The Rara Lake trek is an 11-day adventure to Rara Lake (2,990 m), the largest lake in Nepal, in the remote Karnali region of far-west Nepal. Fly via Nepalgunj to Jumla and walk through Thakuri villages, apple orchards, pine and juniper forest and high meadows to the deep blue lake, ringed by the peaks of Rara National Park, the smallest and one of the most beautiful national parks in Nepal.
Few foreigners visit this corner of the country, which gives the trek a rare sense of discovery. It is graded moderate, with the highest point at Murma Top (3,710 m), and is best from April–June and September–November. Flights, permits, a licensed guide, porters and teahouse or homestay accommodation are included.
Quick answer: the Rara Lake trek takes about 11 days from Kathmandu, including flights to Nepalgunj and Jumla, reaches a maximum of 3,710 m at Murma Top, and costs from US$1,390 per person. Rara Lake is Nepal's largest lake (about 10.8 km²) and lies inside Rara National Park in Mugu district.
Rara is called the "Queen of Lakes". Its water changes colour through the day from turquoise to deep sapphire, and in autumn the surrounding forest turns gold. Red pandas, Himalayan black bears and musk deer live in the park, and migrating birds visit the lake in winter. The trek from Jumla passes through villages where Hindu Thakuri and Chhetri culture has changed little over centuries.
| Trip fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 11 days from Kathmandu (7 days of trekking) |
| Maximum altitude | Murma Top, 3,710 m |
| Rara Lake | 2,990 m, about 10.8 km², up to 167 m deep |
| Grade | Moderate |
| Flights | Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Jumla; Talcha – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu |
| Permit | Rara National Park permit |
| Best time | April–June and September–November |
| Cost | From US$1,390 per person |
It is moderate, with 5–7 hours of walking a day and passes around 3,500 m. Lodges are basic and sometimes homestays, so an adventurous attitude helps. Flights in western Nepal are weather-dependent, and we build in flexibility.
September–November gives clear skies and golden forests; April–June brings wildflowers and green meadows. Winter snow closes the passes, and the monsoon affects flights.
If you can walk 15 km with a few hundred metres of climbing and do it again the next day, you are in good shape for this trek. Start training two to three months ahead, and break in your boots before you fly.
This trek reaches 3,710 m at Murma Top, with nights around 3,000 m. Symptoms of acute mountain sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite and poor sleep. Walk slowly, drink 3–4 litres of water a day, avoid alcohol and tell your guide about any symptoms. If symptoms get worse, descending is the most effective treatment. Talk to your doctor before the trip about whether altitude medication is right for you.
Days are pleasant in spring and autumn; nights at Rara are cold, near freezing in October and below in November. Western Nepal is drier than the east.
Jumla and Talcha flights use small aircraft with a baggage limit of about 10–15 kg. Weather delays are common, so keep one or two spare days.
The Rara National Park permit is included.
Take out cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before you set off: there are very few ATMs on the trail, and the ones that exist often don't work. Lodges charge a little for hot showers, charging and Wi-Fi, so a power bank saves money.
Bring a refillable bottle and either purification tablets or a filter. Lodges also sell boiled water, which is cheaper and better for the trail than bottled water.
Travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover trekking to 4,000 m, medical treatment and emergency helicopter evacuation. Please send us your policy details before departure.
Most visitors get a tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport, or apply online before they fly. Your passport needs six months' validity, and bring a few passport photos for trekking permits.
Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.
More trip options, quoted on request:
In Mugu district in the Karnali Province of far-west Nepal, inside Rara National Park.
Yes. Rara Lake covers about 10.8 km² and is the largest lake in Nepal.
About 11 days from Kathmandu, including flights and 7 days of trekking.
Moderate, with 5–7 hours of walking a day and a maximum of 3,710 m.
Our package costs from US$1,390 per person, including all domestic flights, permit, guide, porters and meals on the trek.
Fly to Nepalgunj and Jumla and trek, or fly to Talcha airport near the lake. Rara can also be reached by a long road journey.
September–November and April–June.
Yes, the Rara National Park permit, included.
Basic teahouses and homestays exist on most stages; tents may be used at Chere Chaur.
Yes, by flying to Talcha and walking about an hour to the lake; ask us for a short Rara tour.
Red pandas, black bears, musk deer, Himalayan tahr and many birds.
Yes, for travellers who want pristine nature and a remote side of Nepal few tourists see.
