Rara Lake - Discovering Nepal

Travelling to Rara Lake

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Rara Lake, a pretty good destination in Nepal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Rara Lake and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Rara Lake, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Nepal, here's everything to know about Rara Lake for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Rara Lake

Rara Lake is the largest lake in Nepal, located in the remote and sparsely populated district of Mugu in the western part of the country. It is situated at an altitude of 2,990 meters above sea level and surrounded by the Rara National Park, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna including the endangered red panda. The lake itself is crystal clear and its waters are a brilliant blue color. It is considered a sacred place by the local people and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts.

What to visit in Rara Lake

Rara Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake located in the remote North West of Nepal. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Rara Lake: 1. Rara National Park: A protected forested area surrounding Rara Lake, home to a variety of wildlife including red panda, black bear, and musk deer.
2. Rara Lake: A pristine alpine lake that is the centerpiece of the Rara National Park. It is the largest lake in Nepal and boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and boating.
3. Murma Top: A hilltop viewpoint with spectacular panoramic views of the Rara Lake and surrounding hills. It's a perfect spot for photography, hiking and picnic.
4. Sinja Valley: The ancient capital of the Khas Malla Kingdom, about 4 hours walk from the Rara Lake. The valley is home to several temples and shrines, as well as traditional houses and buildings.
5. Chuchemara Peak: A 4,087-meter-high mountain that offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including several famous peaks like the Annapurna range and Dhaulagiri.
6. Thakurdwara Temple: A holy site dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Rara Lake. It is a popular destination for Hindu pilgrims.
7. Trekking and Hiking: There are several trekking and hiking trails in and around Rara Lake that offer opportunities to explore the beautiful natural surroundings and interact with the local people.
Overall, Rara Lake is a fantastic place to visit for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Himalayas.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Nepal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Rara Lake.

When to go on holiday to Rara Lake

The best time to visit Rara Lake in Nepal is during the months of September to November and April to May. During these months, the weather is clear with moderate temperatures that makes it perfect for trekking and exploring the lake's surroundings. In the months of December to February, the temperature drops down and heavy snowfall occurs, making it difficult to reach the lake and causing impassable roads. Similarly, during the monsoon months of June to August, the trails may be muddy and slippery, making it difficult to hike and explore the lake's surroundings.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Rara Lake

To get to Rara Lake in Nepal, first, you need to fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. From Nepalgunj, you can take a connecting flight to Talcha Airport, which is the nearest airport to Rara Lake. Once you reach Talcha Airport, you can either hire a jeep or trek on foot to reach Rara Lake. The trek is approximately 22 kilometers, and it takes around 2-3 days to complete. However, hiring a jeep is a more convenient option, and it takes around 4-6 hours to reach Rara Lake from Talcha. It's a scenic drive, and you can enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas and the beautiful landscapes along the way.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Rara Lake, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Rara Lake

Here are some typical foods of Rara Lake in Nepal: 1. Sel Roti: Sel Roti is a popular snack in Nepal, made from rice flour and sugar, which is deep-fried until it turns crispy.
2. Thukpa: Thukpa is a popular noodle soup that is a staple food in the mountainous regions of Nepal. It is made using noodles, vegetables, and meat or chicken broth.
3. Momo: Momo is a type of dumpling that is filled with minced meat (chicken, mutton, and beef), vegetables, or cheese. It is steamed and served with fire-hot tomato sauce.
4. Dal Bhat: Dal Bhat is a traditional Nepali meal, consisting of lentil soup, boiled rice, vegetable curry, and a homemade pickle.
5. Chhurpi: Chhurpi is a local dairy product made with yak milk. It's often preserved as a hard cheese and can be eaten as a snack or grated and used as an ingredient in various dishes.
6. Yomari: Yomari is a traditional Nepali delicacy made with rice flour dough and stuffed with sweetened sesame seeds, sugar, or cardamom.
7. Gundruk: Gundruk is a dish made from fermented leafy vegetables like mustard greens or radish. It's often served as a side dish.
8. Aalu Tama: Aalu Tama is a unique, sour and spicy curry made with potatoes, black-eyed peas, and bamboo shoots. These foods are delicious and offer a true taste of the Nepali culture. You should definitely try them when you're in Rara Lake.
You can find general info about typical foods in Nepal here.

Is Rara Lake an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of traveling to Rara Lake can vary depending on several factors, such as the time of year you go, your mode of transportation, the type of accommodations you choose, and the activities you participate in while you are there.
Generally speaking, Rara Lake is considered a more expensive destination because it is relatively remote and requires a few days of travel to get there. Also, the fees for permits to enter the Rara National Park can be a bit pricey. However, you can still find budget-friendly options for accommodations and activities.
If you plan to visit during peak tourist season, which is typically from March to May and September to November, expect higher prices for accommodations and transportation.
Overall, it is best to research and plan your trip ahead of time to get a better idea of the costs and budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Rara Lake

There are various areas in Rara Lake (Nepal) where you can find accommodation. The most popular areas are Gamgadhi, Talcha, and Mugu. Gamgadhi is the district headquarters and has basic guesthouses and lodges. Talcha has a few luxury tents and cottages, and Mugu has homestays and small lodges. All of these areas provide easy access to Rara Lake and its surrounding areas.
You can check hotel prices at Rara Lake here:
Booking.com

Is Rara Lake a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Rara Lake in Nepal is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in any tourist destination. It is recommended to stay in well-lit and well-traveled areas, and to not carry large amounts of cash or valuables. Additionally, it is always a good idea to research the latest travel advisories and warnings before planning your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Nepal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Rara Lake.

What type of travelers will enjoy Rara Lake the most?

Rara Lake is a great destination for travelers who enjoy natural beauty and outdoor activities. The lake and surrounding area offer stunning landscapes, wildlife viewing, hiking, and camping.
While Rara Lake is a great place for couples and young people looking for adventure, families can also enjoy the destination. It provides an excellent opportunity for children to learn about nature and culture in a fun and interactive way. Families with young children may want to hire a local guide to help them with the hike and provide additional information on the area.
It is important to note that Rara Lake is in a remote location and requires a moderate level of fitness to access. Visitors should also prepare for colder temperatures, especially in the evenings and early mornings.

How to get around Rara Lake

The best option to move around Rara Lake in Nepal is by walking or hiking since there are no roads around the lake. However, you can also rent a horse or mule to carry your luggage and equipment, or hire a local guide familiar with the terrain to accompany you during your trek. Additionally, you can also take a boat ride on the lake to explore the scenic surroundings.

What to see around Rara Lake

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Rara Lake in Nepal: 1. Rara National Park: If you haven't already explored the park while at Rara Lake, consider taking a day trip to explore its stunning scenery, wildlife, and waterfalls.
2. Murma Top: A trek to Murma Top provides you with a breathtaking view of Rara Lake from above.
3. Gamgadhi: This small town in the Mugu district offers a unique cultural experience and the chance to visit some ancient Hindu temples.
4. Sinja Valley: Take a walk through the ancient Sinja Valley and see the remains of what was once a powerful kingdom.
5. Shree Janaki Temple: Located in the Jumla district, visit this holy site and enjoy a peaceful environment during your day trip.
6. Chuchemara Hill: Another beautiful view of Rara Lake can be found at Chuchemara Hill, accessible through a hike.
7. Khaptad National Park: Located about 60 km from Rara Lake, Khaptad National Park is another stunning destination for nature lovers.
For every travel information about Nepal you can click here.

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