Trekking in Nepal

Rara Lake, is the largest lake of Nepal, situated in Mugu district in the Karnali Zone in the far western region of Nepal, near Gam Ghadi (district-headquarter of Mugu) and Talcha airstrip. It takes around 3 to 4 days of trek to reach Rara from Jumla.

Rara Lake Trek leads you from Jumla in the mid western region of Nepal. This trek provides excellent exploration opportunities to Nepal’s finest Rara National park, it is situated at an altitude of 2,987 meter. Considered to be off the beaten trail and it is a non technical journey and is suitable for common trekkers.

Rara lake Trek offers the best scenery on the north-western most side of Nepal. Within its confines lie into Rara national park, it is smallest national park in Nepal, where in turn the country's largest lake, can be found 10.8 sq. km. At 2,990 meters. Considered one of the finest parks in the world, Rara National Park abounds in coniferous forest and is the ideal habitat for the musk deer, Himalayan black bear and other faunae.

Rara is a good destination point for trekking in the west. The trail is very much "off the beaten path" and affords glimpses of culture and scenery very different from those in the rest of the country. The centerpiece of the park is the biggest lake of Nepal. Along mountain paths and a series of picturesque villages, one reaches the magnificent banks of Rara Lake. The park includes Trans- Himalayan valley with high ridges covered with forest and alpine pastures.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel. B.B

Day 02: Trek Preparation and Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour. Overnight at hotel. B.B

Day 03: Flight Kathmandu – Nepalgunj. Overnight at hotel. B.B

Day 04: Fly to Jumla & trek to Chala Chaur (2900m). Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 05: Cross a Pass . Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 06:  Trek to Botan (2600m) via Sinja (2440m). Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 07:  Trek to Rara Park border. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 08:  Trek to Rara Lake (3062m). Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 09-10: Rest days at Rara . Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 11:  Trek via Jhyari (2630m) to River camp . Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 12:  Across Ghurchi Lagna (3450m) to Chautha (2770m). O/N at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 13:  Trek to Tharamara (3280m) Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 14:  Trek to Jumla Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 15:Flight Jumla - Nepalgunj - Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel. B.B

Day 16:Leisure day in Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel. B.B

Day 17:Transfer to the International Airport for your home departure. B. “Farewell”

Note: B = Breakfast, B.B = Bed & Breakfast, B.L.D = Bed, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING DURING THE TRIP:

1. Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & transfer by private car / van
2. Four nights accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
3. Kathmandu city tour as per the above itinerary
4. One night accommodation in Nepaljung at hotel Batika
5. KTM - Nepalgunj - Jumla - Nepalgunj - KTM airfare including departure tax
6. Meals on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) prepared by our expert cook
7. Twin sharing tented accommodation during the trek
8. An experience guide (trained by Ministry of tourism), required number of porters, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipments
9. Trekking equipment (two men tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, table with chairs, kitchen utensils, and other necessary equipments during the trek)
10. Special trekking permit (Rara Lake trek is in restricted zone, we need special permit to visit this area)
11. Rara Lake national park entry fees
12. Nepal Hiking Team duffle bag, down jacket and sleeping bag during Lowe dolpo trek
13. Nepal Hiking Team T - Shirt (yours to keep)
14. Safe drinking water, boiled/iodine tablets.
    
15. First aid medical kit bag.
    
16. All government and local taxes.
    
17. Office service charge.

OUR SERVICES EXCLUDE THE FOLLOWING DURING THE TRIP:

1. Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
2. Travel insurance
3. International airfare
4. Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
5. All cold drinks such as: alcoholic beverages, mineral water, Coke, Fanta, juice, etc.
6. Hot and cold showers during the trek
7. Personal shopping and laundry
8. Personal trekking equipments
9. Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is appreciated but it is not mandatory)

Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu.
You are welcomed by hospitable meeting and then you will be transferred to hotel. Our airport representative will explain briefly the program upon arrival. Overnight at hotel. B.B

Day 02: Trek Preparation and Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour.
Sightseeing of world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley including, Kathmandu Darbar square, Swayambhunath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa & Pasupatinath Temple. Overnight at hotel. B.B

Day 03: Flight Kathmandu-Nepalganj
To get to this region, generally you have to fly to Nepalgunj first. Nepalgunj is a steaming hot city in South Western Nepal, in the lowlands of Terai, close to the Indian border, which is just 8 km away. Culturally the area more resemble India than upland Nepal. Take a cycle rikshaw for a ride in town. You pass the hustle and bustle of the bazaar and see horse carts full of colorful people going to or coming from the Indian border. The Bageshowri temple is one of Nepal’s most important Hindu temples and is worth a visit as well. Overnight at hotel. B.L.D

Day 04: Fly Nepalgunj to Jumla & trek to Chala Chaur (2900m)
We take a thirty-minute scenic flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla. On reaching Jumla, we interact with the trekking crew and begin our trekking after lunch. We traverse northwards out of the Jumla Valley. Soon after trekking for an hour, we encounter a small village of Micha bearing a small walled enclosure and a number of Buddhist stupas. These stupas were erected at around late 15th century, in the memory of important dignitaries of the region. The trail further leads to rock-strewn path and at last ends at Chala Chaur. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 05: Cross a Pass
We leave Chala Chaur and follow a trail moving along path of steep stones. While ascending, we cross through birch, pine forests and grassy pass at approx 3500m. From this point Kanjiroba becomes visible in the east with its twin peaks towering over the adjacent area. Further on, we descend as the trail opens into lush forests.

After trekking for a couple of hours, we finally stop at a suitable campsite in the meadows nearby some shepherd's huts. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 06:  Trek via Sinja (2440m) to Botan (2600m)
We walk along the Jaljala Khola through pine forests of and terraced farmland. En route the trail passes the 300 year old Kanaksundari Temple. The temple holds immense religious significance for Hindus. The route further bends along the main river. Crossing a thick plank bridge, we finally descend to reach Sinja village. Sinja village rests upon a small alluvial plain on the west bank of the clear Lah Gad River, also called the Sinja Khola. Sinja was once the ancient capital of the Malla kings. There are stones lying along the trail that foretell the history of Malla dynasty. After lunch, we head to Botan. On the way, we pass through a spectacular gorge and finally reach the village of Botan. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 07:  Trek to Rara Park border
Leaving Sinja Khola, we follow the trail along Ghatta Khola amid the unparallel beauty of nature. The sinuous route winds up into terraced farmland and beautiful valley. Soon we find ourselves within the territory of Rara Lake National Park. We come across primitive flour mills and police post on the way. Rara Lake National Park houses unique and rich ecosystem. We can spend half an hour exploring the beauty of the park or simply doing whatever we feel like. We spend the night in Gorosingha. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 08:  Trek to Rara Lake (3062m)
We walk away from Gorosingha and ascend to the Ghurchi Mara ridge (3710m) for one and half hour. The trail is not as strenuous as it looks. On reaching the crest of the ridge, we get to experience an excellent panorama to the north, flaunting irresistible beauty and charm. As the trail descends, Rara Lake becomes visible on the northeast. The trail further passes through bamboo and birch forests before crossing the Khatyar Khola.

We then follow the river upstream to Rara Lake, where we savor the most fascinating trekking experience amid the beauty of nature. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 09-10:  Rest days at Rara
We now have 2 days set aside to explore the area, including the old village of Rara. We can also climb up to the wooden observation tower behind the post office for fine views of the lake and surrounding hills. We can even visit the National Park Headquarters. Swimming is allowed in the lake and it is piercingly refreshing. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 11:  Trek via Jhyari (2630m) to River camp
We depart from Rara Lake and continue skirting along the target destination. On crossing a ridge, we enter the village of Jhyari. Strolling by the Jhyari Khola, the trail further follows terraced farmlands. As we approach Dhauligar Khola valley, we find a suitable camp site near the river bank. We also get to witness an exotic charisma of nature and outstanding panorama of snow-capped mountain peaks. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 12:  Across Ghurchi Lagna pass (3450m) to Chautha (2770m)
As Dhauligar Khola blurs out of our trekking route, we pass through farmland and then enter the village of Pina. Pina has a police post and some hotels. We continue climbing to the Ghurchi Lagna Pass and come across several small Chortens, alpine-like pastures, walnut groves and a narrow valley. Finally, the steep slope guides us into the village of Chautha where we conclude the trek of the day. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 13:  Trek to Tharamara (3280m)
From Chautha, the trail follows the northern bank of the Sinja Khola past the hotel and health clinic under the massive overhanging rock at Kabra. Silaji found in this area is the source of the important medicinal mineral which is believed to cure almost anything. The route then passes through the villages of Bumra and Nyawre, before climbing to the pasture at Tharamara. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 14:  Trek to Jumla
Following the trail gently sloping upwards, we march towards Jumla. We meet tall birch trees on our way to the Khali Lagna and Danphe Lekh. From atop the ridge, we can have the most spectacular views of the mountain ridges to the south and Jumla below. Further on, we descend steeply to the first night's campsite. Utmost caution is required while trekking along this trail. We then follow the same route back to Jumla. After reaching Jumla, we can spend our afternoon exploring the busy market town or simply pursuing whatever we feel like. Overnight at tented camp. B.L.D

Day 15:  Fly to Nepaljung – Kathmandu
We take a flight from Jumla to Nepalgunj. On reaching Nepalgunj, we return to Kathmandu on the next available flight. Overnight at hotel. B.L.D

Day 16: Leisure day in Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel. B.B

Day 17: Transfer to the International Airport for your home departure. B. “Farewell”

• Start Date
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• Jan, 02, 2012
• Jan, 18, 2012
• USD 2575.00
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• Jan, 12, 2012
• Jan, 28, 2012
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• Feb, 20, 2012
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• Oct, 19, 2012
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• Oct, 22, 2012
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• Dec, 15, 2012
• Dec, 21, 2012
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Upon Arrival

When you arrive at Tribhuban International Airport, our staff will greet you and transport you to your accomodations. After resting, the next day you will have a sightseeing tour of the city's most influential cultural landmarks. Before departing for your trek, we will review your itinerary, introduce you to your guide and help with the final preparations for your journey.

Accommodation

You will be spending four nights at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast, normally from Samsara Resort, Hotel Vajra or Thamel Eco Resort. During the trek , we provide comfortable two men camping tent, foam mattress, 4 season sleeping bag will be provided. We maintain standard comfort in every matter based on the enforceable conditions such as weather calamities. All hotels accommodations & tent is based on twin share, and will provide you single supplement if there is different gender; without extra charge.

Toilet Facilities - On trek, toilet facilities are available nearby your tent is an optimum distance in a toilet tent. After use of such facilities, wastes will be cover with necessary natural preservation

 

Meals During the Trek

Freshly cook Meals on full board basis will be provided by our experienced and trained cook during the trek with high level of balance diet, hygiene and safety. Three meals (Nepali, Sherpa, and Tibetan, Continental, Italian and Indian cousins) will be provided from the camp according to our menu. You can buy bottled mineral water from local lodges and shops en route or you can also ask your guide to fill your water bottle with boiled water and treat with water purification pills.

 

Our Trekking Guides and Staff

Your guide's role is to ensure that all aspects of the trip run smoothly. He will share his local knowledge, and provide advice on how to fill your free time as well as co-ordinate the day-to-day running of the tour - although occasionally he may need your understanding if things do not go according to plan. If you have any problems on the tour, please let your guide know so that steps can be taken to correct the situation.

We are a well-established adventure company and we employ professional trekking guides with comprehensive knowledge of English and all required supplementary crew members (everyone has basic communication skills). We also provide training for our staff, thus enhancing their work efficiency. Our guides are intimately familiar with all local castes and customs along the trails and will share with you many cultural insights that are not covered in any guide book. You will have many chances to learn Nepali phrases and other cultural aspects throughout your trek. All of Nepal Hiking Team�s guides receive training in the following courses.

1. Trekking Guide Training &licensed- Government of Nepal, Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation department of Hotel Management & Tourism Training Centre
2. Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet TAAN (Trekking Agents Association of Nepal)
3. Intensive Wilderness First Aid KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Educational Project)
4. English Language KEEP
5. Conservation and Biodiversity TAAN
6. Rock, Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (Climbing leaders) Nepal Mountaineering Association

 

Acclimatization

We are experts in operations at high-altitude. Every trip we run has a sound acclimatization program. We created the itinerary to allow for gradual height gain spread over a number of days. There is no way of predicting who will suffer from altitude, but for the vast majority of people, a slow ascent will produce minimal effects. Acclimatizing takes time and there are no safe shortcuts. For all trips to altitudes in excess of 3,000 meters, our guides carry medicines essential to the treatment of altitude illness; they are trained to track symptoms as well as administer medications.

 

Travel Insurance

To be adequately protected in terms of insurance, you will need specialized travel insurance for participation in hazardous activities. A travel insurance policy that covers emergency evacuation, trip injury, lost baggage, theft, liability, medical treatment and expenses is strongly recommended. Make sure the insurance covers all the activities that you will be undertaking during your stay in Nepal such as trekking and climbing. Our agency can arrange for the appropriate policy based on your trek.

 

Climate and Weather

The climate of Nepal is as varied as its geography. The low-lying Terai has a sub-tropical monsoonal climate. The Himalayan foothills, where most of our treks take place, are best in the cool dry season from September to May. The traditional trekking season in Nepal is late September to December, with October and November generally recognized as having the best weather. Spring is also a popular time of year with warmer weather and the advantage of seeing spring flowers and rhododendrons in bloom. The visibility is good and days are pleasantly warm, although nights can be cold, and snow is possible above 3,000 meters.

This trek is likely to have a wide range of temperatures depending on the altitude and the time of day. In the mountains up to 3,500m the nights will be cool, normally around 5 degree C, and during the day temperatures sometimes rise to 25 degree C. At higher altitudes temperatures range from about 15 degree C to -10 degree C.

 

Group Size

We bring together a small group of likeminded people to give them a memorable and insightful travel experience with an invaluable opportunity to interact in a fun-filled environment. Our travel group generally comprises a maximum of 12 members. We need a minimum of 2 participants to run our fixed departure dates. For individualized trips, no minimum or maximum applies. If you would like to travel independently or with your friends, families and colleagues, you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient time frame for any number of people.

 

Responsible Travel

The beautiful environment of the Himalaya is also an extremely fragile one. At Nepal Hiking Team, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize the detrimental impact as much as possible. As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have campfires and we use kerosene as cooking fuel. We also discourage trekkers from using wood-fuelled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar energy, a far more eco-friendly alternative.

Garbage disposal is another major problem. Some of the busier trails are at times strewn with litter and garbage thrown by irresponsible trekking groups. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. We carry the non-biodegradable garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily burned at the campsite. Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy.