Rara trekking in Nepal

Rara trekking in Nepal

Rara Lake trekking lies in the remote Karnali region in the west high mountains of Nepal and is the centrepiece of the Rara Lake National Park. Rara Lake situated at an elevation of 2990 m is Nepal’s largest lake (10.8 sq. km). It is a clear blue mountain lake with juniper, spruce and pine trees along its shores and snow capped peaks in the distance. Rara park is Nepal's smallest protected area, comprising an area of 106 sq. km. Rara Lake is also known as Mahendra Tal is oval-shaped with an east-west axis, and has a maximum length of 5 km and a width of 3 km. surrounded by magnificent conifer forests. Its radiant blue waters are home to the snow trout (Schizothorax arenas sinuatus), the only fish recorded in the lake. During winter, bird lovers can enjoy many migratory birds. In summer, Himalayan flowers surround the lake, creating a colorful landscape. The snow-capped summits of Roma Kand (3731m) and Malika Kand (3444m) located on the northern side of the lake; provide beautiful views of the lake to the south, and the beautiful Mugu-Kamali River valley to the north. Murma Peak also provides an excellent view of the park area. The lake drains to the Mugu-Kamali River via Nijar Khola.

The majority of the vegetation in the park is dominated by blue pine. Interspersed amongst the pines, are several species of rhododendrons. Blue pines, herbs, marshlands, and tussock grasslands inhabit the area surrounding the lake. In the Nisa Khola Valley pine and spruce give way to mixed woodland containing walnuts and Himalayan popular. Rhododendron, fir, oak, and birch species can be found in the subalpine region. Common plant species include fir, pine, and birch, rhododendron, hemlock, oak, juniper and spruce. The trekking area is home to around 20 different species of mammals. They include Musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Leopard, Jackal, Himalayan Tahr, Yellow throated marten, Otter, Wild dog, Common Langur, Rhesus macaque and Red panda. It has recorded 214 species of birds. Some of the important species include coots, snow cock, and different species of pheasants, grebes, mallard, common teal, red-crested Pochard and gulls. During winter, many migratory birds join the resident gallinaceous birds. Climatically, summer is pleasant. However, winter is quite cold. The best time of year for Rara trek is September/October and April to May. December through March, the temperature drops to below freezing, and heavy snowfalls occur up to one meter, closing high passes. April to June is warm, but the season gives way to the monsoon season-June to August.

We fly into Jumla and the first part of the trek takes us through forests and over alpine meadows with herds of sheep and goats. After three days we reached the stunning Rara Lake with fantastic views of Dolpo and Tibetan mountains across the deep blue water (167 m deep). We spend a day exploring the area with abundant wildlife and enjoy the quiet beaches and the views. The four-day return trek to Jumla takes us through remote villages and alpine pastures with great views of the mountain ranges on the border of Tibet and southern part of Humala and fly back to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu. It is possible to 4W drive directly from Kathmandu to Rara Lake within 2-3 days.

Day by day itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel & welcome dinner in the evening.

Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu city & prepares your trekking.

Day 03: Kathmandu to Nepaljung by flight or by Bus, overnight hotel.

Day 04: Fly to Jumla (2370m), overnight camp/basic tea house.

Day 05: Jumla to Chere (3100m), overnight camp/basic tea house, 5 hours.

Day 06: Chere to Nyawre (3000m), overnight camp/basic tea house, 5 hours.

Day 07: Nyawre to Chautha (2770m), overnight camp/basic tea house, 4/6 hours.

Day 08: Chautha to Dhotu (2380m), overnight camp/basic tea house, 4/6 hours.

Day 09: Dhotu to Rara Lake (2980m), overnight camp/basic tea house, 5/6 hours.

Day 10: Rara Lake to Gorusingha, overnight camp/basic tea house, 5 hours.

Day 11: Gorusingha to Sinja, overnight camp/basic tea house, 4/5 hours.

Day 12: Sinja to Jaljala Chour, overnight camp/basic tea house, 6 hours.

Day 13: Jaljala Chour to Jumla, overnight camp/basic tea house, 4/6 hours.

Day 14: Jumla flight to Nepaljung then fly back to Kathmandu, overnight lodge/hotel.

Day 15: Sightseeing in ancient city of Bhaktapur. Farewell Dinner in the evening.

Day 16: Final Departure or next trip.