Rara National Park

Rara National Park is Nepal's smallest national park, covering 106 km² in the remote Mugu District of Karnali Province. It is centred on Rara Lake (Rara Tal), Nepal's largest lake at 2,990 m with a surface area of 10.8 km². The park protects pristine alpine forests, wetlands, and a stunning blue lake set against the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

The climate is cold and dry. The best time to visit is May–October. Winters are bitterly cold with snow and ice on the lake.

By Plane

Fly from Kathmandu or Nepalgunj to Jumla Airport (JUM). From Jumla, it is a 3–4 day trek (or a rough jeep ride) to the park.

By Train

No railway.

By Car / Road

A rough road from Jumla to Rara exists but is poor. Most visitors trek from Jumla.

On foot. The lake can be circled in a day.

• Rara Lake – The spectacular deep-blue alpine lake, the largest in Nepal.

• Alpine forests – Dense stands of blue pine, rhododendron, and juniper.

• Birdlife – Over 200 species including the rare koklass pheasant.

• Wildlife – Musk deer, red panda, Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard (rare).

• Mountain views – The lake is surrounded by peaks like Chuchemara and Ruma Kand.

• Lake circuit trek – 5–7 days from Jumla.

• Bird-watching – Excellent for Himalayan species.

• Photography – The lake is one of Nepal's most photogenic spots.

• Boating – Small boats operate on the lake.

Basic lodges near the park serve dal bhat and noodles.

Tea and boiled water. Purification tablets essential.

• Budget: Basic lodges (Rs 500–1000).
• Mid-range: Rara Village Home – Rs 1000–2000.

Bring all supplies from Jumla or Kathmandu.

• Jumla (3–4 days trek) – Gateway town.
• Gamgadhi (15 km south) – Mugu headquarters.
• Sinja Valley (near Jumla) – Ancient Khas Malla capital.