Rara Lake is the largest lake in Nepal, sitting at 2,990 meters within Rara National Park in the remote northwest of the country. This trek takes you from Kathmandu through Nepalgunj and Jumla, past the villages of Gorusingha, Sija, and Jaljala, before finally reaching the lake itself. It’s a far quieter route than the more popular circuits, which is part of the appeal for trekkers looking for something removed from the usual crowds.
The national park surrounding the lake holds forests of blue pine, black juniper, oak, cypress, and rhododendron, and is home to the Himalayan black bear, musk deer, leopard, ghoral, and red panda, along with more than 200 species of birds and butterflies. The lake itself is known for shifting color through the day, deep blue giving way to other shades depending on light and season, and in winter the surrounding ridges often carry snow.
Beyond the natural scenery, the route passes through the Sinja Valley, once the capital of the Malla Dynasty between the 12th and 14th centuries, giving the trek a historical layer alongside the landscape.
International Adventures Treks & Expeditions runs this trip with a licensed guide and full logistical support throughout, from Kathmandu departure to final return.
