This trek through the remote wilderness of western Nepal offers a superb experience of nature and a visit to Rara Lake , Nepal 's Largest Lake at 3062 meters. Beginning the trek from the mountain airstrip of Jumla after flying from Kathmandu via Nepalgunj, the trail passes through green countryside which provides unusual glimpses of a culture and scenery quite different from that found elsewhere in Nepal and which eventually culminates to the Rara Lake National Park . This beautiful high altitude lake is surrounded by alpine meadows and forests of pine, juniper and spruce, whilst in the background you can view the magnificent snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas . The entire route is 'off the beaten track' which involves the crossing of Ghurchi Lagna pass at 3450m on the way to Rara Lake and a few ridges at around 3000 meters when hiking on the way back.Any physically fit person can do this moderate trek anytime in March to May and October to early December. Highlights of the TrekkingExploring tranquil Rara Lake , stunning Himalayan panorama, exploring typical village people and their way of life.Fact of The TrekkingDestination : Rara Lake (3200m)Group Size : Min - 2Minimum altitude : 2344m.Maximum altitude : 3210m.Grade : Easy & ModerateSeason : Spring & AutumnAccommodation : Tented CampDuration : 12 DaysEntry : JumlaExit : Jumla
DAY 01 ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU Upon arrival at Tribhuwan International airport in Kathmandu meet our airport representative and transfer to the hotel .Overnight at Kathmandu .
Day 02: KATHMANDU SIGHTSEEING In the morning after breakfast full day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu , the most popular Place in the kingdom was known as kantipur in earlier times. The tour highlights are the Living Goddess " Kumari" who appear on the balcony of her temple to greet her devotees; Kastamandap temple, the temple made out of single tree and name Kathmandu is derived from durbar square and drive to Soyambhunath which lies on top of hill is the Buddhist sanctuary said to be nearly 2000 years old. The hill itself is pleasant place overlooking the entire valley of Kathmandu . The all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha painted in prominent blue atop the dome are visible from long distance from around the Kathamandu city.
Day 3 Fly Kathmandu to Nepalgunj Transfer to the airport for the flight to Nepalgunj, which lies close to the Indian border in the western Terai.
Day 4 Fly Nepalgunj to Jumla & trek to Chala Chaur [2900m] We take a thirty-minute scenic flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla. On reaching Jumla, we interact with the trekking crew and begin our trekking after lunch. We traverse northwards out of the Jumla Valley . Soon after trekking for an hour, we encounter a small village of Micha bearing a small walled enclosure and a number of Buddhist stupas. These stupas were erected at around late 15th century, in the memory of important dignitaries of the region. The trail further leads to rock-strewn path and at last ends at Chala Chaur.
Day 5 Cross a Pass We leave Chala Chaur and follow a trail moving along path of steep stones. While ascending, we cross through birch, pine forests and grassy pass at approx 3500m. From this point Kanjiroba becomes visible in the east with its twin peaks towering over the adjacent area. Further on, we descend as the trail opens into lush forests. After trekking for a couple of hours, we finally stop at a suitable campsite in the meadows nearby some shepherd's huts.
Day 6 Trek via Sinja [2440m] to Botan [2600m] We walk along the Jaljala Khola through pine forests of and terraced farmland. En route the trail passes the 300 year old Kanaksundari Temple . The temple holds immense religious significance for Hindus. The route further bends along the main river. Crossing a thick plank bridge, we finally descend to reach Sinja village. Sinja village rests upon a small alluvial plain on the west bank of the clear Lah Gad River , also called the Sinja Khola. Sinja was once the ancient capital of the Malla kings. There are stones lying along the trail that foretell the history of Malla dynasty. After lunch, we head to Botan. On the way, we pass through a spectacular gorge and finally reach the village of Botan .
Day 7 Trek to Rara Park border Leaving Sinja Khola, we follow the trail along Ghatta Khola amid the unparallel beauty of nature. The sinuous route winds up into terraced farmland and beautiful valley. Soon we find ourselves within the territory of Rara Lake National Park. We come across primitive flour mills and police post on the way. Rara Lake National Park houses unique and rich ecosystem. We can spend half an hour exploring the beauty of the park or simply doing whatever we feel like. We spend the night in Gorosingha.
Day 8 Trek to Rara Lake [3062m] We walk away from Gorosingha and ascend to the Ghurchi Mara ridge [3710m] for one and half hour. The trail is not as strenuous as it looks. On reaching the crest of the ridge, we get to experience an excellent panorama to the north, flaunting irresistible beauty and charm. As the trail descends, Rara Lake becomes visible on the northeast. The trail further passes through bamboo and birch forests before crossing the Khatyar Khola. We then follow the river upstream to Rara Lake , where we savor the most fascinating trekking experience amid the beauty of nature.
Day 9-10 Rest days at Rara We now have 2 days set aside to explore the area, including the old village of Rara . We can also climb up to the wooden observation tower behind the post office for fine views of the lake and surrounding hills. We can even visit the National Park Headquarters. Swimming is allowed in the lake and it is piercingly refreshing. This can be a perfect way for acclimatization.
Day 11 Trek via Jhyari [2630m] to River camp We depart from Rara Lake and continue skirting along the target destination. On crossing a ridge, we enter the village of Jhyari . Strolling by the Jhyari Khola, the trail further follows terraced farmlands. As we approach Dhauligar Khola valley, we find a suitable camp site near the river bank. We also get to witness an exotic charisma of nature and outstanding panorama of snow-capped mountain peaks.
Day 12 Across Ghurchi Lagna pass [3450m] to Chautha [2770m] As Dhauligar Khola blurs out of our trekking route, we pass through farmland and then enter the village of Pina . Pina has a police post and some hotels. We continue climbing to the Ghurchi Lagna Pass and come across several small chortens, alpine-like pastures, walnut groves and a narrow valley. Finally, the steep slope guides us into the village of Chautha where we conclude the trek of the day.
Day 13 Trek to Tharamara [3280m] From Chautha, the trail follows the northern bank of the Sinja Khola past the hotel and health clinic under the massive overhanging rock at Kabra. Silaji found in this area is the source of the important medicinal mineral which is believed to cure almost anything. The route then passes through the villages of Bumra and Nyawre, before climbing to the pasture at Tharamara.
Day 14 Trek to Jumla Following the trail gently sloping upwards, we march towards Jumla. We meet tall birch trees on our way to the Khali Lagna and Danphe Lekh. From atop the ridge, we can have the most spectacular views of the mountain ridges to the south and Jumla below. Further on, we descend steeply to the first night's campsite. Utmost caution is required while trekking along this trail. We then follow the same route back to Jumla. After reaching Jumla, we can spend our afternoon exploring the busy market town or simply pursuing whatever we feel like
Day 15 Fly to Kathmandu We take a flight from Jumla to Nepalgunj. On reaching Nepalgunj, we return to Kathmandu on the next available flight. You can spend the rest of the day shopping and general sightseeing.
