Rara Trekking

Rara lies in the remote Karnali region, North West of Kathmandu. The region consists of long ridges covered with temperate forests and alpine pastures enclosing high valleys. Summer rainfall is low but winter snow can be heavy and persistent since the region is fairly high and free from monsoon thunder-storms. The summer season is ideal for trekking. Winter is cold but the autumn seasons' trekking is rewarded with a profusion of alpine flowers.

Days : 13 days
Highest elevation : 5420 m.
Style of Trek : Tea house/Camping
Trek Grade : Medium / Hard
Start : Jumla
Finish : Jumla

Itinerary In Detail

Day 1
Kathmandu to Nepalgunj:
Fly or drive to Nepalgunj.

Day 2
Nepalgunj to Jumla:
Fly to Jumla.

Day 3
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 4
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 5
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 6
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 7 - 8
Rara Lake:
Explore around Rara lake and rest day.

Day 9
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 10
Rara Lake:
Explore around Rara lake and rest day.

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
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 13
Jumla to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu:
Fly to Nepalgunj via Kathmandu.