Rara
Nepal's largest lake, surrounded by pristine wilderness.
About Rara
Rara Lake is Nepal's largest and deepest freshwater lake, located in the remote northwestern region. The area is known for its pristine beauty and unique biodiversity.
Rara Lake is the largest lake in Nepal, a deep sapphire-blue expanse of around 10.8 square kilometres sitting at about 2,990 metres in the remote far-northwest of the country. Cradled within Rara National Park — Nepal's smallest national park — and ringed by dense pine, spruce and juniper forest with snow-dusted ridges beyond, it is one of the most pristine and least-visited corners of the Himalaya.
Because of its remoteness, Rara has stayed wonderfully unspoilt. The still water mirrors the surrounding peaks, the air is silent but for birdsong, and the park shelters wildlife including red pandas, Himalayan black bears, musk deer and a host of resident and migratory birds. The classic experience is the gentle trek or trail circuit around the lakeshore, with the Murma Top viewpoint offering a sweeping panorama over the water and mountains.
Reaching Rara takes effort, which is exactly why it rewards. Most travellers fly into the region and trek in for a few days, soaking up an atmosphere of true wilderness that has all but disappeared from Nepal's busier trekking trails. For travellers seeking solitude, raw nature and a lake unlike anywhere else in the country, Rara is unforgettable.
Getting There
Rara is in Mugu district, far-northwestern Nepal. The usual route is to fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then take a short flight to Talcha (Mugu) airport, from where it is a 3-4 hour walk or drive to the lake. Adventurous trekkers also reach Rara on multi-day routes from Jumla. Roads are rough and weather-dependent, so build in buffer days.
Travel Tips
- Visit in September-November or March-May for clear skies and pleasant trekking weather.
- Build in buffer days — flights to Talcha/Mugu are small and weather-dependent.
- Pack warm layers; nights are cold at nearly 3,000 m even outside winter.
- Carry enough cash and basic supplies — facilities around Rara are very limited.
- Hire a local guide; the region is remote and infrastructure is minimal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rara Lake?
Rara Lake is in Mugu district in the far-northwest of Nepal, inside Rara National Park, at an altitude of about 2,990 metres. It is one of the country's most remote destinations.
How do you get to Rara Lake?
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then take a short flight to Talcha (Mugu) airport, followed by a 3-4 hour walk or drive to the lake. Some trekkers also reach Rara overland from Jumla.
What is the best time to visit Rara Lake?
September-November and March-May offer the clearest weather and best trekking conditions. Winter brings snow and cold, while the monsoon can disrupt the small flights into the region.
Why is Rara Lake famous?
Rara is famous as Nepal's largest lake — a strikingly blue alpine lake set in pristine, little-visited wilderness within Rara National Park, surrounded by forest, peaks and rich wildlife.
Highlights
Rara Lake
Rara National Park
Murma Top
Chuchemara Peak
Wildlife watching
Activities
Trekking
Boating
Bird watching
Photography
Camping
Travel Information
Location
Karnali Province, Northwestern Nepal
Best Time to Visit
April to May and September to October
Where is Rara?
Rara is located in Karnali Province, Northwestern Nepal.
