Rara Lake Trekking is hands down one of the most beautiful treks that take you to Rara Lake in Nepal. It is one of the largest lakes in Nepal. Surprisingly, Rara Lake is one of the bluest water in the world yet the lake shows three different colors in a day and the background of the lake also keeps changing it color throughout the span of time and climate in its milieu. Rara Lake Trekking route is less crowded and very much off beaten trail. So, it is a great option for those who are seeking isolation and communion with nature. Throughout the trekking journey, you’ll experience the very different and unique cultures and panorama which are different from rest of Nepal. This stunning lake in the high altitude is surrounded by forests of pine, alpine meadows, juniper and spruce, while in the background one can outlook the magnificent snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. In winter there is often snow on the ridges surrounding the Lake which gives the lake a heavenly look.
Every year, thousands of visitors visits the lake from all over the world. Rara Lake lies at an elevation of 2,990 meters with an area of 10.8 km square. It is beautifully surrounded by green hills and Rara National Park, makes it a good trekking destination. Also, the view of snow clad Himalayan peaks enhances the beauty of Rara Lake. This mesmerizing trek to Rara Lake is located in the remote northwest part of Nepal. The trek starts from a pulsating capital city and takes you to the remote area of Jumla. Enrooted you’ll pass through some interesting village of Gorusingha, Sija, Jaljala and finally trek ends at the tranquil heaven that is Rara Lake. Besides, Rara Lake Trek also lies in Rara National Park which is one of the most enthralling national parks to observe diverse wildlife. The national park consists of several blue pines, black juniper, oak, cypress, and rhododendron forests. These forests have been home to Himalayan Black Bear, Musk Deer, Leopards, Ghoral, Thar, and Red Panda. These forests are also home of more than 200 species of colorful birds and butterflies. Get ready to admire the off beaten trail and wilderness of the beauty of serene Rara Lake with Nepal International Tours & Treks.
Rara Lake Trekking Highlights
- Cultural tour of Kathmandu Valley
- Enjoy a super scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and vice-versa
- Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Rara Lake
- Visit Sinja valley, an important old historical place of Nepal
- Explore the rich bio-diversity of Rara National Park
- Enjoy the beautiful landscape and view of distant peaks of Dolpo and API Shripal
- Walk through beautiful pine, birch, and rhododendron forests
- Experience authentic culture and lifestyle of Jumla district
Rara Lake Trekking Difficulty
Rara Lake Trekking apparently is quite easy and appropriate for any level of trekkers. With the basic level of fitness, beginners and intermediate level trekkers can easily complete this trek. You possibly can be able to hike for 4 to 6 hours over hilly terrain with a light day pack. So, this trek doesn’t require any previous trekking experience and technical experience.
Best Time for Rara Lake Trekking
The Spring (September-October) and Autumn season (March-May) are the best time for Rara Lake Trekking. During this time the weather will be pleasant and you’ll get splendid views of the Himalayas reflecting in the lake. Not to forget mentioning, the area is covered by blooming colorful Rhododendrons during spring season which add unique and incomparable beauty around the lake.
Day 01: Pick up from Airport and drive to your hotel (1,300 m/4,264 ft) Hotel Accommodation.
Day 02: Half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. Hotel Accommodation.
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150 m/490 ft) 1 hr, Hotel Accommodation.
Day 04: Fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla (2,540 m/8,334 ft) 20 minutes, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 05: Trek from Jumla to Chere Chaur (3055 m/10,023 ft) Tea House Accommodation.
Day 06: Trek from Chere Chaur to Chalachaur (2980 m/9,777 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 07: Trek from Chalachaur to Sinja Valley (2490 m/ 8167 ft) Tea House Accommodation.
Day 08: Trek from Sinja to Ghorosingha (3050 m/10007 ft) Tea House Accommodation.
Day 09: Trek from Ghorosingha to Rara Lake (3010 m/9876 ft) 6-7 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 10: Explore Rara Lake to explore the beauty of the lake and backdrop of the lake, communicate with the local people and learn their culture and ethnicity in detail. Tea House Accommodation.
Day 11: Trek from Rara Lake to Pina (2440 m/ 8006 ft) 4-5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 12: Trek from Pina to Bumra (2850 m/9351 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 13: Trek ends: Bumra to Jumla (2540 m/8334 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 14: Fly to Nepalgunj, Fly to Kathmandu, Hotel Accommodation.
Day 15: Final departure
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Pick up from Airport and drive to your hotel (1,300 m/4,264 ft) Hotel Accommodation.
Day 02: Half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. Hotel Accommodation.
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150 m/490 ft) 1 hr, Hotel Accommodation.
Day 04: Fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla (2,540 m/8,334 ft) 20 minutes, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 05: Trek from Jumla to Chere Chaur (3055 m/10,023 ft) Tea House Accommodation.
Day 06: Trek from Chere Chaur to Chalachaur (2980 m/9,777 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 07: Trek from Chalachaur to Sinja Valley (2490 m/ 8167 ft) Tea House Accommodation.
Day 08: Trek from Sinja to Ghorosingha (3050 m/10007 ft) Tea House Accommodation.
Day 09: Trek from Ghorosingha to Rara Lake (3010 m/9876 ft) 6-7 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 10: Explore Rara Lake to explore the beauty of the lake and backdrop of the lake, communicate with the local people and learn their culture and ethnicity in detail. Tea House Accommodation.
Day 11: Trek from Rara Lake to Pina (2440 m/ 8006 ft) 4-5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 12: Trek from Pina to Bumra (2850 m/9351 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 13: Trek ends: Bumra to Jumla (2540 m/8334 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Day 14: Fly to Nepalgunj, Fly to Kathmandu, Hotel Accommodation.
Day 15: Final departure
Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Pick up from Airport and drive to your hotel (1,300 m/4,264 ft) Hotel Accommodation.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport via respective airlines, our representative will receive you with a warm welcome. And from the airport after a short drive, you’ll reach the hotel in the heart of Kathmandu city. After checking process, you can take some rest. After getting refreshed, you have to join a small orientation programme at our head office. In this small programme, our guide will brief you about the upcoming trip plan. Rest of time, you can explore the surrounding places try some authentic Nepalese food and get familiar to the Nepalese culture. Overnight at Kathmandu.
Day 02: Half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. Hotel Accommodation.
On this day, after having breakfast you’ll begin your half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu valley. Basically, you’ll visit several historical places enlisted under the World Heritage Sites. The major attractions of the day are Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the evening, you can shop and prepare for the trip. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150 m/490 ft) 1 hr, Hotel Accommodation.
On this day, you’ll take an hour scenic flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu. Located on Banke region in far western Nepal, Nepalgunj is popular transportation and industrial hub. Today you’ll have enough time to explore this multi-ethnic city of Nepal. You’ll get a close insight into the unique culture and lifestyle of Terai people which is quite different than people living in the capital city. You can visit Grasscutters’ Lane or indulge yourself in the street food. You can also visit Royal Bardia National Park which lies a few hours distance from the main market of Nepalgunj. Here you can do elephant safaris and get the wildlife experience. Overnight stay at Nepalgunj.
Day 04: Fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla (2,540 m/8,334 ft) 20 minutes, Tea House Accommodation.
On this day, after having breakfast, you’ll take a flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla. It is short 20 minutes flight and you’ll reach Jumla at an elevation of 2,540 meters. Today you’ll feel the drastic change in the landscape as you’ll fly from the plain land of Terai to the hilly landscape of Jumla. Jumla is one of the remote and less developed Karnali regions of Nepal. It is the main headquarters of Jumla districts. You’ll spend a whole day exploring this undiscovered place for the acclimatization purpose. Overnight stay at Jumla.
Day 05: Trek from Jumla to Chere Chaur (3055 m/10,023 ft) Tea House Accommodation.
On this day, your Rara Lake Trek officially starts. After having breakfast you’ll start your trek from Jumla to Chere Chaur (3,055 meters). Today is your first day of the trek so you need to slowly ascend and drink plenty of water. On the way to Chere Chaur, you’ll pass Khalanga Bazaar, a small marketplace. After passing through several small villages and temple you’ll reach Chere Chaur for an overnight stay.
Day 06: Trek from Chere Chaur to Chalachaur (2980 m/9,777 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
On this day, you’ll follow the western trails and make a slowly ascend through beautiful rhododendron, birch, and pine forests to the place called Jaljala Pass (3,580 meters). Jaljala Pass offers a stupendous view of Kanjiroba Himal. You’ll cross this pass and continue your trek through a pristine trail. After a couple of hours, you’ll reach a summer grazing pastures called as Jaljala Chaur. After 5-6 hours of walk, you’ll enter into the main Rara CIrcuit trail and reach Chala Chaur (2,980 meters) for an overnight stay.
Day 07: Trek from Chalachaur to Sinja Valley (2490 m/ 8167 ft) Tea House Accommodation.
On this day, you’ll head towards Sinja Valley, a remote village situated at the bank of Hima River. The trail passes through several small settlements. Enroute you’ll be well accompanied by Jaljala River. Finally, after 4-5 hours of walk, you’ll reach Sinja Valley (2,490 meters) for an overnight stay. This beautiful valley is the capital of the Malla Dynasty from the 12th – 14th century. Thus, this Sinja Valley offers numerous ancient temples and places to explore to the trekkers.
Day 08: Trek from Sinja to Ghorosingha (3050 m/10007 ft) Tea House Accommodation.
On this day, you’ll have early morning breakfast and leave Sinja for Ghorosingha. Following the upstream trail, you’ll head east and reach Laha. From Laha the trek continues to the small settlement of Gani. Further, following the steep trail, you’ll reach Ghorosingha (3,050 meters) for an overnight stay.
Day 09: Trek from Ghorosingha to Rara Lake (3010 m/9876 ft) 6-7 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
On this day, after having breakfast you’ll head towards Rara Lake (3,010 meters) with a steep climb along the side of Chucharmare Danda. At top of the hill, you’ll get fabulous Himalayan views with magnificent deep blue serene Rara Lake surrounded by green hills. Enjoying the natural scenery, now you’ll enter into a forested trail and continue your trek until you reach Majhghat. After crossing Majhghat, you’ll follow the Khatyar river and reach Chhapri village which is also a headquarter of the Rara National Park. Finally, after 6-7 hours of trek, you’ll reach your dream destination Rara Lake. Upon your arrival, you can admire the close-up view of a tranquil lake and lush vegetation of Rara National Park.
Day 10: Explore Rara Lake to explore the beauty of the lake and backdrop of the lake, communicate with the local people and learn their culture and ethnicity in detail. Tea House Accommodation.
On this day, you’ll spend your whole day exploring the Rara Lake and the surroundings. After having breakfast, you’ll head towards to explore one of the biggest lakes in Nepal. It is surrounded by dense green forests which is home to diverse flora and fauna including some indigenous species of birds, fish, and animals. If you want to go for the long day trip, then Murma Top offers a mesmerizing view of the lake from the above. It’ll take around 6-7 hours to go there and come back. Also, if you just want to stay on the bank of the lake you can also enjoy the spectacular view of the lake and the Himalayas. The changing light of the lake’s hues whose magical transformation will definitely offer you lifetime memorable experience. Besides all this, you can also experience short boating trips on a clear day, even thous swimming is not allowed to avoid polluting crystal clear water. After enjoying and capturing the marvelous views in your camera you’ll walk towards the teahouse for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Trek from Rara Lake to Pina (2440 m/ 8006 ft) 4-5 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
On this day, leaving behind beautiful pristine Rara Lake you’ll trek towards Pina. Today’s walk is around 4-5 hours and quite pleasant until you reach Gamgadhi, a headquarter of the Mugu District. Further, you’ll follow the beautiful forest trail to Jhyari Khola. And after short uphill walks take you through the pine forest to Pina (2,440 meters). Overnight stay in the teahouse of Pina village.
Day 12: Trek from Pina to Bumra (2850 m/9351 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
On this day, after having breakfast you’ll leave Pina for Bumra. The trail is downhill and leads through Ghurchi Langna Pass at an altitude of 3,480 meters. This is the highest point of the trek. You can see colorful prayer flags and from the top of the pass, you can see the beautiful Karnali river. After enjoying the view, you’ll continue your trek down to Bulbule. From Bulbule, you’ll move towards the south and continue through the small settlement around Chautha. After 5-6 hours of walk, you’ll reach a beautiful village in Burma (2,850 meters) for an overnight stay. This village is also called as Nauri Ghat.
Day 13: Trek ends: Bumra to Jumla (2540 m/8334 ft) 5-6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
On this day, you’ll start your trek early in the morning from Bumra village. Enjoying the final day of your Rara Lake Trekking you’ll cross two suspension bridges over Hima River. After a few hours of downhill walk, you’ll reach hot spring. Here you can take a bath and relax your body. After spending some time in hot spring, you’ll cross Danphe Lagna Pass at 3,691 meters. You’ll continue your trek and reach Chere Chaur. From this village you’ll walk on the same trail you took a few days back. Finally, after 5-6 hours of walk, you’ll reach Jumla (2,540 meters) for an overnight stay.
Day 14: Fly to Nepalgunj, fly to Kathmandu.
On this day, early in the morning, you’ll fly back to Nepalgunj from Jumla. After reaching Nepalgunj, you’ll again catch a flight back to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Upon your arrival at International Airport, you’ll get transfer to the respective hotel. In the evening, you can stroll around the nearby famous tourist hub, Thamel. Here you can celebrate the successful completion of the Rara Lake Trek. You can also do last-minute shopping. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 15: Final departure.
Nepal International Tours & Treks representative will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure approximately 3 hours earlier than your flight scheduled time. Have a safe journey!
Cost Included
- Pick up from the airport and transfer to hotel
- Accommodation in Kathmandu in a 3-star level hotel.
- Half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu.
- Flight ticket from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
- Flight ticket from Nepalgunj to Jumla
- A professional Sherpa Guide with Government License
- Sherpa porter who will carry your baggage (2 people 1 sherpa porter)
- Food during Trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- All Accommodation during Trekking (Tea House/ Camping)
- Restricted Area Permit
- Necessary Trekking permits
- TIMS (Trekkers Information Management system card)
- Necessary Equipment (sleeping bag and Down Jacket)
- Food, salary Transport, clothing for Guide and Porter
- Insurance for Guide and Porter
- Emergency Rescue Help (covered by your travel insurance)
- Flight ticket from Jumla to Nepalgunj
- Flight ticket from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
- Government tax and service charge.
- All program as per Itinerary
- Airport departure.
Cost Excluded
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Any kinds of Drinks (soft and Hard Drinks)
- Visa, international flight ticket
- Personal Nature expenses
- Tips for Staffs.
- Rescue and Evacuation cost
- All special accommodation.