Rara Lake Trek

Rara Lake Trek

Rara Lake Trek is one of the most famous and an adventurous trekking route in Nepal.

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Geography

Hills, Forest

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location

Mugu District

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Trip Grade

Moderate

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Duration

16 days

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Max. Altitude

3749m

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Min. Pax

2 People

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Religion

Buddhism, Hinduism

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Ethnic People

Brahmin, Chhetri, Thakuri

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Accomodation

Teahouse, Lodge, Tented camp

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Transportation

Private vehicle, Tourist bus, Flight

Rara Lake Trek

Rara Lake Trek is an adventurous trek in far-west Nepal, which is rest to the Rara National Park. This park is a reserve for Himalayan alpine and sub-alpine flora and fauna. Rara Lake Trek runs through some of the wildest regions in Nepal and fully explores the magnificent national park. An endless stretch of forest and meadows with occasional mountain views makes up for a great trip which takes you to the heavenly Rara Lake.

The Rara Lake Trek is an off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal. As usual, your arrival in Kathmandu will begin a journey to the remote far west. A day in Kathmandu valley for trek preparation and permit application also includes a sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage sites. The next day, a flight to Nepalgunj and, then to Jumla marks the start this trek. Generally, Rara Lake Trek will take you across a pristine landscape and a host of valleys including Jumla, Padmara, Tila, and Sinja valley. Discover the hidden culture of tribes within the park while on the lookout for wildlife such as black bear, red panda, and musk deer.

The vista of this serene lake against the backdrop of the Himalayas up north makes up for a tantalizing scenery. Camping in the lake and a visit to the Rara village gives the feel of living in the wild. This trail then takes us on a circuit through Ghorosingha and Jaljala back to Jumla. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best times to trekking in Nepal. While a trek in monsoon is adventurous, so we recommend you take this trek during the autumn and spring seasons.

Danphe Adventure Treks, help to make your travel in Nepal exciting with plenty of trips to undertake across the country. Our trips are fully customizable and available at reasonable prices as well. Moreover, with expert and trained guides, we make sure that your travel can exceed your expectations.

Trip Highlights

  • Trek to the largest lake in Nepal
  • Explore the eco-system and bio-diversity of Rara National Park
  • Trek along an off-the-beaten-path and valleys
  • Sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu

Trip Itinerary

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  • Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m)

    After your arrival at TIA (Tribhuban International Airport), a company representative will transfer you to the trip hotel. You can relax and refresh at the hotel. Later, you participate in a trek briefing at with our members of the company. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

    Explore the major UNESCO world heritage sites of the Kathmandu valley which include, Swyambhunath known as a (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, Boudhanath. Marvel at the architectural design of these buildings and visit Kathmandu Durbar Square. After visiting these sites, return to your hotel. You can also make final preparations for the trek on the remainder of the day. Overnight stay at a hotel at Kathmandu.

  • Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and transfer to Hotel.

    You take a flight to the far west region of Nepal from Kathmandu. The journey to Nepalgunj starts from TIA’s domestic terminal as you catch a 1-hour flight. In Nepalgunj, you will be received and transferred to hotel. You can enjoy the afternoon strolling around the bustling market. Overnight stay at Nepalgunj.

  • Day 04: Fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla (2370m)

    On this day, you fly to the remote town of Jumla. A 20-min flight from Nepalgunj will take you to this pre-dominantly subalpine geography. Once the capital of the Khasa kingdom, the Jumla district is also known for harvesting the best quality apples. It is a unique town and the originators of Nepali-Khas Bhasa- language. The district itself is record-setting for harvesting rice at the highest altitude. Overnight stay at Jumla.

  • Day 05: Trek from Jumla to Danphe Langa (3130m) 5-6 hours.

    You start this off-the-beaten-path trek with a trek up to Danphe Langa. Leaving Jumla valley behind, you head onto the jaded rocky hills along Tila River. As the trek climbs steeply through Padmara valley, the trail passes through a narrow cut out ridge with steep rocky walls on either side. Eventually crossing a pine forest, you arrive at Padmara village before ascending to Danphe Langa. Overnight stay at Danphe Langa.

  • Day 06: Trek from Danphe Langa to Chautha (2770m) 5-6 hours.

    The trail goes up and down heading for Chautha. First, this trail follows the bank of Sinja Khola passing by a large rocky overhang in Kabra. Then, the track runs through a lush forest of fir and bamboo before running down to Sinja Khola. Heading north, we cross the Gahautha Khola before ascending to Chautha village. Overnight stay at Chautha.

  • Day 07: Trek from Chautha to Dhotu (2380m) 4-5 hours.

    An impressive pass to be crossed today is the Ghurchi Lagna Pass (3446m) as the trail takes to Dhotu. First you climb to Bhulbhule before ascending up to the pass as small stupas, prayer flags and cairns greet us along the way. Then, descend through terraced fields as you arrive at Pina. Taking the trail to Rara, pass through a pine forest before descending to Jhyari Khola and arriving at Dhotu. Overnight stay at Dhotu.

  • Day 08: Trek from Dhotu to Rara Lake (3040m) 3-4 hours.

    Today, we visit the highlight of this trek as we arrive at Rara after a relatively easy walk. Taking the trail upstream a river, cross it before climbing up to Jhyari. This village inhabited by Thakuri is amid the woods. You climb up the cedar grooves before arriving at plains atop a ridge with magnificent valley and Rara Lake to the northeast. We cut through another forest before arriving by the Rara Lake. Overnight stay at Rara Lake.

  • Day 09: Exploring Rara Lake (3040m)

    We take a day off the trails to enjoy the picturesque Rara Lake and village. This is the largest lake in Nepal and a walk around the lake will be eight hours while a hike to Rara village further north is two hours. Alternatively, thrill yourselves with a climb atop an observation tower for these views. Finally, visit the National Park headquarters for more information on the park. Overnight stay at Rara Lake.

  • Day 10: Trek from Rara Lake to Ghorosingha (3190m) 4-5 hours.

    Leaving behind this magnificent lake, we follow a tributary while exiting the premise of this turquoise hue lake. Heading downstream, we set out for Murma. The trail climbs further south through tall trees of pine and birch before arriving at the highest point atop the ridge. The mountain range appears at a distance as we descend from the maximum altitude of 3749m. Arriving at Chuchemara Danda, we steeply descend further east to Ghorosingha. Overnight stay at Ghorosingha.

  • Day 11: Trek from Ghorosingha to Sinja (2440m) 4-5 hours

    On this day, we descend further to Sinja. First, the trail drops along the valley to Bota before climbing steeply to Diyabala Danda. The descent then takes past farmlands along the beautiful valley. Terraced fields of Lumsa appear luscious and green as the trail runs along its rims. Finally, the trail descends further along patches of green scenery onto Okharpati. Overnight stay at Sinja.

  • Day 12: Trek from Sinja to Jaljala (3270m) 5-6 hours.

    Crossing the bridge over Sinja Khola marks the start of a return journey. Setting off to Jaljala, the wooden bridge is our first crossover as the trail heads east along Sinja River. Passing Kotgaon, we follow the ridge along Jaljala Gadh. We cross a pine forest before making a stop at Kanaksundari temple. Finally, we arrive at Jaljala. Overnight stay at Jaljala.

  • Day 13: Trek from Jaljala to Jumla (2370m) 3-4 hours.

    The ultimate day of our trek entails a descent to Jumla. Heading through Chere Chaur, we embark on a relatively easy hike back to the start point of this trek. It is a viewpoint of Tila Valley and Jumla. While a gentle descent, take time to stop at intervals and gather the most of this beautiful wilderness as you head back into the civilization the next day. Overnight stay at Jumla.

  • Day 14: Fly from Jumla to Nepalgunj and fly back to Kathmandu.

    Wrapping up the trek of the far west, catch an early flight back to Nepalgunj. This will be a scenic flight through the remote terrains and valleys on to Terai plains. You arrive at Nepalgunj and catch onward flight to Kathmandu. Back in Kathmandu, a tour rep. will receive you at the airport and transfer you back to the trip hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Day 15: Take leisure day in Kathmandu | Farewell Dinner.

    A free day in Kathmandu can be utilized to relax at some of the best spas in the country or take a tour of the valley and its attractions. An early morning excursion of Swayambhunath stupa can be coupled with a trip to the Patan Durbar square. Both, UNESCO World Heritage sites, cater to the archeological geeks and admirers of ancient architecture. Join the trek operators and rest of the team for a farewell dinner to celebrate a successful trip of the far west. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Day 16: Final Departure from Kathmandu.

    Depending on your scheduled flight, take some time out to stroll around the Thamel market which is a great place for last minute souvenir shopping. Later, a tour rep. will assist in check out and transfer to the airport before bidding farewell as you catch your flight back home.

Trip Map

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What's Included

  • Airport Pickups and drops in a private vehicle.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu and with breakfast as per the Itinerary.
  • Cultural tour at Kathmandu with Guide in private vehicle.
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
  • All Ground and Air Transportation during the Trek.
  • An experienced, English speaking, and friendly guide and Porter (1 Porter 2 trekkers).
  • Salary for the staff including their food, drinks, accommodation, and transportation.
  • All necessary paper works, Conservation entry permits, and TIMS card.
  • An arrangement for emergency helicopter service which will be paid by your travel insurance.
  • Sleeping bag, down jacket and trekking map, if necessary,( to be returned after the trek)
  • All government taxes, vat, and local taxes.
  • Nepal entry visa fee. (You may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan international airport (Kathmandu). You will require 2 passport size photos & 25 USD.
  • International airfare.
  • Your travel insurance (compulsory).
  • Meals in Kathmandu
  • Entry fees for cultural tours.
  • Personal expenses (alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks bar bills, battery charge, extra porter, boiled water shower, etc.).
  • Tips for guide, porter and driver

Equipment List

List of Equipments required for Rara Lake Trek:

Head

  • One Warm winter hat/beanie
  • One Sun hat
  • 1 Headband/buff
  • 1 Sunglasses with UV protection
  • One Headlamp/ Torch with extra batteries

Upper Body

  • Two pairs of Fleece sweaters- one light and one heavier
  • Two pairs of quick-drying long-sleeved base layer shirts
  • Three pairs of Short sleeve trekking shirts
  • One pair of Wind/rainproof Jacket v 1 Down Jacket

Lower Body

  • One pair of trekking shorts
  • A pair of trekking trousers
  • One pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
  • Two pairs of trekking pants with Ziff off bottoms
  • One pair of fleece or woolen trousers
  • One pair of waterproof pants, breathable fabric

Hands

  • One pair of lightweight warm gloves
  • A pair of poly-liner glove

Feet

  • One pair of trekking boots
  • A pair of sandals/ trainers (for wearing around the lodges)
  • One pair of down booties (great for keeping feet warm)
  • Two pair of thin lightweight inner socks
  • Two pair of warm woolen or poly socks
  • Gaiters (only in winter)

Other

  • One Sleeping Bag
  • 12 1 Sleeping bag liner (optional)
  • 1 pair of trekking poles
  • Water purification tablets/Steripen/Drops
  • 1 quick drying towel

FAQs

  • What are the visa requirements?

    Currently, all the foreign nationalities (except Indians) require a visa to enter Nepal. Visas are obtainable from embassies abroad or on arrival at Kathmandu’s Airport. If getting the visa at the airport be prepared for long queues. You will also need to provide one passport photo and the $50 USD fee for 30 days.

  • What are the physical requirements for Rara Lake Trek?

    Rara Lake Trek requires you to trek at an altitude of maximum 3749m and up to 5-7 hours per day, with a small 5-7kg bag. We recommended you to train with long hikes and/or a sport of your choice (e.g. jogging).

  • How old do I need to be?

    There is no age restriction for doing this trip, but if you are under 16 it will better to trek with your parents. You must be health-conscious during the trek.

  • What is included?

    Included:

    • Guides and Porters
    • Transportation (including airport transfers)
    • Accommodation
    • Permits & national park fees
    • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
    • All meal during the trek
    • Seasonal fruits

    Excluded:

    • International flights to Kathmandu
    • Food – (while you are in City)
    • Showers on Trek
    • Tips
    • Visa fees (typically $50 USD)
    • Personal travel/rescue insurance
  • What is the accommodation like?

    You will stay in the Hotel while you are in the city of Kathmandu, which is like a 3-star category. The hotel has access to showers and intermittent internet.

    But while you are in trekking Tea House/lodges are the place where you spend the night during the trek, which is very basic. The room is pretty small with twin sharing and a common washroom. Some places have squat style toilets, whilst others have a western style. Shower does not always offer warm water and most teahouses will charge you for use of a hot shower.

  • Which meals are included?

    Meals will be served as per the menu of the teahouse/lodges. Where you can find a variety of dishes like Indian, Nepalese, Tibetan, Continental, etc, to choose. Tea, coffee, bakery items, snacks, bars eggs, etc can also be found easily.

  • What currency should I take?

    The currency used in Nepal is Nepalese Rupees (NPR). You are unable to get NPR outside of Nepal and therefore you will need to exchange money in Kathmandu. The easiest currency to exchange is USD and Euro. You can also withdraw NPR from the ATM but check with your bank about the relevant charges to do this.

  • Is there any bank or ATM facility during Rara Lake Trek?

    Yes, there is good facility of bank and ATM at Nepalgunj and Jumla.

  • What kind of problems can arise at a higher altitude during Rara Lake Trek?

    There is huge change of AMS problem i.e. Acute Mountain Sickness problem. It may cause some problem as you trek higher above 3500 meter altitude (11,482 ft.). But don’t worry about that. We have carefully designed our Rara Lake trek itinerary with sufficient time for acclimatization and less walking time each day. And our experienced trek guide will be helping you with it.

  • Do I need insurance before the Rara Lake Trek?

    Yes, you need to be insured before the adventure trekking in Nepal from your home country. However we will be always with you taking care of throughout the whole Rara Lake trek.

  • What should I pack?

    Documents

    • Passport
    • Travel insurance details
    • 2 passport photos
    • Cash USD
    • Credit/Debit Card

    Head

    One Warm winter hat/beanie.

    One Sun hat

    1 Headband/buff.

    1 Sunglasses with UV protection.

    One Headlamp/ Torch with extra batteries.

    Upper Body

    2 pairs of Fleece sweaters- one light and one heavier

    2 pairs of quick-drying long-sleeved base layer shirts

    3 pairs of Short sleeve trekking shirts

    1 pair of Wind/rainproof Jacket v 1 Down Jacket

    Lower Body

    One pair of trekking shorts

    A pair of trekking trousers

    One pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)

    Two pairs of trekking pants with Ziff off bottoms

    One pair of fleece or woolen trousers

    Two pair of waterproof pants, breathable fabric

    Hands

    A pair of lightweight warm gloves

    A pair of poly-liner glove

    Feet

    One pair of trekking boots

    A pair of sandals/ trainers (for wearing around the lodges)

    One pair of down booties (great for keeping feet warm)

    Two pair of thin lightweight inner socks

    Two pair of warm woolen or poly socks

    Gaiters (only in winter)

    Other

    One Sleeping Bag

    One Sleeping bag liner (optional)

    A pair of trekking poles

    Water purification tablets/Steripen/Drops

    One quick-drying towel

  • What is the best time of year for Rara Lake Trek?

    Rara Lake Trek is possible for whole year, but the best time to doing this trek is spring season (March to May) and autumn Season (September to November).

    However trekking in winter season to chance to see snowfall with magnificent views of mountain, and in monsoon time you will see waterfalls.

*All Inclusive Price*

$2250 USD

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Rara Lake Trek