Kathmandu to Rara Lake By Jeep takes you through deep forests, large rivers and streams, and breathtaking scenery. You’ll have a good time traveling on bumpy roads. Rara Lake is one of Nepal’s least visited tourist sites; therefore, you may discover unspoiled natural charms during your road trip to Rara Lake. Furthermore, the breathtaking views of the magnificent mountains make Rara Lake and its surroundings even more appealing. You may also see the Nepalese rural lifestyle.
Rara Lake is located at an elevation of 2,990 meters above sea level. The lake is three miles long, one mile broad, and 548 feet deep. The lake is so clean you can practically see the bottom. Throughout the journey, you can interact with locals from different ethnic groups, experience their warm hospitality, and learn about their traditional lifestyle.
Table of Contents
Highlights of Kathmandu To Rara Lake By Jeep
- Adventure driving over a rocky road in real Nepal
- You can trek across Karnali province and see Nepal’s biggest lake, Rara Lake.
- You can discover the natural beauty of Rara Lake with its turquoise blue water, surrounded by lush pine and juniper forests.
- You can explore Nepal’s distinct distant culture and environment.
- Interact with friendly people and learn about their everyday life and culture.
- You can trek through the Rara National Park, Nepal’s smallest protected national park, to experience its distinctive flora and fauna.
- Trek to Murma Top and enjoy the breathtaking views of Rara Lake, the surrounding forest, and snow-capped mountain peaks.
- Experience the tranquility of distinct Western Nepal.
Kathmandu to Rara Lake Drive Distance
Rara Lake is in the remote northwest of Nepal, quite far from Kathmandu. The route takes you through many mountain passes and valleys, making the journey lengthy. The trips go through several regions and varied landscapes, allowing you to experience cultural and natural beauty.
Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
The journey starts with a drive from Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city, which lies in the central part of the country. You should first head west towards Nepalgunj, a major city in the Terai region. The distance from Katmandu to Nepalgunj by road is approximately 550 kilometers.
Nepalgunj to Jumla
The road continues north from Nepalgunj to Jumla, a town in the Jumla district that serves as a center for onward travel to Rara Lake. The trip from Nepalgunj to Jumla is around 280 kilometers. However, this part of the journey might take some time due to challenging terrain and road conditions.
Jumla to Rara Lake
The last phase of the route from Jumla to Rara Lake is around 108 kilometers. This part is challenging, as you must pass through rural settlements and dense forests before arriving at the magnificent Rara National Park, where Rara Lake is located.
Cost
| Kathmandu to Rara Lake | Time | Cost Per Person |
| Fly from Kathmandu to Surkhet, drive | 8hr29min | $92 – $298 |
| Fly Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, drive | 9hr52min | $97 – $223 |
| Drive on Jeep | 16hr12min | Rs 1,35,000.00 or 170 dollars per pax (minimum 6 pax) |
Why Rent a Jeep For This Journey
The Rara Lake Jeep tour is a smart choice because the routes to Rara Lake are very rough and bumpy. They make it through steep hills, especially after rain. Jeeps are designed for this kind of terrain. Their strong tires and powerful engines make navigating rough and sometimes muddy paths easier.
Another reason for a Jeep tour to Rara Lake is for safety and comfort. Jeeps provide a more pleasant ride on uneven roads, decreasing the discomfort that you may experience in a regular car. You can travel with peace of mind, knowing your vehicle can handle the journey’s challenges. One of the best parts of visiting Rara Lake is the breathtaking scenery. You can get a better view of the surrounding landscapes from the high seat of a jeep. The tall mountains, dense forest, and clear blue water of the lakes are more visible from a jeep.
Finally, the Jeep ride offers excellent convenience and flexibility. You can explore the area at your own pace, stopping whenever you like. You are not limited by the public transportation schedules, giving you the freedom to make the most of your adventure. You can have a more personalized and enjoyable travel experience.
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Short Itinerary to Go Rara Lake – 7 Days Jeep Tour
- Day 01: Kathmandu to Kohalpur
- Day 02: Drive Kohalpur to Manma, Headquarter of Kalikot district
- Day 03: Manma to Rara Lake via Sija and Nagma
- Day 04: Full day Exploring the Lake
- Day 05: Rara Lake to Manma
- Day 06: Manma to Kohalpur/Surkhet
- Day 07: Kohalpur to Kathmandu
Best Time to Visit Rara Lake in Nepal
The best times to visit Rara Lake are spring and autumn. The spring (March to May) weather is mild and comfortable, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring. The surrounding hills are covered in blooming flowers, adding vibrant colors to the already stunning scenery. This season is perfect for seeing the natural beauty of Rara Lake at its best.
Autumn (September to November) is another ideal time to visit Rara Lake. This season brings pleasant weather conditions with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, providing breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The moderate temperature, not too hot or cold, makes your trip more enjoyable.
It’s best to avoid visiting during the monsoon season (June to August), as heavy rains can make the roads muddy and difficult to navigate. Additionally, winter (December to February) can be very cold, and snow might block some paths leading to the lake.
Popular Stops And Attractions Along The Way
- Nepalgunj: A bustling city near the Indian border known for its lively markets and diverse cultures.
- Surkhet: An agricultural hub with vibrant local markets offering fresh products and handicrafts.
- Birendranagar (Surkhet Bazar): A peaceful town with beautiful views of hills and valleys.
- Jumla: Famous for its scenic landscapes and traditional Nepali culture.
- Sinja Valley: An ancient site with historic ruins showcasing Nepal’s rich heritage.
- Mugu: A remote region with rugged mountains and tranquil surroundings.
- Rara National Park: Home to Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest lake known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty.
Packing Essentials For The Rara Lake Trek
Clothing
- Warm Layers: Pack thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and a down jacket to stay warm as temperatures drop, especially at night.
- Waterproof Outer Layer: Bring a waterproof and windproof jacket to protect against rain and wind.
- Comfortable Pants: Opt for durable and comfortable pants suitable for hiking.
- Moisture-Wicking Shirts: Pack lightweight shirts that wick moisture away from the body.
- Warm Hat and Gloves: Essential for cold mornings and evenings.
Gear
- Backpack
- Sleeping Bag
- Tent
- Trekking Poles
- Headlamp or Flashlight
- Water Purification System
- Map and Compass/GPS
- Multi-tool or Knife
Footwear
- Hiking Boots
- Socks
- Sandals or Camp Shoes
Other Essentials
- First Aid Kit
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries
- Moisturiser
Accommodation
There are several guesthouses and lodges around Rara Lake offering basic accommodation facilities. These places usually provide simple rooms with beds and shared bathrooms. Some may also have dining areas where you can get meals. Electricity and hot water may not always be available, and facilities can be limited. Camping is a popular option around Rara Lake Trek. There are designated camping sites where you can pitch your tent. The facilities around camping sites can vary but generally include basic amenities such as toilets and sometimes fire pits.
Conclusion
The trip from Kathmandu to Rara Lake is exciting, with beautiful sights and thrilling adventures. Whether you drive or take a domestic flight to Nepalgunj, followed by a road trip, the journey from Kathmandu to Rara Lake offers diverse landscapes and cultural insights. The rugged terrain and scenic views make it a memorable experience. Rara Lake, protected by Rara National Park, is the perfect place to enjoy nature in its raw and undisturbed form.
FAQs
What fish are only found in Rara Lake?
Rara snowtrout is the only fish found in Rara Lake. 236 different species of birds can be found in the lake.
Can we go boating in Rara Lake?
You can go boating and horse riding by the lake. There are many fantastic trekking routes around Rara Lake and National Park. These paths lead to charming spots like Thakur Baba’s Temple.
How much does the Rara Lake trek cost?
1person: $1899
2-5person: $1699
6-9person: $1599
10+person: $1499
How do I get from Pokhara to Rara Lake?
The fastest way to reach Rara Lake from Pakhara is driving, which takes 14hr30min. It costs $95 – $150.
What is the altitude of Rara Lake?
Rara Lake has an altitude of 2990m.
