About Place
- "A hidden gem in the Himalayas."
- "Nepal's best-kept secret."
- "A pristine paradise."
Reasons to Visit
- Rara Lake: Rara Lake is the largest lake in Nepal and is situated within the Rara National Park. Surrounded by forests of pine, spruce, and juniper, the lake offers a tranquil and stunningly beautiful setting. The clear, blue waters reflect the snow-capped peaks, creating a picture-perfect landscape.
- Biodiversity: Rara National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to numerous species of flora and fauna. It hosts endangered animals like the red panda and Himalayan black bear. Birdwatchers will find paradise here with over 200 bird species.
- Experience: The area around Rara is inhabited by the Thakuri and other ethnic groups, providing a rich cultural experience. Visitors can explore traditional villages, witness unique local customs, and even partake in traditional festivals.
Visa
- For US, UK, and EU Citizens: Visa on arrival is available at Kathmandu Airport and major land border crossings. A 15-day visa costs $30, a 30-day visa costs $50, and a 90-day visa costs $125.
- For Indian Citizens: No visa is required.
- For Other Countries: It is recommended to check with the local Nepalese embassy or consulate as requirements may vary.
Travel Expenses
1.Travel to & from destination:
- Flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Nepalgunj to Talcha: Approximately $300 per person round trip.
2. Hotel Cost:
- Accommodation: $50 per night for a standard lodge. Total for 3 nights: $150.
3. Food Cost:
- Meals: Approximately $15 per person per day. Total for 3 days: $90 per person.
4. Activity Cost:
- Boat Ride: $10 per person.
- Park Entry Fees: $15 per person.
5. Near Destination Travel Cost:
- Local transportation: Approximately $50 for car rentals and local travel.
Best Itinerary
Day 1:
After arriving in Kathmandu, take a connecting flight to Nepalgunj and then a flight to Talcha Airport. Start your day by visiting the Rara Lake viewpoint from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM to witness the stunning panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For lunch, head to a local eatery like the Rara Lake Restaurant to try traditional Nepali cuisine. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Rara Lake from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, soaking in the serene environment. Have dinner at the lakeside restaurant, savoring local dishes. End your night stargazing by the lake.
Day 2:
Begin with an early morning hike to Murma Top from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and the snow-capped mountains. Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast. Post-breakfast, explore Rara National Park from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, spotting wildlife and birdwatching. Enjoy lunch at a local lodge. In the afternoon, visit a nearby Thakuri village from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM to experience local culture and traditions. Dinner can be enjoyed at a local homestay, tasting authentic homemade food. Spend the night enjoying traditional music and dance with the villagers.
Day 3:
Take a relaxed morning stroll around the lake from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, capturing photographs of the stunning scenery. For lunch, try another local restaurant offering traditional dishes. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Milichaur grasslands from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, which are perfect for a picnic and relaxing. Return for dinner at a lodge or a lakeside restaurant. Spend your final night by the lake, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and reflecting on the journey.
Safety Tips
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Keep emergency contacts handy.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Stay hydrated and acclimatize properly.
- Use a local guide for trekking and hiking.
- Be cautious of wildlife in the national park.
- Carry essential medications.
- Avoid isolated areas after dark.
- Inform someone about your travel plans.
- Ensure travel insurance covers remote areas.
Flights
- From Kathmandu to Nepalgunj: Airlines like Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines. Approx. cost: $150.
- From Nepalgunj to Talcha: Tara Air, Summit Air. Approx. cost: $150.
Hotels
Rara Lake Lodge
- Hotel Rara View
- Thakuri Homestay
- Murma Top Lodge
- Rara Lake Resort
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Kathmandu: +977 1-4410900
- Police: 100
- Ambulance: 102
- Firefighters: 101
Country
Closet Airport
- Talcha Airport
Nearest City
- Kathmandu
Heritage Sites
- Rara National Park
Airlines
- Buddha Air
- Yeti Airlines
- Tara Air
- Summit Air
Currency
- Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Languages Spoken
- Nepali
- Thakuri
Real Story
In the early 1970s, Rara Lake and its surrounding areas were declared a national park, known as Rara National Park. This was a significant event in Nepal's conservation history as it marked the establishment of the country's smallest and most scenic national park. The decision to create Rara National Park was driven by the need to protect the unique biodiversity and natural beauty of the region. The park spans an area of 106 square kilometers and encompasses Rara Lake, the largest lake in Nepal.
The establishment of the national park was not without challenges. The local communities, who had lived in harmony with nature for generations, were initially concerned about the restrictions imposed by the park's regulations. However, over time, they came to recognize the benefits of conservation efforts, including the preservation of their natural heritage and the promotion of eco-tourism.
One of the most notable historical events associated with Rara is the visit of King Mahendra in 1964. The king was so captivated by the beauty of Rara Lake that he composed a poem in its honor. His visit brought national attention to the area and highlighted the importance of preserving its pristine environment.
Today, Rara National Park stands as a testament to Nepal's commitment to conservation. It continues to attract visitors from around the world who are drawn to its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
Cuisine
The cuisine around Rara Lake in Nepal is a delightful blend of traditional Nepali and local Thakuri flavors, offering visitors a unique and authentic culinary experience.
Unique Dishes:
- Dhido: Dhido is a traditional staple dish in Nepal, especially popular in the mountainous regions. It is a thick, sticky porridge made from either buckwheat or millet flour. Dhido is often served with a variety of side dishes such as lentil soup (dal), vegetable curries, pickles, and ghee. It is a nutritious and hearty meal, perfect for the high-altitude climate of Rara.
- Gundruk: Gundruk is a fermented leafy green vegetable, typically made from mustard, radish, or cauliflower leaves. It is an important part of the local diet and is often prepared as a pickle or stew. The fermentation process gives Gundruk a unique, tangy flavor, and it is rich in probiotics, aiding digestion.
- Thakali Khana Set: The Thakali Khana Set is a traditional meal from the Thakali people, an ethnic group in Nepal. This set meal includes steamed rice, lentil soup (dal), a variety of vegetable curries, meat (often chicken or goat), pickles (achar), and spinach (saag). The Thakali Khana Set is known for its balance of flavors and nutritional value.
- Raksi: Raksi is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from millet or rice, similar to Japanese sake. It is commonly consumed during festivals and special occasions. Raksi is known for its strong flavor and high alcohol content, often enjoyed in small quantities.
Culture and History
Rara, located in the Mugu District of Nepal, is a region rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. The area is predominantly inhabited by the Thakuri people, an indigenous ethnic group with a unique cultural identity. The Thakuri community is known for their hospitality, traditional music, dance, and festivals. The region celebrates various local festivals, including Dashain and Tihar, with great enthusiasm. Traditional Thakuri attire, characterized by colorful fabrics and intricate jewelry, is often worn during these festivals.
The cultural landscape of Rara is also marked by the influence of Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism. Visitors can explore ancient monasteries, stupas, and temples that reflect the religious harmony of the region. The lifestyle in Rara is predominantly agrarian, with local communities engaged in farming, animal husbandry, and traditional crafts. The isolation of the region has preserved its cultural authenticity, providing visitors with a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.