Highlights of the Rara Lake Trek
- Nepal’s Largest Lake: Rara Lake sits at 2,990 meters, offering crystal-clear alpine waters surrounded by pine, juniper, and spruce forests, set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. This Lake is known as Mahendra Lake in Nepal.
- Rara National Park: Covering 106 sq. km, it's Nepal's smallest national park but home to unique flora and fauna, including Red Pandas, Himalayan Thars, Black Bears, and various bird species.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: With minimal tourist traffic, this trek provides a peaceful and authentic trekking experience in Nepal.
- Local Cultural Encounters: Interact with the welcoming communities of Tibetan-influenced and Malla-Khas heritage along the route.
- Scenic Flights & Rugged Trails: Enjoy spectacular aerial views flying into Nepalgunj, Jumla, or Talcha, followed by treks through high meadows, dense forests, and rolling hills.
- Untouched Natural Beauty: Rara Lake visit is ideal for moderate trekkers, the Rara Lake trail requires no technical climbing and offers unspoiled wilderness and serene solitude.
Latest Developments in Rara National Park
- The National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) inaugurated a new office on May 4, 2025, at Hutu in Rara National Park to enhance conservation efforts and promote eco-tourism.
- A 14 km cycling track around Rara Lake is under construction and scheduled for completion by 2026.
- A high-end resort, the Rara Resort, is being developed at Murma Top, targeting completion in 2027, offering premium lodging for future trekkers.
What are the Challenges of the Rara Lake Trek
- Rara National Park is famous not only for its beauti, Rara Lake trek remains last vergine land for the wilderness excursion, for details of the trek visit here.
- Limited infrastructure: In Karnali, road connectivity is still in progress; blacktopping is incomplete, and accommodation is scarce.
- Only two hotels at Rara Lake Danfe Chamena Ghiha and Village Heritage Resort – are currently operational, often resulting in booking shortages during peak season.
- Remote access and rugged terrain can be physically demanding. A Trekking Guide is a must for trekking and adventure wonders. Remember, Global Eco Trails offers a local Guide due to the cultural insight.
Best Time for Rara Lake Trek
The ideal seasons to go on the Rara Lake trek in Nepal are:
Spring (March to June): Pleasant temperatures, blooming flora, and clear skies and dry path.
Autumn (September to November): This is right after the monsoon season, so the Crisp air, dry trails, and vibrant colors.
Winter (December to February): Beautiful but extremely freezing, with the possibility of trail closures due to heavy snow.
Monsoon (July to August): Heavy rainfall makes trails muddy and prone to landslides and floods.
How to Reach Rara Lake Trek – We Offer Two Options
Option 1: Fly + Trek (Fast & Comfortable)
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
Fly the next morning to Talcha Airport (closest to Rara) or Jumla Airport
From Talcha, it’s a 3-hour walk to Rara Lake
From Jumla, it's a scenic 3-day trek to Rara via traditional artistic villages
Option 2: Bus + Trek (Budget-Friendly, Overland Trekking Experience)
Overnight bus from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. A local bus departs from the Central bus park in Kathmandu, taking about 10–12 hours
Drive from Nepalgunj to Kalikot, then on to Gamgadhi via Nagma (long, tired but scenic)
Trek from Gamgadhi to Rara Lake (approx. 4 hours)
Approximate Flight Costs (One-way):
Kathmandu ➝ Nepalgunj: $132
Nepalgunj ➝ Jumla: $183
Nepalgunj ➝ Talcha: $220
How Long is the Rara Lake Trek?
5-Day Rara Lake Trek: Fly to Talcha, trek to Rara, and return.
11-Day Rara Trek via Sinja Valley: Fly to Jumla and trek through Sinja Valley, a historical site of the ancient Khas kingdom.
Most trekkers choose a 7 to 11-days itinerary depending on schedule, starting point, and travel style.
Trek Tips & Recommendations for Rara Travelers
Global Eco Trails provides a deluxe bus to Nepalgunj and then a flight to Talcha or Jumla for the best balance of cost and comfort.
Combine your Rara Lake trek with a cultural extension to Upper Dolpo if you’re an experienced traveler seeking a longer adventure. Must prepare for Camping for accommodation.
Don’t miss hiking to Murma Top for panoramic views or boating on Rara Lake for a peaceful afternoon. Encircle the Rara Lake on foot for peace of mind.
Guided treks are highly recommended due to the remoteness and lack of infrastructure.Here is the details of Rara Lake trekking Itinerary.
Why Choose Rara Lake Trek in Nepal?
The Rara Lake trek offers an unparalleled mix of natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and remote Adventures, making it one of Nepal’s most untouched trekking destinations. Rara Lake trek is a moderate difficulty level and no technical climbing experience is required. Rara National Park trek is suitable for all fitness level trekkers looking to experience the Himalayas away from the crowded trails of Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Trekking.
Want to Explore Rara?
Looking to explore the untouched wilderness of Rara Lake? Whether you're planning a solo trek, guided tour, or custom route via Upper Dolpo, we're here to help. Please feel free to contact us for further queries, we are available 24/7 at your service.
