Rara Lake Trek- 13 Days

After breakfast, we head to the domestic airport for a short but scenic flight to Nepalgunj, located near the Indian border in the Terai plains. As the plane descends, we’re greeted by a warm subtropical climate, completely different from Kathmandu’s cool mountain air. The city is a melting pot of cultures with influences from both India and western Nepal. We spend the evening exploring local markets and sampling spicy street food while preparing for the adventure ahead.

Today’s flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla is one of the most thrilling of the journey. As we soar over forested ridges and steep cliffs, the terrain begins to transform dramatically. Jumla is a rugged town nestled deep in the Karnali region, with snow-dusted mountains and wild rivers. The air is crisp and fresh. We explore the town, get a taste of mountain culture, and prepare our gear for the start of the trek. The remoteness of Jumla reminds us that we’ve truly stepped away from modern civilization.

Our first day of trekking begins! The trail out of Jumla leads through verdant pine forests, farmlands, and charming apple orchards. Villagers carrying hay, children running barefoot, and horses grazing by the riverside paint a postcard-worthy scene. The climb is gradual and soothing. By afternoon, we reach Chere Chaur, a serene meadow surrounded by pine trees and hills. As we camp or stay in a basic teahouse, the stillness of the mountains begins to settle into our bones.

We begin the day with a climb to the Jaljala Pass (3,580m). The ascent is steady, but every step rewards us with wide Himalayan panoramas. Wind-blown prayer flags mark the top, and we take a moment to breathe in the sacred silence. The trail then descends gently through rhododendron and pine forests. After several hours of walking, we reach the quiet village of Chalachaur, where stone houses and terraced fields create a picture of rustic simplicity. This is life far from the noise.

Today’s journey takes us deep into the legendary Sinja Valley, the former capital of the powerful Khasa Kingdom. The trail follows the meandering Jaljala Khola River, crossing several charming wooden bridges. As we arrive in Sinja, we step into living history. Ancient Malla-era temples, stone inscriptions, and relics are scattered around, bearing witness to a time when this valley ruled western Nepal. The villagers are warm and welcoming, often sharing stories of their ancestors with pride.

Leaving behind the historic valley, we ascend through thick forests of oak, pine, and bamboo. The trail gets steeper, but wildflowers line our path, and the chirping of birds echoes through the trees. By afternoon, we reach Ghorosingha, a secluded spot nestled in the foothills, where we rest among yak herders and shepherds. The sky here feels closer, stars brighter. A true Himalayan wilderness surrounds us.

Today is the crown jewel of our trek. The trail gently winds through alpine forests and lush meadows until we reach a ridge—and there it is: Rara Lake, glistening like a sapphire in the middle of dense pine woods. It’s a breathtaking sight. The lake is vast, silent, and sacred, framed by snow-capped peaks. We settle by the lake, letting the calmness soak in. This is what we came for: pure, untouched nature.

We spend the day exploring the lake's shoreline and nearby forests. The trail around the lake takes us through Rara National Park, home to musk deer, red panda, and Himalayan birds. Reflections of the clouds on the water create a dreamlike world. Some of us might hike up to Murma Top for a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding hills. Others may choose to sit quietly on the banks and simply be. The serenity is healing.

It’s hard to leave Rara, but the trail continues. We descend through birch and oak forests, passing through small Magar and Thakuri settlements. The path offers glimpses of the lake from afar, fading into memory. We reach Pina, a quaint village where children play in fields and elders sit in the sun weaving baskets. The smiles here are wide, the hearts warmer.

The trail leads us alongside beautiful river valleys, past natural hot springs, and wild herbs growing on cliffsides. The landscape changes again, offering new textures and colors. By the time we reach Bumra, also known as Nauri Ghat, the spiritual stillness of the journey has deepened. We’re embraced by the simplicity of village life and sleep under the stars.

We retrace our flights from Jumla to Nepalgunj, and finally to Kathmandu. As we descend into the capital, it feels surreal to return to civilization after so many days in raw wilderness. The buzz of the city contrasts sharply with the silence of Rara, but our hearts carry the stillness with us. It’s more than just a trek; it’s a memory etched into the soul.