Rara Lake Nepal Tour: Journey to One of the Pristine Lakes

Rara Lake Tour Overview

Discover the serene beauty of western Nepal with one of the exciting multi-day tours of Nepal, the Rara Lake Tour. Nestled in a remote and untouched region, Rara Lake charms with its crystal-clear waters, lush green hills, and majestic snow-capped peaks. 

Far from the hustle and bustle, this peaceful escape is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking calm and peace. Experience the simple, unspoiled charm of Nepal in one of its most breathtaking and tucked-away destinations.

Rara Lake Tour Duration Chart 

Rara Lake Tour Detailed Itinerary 

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m) 

• Pick-up is from the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).
• Transfer to a hotel.
• Stroll around the capital and get informed about your tour.
• Overnight in Kathmandu. 

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing tour 

• Discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple).
• Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj 

• Have a pleasant 8 to 9-hour drive from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj.
• A beautiful trip through the neighbouring villages and the Trishuli River.
• After reaching Nepalgunj, rest in the evening.
• Spend the night in a Nepalgunj hotel.

Note: You can book your flight from Kathmandu (extra charge is included).

Day 4: Drive from Nepalgunj to Rara Lake (2,975 m) 

• Continue your drive from 8 to 9 hours, Nepalgunj via Chere, Surkhet, and Bardiya National Park.
• Reach Rara Lake and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
• Overnight: A lodge close to Rara Lake.

Day 5: Rara Lake Exploration Day 

• Take a morning stroll around Rara Lake and take in the breathtaking mountain views.
• Go to Rara Lake Temple and do some relaxing things.
• For sweeping views of the lake and neighbouring mountains, there is the option to walk up Chuchhemara Hill.
• Chill and take in the peaceful surroundings of the lake.
• Overnight: A lodge close to Rara Lake.

Day 6: Drive to Jumla (2,370m ) 

• Today you will have a 4 to 5-hour drive to Jumla, along the way enjoying the epic, untouched landscape of Nepal.
• Beautiful drive through traditional villages and rocky terrain.
• Reach the town of Jumla, which offers stunning surroundings and a rich history.
• Experience the local way of living and explore for souvenirs at the Jumla Bazaar.
• Stay the night at a hotel in Jumla.

Day 7: Drive from Jumla to Nepalgunj 

• Continue driving to Nepalgunj for 7 to 8 hours.
• Go back to drive through rural life, traditional villages, and beautiful scenery.
• Return to Nepalgunj.
• Spend the night in a Nepalgunj hotel.

Day 8: Drive from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu 

• Conclude your Rara tour with 8 to 9 hours to Kathmandu.
• A beautiful journey back to Kathmandu.
• Arrival in Kathmandu and free time for relaxation or last-minute shopping.
• Spend the night in a Kathmandu hotel.

Day 9: Final Departure from Kathmandu

• Transfer from the airport to your overseas flight.
• The tour concludes with memorable Rara Lake experiences. 

Packing List for Tour Package to Rara Lake

Head

• Warm hat & cap

• Sunglasses with UV protection

• Headlight

• Earmuffs

 Body

• Thermal layers

• Warm and Waterproof jacket

• Thermal Gloves

• Trekking Trousers and Shorts

• Neck buff

• Waterproof gloves

• Beanie

Footwear

• Trekking shoes

• Hiking boots

• Warm Hiking socks

• Gaiters

Essentials/Equipment

• Sleeping bag

• First aid kit

• Trekking poles & Duffel bag

• Water Bottles and Hydration Bladders

• Raincoat

• High-energy snacks

• Toiletries 

Note: Don’t carry too many goods that will trouble you during the trek. Take only stuff that is important.

Best time to visit Rara Lake

March to May in the spring and September to November in the autumn are the ideal seasons to explore Rara Lake. The best weather, clear skies, and breathtaking views are available during these seasons.

Spring (March to May)

• Wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is pleasant
• Clear views of the mountains and beautiful surroundings are excellent for hiking and taking pictures. 

Autumn (September to November)

• Stunning reflections on the lake and clear skies
• Cool, steady weather is perfect for treks and jeep trips.
• Peak visibility across the Api and Saipal mountain ranges.

Winter (December to February)

• The quietest time of year with snowy scenery.
• Views of a frozen or foggy Rara Lake are magical.

Best If: You are prepared for low temperatures and possible snow-related travel delays.

Not recommended for: Beginners or those seeking a warm, easy tour.

How to get to Rara Lake? 

To reach the isolated and stunning Rara Lake, A Rara overland tour is a beautiful and adventurous trip across the varied landscape of western Nepal. The tour normally starts with a lengthy drive through the Terai plains and into the mid-hills from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj or Surkhet. The road ascends through isolated mountain areas from Surkhet, frequently demanding a hard, off-road journey in a jeep. The closest town to Rara Lake is Gamgadhi, the administrative hub of Mugu district, which you can get to after two to three days of travel. 

The beautiful lake may be reached after a quick three to four-hour hike through forested hills from Gamgadhi. Despite being more time-consuming and physically taxing than flying, the overland route provides breathtaking sights and an increased cultural experience, making the trip just as valuable as the final destination.

Rara Lake Jeep Tour VS Trekking. Which one is best for you? 

The Jeep tour is the greatest choice if you value comfort, want to see Rara Lake without straining yourself, and want to save time. With just a little trip from Gamgadhi or Talcha to the lake, it enables you to drive past remote villages and enjoy rural Nepal with little trekking. But the roads are lengthy, rocky, and exhausting; it takes two to three days for one trip, and it might not be suitable for anyone sensitive to dust or motion sickness.

However, the trekking route gives a more fulfilling experience if you like adventure, exercise, and being in nature. You may get a close-up look at the scenery, local customs, and isolated Himalayan living by trekking routes from Jumla, Talcha, or even longer paths from Dolpo or Sinja Valley. The trip is calm and beautiful, although it does need more time and a strong level of fitness.

If you prefer ease and a quicker vacation, go with the Jeep tour; if you want adventure, nature, and a personal challenge, try trekking. 

What's included

• Transportation and escort at the airport
• Bed and breakfast accommodations for three nights in Kathmandu
• Food and lodging for five nights and six days throughout the tour (local lodge)
• Taking a local bus or van from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj-Kalikot and Rara
• Flights between Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, and Talcha
• Every tour is directed by a knowledgeable local guide who speaks English.
• Tour of Kathmandu's sights
• Permit for Rara National Park.

Rara Lake Tour Travel Tips

Here are some helpful tips for your trip to Rara Lake:

• The best times to visit are in the Spring (March to May) or Fall (September to November), when there will be bright skies and comfortable temperatures. Avoid the monsoon season as roads can be muddy and flights often get canceled.
• Travel Permits: To enter Rara National Park, you will require a permit, which is typically arranged by your tour operator. Keep copies of your permits and identification with you at all times.
• Clothing: Because it can get cold, especially in the mornings and evenings, bring warm clothing, such as layers, a waterproof jacket, solid walking shoes, and a cap.
• Cash: Since there are no ATMs or card services close to Rara Lake or along the route, bring enough Nepalese Rupees. Mobile Banking Services may not always be available.
• Health and Safety: Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness and adjust to the altitude (about 3,000 meters) gradually. Keep a first aid kit and some basic medications with you.
• Packing: Bring a good camera to record breathtaking views, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a power bank.
• Local Guides: Hiring a porter or guide from the area can improve your trip and make navigating paths easier. 

Things to do in Rara 

The following are a few of the top activities around Rara Lake:

Observing Birds at Rara Lake

With more than 200 species of birds, both seasonal and resident, Rara Lake is a bird lover's heaven. It is perfect for bird watching, particularly during spring and autumn migrations, because of its quiet and undisturbed environment. Visitors may spot rare species like the Himalayan monal, snowcock, blood pheasant, and various waterfowl. 

Birds are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. With breathtaking scenery and peaceful sounds of nature following each sighting, bird watching in Rara offers a tranquil, fulfilling experience for both experienced birdwatchers and interested tourists. 

Cultural Tours in the vicinity of Rara Lake

The diverse customs and ways of life of the surrounding populations, particularly the Thakuri and Mugu people, are revealed during cultural trips near Rara Lake. 

These ethnic groups' lasting traditions, agricultural methods, and celebrations reflect their deep connection to the land and the natural world.

Visitors can take part in or watch local dances and ceremonies, sample organic food from the area, and see traditional stone homes.

Talking to people provides a friendly, genuine experience that is very different from commercial tourists. It's a rare opportunity to learn about rural Himalayan life and to acknowledge the endurance and friendliness of the people who inhabit one of Nepal's most isolated areas.  

Horse riding: 

Rara offers horseback riding, another exciting activity. A trail circles the lake, which provides a breathtaking sight. There is yet more to discover about this magical lake. For you, there are other guides readily available. You may see the huge blue lake next to you, and the forest will be whispering.

You may not feel like a cowboy, but you will feel amazing as you ride your horse and adore exotic flowers and flora. The only sounds you can hear are the forest, the wind, and your horse's footsteps. There are some wide areas where you can bring your horse and go a little faster. Rara is a great place to go horseback riding. 

Rara Lake boating

Boating is one of the best ways to see the natural beauty of Rara Lake because it is large, calm, and breathtaking. You can glide over the clean water and discover isolated spots with uncommon flora and flowers by renting a paddle boat. Numerous fish species may be found in the lake, and if you're lucky, you may even see a red panda close to the forested margins.

Boating is best done in the morning because the wind tends to increase in the afternoon. A serene boat trip on Rara Lake is the ideal way to begin your day in the beautiful natural world.

Why choose Rara? 

A hidden gem in western Nepal, Rara Lake offers stunning natural beauty and a peaceful getaway from the bustle of the city. The lake's crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped hills, create the perfect setting for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. The region is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and camping due to its rich biodiversity and diverse array of unusual plants and animals. 

The area offers insight into traditional Himalayan lives and is culturally significant to the local Thakuri people. A trip to Rara Lake offers peace, adventure, and a special opportunity to experience Nepal's unspoiled landscape.

Rara Lake Tour Package Cost Breakdown

Budget:

Since everyone has varied needs, which have varying costs, there is no set budget. The cost varies according to the level of luxury you desire in your lodging, food, and other services.

Transportation:

The price varies depending on the kind of transportation you select and the size of your group.

Meal and Accommodation:

The price of your meals and lodging will vary based on the area and your preferences. Traditional dishes such as dal bhat and tarkari (rice, lentil soup, and veggies), Momo, noodle soup, thukpa, local bread, spaghetti, etc., will be available for you to eat while exploring. You are staying at a lodge and resting in a tea house. 

Guide and Porter:

The cost of the guide and porter will depend on their skill level. 

Permits: 

A Rara National Park Entry Permit is required for the Rara Lake tour.

Booking Process and Cost Details - How to Book the Rara Lake Tour 

You can visit Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd. website to book your Rara Lake Tour package. We'll ensure you have the best time while you're in Nepal. For more information regarding the total cost of the tour, click the button “Chat on Whatsapp”.

Are you looking to explore the Rara Lake Nepal tour on a Budget? Your dream experience is just a click away.