Reasons to Visit Rara Lake

Rara lake is the biggest lake situated within the borders of Nepal, which lies at an altitude of 2,990 m above sea level and covers an area of 10.8 square kilometers. The lake is surrounded by Rara National Park on all sides, the park was established in 1976 to preserve the beauty of the lake and protect the unique floral and faunal importance of the rare and vulnerable species found around the lake. The trek to Rara has been a popular destination for many trekkers, with a very rough route in the western part of Nepal. The trek begins with a flight to Jumla, and a mountainous trek follows after that, where one would pass many villages untouched by all the hassle in the world and finally reaching the banks of the Rara Lake which was aesthetically described by GORP founder Bill Greer as, ‘’a shimmering blue jewel set in a ring of snowy peaks.’’
There is no qualm about the majestic beauty held by Rara Lake. It’s not only the largest lake in Nepal but its sheer pull is undeniable despite its remoteness. Trekking in Nepal is an adventure and Rara Lake trekking is not any easy one as the district it is in i.e. Mugu, is one of the least developed district in Nepal. However, there are trekkers who gear up in their trekking boots who solely seek to be in the presence of the beautiful lake. For this, they even endure brutal and long road drive of Jumla. The rest of the trek is pretty much into the wilderness of the region surrounded by magnificent snow-capped mountains and landscape. And a little glimpse into the lifestyle and culture of people in small settlements who have made this difficult but heavenly place their home.

Here are some reasons why you should visit Rara Lake :

1. A Short Trek:

Don’t have a long vacation, no problem. The Rara Lake trek is comparatively shorter than other well-trodden trails. It takes only around 9 to 10 days to complete the trek depending on your pace. Hey, if you think it’s just not fair to spend only a week walking in a circle around the lake; you can always extend the time by staying put for 2 days in one or two incredible places on route to soak it all in.

 

2.Less Traffic:

It can get quite overwhelming on treks to Everest and Annapurna region with it’s out of the world views and constant stream of trekkers in thousand of numbers descending in both regions. If you prefer solitude rather than company, this will be a great trek for you. The only company you will have is the amazing landscape and a few tiny villages scattered on the trail.

 

3.Treacherous Road:

Adventure seekers and solitary confinement lovers will have to brace themselves on the treacherous path called “The Road” here. If you’re up for it, then, you can take the “Most Bumpiest Ride” of your life in Jumla. This is not something you encounter or experience on a daily basis, except for the hardened locals. So, take it as it comes like a trooper and enjoy the bumpy and heart-in-your-mouth ride in dusty road on start of the trek. After this ride, no one can ever tell you – “You don’t come out of your comfort zone and live adventurously”. That’s for sure!

 

4.Majestic Rara Lake:

No matter how much I put in words, the beauty of Rara Lake cannot compare to anything. You have to be there in flesh to see it and live it. The tranquil lake, its playful inhabitants playing hide and seek with you along with the surrounding green forests of old spruce, cedar and fir, all add to its charm. Have I not mentioned about the mountains? Oh the mountains, snow-capped giants of the Himalayas, the view of them together with the pristine lake, make a deadly combination that will make you stop in your tracks and will put a hugest grin on your face. It’s one of the greatest place for photography whether landscape or the wildlife. Just make sure you’ve enough space in your camera’s memory for taking tons of Rara Lake pictures!

 

5.Rich and Diverse Wildlife:

This little piece of heaven on earth is home to a number of wildlife in the region. If you look closely and know where to keep your eyes, you may be able to spot some of these amazing creatures like Himalayan Bear, Himalayan Tahr, Serow, Goral, Musk Deer, Rhesus and Langur Monkeys, the shy Red Panda, Otters and Fishes. Plus, if you arrive at the lake during migration of birds, you can see different species of migrating water fouls. That’s not so bad, not at all, isn’t it?

6.Spectacular Landscape:

Besides the beautiful lake and the magnificent views of the white mountains, trekking to Rara Lake offers a journey that takes you through spectacular landscapes in the region. The trail makes its way through parts of the region where changes in the outside world hasn’t affected much both in landscape and in tiny pockets of settlement. It’s like walking on the land that time has forgotten about and everything remains as it was centuries ago.