Rara Lake

Rara Lake is the Largest(10.8 sq . km) lake of Nepal. It is also known as Mahendra Lake/Mahendra Daha. It is located in Jumla and Mugu districts of Karnali province of Nepal and situated at the elevation of 2990m(9,810 feet). The lake is oval shaped with an east-west axis, and has a maximum length of 5 km and a width of 3 km. it spans an area of approximately 10.8 square kilometers and reaches a depth of 167 meters (548 feet).

Surrounded by magnificent conifer forests. It is the main feature of Rara National Park. Surrounded by lush forests and alpine meadows, the lake is often described as a “blue gem” in the Himalayas. The still, mirror-like surface of the lake reflects the surrounding snow-capped mountains, particularly the Chuchemara Peak, which rises to 4,087 meters. The landscape around the lake shifts with the seasons, offering a serene, untouched beauty that draws nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Its radiant blue waters is home to the snow trout (Schizothorax oreinus sinuatus), the only fish recorded in the lake. During winter, bird lovers can enjoy many migratory birds. In summer, Himalayan flowers surround the lake creating a colorful landscape.

The lake and the surrounding Rara National Park are rich in biodiversity. The park is home to over 500 species of flora, including pine, juniper, and spruce forests. Rare and endangered animals such as the red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and musk deer Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Ghorals, Wild Boar and Thar, and Danphe, the national bird of Nepal to name a few, inhabit the region. The lake itself supports a variety of fish species, including the endemic snow trout.

Rara National Park

Rara National Park is the smallest national park of Nepal. It was established in 1976. It covers an area of 106 sq.km. in both Mugu and Jumla districts. The park is home to around 20 different species of mammals. They include Musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Leopard, Jackal, Himalayan tahr, Yellow throated marten, Otter, Wild dog. Common langur. Rhesus macaque and Red panda.

Rara Lake in map of Nepal:

History

Rara Lake is believed to have been formed by glacial activity thousands of years ago during the last ice age. The glaciers carved out the basin in the Himalayan mountains. It was included as part of Rara National Park in 1976. In 1976, citizens of the two villages Chapra and Rara were resettled to Nepalgunj. In September 2007, it was declared as a Ramsar site, covering 1,583 ha (6.11 sq mi) including the surrounding wetland.

The Lake also holds cultural and spiritual significance for the local communities, particularly the Thakuri people, who have lived in the region for centuries. The lake is considered sacred, and there are several local legends and stories associated with its formation and history. It serves as a focal point for rituals and celebrations among the indigenous people.

Rara Lake Trek

Rara Lake Trek has been a popular trekking destination with limited travel accessibility in Western Nepal. The glimpses of scenery and cultural practices are bit peculiar than what you will see in the rest of the trekking routes. Located in a high altitude, the cobalt blue lake is surrounded by Juniper, Pine and Spruce forests. The spectacular mountain scenes from there is a major attraction for trekkers. In one sentence, the scenery can be described as, “a sparkling blue jewel set in a ring of snowy mounts”.

The Rara Lake Trek offers trekkers an opportunity to experience an untouched part of Nepal. The trek takes visitors through rural villages, terraced fields, and dense forests, providing a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the local inhabitants. Smallest yet most vibrant National Park of the Himalayan country will present to you once-in-a-lifetime memories to treasure forever.

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Why should you choose the Rara Lake Trek?

You should choose for the following reasons:

• Less crowded and Peaceful environment
• Biggest freshwater
• Rich biodiversity of the smallest Rara National Park
• Diverse species of flora and fauna in the vicinity
• Beautiful landscapes, mesmerizing natural beauty
• Fascinating views of Chuchemara Peak, Ruma Kand Peak, Malika Kand Peak, and Mt. Saipal Himalayan ranges
• Experience the unique culture and lifestyle of local ethnicities
• Quality holiday destination far from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu city

What is the best way to get to Rara Lake?

There are various ways to get to But, the best way to get to is by taking a flight.

By Air: Take a flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu. From Nepalgunj, fly to Mugu Airport or Jumla Airport. Then, trek onwards to Lake either from Mugu or Jumla. There is also an option of a Jeep ride from Kathmandu to Rara Lake directly but it is expensive compared to other options.

By Bus: You get a bus from the Kathmandu valley to Nepalgunj. You reach there in about 16-20 hours. From Nepalgunj, you can take the local jeep to the Lake. Another way, you can have a direct way drive, private one towards Lake from Kathmandu.

By Private Vehicle: Though the road is not suitable for vehicles on this route, you’ll first head towards Kohalpur from Kathmandu. On the second day, you’ll reach Manma from Kohalpur and drive towards Sinja and Nagma Valley. After the Jeep Tour, you will need to walk to reach the lake.

By Trekking

What activities can we do during the Rara Lake trek?

During the trek, some fun activities can be carried out. Some activities are listed below:

• Hike to Murma Danda or Chuchemara Danda
• Explore Murma village
• Boating on Rara Lake
• Bird Watching- diverse species of birds including migratory birds
• Tent Camping and BBQ
• Interact with the locals and learn about the history of the place
• Take photographs or videos of diverse flora, fauna, people, and surroundings

Highlights of Rara Lake Trekking

• Biggest fresh water Lake of Nepal
• Karnali River, Nepal’s longest river and Najir River
• Rara National Park, finest in the world
• Himalayan Black Bear, Black Panther, Leopard, Rhesus and Langur, Red Panda, Ghoral, and Thar
• Impeyan Pheasant (Danphe)
• Chuchemara Peak (4,039m)
• Distinctive local culture

15 Days of Rara Lake ItinineryTrekking:

1. Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu(1400m.)
2. Day 2: Fly to Nepalgunj(140m.)
3. Day 3: Fly from Nepalgunj to Jumla then trek to Uthgaun(2530m.)
4. Day 4: Trek to Danfe Lagna(3130m.)
5. Day 5: Trek to Chautha(2770m.)
6. Day 6: Trek to Dhotu(2380m.)
7. Day 7: Trek to Rara Lake(3040m.)
8. Day 8: Rest Day and travel around Rara Lake
9. Day 9: Trek to Ghorasingha(3190m.)
10. Day 10: Trek to Sinja(2440m.)
11. Day 11: Trek to Jaljala(3270m.)
12. Day 12: Trek to Jumla(3510m.)
13. Dat 13: Fly from Jumla to Nepalgunj then Fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
14. Day 14: Leisure day in Kathmandu and travel around Kathmandu
15. Day 15: Farewell to Kathmandu

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Rara Lake is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, and the skies are clear. During these times, the lake’s blue waters and the surrounding landscapes are at their most picturesque, with vibrant colors and pleasant temperatures.

In winter, the region is covered in snow, and the lake can freeze over, offering a different, equally captivating experience for those willing to brave the colder weather.

Rara Lake and Trek FAQs

For Rara Lake Trek booking: nepalecoadventure.com/ asianheritagetreks.com/hikingannapurna.com

Also read: Gosaikunda Lake