RARA LAKE & KHAPTAD CIRCUIT TREK
RARA LAKE & KHAPTAD CIRCUIT TREK
The road less traveled to a place of solitude, peace, and alpine beauty. This has to be one of the best treks, taking you to Nepal’s biggest lake, Rara Lake (2990m), while venturing into this far-away from the crowd Khatpad National Park situated in the very remote west of Nepal.
Rara Lake is the biggest and deepest freshwater lake in the Nepal Himalayas. It is the main attraction of Rara National Park, located in Jumla and Mugu Districts. In September 2007, it was declared a “Ramsar site” - (wetland), and one of ten wetlands of international importance in Nepal covering an area of 1583 hectares.
This trek will leave you fulfilled, and with a feeling of contentment, as you discover a vast array of scenery and wildlife, with over 500 species of flowers, 20 species of mammals and 214 species of birds have been cataloged in the Rara National Park region. Due to its remoteness, this is mostly a camping trek that will literally open your eyes to a place where few people have travelled. Our journey begins after we land at Talca Airport in Mugu from Nepalgunj which is relatively easy to access from Kathmandu via land or flying.
Highlights of Rara Lake and Khatpad Circuit Trek
- The beauty of the pristine Rara Lake – Nepal’s biggest.
- Experience of authentic Nepalese culture and lifestyles of people in this remote area.
- The serene and stunning landscape of Khatpad National Park.
- Biodiversity – hundreds of species of flora and fauna in this lush lakeside..
- Tibetan religious sites – chortens, Mani walls and Gompas (Buddhist temples)
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Upon arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a Sherpa Expedition & Trekking representative, and taken to your hotel. After checking in at the hotel, you will be briefed on what to expect on your trek to Rara Lake Khaptad Circuit Trek
Day 2 : Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m) Duration: 50 minutes flight.
Today we take a fifty-minute flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu, or alternatively we can travel by road and take a bus.
Day 3 : Fly from Nepalgunj to Talcha (2735m) & trek to Rara Lake (3,000m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we fly to Talcha in Mugu District, a 45-minute scenic flight with awesome views of the surrounding mountains. We then follow the trail to Rara Lake which will take us around three and a half hours. Tonight we will set up camp near the lake.
Day 4 : Excursion around Rara Lake.
After an early breakfast, we can explore this pristine body of water of about eight square kilometers in area. Due to the abundance of water, there is a huge variety of wildlife in the area. Because of its location within the Khatpad National Park there is no hunting or threat to the wildlife, hence all animals live without fear of human intervention. Besides the numerous species of birds, there are also large areas of Nepal’s national emblem, the rhododendron tree with its vibrant pink flowers in springtime. You may also get to see Himalayan bears, Red Panda, and musk deer in the surrounding woods. After exploring Rara Lake we will trek to Murma Top (3726m) that offers a panoramic view of the mountains and back over the lake. Tonight we will stay at Rara Lake.
Day 5 : Trek from Rara Lake to Sirkot; Duration: 5-6 hours.
We begin our trek descending to the Khaytad River and continue to Majghat and then on to Murma. The trail takes us via Jhaudi Khola (river), Bapani, Nigalbot and Masane villages. Tonight we make camp at Sirkot.
Day 6 : Trek from Sirkot to Jholunge Pul (1,400m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
A seven-hour trek today takes us to Jholunge Pul Khola (river) with its swaying suspension bridge. Tonight we will camp here.
Day 7 : Trek from Jholunge Pul to Kolti (1,300m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
We head out today on a six to seven-hour trek, firstly crossing the Karnali River where we enter the Bajura District and then continue to Kurane Jugala via Chepi Village. Further along the trail, we pass the villages of Alange, Chaur, Chulighat, Badhu, Badhu Bagar, Badhu Matela, Pipal Dali, Raut Badhu, and Partola before reaching Kolti where we set up camp for the night.
Day 8 : Trek from Kolti to Martadi (2,030m) Duration: 9-10 hours.
We have an early start today for it is going to be a long day with a nine to ten-hour trek as we head to Martadi. We will camp overnight at Martadi.
Day 9 : Trek from Martadi to Dogadi (1,490m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we have a six-hour trek to Dogadi where we will make camp for the night.
Day 10 : Trek from Dogadi to Khaptad (3020m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
We make a relatively early start ahead of an eight to nine-hour trek to Khaptad where we will set up camp overnight.
Day 11 : Explore Khaptad National Park and Khaptad Lake.
We will spend today exploring the Khaptad National Park, first visiting the Khaptad Museum and trek towards Khaptad Danda and trek through the sub-alpine forest and hopefully see many of the unique species of this region that includes numerous medicinal herbs, birdlife (270 species) and mammals. After exploring the national park we will head to Khaptad Baba’s Ashram and Triveni. At the ashram, you will have an opportunity to listen and talk with the Baba! We will camp here the night.
Day 12 : Trek from Khaptad Lake to Bajhang (Tamail) duration: 8-9 hours.
We have a nine-hour day ahead of us as we head to Bajhang through peaceful forests and through a number of villages. Tonight we will camp at Bajhang.
Day 13 : Drive from Bajhang to Dhangadhi (1,09m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
This is a day less demanding as we drive for about nine hours until we reach Dhangadhi in the Siraha District in the Sagarmatha Zone in the southeast of Nepal.
Day 14 : Flight or Drive to Kathmandu.
We can either go by road or take a one-hour scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The flight will certainly put things in perspective as you look down at the scattered villages and nearby mountains. .We will drop you back at your respective hotels in Kathmandu.
Day 15 : International departure from Kathmandu Airport.
Sherpa Expeditions & Trekking staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from Nepal. We hope that this epic trek will be firmly ingrained in your memory and will be enough to prompt you to consider your next trek with us!
SERVICES
Costs included in your package.
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodation during the trek.
- Rara National Park and Khapad national park permit fee
- Flight from Kathmandu- Nepalgunj-Talcha & Dhangadi to Kathmandu.
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- Kathmandu sightseeing monument entrance fees($30 USD per person)
- Excess baggage of more than 15 kg for Talcha flight.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may not find comfort and better quality teahouses -During the trek, We sleep in the very simple tea house/tent and our guides will pick the best Camping site with a nice view of the Himalaya.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of these mountain regions are potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpas started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We do not have to use public transportation or local buses during the trek. Our only flights are from Kathmandu- Nepalgunj-Talcha.
Physical fitness
Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit Trek is a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus!. We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
Where is the Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek located?
The Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek is located in the western region of Nepal. Rara Lake is situated in the Rara National Park, while Khaptad is a protected area in the far-western region of the country.
How long is the trek?
The Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek usually takes around 10-14 days, depending on the specific itinerary and the pace of the trekking group.
What is the difficulty level of the Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek?
The Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek is considered to be a moderate to difficult trek. It involves both uphill and downhill sections, as well as some challenging terrain. It is recommended for experienced trekkers or those with a good level of fitness.
What is the best time to do the Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek?
The best time to do the Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These times offer stable weather conditions and clear mountain views.
Are there any altitude-related risks on the trek?
As the trek reaches high altitudes, there is a risk of altitude sickness. It is important to acclimatize properly and take necessary precautions, such as drinking plenty of water, taking rest days, and ascending gradually. It is also recommended to consult with a doctor before embarking on the trek.
What permits are required for the trek?
For the Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek, you will need to obtain a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and a permit for Rara National Park. These can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the entry point of the national park.
What is the accommodation like on the Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek?
Accommodation on the trek is typically in teahouses or lodges along the trail. These are basic but comfortable, with facilities such as beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. In some remote areas, camping may be necessary, so it is advisable to carry appropriate camping gear.
Is it possible to hire a guide and porter for the trek?
Yes, it is possible to hire a guide and porter for the Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek. A guide can provide valuable information about the route, culture, and local customs, while a porter can help carry your backpack, allowing you to trek with less weight.
What should I pack for the trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek include a good pair of hiking boots, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, a water bottle, a first aid kit, and a good quality backpack. Additionally, you should carry snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera.
Is it possible to customize the itinerary of the trek?
Yes, it is possible to customize the itinerary of the Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit trek according to your preferences and time constraints. You can discuss your requirements with a trekking agency or guide, who can help create a personalized itinerary for you.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 4 Reviews
Lindsey Palmer
Australia
November 28, 2023
A Journey of Discovery and Natural Beauty
My trekking experience to Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit with Sherpa Expedition was a journey of discovery and natural beauty. From the moment I embarked on the trail, I was captivated by the stunning landscapes and serene surroundings. Sherpa Expedition provided impeccable service from start to finish. Our guide was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly friendly and attentive. He shared fascinating stories about the local culture and history, enriching our trekking experience. His expertise and guidance ensured that we were safe and comfortable throughout the journey. The trek itself was a delightful mix of adventure and natural beauty. The trail took us through lush forests, charming villages, and picturesque meadows. Each day brought new vistas and breathtaking views. The highlight, of course, was the mesmerizing Rara Lake, with its pristine waters and reflection of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The teahouses along the trail provided a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The friendly staff served us delicious meals that replenished our energy after a day of trekking. It was a pleasure to relax in the evenings, surrounded by fellow trekkers, and share stories of our adventures. The porter who accompanied us was a true asset. His strength and resilience were remarkable, and his friendly demeanor made the trek even more enjoyable. His support allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings and make the most of our trekking experience. In conclusion, my trek to Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit with Sherpa Expedition was an incredible journey of discovery and natural beauty. The professionalism, expertise, and genuine care of the entire team made it an experience I will always cherish. I strongly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone seeking an unforgettable trekking adventure in Nepal.
Judy Hurlock
Austria
October 11, 2023
A Journey of Serenity and Adventure
I had the pleasure of embarking on the Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit Trek with Sherpa Expedition, and it was an adventure that will stay with me forever. From the moment I set foot on the trail, I was captivated by the serene beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. Our guide was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly friendly and approachable. His passion for the region was contagious, and he shared fascinating insights into the local culture and history. He made sure that we were comfortable and safe throughout the trek, tailoring the itinerary to suit our preferences. The trek itself was a perfect blend of serenity and adventure. The trail took us through dense forests, charming villages, and expansive meadows. Each day brought new landscapes and breathtaking views. The highlight, of course, was the mesmerizing Rara Lake, with its pristine waters and picturesque surroundings. The teahouses along the trail provided us with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff greeted us with smiles and served us delicious meals that fueled us for the next day's adventure. It was a pleasure to relax in the evenings, surrounded by fellow trekkers, and enjoy the camaraderie. The porter who accompanied us was a true asset. His strength and endurance were remarkable, and his friendly nature made the trek even more enjoyable. Knowing that he was there to support us allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings. In conclusion, my trek to Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit with Sherpa Expedition was an incredible journey of serenity and adventure. The professionalism, expertise, and genuine care of the team made it an experience I will always cherish. I highly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone seeking an unforgettable trekking adventure in Nepal.
Linda Johnson Mills
Uganda
March 14, 2023
A Perfect Escape into Nature's Embrace
Our journey to Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit with Sherpa Expedition was a perfect escape into the embrace of nature. From the moment we set foot on the trail, we were surrounded by the serene beauty and tranquility of the Himalayan region. The team at Sherpa Expedition ensured that every aspect of our trek was taken care of. Our guide was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly friendly and accommodating. He shared fascinating insights into the local culture and history, making the trek even more enriching. His expertise and guidance were invaluable, and we felt safe and well taken care of throughout the entire journey. The trek itself was a feast for the senses. The trail led us through dense forests, charming villages, and expansive meadows. Each day brought new adventures and surprises, as we hiked through diverse landscapes and encountered unique flora and fauna. The highlight, undoubtedly, was the stunning Rara Lake, with its tranquil waters and majestic surroundings. The teahouses along the trail provided us with a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. The staff treated us with warm hospitality, serving us delicious meals that satisfied our appetites after long days of trekking. It was a joy to relax in the evenings, surrounded by fellow trekkers, and share stories of our experiences. The porter who accompanied us was a true gem. His strength and resilience were admirable, and his friendly demeanor made the trek even more enjoyable. Having him by our side gave us peace of mind and allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings. In conclusion, our journey to Rara Lake and Khaptad Circuit with Sherpa Expedition was an unforgettable experience. The professionalism, expertise, and genuine care of the entire team made it a trekking adventure we will always cherish. We strongly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone seeking a rejuvenating escape into nature's embrace in Nepal.
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