The Rara Lake Trek is located in north-western Nepal, within Rara National Park in the remote Mugu District. Rara Lake, sitting at an altitude of 2,990 meters, is the largest and deepest lake in Nepal, surrounded by pine forests, alpine meadows, and snow-capped mountains.
This region is sparsely populated and culturally rich, inhabited mainly by Khas and Tibetan-influenced communities. Due to limited road access and fewer visitors, Rara Lake remains one of Nepal’s most peaceful and unspoiled trekking destinations, offering pristine nature and serene landscapes.
The Rara Lake Trek is a moderate trek ideal for nature lovers and trekkers seeking tranquility rather than extreme altitude. The trek combines scenic flights, forest trails, cultural villages, and breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Rara Lake. It is suitable for beginners with good fitness and offers a unique western Nepal experience.
Detailed Itinerary (10 Days)
Rara Lake is the lagest fresh alpine lake of Nepal approx. 10.8 square kilometers (4.2 sq mi), with a maximum depth of 167 meters (548 ft). This route offers you a classic, remote and wilderness trekking experience of the western Nepal connecting the medieval history dated back to 12th to 14th Century Khas / Malla Kingdoms.
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to hotel. Trek briefing and preparation.
Short scenic flight to Nepalgunj, a lowland city near the Indian border.
Morning flight to Talcha followed by a short drive and walk to Rara Lake.
Duration : 3 - 4 hrs | Ascent : 610 m | Descent : 380 m | Distance : 10.2 km
Explore the lakeshore, hike to Murma Top for panoramic views, and enjoy the peaceful environment.
Trek through forested trails and traditional villages. Begin your journey alongside the stream of Khatyar. Make way past Murma, cross the stream over a log bridge which follow ascending route heading up the hill. From the top, the descending trail begins along past the forested trail to the eastern ridgeline of Ghurchimara / Chuchemara Danda (3,749 m). The final stretch of the trek is a steep down to Ghorosingha.
Duration : 6 - 7 hrs | Ascent : 450 m | Descent : 1,240 m | Distance : 17 km
Now, the trail goes through Ghatta Valley, following the Sinja Khola downstream and cultivated land and villages, with pine/oak/rhododendron forest on the upper portions and agricultural terrain. You finally finish at Sinja Valley, the historical capital of the ancient Khasa Kingdom. Sinja was once an important capital of the Khasa/Malla kingdom (12-14th century), and archaeological remains are still found around the valley.
Duration : 4 - 5 hrs | Ascent : ~(250 m - 400 m) | Descent : ~(800–1,000 m) | Distance : ~(13 - 15km)
Today is a huge climbing day. First, you cross the Sinja Khola, then follow the route to Dhobi Khola. The trail goes through small settlements, traditional thakuri and Chhetri villages, cultivated barley and corn fields and forest. There are several crossings of streams or rivers, including wooden bridges. Down the lower valley, the trail becomes progressively steeper. Eventually the trail along forest reaches the high-altitude meadow of Jaljala Chaur, the grazing land for the local horses and livestocks.
Duration : 6 - 7 hrs | Ascent : ~900–1,200 m | Descent : ~100–200 m Distance : 12 - 14 km
First, continue through high meadow and forest, with some additional climbing following then Descent towards Chauri Khola. The route crosses streams and goes around the upper valley. Cross through another ridge and join the trail downwards to Jumla.
Duration : 5 - 6 hrs | Ascent : ~90 - 170 m | Descent : ~1,000 - 1,150 m | Distance : approx. 15 km (9.3 miles).
Return flight to Nepalgunj.
Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Transfer to airport for onward journey.
Services Includes & Excludes
What’s Included
- Airport pick-up & drop-off
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Talcha/Jumla–Kathmandu)
- Ground transportation as per itinerary
- Rara National Park permit
- Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
- Teahouse accommodation during trek
- Kathmandu & Nepalgunj hotel (as per package)
- Breakfast and Dinner during trekking days
- First-aid kit and emergency support
What’s Not Included
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fee
- Travel insurance (mandatory incl. helicopter rescue)
- Lunches during trek
- Personal trekking equipment
- Hot showers, WiFi, charging fees
- Alcoholic & soft drinks
- Tips for guides and porters
- Extra costs due to weather or flight delays
❓ FAQs – Rara Lake Trek
Yes, it is one of the easier treks in Nepal with moderate walking days.
Very remote, with limited infrastructure and minimal crowds.
Risk is low due to moderate elevation.
Flights are weather-dependent and delays are possible.
Its size, pristine beauty, and peaceful environment make it unique.
