Description
Rara Lake
- Arrival in Kathmandu 1,327 m and transfer to hotel.
Welcome at the airport and transport to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu city.
After checking in your hotel rooms and getting refreshed join at the hotel lobby for group briefing and orientation program where our guide informs you regarding hotels, Kathmandu, Nepali culture, Rara Lake Trekking with welcome dinner in a pleasant and authentic Nepalese restaurant with culture program. - Fly to Nepalgunj city on route to Rara.
The first morning would be invested in preparing for the trip. As per the flight time, transfer to Kathmandu domestic airport for sweeping 50 mins flight to Far South West Nepal at Nepalgunj city, a city with warm semi-tropical climate area close to Indian border. Transfer to a nice hotel within the city area, with time for short walk around thenafter. - Fly to Jumla 2,540 m then trek to Chauriya Chaur 3,055 – 05 hrs.
Early breakfast for another short flight to Jumla (40 minutes flight). From Jumla start the trek with a short climb walking past nice farm villages to reach the first overnight camp at Chauriya Chaur, a nice farm village on route to Rara Lake. - Trek on route Botan beneath unnamed pass 3,500 m.
After a lovely morning, our journey starts with an uphill climb into rhododendron, birch and pine tree lined serene forest and then heading towards an unnamed green meadow ridge top and a pass. Sometimes it is called Jaljala offering fabulous views of Kanjiroba Himal (a mountain) towards North East. Walk continues through tranquil wilderness then on the downhill path for couple of hours through cool forest and reaching on the summer grazing pasture area for the overnight camp in this nice, pleasant spot. - Trek to Botan 2, 680m via Sinja Khola 2,440 m – 06 hrs.
Today’s walk leads downhill walk to Sinja for few hours and then following Jaljala Khola (stream) downstream through a forest with dense pine forest and walking past terraced farm fields and terraces, to reach at Sinja village, with a very old ruin temple and monuments, ancient sculptured stones which is covered in moss and weeds, and from here walk follows the river upstream, reaching at Ganj a small village and then our route leads through an impressive gorge to our overnight camp at Botan village, with time for short walk around. - Trek to Ghorasain 3,190 m – 04 hrs.
The morning walk (3-4 hours) starts after leaving Sinja Khola heading to North- East following another stream of Ghatte Khola towards a short uphill, then coming at pretty small valley and farmlands with primitive water mills which is used for grinding corns, wheat’s into fine flour for breads. From here reach to the border rim of Rara National Park at a small village of Ghorasain. After the camp is set, one can move free around for short walk and just relax and catch up with the dairy (if one would like to). Overnight in Ghorasain. - Trek to Rara Lake 2,980m – 06 hrs.
Walk heading to the final destination, the largest lake of Nepal at Rara. Start morning walk in this serene environment from Ghorasain camp. Further walk uphill all the way to Chuchemara Danda at 4260 meters. On reaching the top, one can enjoy the ridges with awesome panorama of surrounding country landscapes and magnificent views of snow-capped mountains towards north. After enjoying the marvelous views, descend walk through forest of bamboo and birch trees. Crossing at Khatyar Khola walking along upstream of this crystal clear stream to the overnight camp at Rara Lake shore. - Rest day at Rara Lake for local excursion around.
A rest day at Rara, an ideal spot for local exploration and relaxation. After a leisure morning an optional walk around or climb a wooden tower for panorama of the emerald picturesque lake and surrounding hills with distance snow-capped mountain views. - Trek to Pina via Jhyari 2,580 m – 05 hrs.
Start of the return journey early in the morning with an enjoyable and pleasant time in Rara lake and its surrounding. This day is a good, moderate trek on the path leading to a ridge top at Jhyari small village. From here onwards, walk follows Jhyari Bira Khola downstream for a short time then crossing Dhauligar Khola valley. Following this Dhauligar Khola (stream) all the way to Pina for our overnight camp, this is small farm village with police post and some houses serving as lodge and local tea shops. - Trek to Chauta 2,770 m via Ghurchi-Lagna 3,460m – 06 hrs.
From Pina, walk continues with an uphill climb into tranquil and enchanting forest with excellent views of landscapes and mountains towards north, then with a gradual climb to reach at Ghurchi- Lagna pass the highest point of this fabulous journey. This place consists several chortens (a Buddhist monuments) and festooned with prayer flags. Thenafter, descend across alpine meadows and pastures, into walnut groves and then leading to a steep and narrow valley all the way to Chauta village for the overnight camp. This small place contains shops and houses serving as lodge for local and individual travelers and trekkers. - Trek to Tharamara 3,270 m – 06 hrs.
After a nice stop in this village of Chauta, our journey follows Sinja khola through Bumra and then past a small lodge, tea-shop and health clinic walking under the overhanging rock at Kamra. This is a source of an important herbal medicinal mineral called ‘Silaji’.
Downhill walk towards Sinja Khola, and then reaching at Nyawre village, a nice break. Thenafter continue walking following the river upstream and then coming to an uphill walk of about 600 meters climb to Tharamara for overnight camp. This place has nice pasture land with pristine surroundings. - Trek back to Jumla – 06 hrs.
Final day trek back to Jumla. The day starts early morning with a pleasant descend to a nice green valley and into pristine alpine forests of rhododendron, oaks and pines trees. Thenafter reach a fertile agriculture tended valley, then walk leads past little villages of Padmara following the same river most of the way to Jumla town. After a wonderful circuit around Jumla and Muga area, the rest of the afternoon can be used to work-around the busy market town of Jumla. Overnight in Jumla. - Fly back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj.
As per the flight time to Nepalgunj, transfer to Jumla airstrip after bidding farewell to our camping staff and porters. A short scenic flight brings you south at Nepalgunj for short transit stop and then fly back to Kathmandu with panorama views of mountains during the flight. Tansfer back to your hotels with the rest afternoon free as leisure time. - In Kathmandu free day with optional sightseeing tour.
This day is reserved as buffer, in case if some flights are cancelled, which can occur sometimes due bad and unfavorable weather conditions which is beyond our control. If all goes well using this spare day for optional tour at places of interest around old heritage sites of Kathmandu-Patan or Bhaktapur, with rest of the day free for individual activities and shopping souvenirs. - Final International departure homeward bound.
Last day in amazing Nepal with awesome adventure around Rara Lake Trekking. You would be transfered to Kathmandu international airport for your final flight back.
What’s Included
Cost includes (full board package):
- Local transfers for your international flight x2 (arrival/departure)
- Local transfers for your domestic flight x4
- Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Jumla-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu flight
- Rara Lake National Park entry permit
- Guide for 15 days
- Porter for 13 days
- 3 nights’ accommodation in a Kathmandu hotel
- 10 nights’ accommodation in mountain teahouses
- 1 night’s accommodation in Nepalgunj
- 12x breakfast, 12x lunch and 11x dinner while on trek
- Staff insurance and necessary ground transport for support staff
Cost excludes:
- International flight ticket and Nepal entry visa
- Personal travel insurance (should include trekking coverage)
- Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu, except the farewell dinner
- Personal trekking gear (including any you may wish to hire in Kathmandu), and personal expenses (soft and alcoholic drinks, snacks etc.)
Nepal Highlights:
Best time to visit Nepal – additional information on the “Rara Lake”
Nepal can be visited all year round, but a few natural hazards are worth noting: heavy flooding during the monsoon (mid-July to mid-August) and extreme cold in the high Himalaya (late November to mid-December). Nepal is a land of hills and mountains, and its high peaks are one reason the country is so rich in water resources – fast-flowing rivers and beautiful lakes. Heavy rain, or even several days of light rain, can cause flooding in the lowland Terai region, so extra caution is advised there during the monsoon. Away from the monsoon, the hill regions enjoy sunny days even in winter, making for a pleasantly mild travel season.
Seasons in Nepal – additional information on the “Rara Lake”
Nepal recognises six seasons: Basanta Ritu (spring), Grishma Ritu (early summer), Barkha Ritu (monsoon), Sharad Ritu (early autumn), Hemanta Ritu (late autumn) and Shishir Ritu (winter).
Outside the monsoon (early July to late August), any season is suitable for a trip – Yetiland-nepal.de advises against travelling in the Terai lowlands during the monsoon.
Summers can be hot, with temperatures ranging from around 25 to 40°C depending on location. In the upper Himalayan region, summer temperatures reach up to about 30°C, while the lower Terai plains in southern Nepal can see highs of 40°C or more.
Winter days are mostly sunny, with cold mornings and evenings. If you’ve experienced winter in Greece, the feeling in Kathmandu is similar – from mid-December the sun keeps days pleasantly warm, while evening temperatures can drop to around 5°C. In the high Himalaya, however, temperatures fall well below 0°C.
Buddha was born in Nepal – additional information on the “Rara Lake”
This is a matter of pride for Nepalis: neighbouring countries, India in particular, sometimes claim Buddha’s origins lie there, which stirs up debate from time to time. In fact, Buddha was born in Nepal.
Well worth a visit is Lumbini, his birthplace southwest of Kathmandu. The prince who left his palace in search of lasting peace and meaning in life attained enlightenment (Nirvana) there. His teachings have since spread across the world and are followed by millions of people; in modern Western society too, Buddhism and meditation – a path to self-awareness and inner peace – have become popular everyday practices.
Take a look at our tours that include a visit to Lumbini.
8 of the world’s 10 highest mountains are in Nepal – additional information on the “Rara Lake”
Nepal is home to 8 of the world’s 10 highest mountains: Mount Everest (8,848m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Manaslu (8,163m) and Annapurna I (8,091m). Yetiland-Nepal offers three categories of trip in these regions: Expedition – climbing an eight-thousander (for experienced professionals only); Trek – trekking through the same region at much lower altitude (ideal for those who want to experience Nepal’s mountains without climbing them); and Holiday – for enjoying Nepal’s nature, scenery and leisure activities.
One of the world’s most dangerous airports
Lukla Airport, the gateway to the Everest region, is considered one of the most dangerous airports in the world. Wedged between steep hills, it makes for a genuinely challenging landing and take-off. Pilots speak of a “point of no return”, beyond which all preparation and technical alignment must already be complete to bring the aircraft in safely. Thousands of passengers fly in during peak season each month – a truly unique experience. Thanks to their extensive experience across almost all of Nepal’s hill regions, Nepali pilots rank among the most skilled in the world.
New Year in Nepal – additional information on the “Rara Lake”
Nepal follows its own calendar, the Vikram Sambat. Nepali New Year falls around mid-April, marking the start of the Nepali summer. People also follow the lunar calendar for religious festivals and family celebrations. As Nepal is home to many ethnic groups, each with its own history, several local New Year dates exist side by side – a well-known example is Losar, celebrated among others by the Sherpa community.
Nepal’s unique flag – additional information on the “Rara Lake”
Nepal’s flag is the world’s only non-rectangular national flag, formed of two stacked triangles bearing the sun and the moon. These symbols reflect the character of the Nepali people: the moon for humility, the sun for courage. Nepalis are famed for their hospitality towards visitors – in the hill regions, hosts will traditionally slaughter their own livestock (such as chickens or goats) to honour guests. To this day, many Nepali soldiers, known as Gurkhas, serve in armies around the world.
A one-of-a-kind weapon
The handcrafted khukuri knife is world-famous and originates from Nepal. Carried by Nepali soldiers and used in both World Wars, it is credited in veterans’ accounts with contributing to the legendary fighting prowess of the Gurkha regiments. A khukuri also makes an excellent souvenir.
Suspension bridges – additional information on the “Rara Lake”
Nepal is famous for its many suspension bridges spanning valleys between its hills, long a practical way of life for people in the mountainous regions. The idea even inspired Germany’s own Geierlay suspension bridge in Rhineland-Palatinate, built as a nod to Nepal’s example.
Landslides
As a very hilly country, Nepal is prone to flooding and landslides during the monsoon, especially in the lower-lying Terai region with its year-round vegetation. The combination of Nepal’s fast-flowing rivers and sustained monsoon rain can trigger landslides in the hill regions, so travel during the monsoon season is best avoided.
Earthquakes
Nepal sits in a zone of high seismic risk. This doesn’t mean major earthquakes happen constantly, but history shows a serious quake roughly every 50 years. The cause lies beneath the surface: the Indian Plate shifts about 5cm against the Eurasian Plate every year, gradually pushing the Himalaya upward over millions of years. The April 2015 earthquake (magnitude 7.8, at a depth of 8.2km) was one of the most recent major quakes, causing severe economic and geographic damage, killing around 9,000 people and injuring roughly 22,000.
Flying in Nepal
Nepal’s civil aviation is regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal: CAAN – Nepal.
A number of airlines operate in Nepal, including Yeti Airlines, Buddha Air, Himalaya Airlines, Simrik Airlines, Nepal Airlines, Saurya Airlines, Shree Airlines, Sita Air, Summit Air and Tara Air.
Private helicopter charters are also available, including through Air Dynasty, Simrik Air, Prabhu Helicopters, Altitude Air, Fishtail Air, Manang Air, Makalu Air, Kailash Helicopter Services and Heli Everest.
Airports in Nepal
Numerous domestic airlines operate flights throughout the year. Nepal stretches roughly 880km along the Himalayan axis and 150–250km across, covering a total area of 147,516km². With an average domestic flight time of just 1.5–2 hours, all major airports are reachable within a maximum of 3 flying hours: Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu), Tenzing-Hillary Airport (Lukla), Pokhara Airport, Simara Airport, Bharatpur Airport, Biratnagar Airport, Surkhet Airport, Nepalgunj Airport and Jomsom Airport.
Of these, Lukla Airport is considered one of the most dangerous in the world – a unique experience that thousands of travellers still make every month. When you book a complete package with Yetiland-Nepal, you don’t need to arrange any of this yourself.
Note that during winter (November to December), heavy morning fog often causes flight delays, and in some cases full-day cancellations after long waits. For this reason, Yetiland-nepal.de typically relies on tourist buses rather than domestic flights during this season.
Similar tour: Dolpo
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