Rara Lake is the largest lake in Nepal, located in the remote northwestern region of the country in the Mugu District. Situated at an altitude of about 2,990 meters (9,810 feet), the lake is part of the Rara National Park, which is known for its incredible natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and tranquil surroundings. The lake is a popular destination for trekkers, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude in one of Nepal’s most pristine natural environments.

Tourist Attractions Around Rara Lake

1. Rara Lake:

   • Highlights: The lake itself is the main attraction, with its stunning turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush forests. The serene beauty of the lake is complemented by the peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and photography.
   • Entrance Fee: No entry fee for the lake itself, but visitors need to pay for entry into Rara National Park.
   • Opening Hours: Open all day, but the best time to visit is between October and December and March to May.

2. Rara National Park:

   • Highlights: The park surrounding Rara Lake is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Himalayan tahr, and various species of birds. The park is ideal for trekking, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching.
   • Entrance Fee: NPR 100 (locals) and NPR 1,000 (foreigners) for park entry.
   • Opening Hours: Open all day; the park is accessible year-round, but accessibility can be limited during the monsoon season (June to September).

3. Chuchhemara Peak:

   • Highlights: This peak offers a panoramic view of Rara Lake and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. It is one of the most scenic spots in the area and a favorite for trekkers and photographers.
   • Entrance Fee: Free.
   • Opening Hours: Open all day. A trek to the peak takes around 6-7 hours from Rara Lake.

4. Rara Village:

   • Highlights: The nearby Rara Village, located on the southern shore of the lake, offers a chance to experience the local culture. The village is home to the Khas people, and visitors can interact with locals, learn about traditional lifestyles, and experience authentic hospitality.
   • Entrance Fee: Free.
   • Opening Hours: Open all day.

5. Ghorosinghe (Rara) Viewpoint:

   • Highlights: This viewpoint offers one of the best panoramic views of Rara Lake from a higher vantage point. The view includes the pristine blue water of the lake, surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped mountains in the distance.
   • Entrance Fee: Free.
   • Opening Hours: Open all day.

6. Trekking Routes:

   • The Rara Lake Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. The trek takes around 6-8 days, depending on the route and pace, and passes through beautiful villages, forests, and offers spectacular views of the Himalayas.
   • Highlights: During the trek, you will pass through places like Jumla, Sinja Valley, and Chuchhemara, each offering unique experiences and scenic beauty.

How to Get to Rara Lake

1. By Air:

   • Flight to Nepalgunj: The nearest major airport to Rara Lake is Nepalgunj Airport, which can be reached by daily flights from Kathmandu (about 1 hour). From Nepalgunj, you can catch a domestic flight to Jumla Airport (about 30 minutes).
   • Flight to Jumla: There are flights from Nepalgunj to Jumla, which is the closest airport to Rara Lake. From Jumla, Rara Lake is about a 3-4 day trek.

2. By Road:

   • Kathmandu to Nepalgunj: You can take a bus from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, which takes about 12-14 hours. From Nepalgunj, you will need to take a flight to Jumla.
   • Jumla to Rara Lake: From Jumla, you can either trek or hire a local jeep or motorcycle to reach Rara Lake, which takes 3-4 days on foot or 6-8 hours by road, depending on the condition of the road.

How to Get Around Rara Lake

1. Trekking:

   • The primary way to get around Rara Lake and explore the surrounding areas is by trekking. There are numerous trekking routes that lead to different viewpoints and villages around the lake.

2. Local Transport:

   • While there are no taxis or public buses in the area, you can hire a local jeep from Jumla or the Rara Village to explore the lake’s vicinity or nearby trekking routes.

3. Boating:

   • Boating on Rara Lake is an option for those looking to experience the lake from the water. However, it’s best to arrange this through local guides or hotels.

Popular Local Food in Rara Lake Area

1. Dal Bhat: A staple meal in Nepal, consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and various side dishes. This is the most common food in Rara Lake and its surrounding villages.
2. Momo: Nepali-style dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, served with spicy dipping sauce.
3. Thukpa: A noodle soup, usually with vegetables, meat, and a flavorful broth, perfect for the chilly climate.
4. Sel Roti: A traditional Nepali rice doughnut, often served during festivals and special occasions.
5. Local Cheese: The chhurpi (local cheese) is a unique dairy product found in the region.
6. Chiya (Tea): Nepali-style black tea served with sugar and milk is popular in the region. You will find local tea stalls throughout the trekking routes.

Top Nightlife Spots in Rara Lake

Rara Lake is in a remote part of Nepal, and its nightlife is relatively low-key compared to more urban areas. The area is more focused on nature, trekking, and cultural experiences. However, you can still enjoy the following:

1. 1. Hotel Lounges:

      • Hotels and guesthouses around Rara Lake typically have small lounges or dining areas where guests can gather and share experiences from their day. Some of the local guesthouses may offer informal evening gatherings with tea, local snacks, and storytelling.

   2. Cultural Performances:

      • Occasionally, during festivals or community events, locals perform traditional dances or music in the village. These cultural performances can be a great way to engage with the local culture.

Happy Hours

• • Due to the remote nature of Rara Lake, there are no formal happy hours at bars or restaurants like in larger cities. However, some local guesthouses may have evening tea or informal gatherings, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Recommended Detailed Itinerary for Rara Lake

Day 1: Arrive in Nepalgunj

• • Morning: Arrive at Nepalgunj from Kathmandu via flight or bus.
  • Afternoon: Take a flight to Jumla, then transfer to a guesthouse or lodge in Jumla.
  • Evening: Rest and prepare for the trek to Rara Lake.

Day 2-4: Trek to Rara Lake

• • Trekking: Start the trek to Rara Lake, passing through Sinja Valley and various villages. Enjoy the scenic beauty, local culture, and wildlife.
  • Evening: Rest at a guesthouse in Rara Village or a lodge near the lake.

Day 5: Explore Rara Lake

• • Morning: Visit Ghorosinghe Viewpoint for a panoramic view of Rara Lake.
  • Afternoon: Explore the surroundings of Rara Lake, including a peaceful boat ride or a short trek to Chuchhemara Peak.
  • Evening: Relax by the lakeside, taking in the serene beauty.

Day 6: Trek Back to Jumla

• • Morning: Start the return trek to Jumla, retracing your steps.
  • Afternoon: Arrive in Jumla and rest at a local guesthouse.

Day 7: Return to Nepalgunj

• • Morning: Take a flight from Jumla back to Nepalgunj, then catch a bus or flight back to Kathmandu.

Highlights of Rara Lake

1. Pristine Beauty: Rara Lake’s serene waters and scenic surroundings offer breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, forests, and peaceful waters.
2. Trekking and Wildlife: The Rara National Park is home to a diverse range of animals and birds, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
3. Isolation and Tranquility: The remote location of Rara Lake ensures a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and trekkers seeking solitude.

Rara Lake is a hidden gem in Nepal, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature and local culture. With its trekking routes, scenic landscapes, and rich biodiversity, it offers a perfect retreat for adventurers and nature lovers.