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This is popular destination for a trek in Western Nepal. The route is very much off the beaten track and affords glimpse of culture and scenery very different from those in the rest of Nepal. Rara is a high altitude clear lake ringed with pine spruce and juniper forest and snow capped Himalayan Peaks. It is a good choice if you are bird watcher or desire something close to a wilderness solitude.

Rara the largest Lake in Nepal is in the high elevation towards the north west of Nepal. Only a few number of trekkers done this trek to experience it’s unique culture and dramatic landscape with some historically important place on the way.

Rara Lake lies at 2980 m., the greatest lake in Nepal and Rara National Park enhances the attraction of trekkers. The Rara National Park is known as the home of Himalayan black bear, Red panda, Chorals. This trek is nature’s paradise for botanists, naturalizes and birds watchers. The trek begins with flight to Jumla and exploring the Himalayan vegetation, different kinds of birds and wild animals.

Detail Itinerary for Rara Lake Trekking

Day 1      Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2     Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu.

Day 3     Kathmandu by bus to Nepalgunj

Day 4     Nepalgunj fly to Jumla

Day 5     Jumla to Danphe Lagna (3130m): The trail follows the Tila River, passing through fields and pine forest. The trail then ascends up the Grushni river valley. Arriving at Padmara we pass through a deep forest of pine, spruce and firs after which the climb continues in forest over the pass at 3,400m and descends to Danphe-Lagna.

Day 6     Danphe Lagna to Chahutha (3183m): The trail descends, passing through fir, birch, walnut and bamboo forest. After crossing a bridge we start climbing and arrive at Ghara (Classic Tibetan style village) then descend to Chahutha.

Day 7     Chahutha to Dhotu (2380m): The trail climbs to the Gurchilanga pass through forest with a few local teahouses. There is a treeless meadow half way to the pass.

Day 8     Dhotu to Rara Lake (3060m): This is a short, pleasant trek with a fine view to the north. From Dhotu take a trail leading west that traverses a steep north-facing slope. After crossing a stretch of fields climb a small spur and descend to the stream. Cross the bridge and climb up to the hamlet of Jhari (2500m). From Jhari ascend west along a ridge for about 700m to reach a low saddle after another two hours. A large Rara lake is visible directly north of this saddle. Make a pleasant descent to the meadow on the south side of the lake. The former village site of Rara (3040m) on the north side is two hrs walk along the western shore of the lake. There is much wildlife, including aquatic birds, and rich forest around this large lake (2980m). You may spend a day or two in the Rara area.

Day 9     Rara Lake: Explore around Rara lake and rest day.

Day 10   Rara Lake to Gorosingha (3190m): After 15 minutes walking from Rara Lake the trail climbs all the way up to Gurchimara (3710m), before descending to Gorosingha.

Day 11   Gorosingha to Sinja (2440m): This is a more interesting trail with better scenic views after the climb to Lumsa. Arrive on the summit and descend to Sinja, a Thakuri village.

Day 12   Sinja to Jaljala Chaur (3270m): Most of the trek continues through forest of pine, birch and oak, a few scattered houses and fields of barley and corn. The trail then makes a steep climb to Jaljala Chaur.

Day 13   Jaljala Chaur to Jumla (2370m): TContinue climbing through forest to yet another meadow just below the ridge at (3510m). A pleasant descent to Jumla follows.

Day 14   Jumla to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu: Fly to Nepalgunj via Kathmandu.

Day 15   Free Day in kathmandu

Day 16   Departure to airport for your onward journey.

Rara Lake Trekking

Rara Lake Trekking

Altitude Sickness

Clothing

1. Down- or fibre-filled jacket for cold seasons (winter treks)
2. Pile jacket or jumper (sweater)
3. Hiking shorts (for men) or skirt
4. Waterproof jacket, poncho or umbrella
5. Hiking pants
6. T-shirts or blouses
7. Underwear
8. Sun hat
9. Swimwear (optional)
10. Footwear
11. Trekking or running shoes
12. Camp shoes or thongs
13. Socks (polypropylene)

Other equipment

1. Backpack or daypack
2. Sleeping bag (optional)
3. Maps, compass & guidebook (optional)
4. Water bottle
5. Torch (flashlight) and batteries

Miscellaneous items

1. Toiletries
2. Towel
3. Laundry soap
4. Toilet paper & cigarette lighter
5. Pre-moistened towelettes
6. Sunscreen (SPF 15+)
7. Small knife
8. Sewing kit
9. Iodine, water purification tablets or filter
10. Medical & first-aid kit *
11. Duffel bag (if you have a porter)
12. For treks with longer stay above 4000m
13. Clothing
14. Insulated pants
15. Nylon windbreaker
16. Nylon wind pants
17. Long underwear
18. Woolen hat (or balaclava)
19. Gloves
20. Gaiters
21. Footwear
22. Mountain trekking boots
23. Socks (wool) to wear with boots
24. Socks (light cotton) to wear under wool socks
25. Down booties (optional)

Miscellaneous items

1. Goggles or sunglasses
2. Sunscreen for lips
3. Optional equipment
4. Photographic Gear
5. Camera & lenses
6. Lens cleaning equipment
7. Film (about 20 rolls)
8. Navigation Aids
9. GPS unit
10. Altimeter
11. Thermometer

Miscellaneous items

1. Binoculars
2. Books/magazines
3. Small duffel bag or suitcase (to leave behind in Kathmandu)
4. Padlock
5. Stuff sacks & plastic bags

Departure Date for Rara Lake Trekking

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