Jumla - Rara Trek

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Jumla – Rara Lake Trek takes you through some of Nepal’s most stunning and untouched landscapes. You’ll cross the Jaljala Pass, offering breathtaking views of giant Himalayan peaks. Along the way, you’ll explore the historic Sinja Valley, dotted with ancient ruins and surrounded by lush green hills.

The highlight is the magnificent Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest natural lake, known for its crystal-clear blue waters that reflect the surrounding pine forests and snow-capped mountains. Nearby, vibrant rhododendron forests burst into color in spring, creating a magical atmosphere. You can hike to viewpoints like Murma Top for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding ranges.

Trip Facts
Country
Nepal
Duration
13 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Max. Altitude
3690 meters
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Walking / Hiking
Accomodation
Hotels / Lodges
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Best Time
Spring & Autumn

Highlights of 13 Days Jumla – Rara Lake Trek

  • Explore Remote Northwest Nepal: Journey through the quiet and less-visited Karnali region, far from the usual tourist trails.
  • Fly Into Jumla: Experience scenic mountain flights that offer stunning aerial views of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.
  • Cultural Richness: Visit traditional villages like Chere Chaur, Sinja Valley (ancient Khasa Malla capital), and Pina Village to learn about local customs, history, and lifestyles.
  • Jaljala Pass: Cross this high mountain pass with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys.
  • Rara Lake: Spend time at Nepal’s largest and deepest natural lake, known for its crystal-clear blue water and serene surroundings.
  • Lush Forests and Wildlife: Trek through pine and rhododendron forests rich with birds and wildlife, especially during spring bloom.
  • High Mountain Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas such as Api Peak, Nampa Peak, Saipal Range, Dhaulagiri Range (in the distance), Jaljala Mountain, etc.
  • Authentic Homestays and Lodges: Stay in cozy lodges and homestays to experience genuine Nepali hospitality and mountain life.
  • Remote Area Experience: Avoid crowded trails and enjoy the natural beauty of a hidden gem in Nepal.

Jumla to Rara Lake Trek – Explore Nature’s Largest & Deepest Beauty

The Jumla – Rara Lake Trek is a special journey in the far northwest of Nepal. It takes you through beautiful mountains, quiet villages, and leads to one of the largest lake of Nepal—Rara Lake.

You begin your trek from Jumla, a small town high up in the mountains. Jumla is full of history and tradition. People here still live simple lives, farming and celebrating their culture. It’s a great place to learn about local life and enjoy fresh, tasty food.

From Jumla, you walk through forests, green fields, and small villages. You cross the Jaljala Pass, which is high and gives you amazing views of the big mountains around you. On the way, you visit the Sinja Valley, an old place where the Nepali language first started. You can see old ruins and learn about Nepal’s past.

The best part of the trek is reaching Rara Lake. It is Nepal’s biggest natural lake, surrounded by tall trees and mountains. The water is very clear and blue, making it a peaceful place to relax. You can walk around the lake, visit nearby viewpoints, or just enjoy the calm. You’ll feel like a heaven here.

Along the way, you stay in small villages and meet the friendly local people. They live simply and are happy to share their stories and culture. Staying in tea houses or homestays lets you experience their warm hospitality.

This trek is not very hard but does need a good level of fitness. You walk at high places, so it’s important to rest and get used to the altitude. The best time to go is in spring or autumn when the weather is nice and the flowers bloom.

The area is quiet and not crowded, with few shops or big hotels. You should bring the things you need and be ready for simple living.

If you want to see a less busy part of Nepal, enjoy nature, and learn about old history, this trek is perfect. It shows you a side of Nepal many travelers don’t get to see. The quiet beauty of Rara Lake and the friendly people make this trek a very special adventure.

Alternatives For Jumla – Rara Lake Trek In Nepal

If you're looking for other treks in Nepal that offer a similar mix of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and peaceful trails like the Jumla – Rara Lake Trek, there are several great options. These treks also take you into quieter, off-the-beaten-path regions and are perfect for nature lovers and cultural explorers.

Here are some good alternatives:

  1. Dolpo Trek (Lower Dolpo) – Located west of Rara, this trek explores the isolated landscapes of Dolpo, with stunning mountain views, ancient Bonpo culture, and Phoksundo Lake—Nepal’s deepest lake. It’s more challenging but incredibly rewarding.
  2. Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek – A shorter version of the Dolpo trek, focusing on the mesmerizing blue waters of Phoksundo Lake. It’s rich in Tibetan-influenced culture and ideal for those who want a taste of remote western Nepal without high passes.
  3. Upper Mustang Trek – Though more popular, it shares a similar remote and cultural feel, with arid landscapes, Tibetan Buddhist heritage, and ancient cave monasteries. It’s perfect for trekkers drawn to spiritual and cultural depth.

These treks are excellent alternatives for those seeking untouched landscapes, traditional cultures, and peaceful trekking experiences away from the usual crowds—just like the Jumla – Rara Lake Trek.

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary
Day 01:Kathmandu (1350 m)
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 02:Kathmandu – Nepalgunj (150m) [Flight]
Max Altitude
150m / 492ft
Walking/Hiking
Flight
Itinerary
Day 03:Nepalgunj – Jumla (2500 m) – Chere Chaur (3050 m)
Max Altitude
3,050m / 10,006ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 04:Chere Chaur – Jaljala Pass (3580 m) - Chala Chaur (2980 m)
Max Altitude
3,580m / 11,745ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 05:Chala Chaur – Sinja Valley (2440 m)
Max Altitude
2,440m / 8,005ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 06:Sinja Valley – Ghorosingha (3050 m)
Max Altitude
3,050m / 10,006ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 07:Ghorosingha – Rara Lake (2990 m)
Max Altitude
2,990m / 9,809ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 08:Full Day at Rara Lake
Max Altitude
2,990m / 9,809ft
Walking/Hiking
Hiking
Itinerary
Day 09:Rara Lake – Pina Village (2440 m)
Max Altitude
2,440m / 8,005ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 10:Pina Village – Bumra (Nauri Ghat) (2850m)
Max Altitude
2,850m / 9,350ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 11:Bumra – Dhanphe Lagna Pass (3690 m) - Jumla (2514 m)
Max Altitude
3,690m / 12,106ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 12:Jumla – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu [Flight]
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
Flight
Itinerary
Day 13:Departure from Kathmandu
Max Altitude
-
Walking/Hiking
-

Jumla - Rara Trek Detailed Itinerary

The itinerary can be customized according to your duration of holiday. Similarly hotel can be upgraded or downgraded depending on your requirement.

Starts: Kathmandu
Ends: Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our correspondent who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once checked in, we will arrange a pre-trip meeting where we will brief in short about the trek, answer any queries you have and meet your trekking guide as well. After the short brief, you can relax and spend rest of the day at your leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Today, you will take a short flight from Kathmandu, which is about 1,400 meters above sea level, down to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj is a low-lying city at just 150 meters altitude in the Terai plains of Nepal. The flight takes around one hour. Once you arrive, you can relax and explore this busy town, which has a different feel from the mountains. It’s warmer here, and you might enjoy a walk around the local market or visit nearby temples. You will stay overnight in Nepalgunj to prepare for your next flight to Jumla.

Today, you will take a short flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla of around 45 minutes. The flight offers beautiful views of hills and valleys as you climb higher.

After landing in Jumla, you’ll start a light trek of 2-3 hours to Chere Chaur, a small village at around 3,050 meters. The walk is not very long or difficult and will help your body begin to adjust to the higher altitude. Along the way, you’ll enjoy fresh mountain air and lovely views of forests and hills. You will stay overnight at lodge in Chere Chaur.

Today’s trek is a bit longer and more exciting. You will walk from Chere Chaur to Chala Chaur, which takes about 5 to 6 hours. Early on, you will climb up to the Jaljala Pass (3580 m), the highest point of the day. From there, you can see beautiful mountain ranges and deep valleys stretching far into the distance—perfect for taking photos and enjoying the fresh mountain air.

The trail goes through peaceful pine and rhododendron forests, open grassy meadows, and small streams. You might see local wildlife or shepherds with their animals along the way. After crossing the pass, the path gently descends to Chala Chaur, a quiet village where you will spend the night there. Overnight at lodge in Chala Chaur.

Today, you will trek from Chala Chaur down to Sinja Valley. The walk takes about 5 to 6 hours. The trail gradually descends through peaceful forests and farmland, passing small villages along the way.

Sinja Valley is a special place with ancient ruins and rich history and was indeed the capital of the ancient Khasa Malla Kingdom. It was a significant political and cultural center during medieval times and is considered the birthplace of the Nepali language. The valley has many archaeological ruins, old stone inscriptions, and historical sites that reflect its rich heritage. When you arrive, you can explore the valley, visit old stone inscriptions, and learn about the local culture. You’ll stay overnight at a lodge in Sinja Valley.

Today, you will hike from Sinja Valley to the village of Ghorosingha, which takes about 5 to 6 hours. The trail gradually climbs uphill, leading you through dense pine and rhododendron forests filled with fresh mountain air and the sounds of birds. Along the way, you’ll pass small farming villages where locals live a traditional lifestyle.

The path passes through peaceful natural surroundings, offering beautiful views of distant mountain peaks and valleys below. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more alpine with open meadows and wildflowers during springtime. Overnight stay at lodge / homestay.

Today is a special day as you trek from Ghorosingha to the stunning Rara Lake. The walk takes about 5 to 6 hours and is mostly uphill at first, then gradually levels out as you get closer to the lake. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful forests filled with pine and rhododendron trees and may see colorful birds and wildflowers.

Rara Lake is the largest natural lake in Nepal and also one of the deepest. It is often called the “Pearl of Nepal” because of its stunning clear blue waters surrounded by forests and mountains. It lies at about 2,990 meters (9,810 feet) above sea level inside Rara National Park. As you come closer to Rara Lake, the landscape opens up to reveal the sparkling blue waters surrounded by green hills, horses and snowy mountain peaks. The peaceful lake is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty. You’ll stay overnight in a lodge near the lake.

Today, you will spend the whole day relaxing and enjoying the beautiful Rara Lake. You can walk around the lake, see the clear blue water, and enjoy the views of the mountains and forests nearby. If you want, you can hike up to a viewpoint called Murma Top to see panoramic views of the lake and mountains from above.

This day is perfect for resting, taking photos, and enjoying the calm and quiet nature around you. You will stay overnight again in a lodge near the lake.

Today, you will start trekking from Rara Lake down to Pina Village. The walk takes about 5 to 6 hours. The trail goes mostly downhill through forests and small villages. You’ll enjoy peaceful nature and beautiful views as you descend.

Pina Village is a charming and peaceful mountain village known for its traditional lifestyle and beautiful natural surroundings. It’s one of the last villages before you leave the remote Rara Lake area, offering a genuine experience of rural Nepali culture. Overnight at lodge at Pina Village.

Today, you will trek from Pina Village up to Bumra, also called Nauri Ghat. The trek takes about 5 to 6 hours. The trail climbs steadily through forests and farmland, giving you beautiful views of the hills and mountains around you.

Bumra is a small, peaceful village located along the trekking route near Rara Lake. It is known for its friendly local people and traditional lifestyle. Overnight at lodge at Bumra

Today, you will trek from Bumra back to Jumla, crossing the high Dhanphe Lagna Pass at 3,690 meters. This is the longest and most challenging day of the trek, taking about 7 to 8 hours. You’ll start by climbing steadily up to the pass, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the mountains and valleys around you.

After crossing the pass, the trail descends down through forests and villages until you reach Jumla. Once in Jumla, you can relax and celebrate completing this amazing journey through some of Nepal’s most beautiful and remote landscapes. Overnight at lodge at Jumla.

Today, you will take a flight from Jumla back down to Nepalgunj. From Nepalgunj, you’ll catch another flight to Kathmandu. Both flights offer beautiful views as you descend from the mountains to the plains and then arrive in the capital city. Overnight at hotel.

Enjoy your last day on Kathmandu before departure. At your mentioned departure time our correspondent will pick you up from hotel and transfer to airport and depart you with warm hearts.

Altitude Chart

Unit:

Jumla - Rara Trek: Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu (airport – hotel – airport)
  • 2 nights’ hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (on arrival and return day)
  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Jumla – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu
  • All necessary permits and entry fees for Rara National Park and trekking areas
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) served at lodges or homestays
  • Accommodation during the trek in lodges or local homestays
  • Experienced trekking guide, cook, and porters as needed during the trek
  • 1 guide and 1 porter per 2 trekkers (subject to group size)
  • Staff meals, accommodation, wages, insurance, and appropriate trekking clothing
  • Transportation between Nepalgunj airport and hotels
  • Company service charge
  • All applicable government taxes

Excludes

  • International airfare & Nepal VISA fees
  • Personal equipment
  • Personal and medical insurance
  • Emergency Rescue evacuation by helicopter in case needed
  • Hot showers, electric charges and Wi-Fi during the trek
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu 
  • Visits and/or entrance fees to temples in Kathmandu
  • Unforeseen expenses caused by uncontrollable circumstances such as flight cancellations or delays, blocked roads, weather conditions, natural disasters, altitude sickness, early termination or return of the program, etc.
  • Personal Expenses
  • Tips
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in INCLUDED

Dates & Availability

Our online briefing is designed to answer all your questions about the trek. We’ll go over the gear you’ll need (equipment checklist), provide a detailed itinerary, and explain what you can expect on the trail. After you book your trip, we’ll send you an email with available briefing dates and times. Once we receive your required documents, we’ll schedule and conduct the online trek briefing.

Add-ons & Options

Personalizing your Jumla - Rara Trek - 14 Days —just follow these steps:

Step 1: Select your desired departure date
Step 2: Specify the number of participants/ travellers
Step 3: Click on the ‘Book Now’ or ‘Add to Cart’ button
Step 4: Choose from the available add-on options to enhance your experience
Step 5: Proceed with the advance payment to confirm your booking

Essential Information

Permits Required For Jumla – Rara Lake Trekking in Nepal

To trek in the Jumla – Rara Lake region, you need to obtain the following permits:

  • Rara National Park Entry Permit: This permit is mandatory to enter and trek within Rara National Park, which protects the lake and surrounding areas.
  • Local Area Permit (if applicable): Some local regions may require additional permits issued by local authorities along the trekking route.

Make sure to carry valid identification such as your passport when applying for permits. Permits can be obtained in Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, or at certain points before entering the park. Keep your permits with you during the trek, as park officials may check them at checkpoints.

Best Time for Nepal Jumla – Rara Lake Trekking

The best seasons to do the Jumla – Rara Lake Trekking are:

Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and stunning mountain views make this the most popular and ideal time for the trek.

Spring (March to May): Blooming rhododendrons, green forests, and comfortable weather offer a colorful and scenic trekking experience.

Early Winter (December): December is a good time if you are ready for colder temperatures. The skies stay clear, trails are less crowded, and the mountain views remain spectacular.

Difficulty Level of Jumla – Rara Lake Trek

The Jumla – Rara Lake Trek is considered a moderate trek suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and some prior trekking experience. Here’s why:

  • Altitude: The trek reaches heights of around 3,600 to 3,700 meters (at passes like Dhanphe Lagna), which can cause mild altitude effects, but it is not as high as many other Himalayan treks. Proper acclimatization is important.
  • Trekking Time: Daily walking times range from 3 to 7 hours, with some longer days involving steady uphill climbs and passes.
  • Terrain: Trails include a mix of gentle paths, forest trails, mountain passes, and occasional rocky or uneven sections. The paths are generally well-marked but can be steep in parts.
  • Physical Demand: The trek requires good stamina and the ability to walk uphill and downhill comfortably for several hours a day. It is not suitable for complete beginners without preparation.
  • Weather: Weather can be cold at higher altitudes, especially in early spring and late autumn, so being prepared for chilly conditions is important.

Overall, the trek offers a rewarding adventure with manageable physical challenges, making it ideal for fit trekkers who want to explore a remote and less crowded part of Nepal.

Equipment List for Jumla - Rara Trek

Packing smartly for Jumla - Rara Trek of 13 Days is important to ensure comfort and safety throughout your journey. Since this trek involves camping in remote areas and trekking at high altitude, here are the essential items you should bring:

1. Clothing

  • Moisture-wicking T-shirts (2–3)
  • Fleece jacket or light down jacket
  • Lightweight hoodie or sweater
  • Waterproof/windproof jacket (Gore-Tex preferred)
  • Rain poncho or pack cover
  • Trekking pants (2)
  • Thermal leggings for cold nights
  • 3–4 pairs of moisture-wicking socks
  • Inner garments
  • Warm hat/beanie
  • Sun hat/cap
  • Gloves (inner fleece + waterproof outer gloves)

2. Footwear

  • Trekking or hiking boots with ankle support
  • Lightweight camp shoes (crocs/sandals)

3. Backpacking Gear

  • Daypack (20–30L) with rain cover
  • Duffel bag if using a porter

4. Sleeping Essentials

  • Sleeping bag rated to at least -20°C - optional (can rent in Kathmandu)

5. Hydration & Nutrition

  • Water bottles (1–2L total capacity) or hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets or filter (e.g., LifeStraw/Sawyer)
  • Electrolyte tablets or ORS
  • Energy bars, trail mix, dried fruits (optional but handy)

6. Personal Care & Toiletries

  • Biodegradable soap/shampoo
  • Toothbrush & paste
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Toilet paper & wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer

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