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Rara Lake: Nepal's Largest Lake in the Remote Far West

Mustang and the west

In this article
  1. Rara Lake at a glance
  2. Things to do
  3. Trips and guides
  4. Plan your visit

Rara Lake, at about 2,990 m in the remote Mugu district, is the largest lake in Nepal, about 10.8 km². Ringed by pine, juniper and spruce forest in Rara National Park, its water shifts from turquoise to deep blue through the day. Few foreign tourists make it here, which is part of its magic.

Quick answer: Rara Lake (2,990 m) is reached by flights via Nepalgunj to Talcha or Jumla, followed by a short walk or a multi-day trek. Best time: April–June and September–November.

Rara Lake at a glance

FactDetails
AltitudeAbout 2,990 m
AreaAbout 10.8 km², Nepal's largest lake
ParkRara National Park
AccessFly via Nepalgunj to Talcha or Jumla
Best timeApril–June, September–November

Things to do

  • Hike to Murma Top for the panorama.
  • Walk around the lake shore.
  • Look for wildlife in the national park.

Trips and guides

Plan your visit

Rara is for travellers looking for somewhere truly off the beaten track. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the questions we hear most. Can’t find what you need? Our team in Kathmandu is happy to help.

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Yes, at about 10.8 km².

Fly via Nepalgunj to Talcha or Jumla.

About 2,990 m.

April–June and September–November.

Yes, by flying to Talcha.