Rara Lake Trek
Based on 1 Reviews
Rara Lake Trek Summary
- Trek Days: 13 Days
- High Altitude: 4,090m/13,419 feet
- Trekking Hour: 4 Hours
- Group-Size: 2 – 15 People
- Best Time for Rara: March, April, May, October, November and December
- Trip Mode: Tent Accommodation
- Meals on Trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Transportation: Car/Plane
Overview
Rara Lake Trek is one of Nepal’s most enchanting trekking adventures, celebrated for its pristine alpine beauty and panoramic Himalayan views. Folded away in the remote Mugu district, Rara Lake is revered as the ‘Queen of Lakes’ and offers unmatched serenity and breathtaking natural charm. Its turquoise waters, surrounded by lush forests and snowy peaks, create a dreamlike setting rich in biodiversity.
Known also as Mahendra Lake, it is Nepal’s largest freshwater lake and a true hidden gem. Beyond the landscapes, the trek immerses visitors in authentic Himalayan culture, providing a deep connections with traditional village life.
Usually, this journey begins in Jumla’s Khalanga Bazaar, meandering through peaceful forests and untouched villages. Alternatively, for a quicker route, travelers can take a flight from Kathmandu to Talcha Airport via Nepalgunj, reaching the region in a single day.
Trek to Rara is moderately challenging, featuring steep ascents and occasional altitude related demands. Trekkers require a trekking permit to enter into the Rara National Park, possible to purchase either in Jumla or in Kathmandu.
Lodging includes basic guesthouses near the lake, while camping offers a true wilderness retreat. Don’t miss a hike to Murma Hill at 3,690 meters and it rewards trekkers with extensive views over Rara Lake and its surrounding landscapes.
From September to November and April to May months are the best time for Rara lake trek in Nepal. During the months, the skies are clear, rainfall is minimal, and the mountain views are at their finest. However, whether in peak season or quieter months, Rara Lake promises a peaceful, off the beaten path Himalayan experience you won’t forget.
How much is the Rara Trek Package Cost/Price?
The Rara trek cost with a local trekking agency in Nepal ranges between US$ 1375 to US$ 1999 per person. However, this figure price includes transportation, a guide/porters, hotels and food accommodation and trek permits. Total cost of this package will vary according to the group size you are traveling to and the means of transport you choose.
If you’re traveling as a couple or with at least one companion, we highly recommend a private tour for a more personalize experience. Unlike group tours, private trips offer better flexibility, comfort, and a deeper connection to your journey. Moreover, they allow you to avoid traveling with unfamiliar groups. For those who value customization, attention to detail, and exclusive service, a private trek is the ideal choice.
It’s a standard trip package price for 13 days trek to Rara Lake route. If you are 2 people, Rara Lake Trek cost US$ 1695 per person as per outlined itinerary. We can modify the trek route and the prices according to your wishes also. Here is the price list for 13 days Rara treks in Nepal.
Price Per Person for Rara Lake Trek package for 2025 and 2026.
| Number of Tourist | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | US$ 1999 |
| 2 Person | US$ 1695 |
| 3 Person | US$ 1650 |
| 4 to 6 person | US$ 1498 |
| 7 to 9 Person | US$ 1450 |
| 10 and more than 10 Person | US$ 1375 |
If you’re wondering to know about what is included and what is excluded from this trip price, kindly check on the cost given on a tab button.
Itinerary
Rara Lake Trek itinerary details
This express Rara Lake Trek itinerary has a rare chance to explore Nepal’s far western region. It delivers a unique experience, unlike most other treks. Begins the route from Jumla and is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful adventure. If you’re short on time, we can design a custom itinerary to match your schedule and preferences.
1 Day Arrival in Kathmandu valley. Kathmandu World Heritage sites seeing (1,348m), 5 hours.We welcome you upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, and transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Its a vibrant tourist hub of the city. During the day, we will review your gear and discuss all essential details to ensure you are fully prepared for your Rara Lake adventure.
After enjoying a delightful lunch, you will embark on a tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include the majestic Boudhanath Stupa, the largest in Nepal, and the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, a revered Hindu shrine. Continues to Kathmandu Durbar Square and Asan Tole, where you can experience one of Nepal’s oldest and most bustling markets. Concluding the day, we will provide a comprehensive briefing about the Rara Lake hiking tour and answer of your last minute questions.
Check Nepalgunj airport flight status and weather. Our Guide will follow the Nepalgunj airport departures as there are two flights from each airline. Normally Nepalgunj to Kathmandu flight price is Nrs 5,500 [Nepali price] and US$ 149 [foreign price] for a single way flight.
We take an hour’s flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj city of west Nepal. Nepalgunj is a big town that is also a gateway to Simikot of Humla. This town itself is an interesting Terai town of Nepal with influences from both the Nepal hills and plains well as local Hindu & Muslim cultures. Get experience visiting some sightseeing places in Nepalgunj with our guide. We prepare for your flight to Jumla Airport the next morning.
After breakfast, proceed to take a flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla. Jumla is one of the remote and less developed Karnali regions of Nepal that situated at an altitude on 2,540m takes only 20 minutes of flight journey from Nepalgunja airport.
As you fly, you’ll feel the dramatic change in the landscape from the plain land of Terai to the hilly landscape of Jumla. Likewise, Jumla is a gateway exploring Rara Lake at 27.6 kilometers distance.
It is the main headquarters entire Jumla districts. Its an easy journey goes through the beautiful forested region and we get to witness the cultural delights of rural Nepal, which are extraordinarily unusual and fascinating. You’ll spend a whole day exploring around Jumla Bazaar including Chandan Nath temple for the acclimatization purpose.
Pack your hiking gears and start your trek from Jumla to Chere Chaur, at 3,055 meters. Today is your first day of the trek so you need to slowly ascend. 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.
We follow the western trails and make a slowly ascend through beautiful rhododendron, birch, and pine forests of Jaljala Pass at 3,580m. Jaljala Pass has a stupendous view of Kanjiroba Himal. You’ll cross the pass and continue your journey through a pristine trail.
A few hours of hikes we reach at a summer grazing pastures of Jaljala Chaur. Entering at Jaljala, you are in the Rara Circuit trail and reach Chala Chaur at 2,980 meters where we stay for that night.
You’ll head towards Sinja Valley, a remote village situated at the bank of Hima River. Trail passes through several small settlements and Jaljala River to reach Sinja Valley. Sinja Valley is situated at an elevation of 2,490 meters, an impressive place is the capital of the Malla Dynasty from the 12th – 14th century. Thus, this Sinja canyon offers numerous ancient temples and places to explore to the trekkers on their hikes.
Get a glorious view of entire Sinja valley and leave Sinja for Ghorosingha. We continue to follow the upper trail and head east to reach Laha. From Laha the trek continues to the small settlement of Gani and follow the steep trail to reach Ghorosingha where we stop our hike to stay overnight.
Start the journey with a steep climb along the side of Chucharmare Danda where you’ll get fabulous view of Mountains including the deep blue serene Rara Lake with surrounding green hills. Enjoying the natural scenery, now you’ll enter into a forested trail and continue your yatra until you reach Majhghat and follow Khatyar river and reach Chhapri village.
Chapri is a headquarter of the Rara National Park and your dream destination to Rara Lake. Upon your arrival, you can admire the close up view of a tranquil lake and lush vegetation of Rara National Park.
As we arrive at Rara lakeside, you can do the boat ride to watch birds, corners of lakes, mountains and herbal plants, etc.. on the most pristine lake of a widespread lake is a fascinating experience. Overnight in Rara Guesthouse at Rara Lake.
Wake up early in the morning to get impressive sunrise on Rara lake. Fewer hikers forget to capture the amazing Rara sunrise view while sleeping longer. Explore the lake and of it’s surroundings and ascend roughly 2 hours up Chuchemara Hill at 4,090m. It would be impressive hike to explore entire Rara Lakes.
From this hill, you can get almost the best view of exploring Rara on all sides. In the north direction, you can see some white mountains backdrop to Rara Lake and the lush vegetation of Rara National Park. You can also see the beautiful green hills in the middle of stunning Rara Lake, and on your own, you could see the mesmerizing view of the lake itself. After Chhuchemara hill station hiking, we begin to study around the nearby vicinity.
Rara Lake 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. Hike to Murma Hill takes about 7 hours for a round trip.
Apart from all this, you can also experience a boat trip in a clear day, even though swimming is not allowed to avoid polluting crystal clear water. Capturing the marvelous views we will walk back to the campsite to stay overnight.
Walk to Gamgadi today is a pleasant, situated at an altitude on 2,086, and a headquarter of the Mugu District. Perhaps we will take a lunch and continue to follow the nature trail to Jhyari Khola. A short uphill climbs take you through the pine forest to Pina village where we stay for overnight.
Later breakfast, our journey leads downhill through Ghurchi Langna Pass at 3,480m which is the highest point of the entire trekking journey. Travelers can see can see multiple color prayer flags and the beautiful Karnali river.
Continue to walk downhill to Bulbule from here, you’ll move towards the south and continue through the small settlement around Chautha. Finally, reach at Bumra Madichour (2,850m), commonly spoken as a Nauri Ghat to stay at campsite.
It’s a final day of Rara trekking, so cross the two suspension bridges over Hima River. A few hours of hikes take you to hot spring where travelers can take a bath and relax your body. After spending some time in hot spring, you’ll cross Danphe Lagna Pass (3,691m/12,110 feet) and continue to reach Chere Chaur. A scenic village Chere Chaur is a place where we touch the main trail that we used on ascend a few days before.
Finally we reach at the camping site of Jumla at 2,540m and reconfirm the flight to Nepalgunj for next morning. Likewise, the travelers can invite their trekking crew for a little gathering on the final day of the trek. Guest can give tip for guide, and porters to cover the expenses as appreciation as a gratitude to the crew for their support and hard work throughout the journey.
Check the flight schedule and most probably you will fly with 18 seater twin otter aircraft to Nepalgunj city. On our arrival in Nepalgunj Airport, we mange a connecting flight back to Kathmandu town probably with ATR Aircrafts [ATR 42 (carry 42 passengers) and ATR 72 (78 passengers)] with aircraft crew members.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel.
You can spend the evening leisurely, perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping and celebrate dinner together with us. Overnight at Kathmandu, and the trip ends. Wishing you a wonderful journey back home the next morning.
Not satisfied with above plan?
Interested on planning a custom trip? this might take 2 to 3 minutes.
Cost
How much is the Rara lake trek package price?
13 days trek to Rara lake package price US$ 1695 is a standard package on a double occupancy basis. If you prefer to travel in luxury, the cost of the Rara trek will vary based on the services you select. For a deluxe experience, we include accommodations in a 4 to 5 star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Similarly, a 3 to 4 star air-conditioned deluxe room with breakfast is arranged near Nepalgunj Airport. Additionally, we are happy to customize your Rara tour package to suit your specific needs and preferences.
Includes in the Rara lake trek package price:
- Kathmandu international airport transfer by private car on your arrival.
- Domestic airport transfer in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj airport with a private taxi/car.
- Kathmandu city world heritage sites tour guide with a private car transfer service.
- 2 nights Tourist standard accommodation in a double bed basis in Kathmandu.
- Single night Tourist standard hotel accommodation double bed room in Nepalgunj airport.
- 12 Breakfast, 11 Lunch, and 11 Dinner during the trekking.
- 10 Nights outdoor tent accommodation during the wild west mountains Rara route.
- Domestic/local flights: Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Jumla- Nepalgunj – Kathmandu as a round trip airfare with airport departure taxes.
- Fully escorted trek with English-speaking license holder local guide for Rara route.
- Professional cook and necessary porters on Rara camping days.
- Rara national park entrance permit fee
- Mugu restricted area entrance permit fee US$ 100 per person per week.
- TIMS permit for Rara trekking in Nepal.
- Travel Insurance, Food, accommodation, and salary of Nepali trekking Guide.
- Trip completion certificate and updated rara trek map, keep it as a souvenir.
- Agency’s duffel bag (50 liters capacity), and trek poles if Necessary – return after the trek.
- First aid medical kit including Oximeter to check your Oxygen level, Pulse rate to monitor every day to prepare for high altitude risk.
- In a worst case, help with all Helicopter Rescue and evacuation arrangements (but not the rescue bills).
- Nepal Government Tax, VAT, and as well as Company service charge.
Excludes in the Rara Lake Trekking Package Price:
- Lunch and Dinner during the staying in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj city.
- Any kinds of battery charges, laundry service, phone calls, and hot showers during the trekking.
- Tourist personal trekking equipment and Clothing.
- -10 comfort fresh Sleeping bag rental cost per piece US$ 2 per day.
- Personal nature expenses, all types of drinks, and bar bills.
- Travel Insurance which covers emergency rescue, evacuation, personal loss, or damage.
- All types of donations to the monastery and gifts for the monks.
- Gratuities for guide and porters [Tip is a culture, so they expect highly].
Group join
We can organize a private Rara lake trek starting on any date that works for you. We usually check a cheap flights based Nepalgunj Airport and comfort rooms nearby airport to our tourists. Likewise, Rara trek is short therefore University students often visit rara trail on their university holidays. However, contact us to know about group join or a private trip to Rara.
FAQ
Question: Is pick up service available on my arrival day in Kathmandu?
Answer: Yes sure. Provide us with your flight details. Our representative will come to pick up you at Kathmandu international airport.
Question: Do I need the experience for my trek to Rara Lake?
Answer: While prior trekking experience is helpful in the Himalayas however, a trek to Rara Lake is an easy trek best for beginner hikers. It involves some steep sections are a little difficult but not the challenging, thus, a basic level of fitness and preparation is fine for this hikes.
Question: What kind of accommodation and food can I expect on my trip to Rara lake?
Answer: We provides tourist standard accommodation in Nepalgunja airport. Likewise tent accommodation along the journey from Jumla to Rara Lake. However, we recommend you take your own sleeping bags if you have one with you otherwise, you may rent them while you are in Kathmandu.
Our professional cook prepares a delicious range of mostly vegetarian such as Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, curry dal rice, bread, soups, and fresh vegetables. Dinner and breakfast are provided in the same campsite you spend the night every day and Lunch will be provided on the way to the next place where you hikes.
Question: Will I have a shower along Rara Lake Treks?.
Answer: Since you will be camping outdoors overnight, we can provide warm water in a bucket for you to use for a shower.
Question: How do I manage to drink water on my journey to Rara Lake?
Answer: In most places, you can buy bottled mineral water to drink but we advise against buying mineral water in plastic bottles, as currently there are no provisions for disposing of these. Instead, we advise you to buy aqua tablets so you can purify the normal water as the normal water is available at the campsite or on trek route.
Question: Can I charge my mobile phone or a digital camera battery on my trip?.
Answer: Travelers often find a local houses or home stays to charge phone or camera. We recommend you bring an extra pair in case or take a portable power bank along with you and remember to bring your own adapters!
Question: Are there any communication facilities on Rara lake trekking?.
Answer: Communication facilities are limited on the Rara Lake Trek. While some areas may have basic mobile coverage, it’s best to prepare yourself for a limited connectivity.
Question: When should I book my trip and what are the payment terms?.
Answer: Our tours book up months in advance, we recommend booking as early as possible. We will, of course, make every effort to accommodate last minute bookings. Regarding the tour deposit, we prefer a 20% advance deposit of the total price of the trip in order to confirm your reservation before you arrive in Nepal. And the rest of the payment can be made after your arrival in Nepal.
Question: Who will carry my luggage on my express Rara Trekking with a guide?.
Answer: We do provide porters to transfer your luggage from town. As a responsible trekking operator company, each of our porter will carry a maximum of 24 kilos of your backpack which means 2 guest luggage = 1 porter basis.
Question: How much distance do I walk each day?
Answer: When trekking in the mountains, daily walking distances can vary significantly depending on the gradient, terrain, and altitude. Therefore, it’s challenging to provide exact distances for each day. However, you should be prepared to walk for approximately 5 hours daily on average.
Question: How to reach Rara lake Quickest?
Answer: Talcha plane terminal is another particularly problematic air terminal for landing and taking off in view of its exceptional geographical territory. It’s close to nothing (clearly for STOL) a bit of inclination detests Lukla. As a result of the closeness of the mountain nose at the north side of the runway, the plane should turn legitimately when it takes off and ought to arrive the same way (Can’t go straightforwardly to the runway from far away).
Likewise, from Jumla airport you may either take a bus or jeep to reach Gamgadhi, the district headquarters of Mugu. And from there it is about five hour hike to the lake. It is also possible to trek from Jumla to Rara lake but allow 3 to 5 days of hikes.
However, the easiest way to travel to Rara lake is to take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalganj and take another domestic flight from Nepalganj to Tancha (Mugu) airport and walk all the way to Rara Lake.
Question: Do I need walking poles for Rara camping trekking?
Answer: For rara lake hiking, trek poles are recommended but not mandatory.
Question: How much additional money do I need per day?
Answer: You should budget approximately USD 10 to 15 for purchasing items such as mineral water and chocolates, depending on your spending habits. Since the trek traverses remote and wilderness areas, it is advisable to carry Nepali rupees for any additional expenses. Please note that credit card payment options are not available.
Jumla to Rara lake trek highlights
- Research wild west rara uncrowded hiking trail and its hidden beauties staying in campsites.
- Discover the far western Himalayas and experienced the wilderness off the beaten path trail.
- Excellent views of Rara lake and its surrounding.
- Undergo the Natural beauty of Rara lake is like a queen of opera
- Encounter the mixed ethnic group people of west Nepal and their culture and tradition.
Best time to visit Rara Lake.
The best time to explore the Rara Lake Trek in Nepal is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons provides a stable weather, crystal clear skies, and comfortable temperatures perfect for trekking in remote wilderness.
In spring, the trail bursts with colorful rhododendrons and wildflowers, creating a truly magical journey. Meanwhile, autumn brings crisp mountain air and mirror like reflections of the Himalayas on the lake’s turquoise surface.
Unlike winter’s harsh cold and monsoon’s heavy rains and leeches, spring and autumn ensure better visibility, safer trails, and more enjoyable trekking conditions. For an unforgettable experience in one of Nepal’s most unspoiled alpine sanctuaries, these two seasons are the ideal time to visit.
Difficult level and require physical fitness.
Trekking to Rara Lake is a moderately challenging adventure, perfect for those seeking remote wilderness and unspoiled natural beauty. It has unique off the beaten path location demands long walking days and physical resilience, especially with limited infrastructure along the trail.
Although the altitude is moderate 2,990 meters (9,810 feet), you’ll face multiple ascents and descents that test your stamina. Rugged terrain can turn muddy or slippery after rainfall, so strong balance and leg strength are key.
Technical skills are not necessary, but trekkers should have in good shape, able to hike 5 to 7 hours a day for several days. For a safer and more enriching experience, it’s wise to trek with a licensed local guide, ensuring better acclimatization and cultural insights.
Notes for Rara National Park Visitors
The information stated above Rara lake trekking is a standard package trip, possible to modify at your request to accommodate your specific needs. Local politics, landslides, cancellation of local flights, weather, transport, or a multitude of other factors that are beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary during on trip.
It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered. If alterations are necessary the leader will decide the best alternative option, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. When a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.
What makes wild west Rara lake trek special?
Wild West Rara Lake Trek is exceptionally special for visitors due to its remote and untouched natural beauty. It offers an unique opportunity to explore one of Nepal’s most pristine and least visited regions, featuring crystal clear waters, lush forests, and snowy capped mountains. Trek also provides a rare chance to experience local culture in isolated villages, away from the typical tourist routes, making it a truly immersive and tranquil adventure.
At Gokyo Treks and Expedition, we specialize smaller group tours to Rara Lake, ensuring top quality service. Your safety and success are our top priorities. Our team consists of professional, experienced, and licensed local guides with unmatched knowledge of the region. Beyond adventure, we support local communities and promote environmental conservation, reducing costs and resource consumption for a more sustainable journey.
Rara Lake Trek Review
Beautiful Rara Lake trek with Nepali Gokyo Agency Friends
Finally…. we did our Rara lake Trekking last month in 2018. It has a long flight journey for us, and it’s really worth…. to see spectacular views all the way and a beautiful area lake. Together with gokyo trek and expedition, we prepare our journey and route, no doubt they have experience and made our trekking much easier. – Lukas Michael, Totanheim, Germany
Response from Gokyo Treks Nepal
Thank you Lucas for your time to post amazing Rara lake trek reports. We hope to serve you again for your next trip to the Himalayas.
From US$ 2040
2% Off US$ 1695| No. of people | Price Per Person |
| 1 | USD 1999 |
| 2 | USD 1695 |
| 3 | USD 1650 |
| 4 - 6 | USD 1498 |
| 7 - 9 | USD 1450 |
| 10 + | USD 1375 |
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