Overview:

Far West Nepal is naturally gifted in all aspects. From towering peaks and green hills to the Terai flatlands, the western region of Nepal attracts many tourists from all over the world. There are numerous trekking destinations in this region, and the famous Rara Lake also lies in this region. Located inside the Rara National Park, the lake sits at an altitude of almost 3000 meters above sea level.

Established in 1979, Rara National Park is located in the Mugu district in northwest Nepal. It is swathed in vast expanses of coniferous forests, with the snow-laden peaks of the Himalayas as a backdrop for the ages. Rara Lake is one of the bluest waters in the world, yet it shows three different colors in a day, and the background of the lake also keeps changing. The trek begins with a flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu. Through the trail, you pass many small valleys and changing landscapes.

The trek to Rara is one of the most in-demand treks in Nepal. The remoteness of the lake’s location is one of the highlights of this trek. Let’s embark on this majestic trek and look into some important details about the Rara Lake trek.

What Mode of Transport Is Suitable:

  • Private Vehicles: If you’re planning to trek to Rara Lake, you can use your private vehicle or public transport. The cost of private vehicles will be significantly higher than public transport. Starting from Kathmandu, you can reach Nepalgunj on the first day. On the second day, you’ll reach Jumla via Surkhet. From Jumla, you’ll walk to Rara Lake. If you plan on taking your vehicle, you have to fuel up the vehicle. This will increase your total cost for the trek. However, you may have more control over your trek and how you travel because of your private vehicle.
  • Public Transport: If you’re planning to trek to Rara, it is advised to choose public transport. This includes taking a flight to Nepalgunj and then traveling in a public bus to Jumla. This option will save you significantly as you’ll save time traveling to Nepalgunj. It is also a more practical option due to the road conditions up to Jumla.

Some Useful Info For this trek:

  • Trek Duration: This trek can take anywhere from 10 to 12 days, depending on the mode of transport you choose and your itinerary. This can also depend on the route you choose.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring- This season is perfect for clear views of the mountains and the blooming of flowers. Autumn- This time is best for stable weather and clear skies. Avoid the monsoon season due to slippery trails and leeches. Winter is also a bad season to trek due to heavy snowfall in the area.
  • Difficulty level: The trek to Rara can be strenuous at some point but is relatively easier overall. With 4-5 hours of daily walking, this trek doesn’t require previous hiking or trekking experience.
  • Altitude: Altitude sickness can be a major problem around this region. Be sure to carry altitude sickness medications for this trek.
  • Permits: You need permits to enter the National Park. Different charges are charged according to your nationality.
Sinja Valley
Sinja Valley (Source: Wikipedia Commons)

 

Highlights of The Rara Trek:

  • Rara Lake: This bluish lake, situated at an elevation of 3000 meters, is one of the largest lakes in Nepal. This lake is serene and picturesque.
  • Stunning Trekking Trails: Along the way, you can enjoy scenic trails meandering through beautiful valleys, waterfalls, and small settlements.
  • Unexplored Culture: The culture around this place has not been explored much.
  • Less Crowded Trail: The trek to Rara is one of the most underrated in Nepal, and the trails usually have few people on them.
  • National Park: You can enjoy a beautiful walk inside the Rara National Park, which is rich in biodiversity.

Itinerary of the Trek:

  1. Day 1: Fly to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu—Take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and stay the night there.
  2. Day 2: Nepalgunj to Jumla—Take a bus from Kathmandu to Jumla. This journey can take around 12 hours.
  3. Day 3: Jumla to Charachaur- Trek from Jumla through Jaljala la pass, and eventually, you’ll reach Charachaur village.
  4. Day 4: Chalachaur to Sinja Valley- The trek to Sinja follows the Jaljal Khola downstream.
  5. Day 5: Sinja to Ghorosingha- This is another half-day hike through Ghatte Khola.
  6. Day 6: Ghorosingha to Rara Lake—From Ghorosingha, the trail enters directly into Rara National Park and climbs uphill to Rara Lake.
  7. Day 7: Explore Rara- On the seventh day, you can explore the beautiful Rara Lake and its surroundings.
  8. Day 8: Rara to Pina- The trek continues downhill to Pina.
  9. Day 9: Pina To Bumra – One final pass, Ghurchi Lagna 3480m, then you ease down to the central valley.
  10. Day 10: Bumra to Jumla—After the walking part of the trek, you drive to Jumla.
  11. Day 11: Jumla to Nepalgunj: Drive from Jumla to Nepalgunj.
  12. Day 12: On the final day, take a flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu.

Facts of this Trek:

  • Elevation: 3000 meters
  • Location: Mugu District, Nepal
  • Trek Duration: 12 days
  • Accommodation: Tea houses and Lodges.

Also Read: Badimalika Trek: An Unforgettable Journey