Situated in Mugu district of the Karnali zone, Rara Lake is the largest and the deepest lake in Nepal. Over 3 km in width and 5 km in length, Rara Lake is the main attraction of the Rara National Park. Rara Lake lies at an altitude of 2990 m with a depth of about 167 m. Rara National Park is one of the smallest national parks in the country but it is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Of the 1074 species of flora, 16 are endemic to Nepal. It is also home to 15 species of mammals and 214 species of birds. It is also one of the Ramsar sites (wetland site designated to conserve wetlands and sustainable use of its resources as per UNESCO Ramsar Convention in 1971) since September 23, 2007. 

                                                                                          Camping near Rara Lake

How to Get There

The shortest way to reach there is by air. However, there is no direct flight to Mugu from Kathmandu. There are flights from either Nepalgunj or Surkhet, so, one must take a plane to either Nepalgunj or Surkhet from Kathmandu and from there to Talcha Airport in Mugu. From Talcha Airport, it’s a 2-hour hike to the lake through the woods.

Road transport takes about two days to reach Talcha Airport. There are public vehicles taking passengers to Mugu or you can reserve vehicles too depending on the needs of the traveler. The tickets can be bought from the ticket counter at New Buspark.

The last way to get there is rather the hardest one—trekking! Though it’s tough, it’s also the most rewarding as you get to see and enjoy the cultures of the west that blend so well with the pristine and vintage yet amazing landscape of Karnali.

Accommodation

There are only two hotels operating in the lake area: Danfe Guest House and Heritage Village Resort. Apart from these hotels, there are other hotels operating in nearby areas. During peak travelling seasons, these hotels tend to be fully booked, so it is advisable to reserve rooms beforehand if you don’t want to miss a stay near the majestic view and soothing sounds of the lake and the flora and fauna.

The cost of a room is around NRs 1500 per person including dinner. As one stays further away from the lake area, the prices may be lower.