A typical Rara trip runs six to ten days. Two days are travel by air, and the walking takes three to five days depending on whether you start from Talcha or Jumla. Timings below are approximate.
The full trek from Jumla
The classic route begins in Jumla and walks to the lake over six days, rests there, and returns by a different loop. The total is about eleven days with flights. Heights are approximate.
Day 1 and 2: flights
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then to Jumla, at about 2,500 m. Jumla is a market town with apple orchards, a bazaar and the district offices where permits are checked.
Day 3: Jumla to Chere Chaur
The first walking day is short and eases you into the hills through forest and fields. The overnight camp is in an open meadow.
Day 4: over the Jaljala Pass
The first big climb of the trek crosses the Jaljala Pass, followed by a descent to Chala Chaur at roughly 2,980 m. The ascent is steep and the forest above is full of rhododendron.
Day 5: to Sinja Valley
A longer day of up to seven hours leads to the Sinja valley, the old capital of the Khasa kingdom. Stone ruins and old terraces remain, and the valley is rich farmland.
Day 6 and 7: Goru Singhe and Rara Lake
The next day climbs over a ridge, Chuchemara Danda at around 4,000 m, and descends to the lake. Spend a full day by the shore, walking the trail around the water and watching the light change.
Day 8 to 11: loop back
The return passes Pina (about 2,440 m), crosses the Ghurchi Lagna Pass (about 3,460 m), then Chauta and Tharamara, before returning to Jumla. The new loop shows different villages and avoids repeating the same trail.
Walking pace and rest
The trail between Jumla and the lake crosses several ridges and passes that are not high but are steady and long. Keep a modest pace, stop for tea in the villages and drink often. A rest day at the lake is not wasted time: it lets you recover and see the changing light.
Food and nights
On the full trek you may camp in some places, with a cook preparing meals, and sleep in simple lodges in others. Bring a warm sleeping bag; nights are cold even in autumn.
Spare day
Add a day for flight delays. See best time and permits and access.
