July 28, 2025

Nestled in the remote Mugu District of western Nepal, Rara National Park is the country’s smallest national park, covering just 106 square kilometers. Despite its size, it is home to remarkable biodiversity and the stunning Rara Lake — Nepal’s largest high-altitude lake and a pristine alpine jewel.

The park’s diverse habitats range from dense coniferous forests to alpine meadows and rocky cliffs. It provides refuge for several endemic and endangered species, making it a rewarding destination for wildlife lovers and trekkers looking for tranquility and natural beauty far from crowded trails.

Location and Landscape

  • District: Mugu
  • Province: Karnali Province
  • Elevation: 1,600 to 4,020 meters (including surrounding mountain peaks)

Rara National Park’s core feature is the crystal-clear Rara Lake, surrounded by forests of pine, fir, and juniper, with rhododendron and birch trees at lower altitudes. The terrain includes alpine meadows and rugged ridges, creating diverse microclimates within a compact area.

Wildlife Highlights

Mammals

  • Musk Deer
  • Himalayan Black Bear
  • Himalayan Tahr
  • Blue Sheep (Bharal)
  • Red Fox

Birds (Over 177 recorded species)

  • Himalayan Monal (Danphe)
  • Snow Partridge
  • Golden Eagle
  • Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture)
  • Cheer Pheasant

Aquatic and Amphibians

  • Cold-water fish species in Rara Lake including snow trout
  • Various frog and toad species adapted to alpine conditions

What Makes Rara Special

  1. Nepal’s smallest national park with concentrated biodiversity
  2. The pristine and sacred Rara Lake, a high-altitude alpine lake
  3. Diverse flora including rhododendrons and conifers
  4. Rich birdlife including rare pheasants and raptors
  5. Remote and peaceful trekking opportunities off the beaten path

Things to Do in Rara National Park

  • Trekking the circuit around Rara Lake with spectacular views
  • Birdwatching and wildlife spotting along forest trails
  • Visiting local villages to experience traditional cultures
  • Photography of landscapes, lake vistas, and wildlife
  • Canoeing and boating on Rara Lake (low impact, eco-friendly)

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (March to May) for rhododendron blooms and mild weather
  • Autumn (September to November) for clear skies and wildlife sightings
  • Winter months are cold and may limit access; monsoon season brings rain and trail difficulties

How to Get There

  • Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then take a connecting flight to Talcha Airport near Mugu
  • From Talcha, a trek or jeep ride leads to Rara Lake and park entrance

Where to Stay

  • Basic lodges and guesthouses are available around Rara Lake and nearby villages
  • Accommodation focuses on community-based and eco-friendly tourism

Rara National Park: At a Glance

CategoryHighlights
Signature SpeciesMusk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Monal, Cheer Pheasant
LandscapeAlpine lake, conifer forests, alpine meadows
Wildlife ExperienceIntimate and offbeat wildlife viewing and birding
CultureTraditional rural communities
Adventure TypeTrekking, birdwatching, eco-tourism
Conservation FocusProtecting alpine ecosystems and lake habitat