Adventure Friendship
Jumla Rara Lake Trek
Trip Overview
Trip Highlight
- Explore the untouched beauty of Rara National Park, Nepal’s smallest national park
- Visit the stunning Rara Lake (2,990m) — known as the Queen of Lakes
- Experience authentic village life and local hospitality in Jumla and Mugu
- Encounter diverse wildlife including red pandas, musk deer, and Himalayan black bears
- Enjoy panoramic mountain views of Api, Saipal, and the surrounding Himalayan ranges
- Walk through enchanting forests of pine, cedar, oak, and rhododendron
- Discover the ancient capital of Sinja Valley, birthplace of the Nepali language
- Off-the-beaten-path adventure with fewer trekkers and true wilderness experience
- Scenic domestic flights between Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Jumla
- Ideal for travelers seeking peace, culture, and nature away from crowds
Detailed Itinerary
- Day 1 : Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
We begin our journey with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj — a vibrant town located in Nepal’s southwestern plains. The one-hour flight offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, green hills, and winding river valleys. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. If time permits, you can explore the colorful streets and local markets of Nepalgunj.
Overnight at hotel in Nepalgunj. - Day 2 : Fly to Jumla (2,370m) and Trek to Danphe Lagna (3,500m)
This morning, we take another short but scenic flight to Jumla, a remote mountain town and the starting point of our trek. After landing, we begin our gentle trek toward Danphe Lagna, walking through pine forests and small settlements while enjoying stunning mountain views.
Overnight at local guesthouse/tented camp in Danphe Lagna. - Day 3 : Trek from Danphe Lagna to Dhotu (2,380m)
After breakfast, we start descending through dense forests of fir, birch, and bamboo. The trail passes water mills and the village of Kabra, famous for Shilajit — a mineral with healing properties. We climb up to Bhara village and continue descending to Chauro Khola and Chautha before entering Rara National Park. We cross the Ghurchi Lagna Pass (3,450m) adorned with prayer flags and descend steeply through spruce forests to reach Dhotu.
Overnight at local guesthouse/tented camp in Dhotu.
- Day 4 : Trek from Dhotu to Rara Lake (2,980m)
Today’s trek is short and incredibly rewarding. We ascend through terraced fields and cedar forests, passing the Thakuri village of Jhyari before reaching a ridge offering the first breathtaking view of Rara Lake. The serene blue waters surrounded by lush forests and snowy peaks make it a truly magical sight.
Overnight at local guesthouse/tented camp near Rara Lake.
- Day 5 : Rest Day at Rara Lake
We spend the day exploring the area around Rara Lake, which lies within Rara National Park. Enjoy the peaceful environment, observe Himalayan birds, and perhaps spot rare wildlife such as red pandas, musk deer, and monkeys. The lake also serves as a sanctuary for migratory waterfowl.
Overnight at local guesthouse/tented camp near Rara Lake.
- Day 6 : Trek from Rara Lake to Gorusingha (3,190m)
After breakfast, we follow a trail along the Khatyar Khola River through forests of pine, spruce, and rhododendron. Gradually, we descend before a short climb to reach the small settlement of Gorusingha, beautifully located amidst green hills and meadows.
Overnight at local guesthouse/tented camp in Gorusingha.
- Day 7 : Trek from Gorusingha to Sinja (2,440m)
We continue descending along the Sinja Khola River, following the trail through fertile valleys and small villages. Sinja holds great historical importance as the capital of the ancient Malla Dynasty (12th–14th century). The ruins of old palaces and temples dedicated to goddess Bhagwati still remain.
Overnight at local guesthouse/tented camp in Sinja.
- Day 8 : Trek from Sinja to Jaljala Chaur (3,270m)
Today’s trail crosses the Sinja Khola several times over traditional log bridges. We pass farmlands, pine, and oak forests, gradually ascending to the beautiful pastureland of Jaljala Chaur, a vast meadow often dotted with grazing horses.
Overnight at local guesthouse/tented camp in Jaljala Chaur.
- Day 9 : Trek from Jaljala Chaur to Jumla (2,370m)
We begin with a gentle ascent through forests and meadows before reaching a ridge at 3,510m, then descend gradually toward Jumla. The scenic trail offers one last opportunity to enjoy the views of the remote western Himalayas.
Overnight at local guesthouse/tented camp in Jumla.
- Day 10 : Fly from Jumla to Nepalgunj and Return to Kathmandu
After breakfast, we board a flight from Jumla to Nepalgunj and connect to our flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening reflecting on this memorable adventure.
Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
Trip Cost Inclusion
- Airport pickup and drop-off (international & domestic)
- All domestic flights (Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Jumla–Nepalgunj–Kathmandu)
- Twin-share hotel accommodation in Kathmandu & Nepalgunj on a BB (Bed & Breakfast) basis
- Twin-share or multi-share lodge/tented accommodation during the trek
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
- Rara National Park entry fees & TIMS trekking permit
- 1 porter for every 2 trekkers (15kg luggage allowance per trekker)
- Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide
- Comprehensive first-aid kit
- All government taxes and service charges
Trip Cost Exclusion
- International flight tickets
- Nepal visa fees
- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
- Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, hot showers, Wi-Fi, etc.)
- Travel insurance (must cover emergency evacuation up to USD 100,000)
- Tips and gratuities for guide, porter, and driver
- Costs due to unforeseen circumstances (weather, flight delays, natural disasters, etc.)
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