Rara Base Camp Trek
Overview
The Rara Lake Trek is a beautiful journey into the remote wilderness of western Nepal, leading to Rara Lake (approximately 2,990 m), the largest lake in Nepal by surface area. Located within Rara National Park in the Karnali region, this trek is renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters, peaceful forest trails, rolling alpine meadows, and spectacular mountain scenery.
The journey typically begins in Jumla, following remote trails through traditional Karnali villages, lush pine and juniper forests, and open mountain meadows. Depending on the itinerary, the route may also explore the historically significant Sinja Valley, known for its archaeological heritage and association with the ancient Khasa Kingdom, an important historical civilization of western Nepal.
The trek’s main highlight is reaching Rara Lake, situated at approximately 2,990 m, where the surrounding forested hills and distant mountain ridges create a remarkable natural setting. The lake covers approximately 10.8 km², making it Nepal’s largest lake by surface area, and is famous for its changing shades of blue and exceptionally scenic surroundings.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Rara region offers an opportunity to experience the traditional lifestyles, hospitality, and cultural heritage of remote Karnali communities. Rara National Park, established in 1976, protects the lake and its surrounding forests, which provide habitat for diverse Himalayan wildlife, including red pandas, musk deer, and numerous bird species.
Day-by-day itinerary
Tap a day to expand the details.
Overnight in Nepalgunj. – You fly to the western Terai, the gateway city for the far-west mountains, and prepare for the early flight to Jumla.
A scenic flight over the foothills lands at Jumla, the gateway to Rara, where you rest, acclimatise, and explore the local bazaar.
The trek begins along the Jugad Khola, passing Khalanga Bazaar and a few small villages and temples before reaching the meadow campsite of Chere Chaur.
A steady climb through pasture and forest leads over a ridge with views of the mountains, then down to Chalachaur on the Rara circuit.
You descend through pine and oak forest to the Sinja Valley, the historic centre of the ancient Khasa kingdom, with terraced fields and old settlements.
The trail climbs through forests and meadows, with views of the surrounding hills, to the camp at Ghorosingha.
A walk through pine, spruce, and juniper forest brings you to Rara Lake, the largest lake in Nepal, glowing blue within Rara National Park.
Spend the day around the lake, hiking to Murma Top for panoramic views, circling the shoreline, and watching for wildlife in Rara National Park.
A short walk through forest and meadow leads to Talcha airstrip, where you board a flight to Nepalgunj, weather permitting.
A short flight returns you to Kathmandu, concluding your Rara Lake adventure.
What’s included
Included
- All necessary Nation Park permit and Paperwork.
- All necessary trekking transfers
- The best local tea house accommodation during trekking.
- Experienced license holder guide (English Speaking, first aid, eco-trained).
- A Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are served in trekking itinerary days (An item at once).
- Tea/Coffee or Himalayan Sea buckthorn juice in Breakfast
- A complete first-aid medical kit (Handled by Guide/Sherpa)
- All relevant fees, taxes and Levies
- Trekking Maps and Trip Completion Certificate
Not included
- International flight fares.
- Nepal Visa Expenses and worldwide Airfare
- Meals, Extra activities in city.
- Accomodations besides trekking itinerary days.
- Trekking Costs like Drinking Water, Soft & Hard Drinks, Juice, Phon Calls, Web Utilize, Battery, Charging, Clothing, Hot Shower, Gift, Extra Porters etc.
- Individual Trekking Gears and Equipment. (Can be rented from Mt. Mate’s gear rental shop)
- Individual Any Kinds of Health or Travel Insurance. (It is obligatory to decrease the conceivable cost in case of crisis clearing).
- Costs emerges due to hindrance and delays within program schedule due to climate issues or Health problem issues.
- Tipping to trekking crew members (Mandatory) and donating.
- Anything besides in trekking includes.
Packing list
Gallery
Safety & permits
- Rara National Park Permit - arranged by your guide before the trek begins
- Ticketing: Monasteries, Museums and viewpoint entry ticketing can occur according to place of interest.
- Licensed Guide: Trek with Certified licensed guide/sherpa through a government.
- Health: Train with cardio, strength, endurance exercises and get a medical check-up, if necessary, before.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health and travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage.
- Altitude Safety: Ascend gradually, stay hydrated, eat well and watch for symptoms of altitude sickness
- Weather: Follow your guide’s advice, use proper gear and be prepared for changing mountain weather.
- Emergency Support: Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell or face any difficulty.
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