Close your eyes and imagine this: a calm, blue lake surrounded by lush green hills and snow-capped mountains. Birds chirping, the smell of pine trees, and not a sound of a honking vehicle. This is not a dream. This is Rara Lake, the biggest and one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Nepal.
Many call it the “Queen of Lakes”, and once you visit, you’ll understand why. Located deep in the remote mountains of Mugu District, Rara Lake offers untouched beauty that few places on Earth can match. It's not just a destination—it's an experience of solitude, nature, and adventure.
In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about traveling from Kathmandu to Rara Lake, including all available routes, tips, costs, and local experiences.
What is Rara Lake?
Rara Lake, located at an altitude of 2,990 meters (9,810 ft), lies in Rara National Park in northwestern Nepal. It covers around 10.8 square kilometers and reaches up to 167 meters in depth. The lake changes colors with the sun—from deep blue to green—and the reflection of mountains and forests adds to its magical appeal.
It is home to rare species of birds, Himalayan plants, and fish like the snow trout. The lake is surrounded by beautiful pine, spruce, and juniper forests, making it an ideal place for nature lovers, photographers, writers, and anyone who needs a break from modern life.
Rara National Park
Rara Lake lies inside Rara National Park, which is the smallest national park in Nepal but one of the richest in terms of biodiversity. It hosts animals like:
- Red panda
- Musk deer
- Himalayan black bear
- Leopard
- Ghoral and Himalayan tahr
- Birds such as the Impeyan pheasant (Danphe), Nepal’s national bird, and other migratory species can be spotted here.
This park was established in 1976 to preserve the fragile ecosystem of the lake and the surrounding forests.
Route to Rara Lake from Kathmandu
Reaching Rara Lake from Kathmandu is not a quick or easy trip, but it is rewarding. Depending on your time, budget, and comfort level, there are several routes to consider:
1. By Flight and Hike (Most Popular and Time-saving Route)
Step-by-step:
- Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (By Flight)
You first take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, which takes about 1 hour. Several airlines operate on this route like Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines. - Nepalgunj to Talcha Airport, Mugu (By Flight)
From Nepalgunj, take another flight to Talcha Airport in Mugu. This flight lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, but it is weather-dependent and can be delayed. - Talcha to Rara Lake (Hike)
From Talcha, you need to walk for 2-3 hours to reach Rara Lake. The walk is moderate and scenic, taking you through hills, forests, and small villages.
Total travel time: 6–8 hours (excluding delays)
Best for: Tourists with limited time
Estimated Cost: NPR 15,000–20,000 per person (both flights)
2. By Road and Hike (For Adventure Lovers)
If you love long road trips and local experiences, you can reach Rara by road.
Route:
- Kathmandu to Surkhet (By Bus or Jeep)
This leg takes around 13–15 hours on a night bus or jeep. Roads are rough but passable. - Surkhet to Jumla or Gamgadhi (By Jeep)
You’ll need to take another jeep from Surkhet to Gamgadhi (headquarters of Mugu) or Jumla. This part takes around 10–12 hours. - Gamgadhi to Rara Lake (Hike)
From Gamgadhi, walk for around 3–4 hours to reach Rara Lake.
Total travel time: 2–3 days
Best for: Backpackers, low-budget travelers
Estimated Cost: NPR 5,000–7,000 (one-way)
3. Rara Trekking Route from Jumla
For trekking lovers, there is also a multi-day trek route.
Route:
- Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (Flight)
- Nepalgunj to Jumla (Flight)
- Trek from Jumla to Rara Lake (4–5 days)
You’ll pass through charming villages like Chere Chaur, Nauri Ghat, and Jhyari, with views of mountains, rivers, and forests.
Total duration: 6–7 days
Best for: Hikers, nature lovers
Estimated Cost: NPR 20,000–30,000 total for the trek
Best Time to Visit Rara Lake
While Rara is beautiful all year round, some seasons are better than others.
- Spring (March–May): Flowers bloom, perfect temperature
- Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, best views
- Winter (December–February): Snowfall, very cold, flights often cancelled
- Monsoon (June–August): Rainy, muddy roads, but peaceful
The ideal months to visit are April to June and September to November.
Accommodation and Food
There are lodges, guesthouses, and homestays near Rara Lake, especially in Jhyari, Majhghatta, and Murma village.
- Rooms: Basic but comfortable
- Food: Dal bhat, local potatoes, noodles, tea
- Toilets: Mostly outside, some western-style
Prices: NPR 500–1,500 per night
Meals: NPR 300–600 per person
Camping is also allowed with permission from the National Park.
Local Culture and People
The people around Rara are mostly Chhetri, Thakuri, and Dalit communities. They are friendly, humble, and deeply connected with nature.
You might be lucky to witness local festivals, traditional music (madal and flutes), and dances. Try local dishes like buckwheat roti, yak cheese, and Chhurpi.
Rara is not just a lake—it’s a cultural journey too.
Important Tips Before You Go
- No ATM or Internet: Carry cash and a power bank.
- Altitude Sickness: Rara is almost 3,000m above sea level. Stay hydrated and move slowly.
- Permits Required:
Rara National Park Entry: NPR 1,500 (for foreigners), NPR 100 (SAARC), NPR 100 (Nepali citizens)
TIMS Card (if trekking from Jumla)
- Respect local culture: Dress modestly, greet locals with "Namaste", and ask before taking photos.
- Travel Insurance: Especially if flying or trekking
- Weather Delays: Flights are often delayed due to fog or wind—keep buffer days
- Eco-consciousness: Carry reusable bottles, avoid plastic, and keep nature clean.
- What to Pack
- Warm clothes (even in summer)
- Good trekking shoes
- First-aid kit
- ID cards and permits
- Flashlight and batteries
- Camera for Rara’s stunning beauty
- Basic snacks and medicines
- Reusable water bottle
Unique Things to Do at Rara Lake
- Boating on the lake: Calm, safe, and surreal
- Hike to Murma Top: 2–3 hour hike for a panoramic view of the lake and the Himalayan peaks
- Bird watching: Look for Danphe, herons, and Himalayan Monals
- Photography: Early mornings and sunsets are magical
- Camping: Wake up with the lake beside you
- Cultural exchange: Spend a day in a local village
- Stargazing: Crystal clear skies at night
How Rara Lake Touches the Soul
People who visit Rara say they don’t just take photos—they take memories that stay for life. Whether you sit silently by the lake, write in your journal, or simply breathe in the pine-scented air, Rara has a way of making you feel at peace.
It’s a destination that disconnects you from the chaos of the city and reconnects you with yourself. And that is why, though remote, Rara Lake is one of Nepal’s most powerful and healing travel experiences.
