Rara Lake is situated about 370 Kilometers, north-west of Kathmandu, Rara is Nepal's smallest and most scenic national park that covers 106 square Kilometers. Much of the park is at an altitude of about 3,000 meters forested by conifers. The park was established in 1976 and protects some of the most beautiful alpine and sub-alpine ecosystems of the Himalayas.
Jumla to Rara Lake has been a popular destination with off the beaten trekking route in far western Karnali region of Nepal for wilderness trekking lovers. The glimpses of culture and scenery on the way are quite different from the rest of Nepal. Located in high altitude, you can find the lake surrounded by Rara National Park with pine, spruce and juniper forest. The view of snow –capped Himalayan peaks enhances the attraction of visitors. Our trek to Rara Lake from Jumla begins with a flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu. This most incredible and fascinating trip to Rara Lake lies northwest of Kathmandu in the remote area of karnali. The route is very much 'off the beaten path' and offers experiencing unique cultures and scenery very different from the rest of Nepal.
Our trip to the Nepal's biggest Rara Lake is ringed with blue pine, black juniper forest and Himalayan cypress is well liked for its serenity. Rara Lake lies at an altitude of 2,990 m) above sea level, has a water surface of 10.8 km2 (4.2 sq mi), a maximum depth of 167 m) is 5.1 km (3.2 mi) long and 2.7 km (1.7 mi) wide. It drains into the Mugu karnali River via the Nijar River. The area is designated a Rara National Park in 1976, the environs of Rara Lake are also home to several rare and protected species including Himalayan black bear, musk deer, goral, Himalayan Thar and wild boar. The park is also a bird watcher's delight, especially during November and April when many species of birds visit during their seasonal migration. Our carefully design itinerary makes a circuit trekking to Rara Lake from Jumla via the village of Patmara, Chautha and Jhyari; a Thakuri village and walk back to Jumla through the villages of Gorusingha, Sija and Jaljala fulfills your dream of exploring untouched authentic Nepal village life and wilderness experience to the less touristy area, this trek will delight both the first time trekker and the seasoned veteran of Himalyan travel.
Highlights
- Authentic culture, abundant wildlife and uncrowned trails.
- Spectacular setting of Rara Lake beneath, snow-capped Himalayas.
- Pristine forests, high ridges and alpine meadows.
- Trek in Nepal's Wild West country.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 01Arrival to Kathmandu
- Day 02Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu
- Day 03Fly to Nepalgunj close to the Indian border
- Day 04Fly to Jumla (2370m) from Nepalgunj
- Day 05Trek to patmara (2910m) 5-7 hours
- Day 06Trek to Chautha (2,770m) around 6 hours
- Day 07Trek to Jhyari (2635m) 5-6 hours
Trip Photos
Useful info
Best Season
This area receives heavy rainfall during monsoon so we do not recommend the monsoon ( period for this trek. The best times to trek are the spring season (mid-February to May) or in the autumn (October to med-December). During winter it is extremely cold, but the skies are generally blue and the views crystal clear. The Rhododendrons will flower in spring, generally in March and April and this is a consideration for your travel times as the forests are truly stunning in flower.