Rara Lake Trek - 12 Days
General Info
Trip Overview
Rara Lake Trek is one of the incredible journeys to the biggest and most intact lake in Nepal, lying in the remote Karnali region. This lake is often referred to as the "Queen of Lakes," which lies at an altitude of 2,990 meters above sea level, surrounded by lush pine forests and snow-capped peaks. This nature-walk showcases views of still blue waters, breathtaking scenery, and a virgin landscape-one perfect reason to get out for nature and adventure lovers.
It takes one trekking through some of the most isolated villages, rich oak forests, and picturesque alpine pastures that depict a very suggestive style and culture attributed to the native inhabitants, mostly the Thakuri and Tibetan-influenced tribes. It is less crowded compared to other popular treks in Nepal, and the peace and solitude of walking on scenic paths are guaranteed. Additionally, Rara National Park adds a touch of wilderness to the journey, with rare flora and fauna including the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and musk deer.
Let Blaze Mountain create this unforgettable journey for you. Experienced guides, well-planned itineraries, and a dedication to safety and comfort all combine to make every moment of your adventure rewarding. Whether drinking in the pristine waters of Rara Lake trek, soaking up the culture, or embracing the raw beauty of the Himalayas, Blaze Mountain will be there guiding you through memories that will last a lifetime. * Don't dream; do it with Blaze Mountain!
Short Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) – Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be…
- Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing & Trek Preparation – After breakfast, you begin a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley, exploring…
- Day 3: Fly Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m): 55 min flight – After an early breakfast, you take a scenic flight to Nepalgunj, located…
- Day 4: Fly Nepalgunj to Jumla (2,540m) & Trek to Chere Chaur (3,055m) | 5 to 6 hrs trek – Early in the morning, you board a short but highly scenic flight…
- Day 5: Trek Chere Chaur to Chala Chaur (2,980m) | 5 to 6 hrs trek – Todayu2019s trail continues through tranquil alpine forests filled with rhododendron, pine, and…
- Day 6: Trek Chala Chaur to Sinja Valley (2,490m) | 6 to 7 hrs trek – The trail today descends significantly into the historically rich Sinja Valley. You…
- Day 7: Trek Sinja Valley to Ghorosingha (3,050m) | 5 to 6 hrs trek – After breakfast, the trail gradually ascends again through peaceful pine forests and…
- Day 8: Trek Ghorosingha to Rara Lake (2,990m) | 3 to 4 hrs trek – This is the most anticipated day of the trek. After a gentle…
- Day 9: Full Day Exploration at Rara Lake – Today is dedicated entirely to exploring Rara Lake and its surroundings. You…
- Day 10: Trek Rara Lake to Pina Village (2,440m) | 5 to 6 hrs trek – After a peaceful morning by the lake, you begin your return journey.…
- Day 11: Trek to Jumla (3 to 4 hrs) & Fly to Nepalgunj/Kathmandu – Today you continue descending back to Jumla through familiar trails, passing through…
- Day 12: Final Departure
About Trip:
Rara Lake Trek is one of the incredible journeys to the biggest and most intact lake in Nepal, lying in the remote Karnali region. This lake is often referred to as the "Queen of Lakes," which lies at an altitude of 2,990 meters above sea level, surrounded by lush pine forests and snow-capped peaks. This nature-walk showcases views of still blue waters, breathtaking scenery, and a virgin landscape-one perfect reason to get out for nature and adventure lovers.
It takes one trekking through some of the most isolated villages, rich oak forests, and picturesque alpine pastures that depict a very suggestive style and culture attributed to the native inhabitants, mostly the Thakuri and Tibetan-influenced tribes. It is less crowded compared to other popular treks in Nepal, and the peace and solitude of walking on scenic paths are guaranteed. Additionally, Rara National Park adds a touch of wilderness to the journey, with rare flora and fauna including the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and musk deer.
Let Blaze Mountain create this unforgettable journey for you. Experienced guides, well-planned itineraries, and a dedication to safety and comfort all combine to make every moment of your adventure rewarding. Whether drinking in the pristine waters of Rara Lake trek, soaking up the culture, or embracing the raw beauty of the Himalayas, Blaze Mountain will be there guiding you through memories that will last a lifetime. * Don't dream; do it with Blaze Mountain!
Trip Highlights:
- Rara Lake, the largest and most pristine lake in Nepal
- Scenic flights to Nepalgunj and Jumla with Himalayan views
- Peaceful trekking through remote and less-crowded trails
- Exploration of Rara National Park and rich biodiversity
- Chance to spot wildlife like red panda, musk deer, and Himalayan black bear
- Authentic experience of Thakuri and Tibetan-influenced local culture
- Stunning views of snow-capped peaks, forests, and alpine landscapes
- Full day exploration and relaxation at the beautiful Rara Lake
- Traditional villages and untouched natural surroundings along the trail
- A perfect blend of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion.
Best Season for this Trip:
The best time to go on a Rara Lake Trek includes the spring-from March up to May-and autumn from September to November. During these months, the weather conditions are stable, the skies are clear, and this provides a spectacular view over the lake and surrounding landscape. During the spring when rhododendrons bloom with wild flowers, color is vibrant along the hills of this trek. Autumn, with its crisp air and unparalleled clarity of the snow-capped summits, has its own charm for photography and exploration.
Whereas spring and autumn are the seasons when most treks are undertaken, one can also undertake this trek during winter-December to February-if one prefers loneliness and solitude. However, remember that it will be colder, especially at higher altitudes. Where, in June to August, the monsoon period is not very ideal due to the heavy rainfall and slippery trails; it is, on the whole, a greener and more charming time, full of charm for those taking up the challenge. Choosing the right season will ensure a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable trekking experience.
Best Season and Temperature Guide for Rara Lake Trek:
Food and Accommodations on Trip:
Food is simple and sufficient during the Rara Lake Trek, basically comprised of Dal Bhat, a staple Nepali diet that consists of rice, lentils, and vegetables. Apart from that, one may also get noodles, soups, and sometimes even local snacks, all of which help trekkers to keep their energy up. Although variety becomes less in remote areas, tea and coffee are quite available to refresh trekkers. It is a good idea to bring some energy bars, dry fruits, or packed snacks to munch on during the trek.
Basic accommodation en route, teahouses, and lodges offer shared rooms, modest facilities. The stay is warm and friendly but may not provide the required modern amenities. In some cases, homestays are also available for which trekkers can experience the culture in close vicinity. Accommodation: Shared bathrooms, not always with hot water. It is advisable to bring a sleeping bag for comfort on colder nights. Basic as it may be, the hospitality of the locals gives the trek a unique charm.
Includes / Excludes
Includes:
- ✓ Private airport pick-up and drop-off by vehicle
- ✓ 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu (twin sharing) with breakfast
- ✓ Full-day guided sightseeing in Kathmandu
- ✓ Domestic flights: Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Jumla–Kathmandu with airport taxes
- ✓ All meals and accommodation during the Rara Lake Trek
- ✓ Experienced English-speaking government-licensed trekking guide
- ✓ Highly experienced trekking staff and support team
- ✓ All required permits, government procedures, and local taxes
- ✓ Trekking gear: down jacket, sleeping bag, duffel bag, and basic medical kit
- ✓ Travel and rescue arrangements
- ✓ Welcome and farewell dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant
Excludes:
- ✗ International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- ✗ Nepal visa fees
- ✗ Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- ✗ Travel and medical insurance (including emergency evacuation)
- ✗ Hot showers, cold showers, and battery charging during the trek
- ✗ Personal expenses (phone calls, drinks, bar bills, extra porter, etc.)
- ✗ Personal trekking gear and equipment
- ✗ Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
- ✗ Any expenses not mentioned in the “Includes” section
Detailed Itinerary of Rara Lake Trek:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After check-in, you can rest and recover from your journey or take a short walk around the nearby streets depending on your arrival time. In the evening, a detailed trek briefing session will be conducted where your guide will explain the full itinerary, safety procedures, altitude considerations, and answer any questions. This is also the time for a final gear check to ensure you are fully prepared for the trek.
Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing & Trek Preparation
After breakfast, you begin a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley, exploring some of Nepalu2019s most important cultural and spiritual landmarks. You will visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) with its panoramic city views, Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, and the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath. These sites reflect Nepalu2019s deep cultural and religious diversity. In the afternoon, you return to the hotel for final trek preparations including permit processing, packing organization, and equipment distribution. You can also do last-minute shopping for trekking essentials.
Day 3: Fly Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m): 55 min flight
After an early breakfast, you take a scenic flight to Nepalgunj, located in the lowland Terai region near the Indian border. The landscape changes dramatically from mountain valleys to flat, warm plains. Upon arrival, you transfer to your hotel and have the rest of the day free. You can explore local markets, observe the cultural difference of the region, or simply rest in preparation for the mountain flight the next day. This day also helps in gradual acclimatization before heading into higher elevations.
Day 4: Fly Nepalgunj to Jumla (2,540m) & Trek to Chere Chaur (3,055m) | 5 to 6 hrs trek
Early in the morning, you board a short but highly scenic flight to Jumla, one of the most remote districts in western Nepal. The aerial views of hills, valleys, and rugged terrain are breathtaking. After landing, the trek begins immediately. The trail gradually ascends through traditional villages, terraced farmlands, and dense pine forests. You will interact with local communities and observe their simple mountain lifestyle. The walk continues steadily until you reach Chere Chaur, a peaceful grassy ridge area offering beautiful views and a quiet camping atmosphere.
Day 5: Trek Chere Chaur to Chala Chaur (2,980m) | 5 to 6 hrs trek
Todayu2019s trail continues through tranquil alpine forests filled with rhododendron, pine, and juniper trees. The route alternates between gentle ascents and flat ridges, making it a relatively moderate trekking day. You may encounter grazing yaks and small shepherd settlements along the way. The environment becomes increasingly remote and peaceful as you move deeper into the Himalayan wilderness. Chala Chaur is a wide open meadow area surrounded by forest, offering a calm and scenic camping spot under the stars.
Day 6: Trek Chala Chaur to Sinja Valley (2,490m) | 6 to 7 hrs trek
The trail today descends significantly into the historically rich Sinja Valley. You will walk through dense forests, cross small streams, and pass ancient stone paths used for centuries. Sinja Valley is believed to be the birthplace of the Nepali language and was once the capital of the powerful Khasa Kingdom. The area is culturally significant, with ancient ruins and traditional settlements scattered across the valley. The combination of history, culture, and natural beauty makes this a very special day of the trek.
Day 7: Trek Sinja Valley to Ghorosingha (3,050m) | 5 to 6 hrs trek
After breakfast, the trail gradually ascends again through peaceful pine forests and hillside paths. The air becomes cooler and fresher as you gain altitude. The route offers occasional glimpses of distant snow peaks and deep valleys below. Wildlife sightings are possible in this region as you enter the buffer zone of Rara National Park. Ghorosingha is a quiet forested area surrounded by natural beauty, making it an ideal resting point before reaching the lake.
Day 8: Trek Ghorosingha to Rara Lake (2,990m) | 3 to 4 hrs trek
This is the most anticipated day of the trek. After a gentle walk through dense forest trails, you reach a viewpoint from where Rara Lake suddenly appears in full glory. The deep blue waters surrounded by hills and forest create an unforgettable first impression. After spending time at the viewpoint, you descend slightly to reach the lakeside settlement. The rest of the day is spent exploring the lake shore, enjoying the peaceful environment, and soaking in the natural beauty of Nepalu2019s largest lake.
Day 9: Full Day Exploration at Rara Lake
Today is dedicated entirely to exploring Rara Lake and its surroundings. You can take a full circuit hike around the lake, which takes around 5u20136 hours, passing through dense forests, viewpoints, and quiet lakeside paths. The reflections of snow-capped peaks on the calm water create perfect photography opportunities. You may also spot various bird species and enjoy the peaceful silence of nature. This day is all about relaxation, exploration, and connecting deeply with the natural environment.
Day 10: Trek Rara Lake to Pina Village (2,440m) | 5 to 6 hrs trek
After a peaceful morning by the lake, you begin your return journey. The trail descends gradually through alpine forests, ridges, and traditional grazing lands. The changing landscape offers new perspectives of the region you passed earlier. You will see small settlements, yak pastures, and forested hills along the way. Pina Village is a quiet mountain settlement where you spend the night and reflect on the incredible experience so far.
Day 11: Trek to Jumla (3 to 4 hrs) & Fly to Nepalgunj/Kathmandu
Today you continue descending back to Jumla through familiar trails, passing through villages and terraced fields. After reaching Jumla, you catch a flight to Nepalgunj and then connect to Kathmandu depending on the schedule. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The evening is free for rest, shopping, or celebrating the completion of your trek.
Day 12: Final Departure
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about our tours, trekking, and travel services.