Rara National Park is located in the North-Westem high mountains of Nepal. The park was gazetted in 1976 to conserve the unique beauty of Lake Rara, and to protect the representative flora and fauna of the Humla-Jumla region. The park is Nepal's smallest protected area, comprising an area of 106 sq. km. There were two villages Rara and Chhapru within the park. The residents of the two villages were resettled in Banke district, outside the park.
Rara Lake (Mahendra Tal), situated at an elevation of 2990 m. is the main feature of the park. The lake is oval-shaped with an east-west axis and has a maximum length of 5 km and a width of 3 km. Surrounded by magnificent conifer forests, it is Nepal's biggest lake (10.8 sq . km) with a depth of 167 m. Its radiant blue waters are home to the snow trout (Schizothorax oremus Sinuatus), the only fish recorded in the lake.
During winter, bird lovers can enjoy many migratory birds. In summer, Himalayan flowers surround the lake creating a colorful landscape. The elevation of the park ranges from 2800 m to 4039 m. Chuchemara Peak (4039 m) is the highest point in the park. Located on the southern side of the lake, it provides an excellent backdrop to Lake Rara. The snowcapped summits of Ruma Kand (3731m) and Malika Kand (3444m) located on the northern side of the lake, provide beautiful views of the lake to the south, and the beautiful Mugu-Kamali River valley to the north. MurmaPeak also provides an excellent view of the parking area.
The lake drains to the Mugu-Kamali River via Nijar Khola. The majority of the vegetation in the park is dominated by blue pine. Interspersed amongst the pines, are found several species of rhododendrons. Blue pine, herbs, marshlands, and tussock grasslands inhabit the area surrounding the lake. In the Nisa Khola Valley pine and spruce give way to mixed woodland containing walnuts and Himalayan popular. Rhododendron, fir, oak, and birch species can be found in the sub-alpine region.
The climate at Rara National Park
Summer is pleasant. However, winter is quite cold. The best time of year to visit the park is September/October and April to May. December through March, the temperatures drop to below freezing, and heavy snowfalls occur up to one meter, closing high passes.
April to June is warm but the season gives way to monsoon season-June to August.
Flora and Fauna at Rara National Park
The Rara National Park is characterized by, sub-alpine and high temperate vegetation. Common plant species include fir, pine, and birch, rhododendron, hemlock, oak, juniper, and spruce. The park is home to around 20 different species of mammals. They include Musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Leopard, Jackal, Himalayan tahr, Yellow-throated marten, Otter, and Wild dogs. Common langur. Rhesus macaque and Red panda. The park has recorded 214 species of birds. Some of the important species include coots, snow cock, and different species of pheasants, grebes, mallards, common teal, red-crested pochard, and gulls. During winter, many migratory birds join the residential Gallinaceous birds.
Facilities available at Rara National Park
It is advisable to bring a comprehensive first-aid kit since there is no health post in the area. Arrangements should be made through a trekking agency. There are basic accommodations in the Rara National Park. Trekkers can be staying at a tea house this day during Rara Lake Trek.
How to get there?
Rara National Park is 2.5 days trek via Jumala or 10 days trek from Surkhet.
