What is the best time to do the Rara Lake Trek?

The best time for the Rara Lake Trek is from September to November and April to May. These months offer mild weather, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures, making trekking more comfortable. The spring season brings blooming rhododendrons, while the post-monsoon season offers dry trails.

How long does the Rara Lake Trek take?

The Rara Lake Trek typically takes about 8 days, depending on your pace and itinerary. This includes travel time from Kathmandu to the trek starting point and back. The trek involves multiple days of trekking through picturesque landscapes and remote villages.

Is the Rara Lake Trek suitable for beginners?

The Rara Lake Trek is suitable for trekkers with a moderate level of fitness. While it’s not extremely difficult, it involves several days of trekking in remote areas with some elevation gains. It’s important to have prior trekking experience to handle the challenging terrains.

What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

Accommodation along the Rara Lake Trek is provided in local tea houses or lodges. These simple guesthouses offer basic rooms with shared facilities. Meals are typically traditional Nepali food, including dal bhat, rice, noodles, and seasonal vegetables.

Is Wi-Fi available during the trek?

Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity may be limited in the remote areas of the trek. While some tea houses might offer Wi-Fi at lower altitudes, expect intermittent or no internet access in higher areas. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature.

What should I pack for the Rara Lake Trek?

Pack light but essential trekking gear including sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, water purification tablets, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and a camera. It’s important to dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the trek.

What wildlife can I expect to see on the Rara Lake Trek?

Rara National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including musk deer, Himalayan black bear, wild boar, and over 200 species of birds. The trek offers a chance to witness this rich biodiversity, along with the stunning landscapes of forests, valleys, and lakes.

Rara Lake Trek: Deepest Lake in Nepal| Cost, Itinerary |Footprint Adventure

Q: What is the Rara Lake Trek?

The Rara Lake Trek is a trekking adventure in the remote northwest region of Nepal, leading to Rara Lake, the largest and deepest freshwater lake in Nepal, situated within the Rara National Park. The trek offers stunning natural beauty, tranquil lakeside views, and the chance to explore remote villages and diverse ecosystems

Highlights of Rara Lake Trek

Explore the enchanting beauty of Rara lake, the largest and deepest freshwater lake in Rara National Park of Nepal,
Soak the quiet and less explored trails of the Western Nepal, far from usual crowded trekking trails,
Experience the mesmerizing views of the Himalayan Ranges and the tranquil Rara Lake from Murma Viewpoint,
Travel over the diverse ecosystem of Rara National Park, home to several rare and endangered wildlife species like Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda and Snow Trout.
Connect with the local communities, including Thakuri, Magar, and Tibetan ethnic groups,
Contribute to sustainable tourism by supporting local tea houses and community-based initiatives along the trail.

The Rara lake—also known as the “Queen of Lakes” is located in the remote northwest region of Nepal. Situated at an elevation of 2,990 meters above sea level, the lake spans an area of 10.4 sq km with a depth of 167 meters making it the largest and deepest freshwater lake in Nepal.

Situated within the Rara National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rara lake is a sanctuary of peace and natural beauty. The Rara National Park encompasses a diverse ecosystem that includes more than 1,000 species of plants, 50 species of mammals and over 200 species of birds making it an amazing destination for nature enthusiasts. For those seeking an escape from the crowded trekking routes of Nepal, Rara Lake Trek offers an experience unlike any other. The region is popular for its remoteness, unspoiled wilderness, and unique cultural authenticity.

Rara Lake Trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to the mid-western town of Surkhet in Nepal. The different Himalayan ranges and green landscapes viewed during the flight will give you a start to your adventure. Drive from Surkhet to Kalikot the next day, which is the starting point for the trek to Rara. The drive takes you along winding mountain paths, offering breathtaking scenery of valleys and villages. Here, you get the very great opportunity to experience the most rural life in Nepal with images of local communities and daily activities. The journey through this remote region offers a sense of peaceful isolation like you are stepping into another world.

You will drive to Sinja, the gateway to Rara Lake. The ride may be a bit rugged, but the beautiful scenery around will give you the feeling of not being very tiring. You will reach Rara, and there you will be greeted by the sight of the magnificent Rara Lake. The deep blue water of the lake is located in the middle of the majestic mountains and dense forests, giving a tranquility that is not easily found elsewhere. This unspoiled lake is not only a feast for the eyes but a haven of peace, ideal for those seeking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The following day, you will hike to Murma Viewpoint, from where you can see the panoramic view of Rara Lake and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. It would take you through lush forests and scenic ridgelines, offering plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty in your camera. Then, after viewing the scenery, you will go back to Rara for an overnight stay, recollected in the serenity of this breathtakingly beautiful location. The Rara Lake Trek is just perfect to get into Nepal's unspoiled wilderness with its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and warm local hospitality. Whether it is the breathtaking views or the trek to the rich traditions of the local communities, the Rara Lake Trek surely promises an unforgettable journey.

Major Highlights of Rara Lake Trek

Murma Viewpoint

Murma Viewpoint is one of the major highlights of the Rara Lake Trek, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Rara Lake and the surrounding landscapes. Situated at an elevation of approximately 3,630 meters, this viewpoint provides an unforgettable experience, especially during sunrise or sunset when the lake shimmers under the golden hues of the sky. The hike to Murma Viewpoint takes you through lush pine and rhododendron forests, adding to the natural charm of the journey. Unlike other viewpoints, Murma remains peaceful and less crowded, allowing you to fully soak in the serenity of the remote wilderness.

Rara Lake

The “Queen of Lakes,” Rara Lake, is the crown jewel of this trek and one of Nepal’s most beautiful destinations. Spanning 10.4 square kilometers at an elevation of 2,990 meters, it is the largest freshwater lake in Nepal. Surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks, Rara Lake offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers. Its crystal-clear blue waters mirror the surrounding landscapes, creating a surreal atmosphere. Nestled within the Rara National Park, this pristine lake is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. The serenity and untouched beauty of Rara Lake make it an unforgettable highlight of the trek.

Best time to Visit Rara Lake

Rara Lake can be visited year-round, but the best seasons are September to November and April to May.During these months, the weather is mild, skies are clear, and temperatures are pleasant, making trekking enjoyable. In autumn, the monsoon leaves behind lush greenery and dry trails, creating perfect trekking conditions. Spring adds vibrant charm with blooming rhododendrons and fresh landscapes.

While winter offers peace and solitude, heavy snowfall can block access and make trekking challenging. The monsoon season transforms the region into a lush paradise but brings slippery trails, which might be difficult to navigate. These seasonal variations make autumn and spring the most favorable times for visiting Rara Lake.

Permits for Rara Lake Trek

To explore the serene beauty of Rara Lake, obtaining the required permits is essential. The following permits are mandatory for Rara Lake Trek

Rara National Park Entry Permit: NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals, NPR 1,500 for SAARC nationals, and NPR 100 for Nepali citizens. This permit allows access to the Rara National Park.

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: NPR 2,000

Flight and Transportation

The Rara Lake Trek involves a combination of flights, drives, and a short hike. The journey begins with a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj or Surkhet, which serves as the gateway to the region. The flight takes approximately an hour. From Nepalgunj or Surkhet, you’ll board on a scenic and adventurous drive through rugged terrains to Kalikot, and then to Nagma or Sinja, the starting point of your trek.

Transportation between these locations is arranged through private jeeps for comfort, but local buses are also available for budget-conscious travelers. Be prepared for off-road conditions, as the remote trails leading to Rara Lake are less developed compared to other trekking regions in Nepal.

Food and Accommodation

Accommodation during the trek consists of basic tea houses and lodges, offering shared rooms with simple bedding. While the facilities are modest, they provide a cozy place to rest after a day of trekking. Meals include traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), seasonal vegetables, and popular options like noodles, pasta, and chapati.

As the trek progresses into remote areas, food choices might become limited, but the warm hospitality of the locals makes the experience memorable. It’s advisable to carry some high-energy snacks like nuts, energy bars, or chocolates for added sustenance during the trek.

Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization

Although the Rara Lake Trek does not involve extreme altitudes, reaching a maximum height of approximately 3,630 meters, acclimatization is still crucial. You are less likely to face severe altitude sickness, but symptoms like mild headaches, dizziness, or nausea can occur. To prevent altitude sickness:

Ascend gradually and allow your body to adjust.

Stay well-hydrated and avoid alcohol or smoking.

Listen to your body, and if symptoms worsen, descend immediately.

Trekking Grade

The Rara Lake Trek is graded as easy, making it suitable for a wide range of trekkers, including beginners with basic fitness levels. The trails include a mix of gentle ascents, descents, and flat sections, making the trek less physically demanding than high-altitude expeditions like Everest Base Camp. However, some sections of the trail can be challenging due to the remote nature of the paths.

A good level of stamina and preparation will enhance your trekking experience, ensuring you can fully enjoy the journey and its stunning surroundings.

Wi-Fi and Mobile Network

Wi-Fi connectivity on the Rara Lake Trek is limited, especially as you approach remote areas. While Wi-Fi might be available in certain accommodations, it is often slow and unreliable. Mobile network coverage is intermittent, with NTC (Nepal Telecom) offering better connectivity than Ncell in this region.