and families with a good level of fitness.

Difficulty Of Rara Lake Trek

Easy to moderate. Most days involve 5–7 hours of walking on uphill and downhill trails, with a few steep sections. No technical climbing is needed. Good general fitness and some walking practice before you go are recommended.

Altitude Info Of Rara Lake Trek

• Rara Lake: about 2,990 m (9,810 ft)
• Highest point (Chuchemara Danda / Murma Top area): about 3,500 m (11,480 ft)
• Altitude sickness risk: Low, but still be aware of symptoms and ascend gradually.

Best Time For Rara Lake Trek

• Spring (March–May): Rhododendrons bloom, the weather is pleasant, and views are clear.
• Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, crisp air and the best mountain views. This is the most popular season.
• Winter (December–February): Cold and snowy, with a frozen lake in some years. Only for experienced trekkers.
• Monsoon (June–August): Not recommended, because of rain, leeches and the risk of landslides.

Permits Required for Rara Lake Trek

• Rara National Park entry permit
• Local area / rural municipality permit (as applicable in Karnali Province)
• TIMS card: Not required for this area at present. Please confirm requirements at the time of booking, as rules can change.

Your trekking company can arrange all permits. Bring a valid passport and passport-sized photos.

Accommodation In Rara Lake Trek

• Teahouses and local lodges: In villages along the route. Rooms are simple and basic, with twin beds and shared bathrooms.
• Camping: In some sections and near the lake, depending on the itinerary and facilities available. Tents, sleeping mats and a camping crew are provided on camping treks.
• Facilities are more basic than on the Everest or Annapurna routes. Expect limited hot water and electricity.

Meals In Rara Lake Trek

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided during the trek.
• Typical food: Dal bhat (rice, lentil soup and vegetables), noodles, soup, eggs, bread, porridge and local seasonal vegetables.
• On camping treks, a cook prepares fresh meals.
• Always drink boiled or purified water. Carry water purification tablets or a filter bottle.

Transportation Facilities In Rara Lake Trek

• Getting to the region: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then to Talcha Airport (Rara) or Jumla. Flights depend on weather, so keep some spare days.
• Alternative: A long overland drive is possible, but it takes much longer and is physically tiring.
• Local transport: Jeep or bus between the airport and the trailhead if needed.
• Return: The same way back, by flight to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj.

Safety Information

• Walk at a steady pace, stay hydrated and tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell.
• A licensed, experienced guide leads the group and monitors everyone’s health.
• Carry a first-aid kit. Emergency evacuation by helicopter is possible but depends on weather.
• Mobile network and internet are limited in remote areas.
• Travel insurance that covers trekking up to 4,000 m and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.
• Be careful on steep trails, especially after rain or snow.

Responsible Tourism

• Take all your rubbish back with you and avoid single-use plastic.
• Respect Rara National Park rules: do not pollute the lake, pick plants or disturb wildlife.
• Stay on marked trails and do not light open fires in the forest.
• Dress modestly and ask before photographing local people.
• Buy local products, hire local guides and porters, and support village homestays.
• Treat porters fairly, with proper gear, insurance and loads within safe limits.

Book / Enquire

Ready to walk to Nepal’s hidden blue jewel?
Book your Rara Lake Trek today and experience the wild beauty of far-west Nepal.

Enquire now for dates, itinerary and a personalized quote.
Call or WhatsApp us to plan your trip with a local expert.