Jumla - Rara Lake Trek - 16 Days

This trek through the remote wilderness of western Nepal offers a superb experience of nature and a visit to Rara Lake, Nepal's Largest Lake at 3062 meters. Beginning the trek from the mountain airstrip of Jumla after flying from Kathmandu via Nepalgunj, the trail passes through green countryside which provides unusual glimpses of a culture and scenery quite different from that found elsewhere in Nepal and which eventually culminates to the Rara Lake National Park. This beautiful high altitude lake is surrounded by alpine meadows and forests of pine, juniper and spruce, whilst in the background you can view the magnificent snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. The entire route is 'off the beaten track' which involves the crossing of Ghurchi Lagna pass at 3450m on the way to Rara Lake and a few ridges at around 3000 meters when hiking on the way back.
 
Detail Itinerary - Jumla Trek 

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu meets and transfers to Hotel.

The Kathmandu Valley:
It is surrounded by a tier of green mountain wall above which tower mighty snow-
Capped peaks. It consists of three main towns of great historic, artistic and culture interest. (Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur). The Kathmandu valley covers an area of 218 sq. miles. It is actuated 4223 ft. above sea-level. The ancient Swasthani scriptures tell of Lord Shiva, supreme among Hindu gods, who came down to the Kathmandu valley to escape boredom. He came as a tourist, if that is the appropriate word, but he was neither among the first nor the last of the gods to visit the Valley. Visitors have come to Nepal since time forgotten. And though the country is much deferent today then it was in ancient times, it has not diminished in charm; the increase in the number of visitors over the years is a living proof. Those who came to the Valley today will appreciate a lot more then Lord Shiva did in his tour. The architecture started here by the Lichhavi and Malla Kings is one such example. Much of the greenery that Lord Shiva is gone, but the forest surrounding Pashupatinath, where he stayed, is still intact. The seven World heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and cultural Organization (UNESCO) are the highlights of the Valley.

Day 02 Full day Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu and preparing for trekking.

Swoyambhunath.
The history of the Valley, according to the legends, begins with Swoyambhunath, or the “the self-existent”. In times uncharted by history, Bodhisattva Manjusri came across a beautiful lake during his travel. He saw a lotus that emitted brilliant light at the lake’s center, so he cut a gorge in a southern hill and drained the waters to worship the lotus. Men called it the Kathmandu Valley. From then on, the hilltop of the Self-existent Lord has been a holy place.

Kathmandu Durbar  Square
It is easy to be overwhelmed by the seemingly uncountable monuments in the durbar square, the house of the Living goddess, the ferocious Kal Bhairab, the red monkey god, and hundreds of erotic carvings are a few examples of the sights at the square! The building here is the greatest achievements of the Malla dynasty, and they resulted from the great rivalry between the three palaces of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. The valley was divided among the children of Yaksya Malla. For visitors today, and for the Nepalese, it was serendipitous that they, and later their off springs, began artistic warfare trying to outdo each other in splendid constructions. Kings copied every thing their neighbors built in an even grander style. A visitor who wanders around the Square will see a round temple in the Pagoda architectural style, the temple of goddess Taleju (who played dice with King Jaya Prakash Malla), and an image of Shiva and Parbati sitting together among the many monuments.

The Square is teeming with colorful life. Vendors sell vegetables, curios, flutes, and other crafts around the Kathmandu rest house. This rest house is said to have been built with the wood of a single tree and is the source from which the Kathmandu valley got its name. Nearby are great drums which were beaten to announce royal decrees. All woodcarvings, statues, and architecture in this aria are exceptionally fine, and Durbar Square is among the must important sights for Travelers to see.

 Pashupatinath:
One-day lord Shiva got tired of this glittering palace on Mt. Kailash, his armies of ghosts and spirits, and even Parbati – his beautiful wife. Through his cosmic powers, he searched for a perfect place where he could holiday. Without telling anyone, he ran away from his palace and came to live in Slesmantak forest in the Kathmandu valley. He gained great fame here as Pashupatinath – Lord of the Animals – before other gods discovered his hiding place and came to fetch him. The Pashupatinath where he stayed has received the attention of worshippers for at least fifteen hundred years; it is the holiest Hindu pilgrimage destination in Nepal. There are linga images of Shiva along with statues, shrines, and temples dedicated to other deities in the complex. A temple dedicated to Shiva existed at this site in AD 879. However, the present temple was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1697. A gold – plated roof, silver doors, and woodcarving of the finest quality decorate the pagoda construction. Guheswori Temple, restored in AD 1653, represents the female “force”. It is dedicated to Satidevi, Shiva’s first wife, who gave up her life in the flames of her father’s fire ritual.

Boudhanath:
Boudhanath is among the largest stupa in south Asia, and it has become the focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The white mound looms thirty-six meters overhead. The stupa is located on the ancient trade route to Tibet, and Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers here for many centuries. When refugees entered Nepal from Tibet in the 1950s, many of them decided to live around Boudhanath. They established many gompas, and the “Lit the Tibet” of Nepal was born. This “Little Tibet” is still the best place in the valley to observe Tibetan lifestyle. Monks walk about in maroon robes. Tibetans walk with prayer wheels in their hands and the rituals of prostration are presented to the Buddha as worshippers circumambulate the stupa on their hands and knees, bowing down to their lord. Over night at hotel.

Day 03: Fly Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Nepalgunj, which lies close to the Indian border in the western Terai.

Day 04: Fly Nepalgunj to Jumla & trek to Chala Chaur [2900m]
We take a thirty-minute scenic flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla. On reaching Jumla, we interact with the trekking crew and begin our trekking after lunch. We traverse northwards out of the Jumla Valley. Soon after trekking for an hour, we encounter a small village of Micha bearing a small walled enclosure and a number of Buddhist stupas. These stupas were erected at around late 15th century, in the memory of important dignitaries of the region. The trail further leads to rock-strewn path and at last ends at Chala Chaur.

Day 05: Cross a Pass
We leave Chala Chaur and follow a trail moving along path of steep stones. While ascending, we cross through birch, pine forests and grassy pass at approx 3500m. From this point Kanjiroba becomes visible in the east with its twin peaks towering over the adjacent area. Further on, we descend as the trail opens into lush forests. After trekking for a couple of hours, we finally stop at a suitable campsite in the meadows nearby some shepherd's huts.

Day 06: Trek via Sinja [2440m] to Botan [2600m]
We walk along the Jaljala Khola through pine forests of and terraced farmland. En route the trail passes the 300 year old Kanaksundari Temple. The temple holds immense religious significance for Hindus. The route further bends along the main river. Crossing a thick plank bridge, we finally descend to reach Sinja village. Sinja village rests upon a small alluvial plain on the west bank of the clear Lah Gad River, also called the Sinja Khola. Sinja was once the ancient capital of the Malla kings. There are stones lying along the trail that foretell the history of Malla dynasty. After lunch, we head to Botan. On the way, we pass through a spectacular gorge and finally reach the village of Botan.

Day 07: Trek to Rara Park border
Leaving Sinja Khola, we follow the trail along Ghatta Khola amid the unparallel beauty of nature. The sinuous route winds up into terraced farmland and beautiful valley. Soon we find ourselves within the territory of Rara Lake National Park. We come across primitive flour mills and police post on the way. Rara Lake National Park houses unique and rich ecosystem. We can spend half an hour exploring the beauty of the park or simply doing whatever we feel like. We spend the night in Gorosingha.

Day 08: Trek to Rara Lake [3062m]
We walk away from Gorosingha and ascend to the Ghurchi Mara ridge [3710m] for one and half hour. The trail is not as strenuous as it looks. On reaching the crest of the ridge, we get to experience an excellent panorama to the north, flaunting irresistible beauty and charm. As the trail descends, Rara Lake becomes visible on the northeast. The trail further passes through bamboo and birch forests before crossing the Khatyar Khola. We then follow the river upstream to Rara Lake, where we savor the most fascinating trekking experience amid the beauty of nature.

Day 09-10: Rest days at Rara
We now have 2 days set aside to explore the area, including the old village of Rara. We can also climb up to the wooden observation tower behind the post office for fine views of the lake and surrounding hills. We can even visit the National Park Headquarters. Swimming is allowed in the lake and it is piercingly refreshing. This can be a perfect way for acclimatization.

Day 11: Trek via Jhyari [2630m] to River camp
We depart from Rara Lake and continue skirting along the target destination. On crossing a ridge, we enter the village of Jhyari. Strolling by the Jhyari Khola, the trail further follows terraced farmlands. As we approach Dhauligar Khola valley, we find a suitable camp site near the river bank. We also get to witness an exotic charisma of nature and outstanding panorama of snow-capped mountain peaks.

Day 12: Across Ghurchi Lagna pass [3450m] to Chautha [2770m]
As Dhauligar Khola blurs out of our trekking route, we pass through farmland and then enter the village of Pina. Pina has a police post and some hotels. We continue climbing to the Ghurchi Lagna Pass and come across several small chortens, alpine-like pastures, walnut groves and a narrow valley. Finally, the steep slope guides us into the village of Chautha where we conclude the trek of the day.

Day 13: Trek to Tharamara [3280m]
From Chautha, the trail follows the northern bank of the Sinja Khola past the hotel and health clinic under the massive overhanging rock at Kabra. Silaji found in this area is the source of the important medicinal mineral which is believed to cure almost anything. The route then passes through the villages of Bumra and Nyawre, before climbing to the pasture at Tharamara. 

Day 14: Trek to Jumla
Following the trail gently sloping upwards, we march towards Jumla. We meet tall birch trees on our way to the Khali Lagna and Danphe Lekh. From atop the ridge, we can have the most spectacular views of the mountain ridges to the south and Jumla below. Further on, we descend steeply to the first night's campsite. Utmost caution is required while trekking along this trail. We then follow the same route back to Jumla. After reaching Jumla, we can spend our afternoon exploring the busy market town or simply pursuing whatever we feel like

Day 15: Fly to Kathmandu
We take a flight from Jumla to Nepalgunj. On reaching Nepalgunj, we return to Kathmandu on the next available flight. You can spend the rest of the day shopping and general sightseeing.

Day 16: Final departure from Kathmandu
Our Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight home. On the other hand, if you prefer to stay longer, you can go for short tours such as game drive at National parks, rafting, Tibet tours, mountain biking, etc. – ask us.

Cost per person

US $ 2925.
Pound £1860.
EURO €2027.
Australian $2925.
Canadian $2925.

Fixed group departure 2011:

7th  and 24th March 2011.
12th, and 22nd April 2011.
3rd, 7th, and 12th May 2011
18th and 28th September 2011.
10th, 18th and 29th October 2011.
10th, 23rd, and 25th November 2011

Fixed group departure 2012:

2nd, and 27th March 2012.
6th, and 25th April 2012.
5th and 11th and 18th May 2012
12th September 2012.
3rd, and 29th October 2012.
10th, 16th, and 25th November 2012

For the convenience of our travelers to Nepal and fallow up the fixed departure itinerary of Explore Alpine adventure guarantees all fixed group departures dates.

Group Departures are for an adventurous individual person willing to join a small group of other travelers. We can arrange group trekking tours or individual trekking tours, to suit your requirements. Please you can choose any dates which will be suitable for you and please match your arrival in Kathmandu and departure from Kathmandu.

PRICE INCLUDES:

Fully Catered Camping Trek, Camping trek, National park fees, all domestic air fare, Airport transfers and escort, all guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, with entry fees. 3 nights’ accommodation at 3 star hotels in Kathmandu on double sharing with breakfast, Transfers as per the itinerary in private vehicle, Insurance of the guide and porters as per itinerary, all necessary paper works and national park entry permits. Travel & Rescue arrangement if necessary. TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) All government taxes.

PRICE EXCLUDES:

• International flight & departure tax
  
• Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  
• Personal Trekking gears (available on hire in Nepal)
  
• Tips, any expenses of personal nature, clients insurance.

Equipment List for trekking:

 FOOT WEAR

• Trekking boots: (one pairs), Thick socks (4 pairs)
• Light socks (3 pairs)
• Camp shoes (1 pair)
• Sandals (1 pair)

 CLOTHING

• Down or fiber filled waterproof jacket and trousers (1)
• Fleece jacket or pullover ( 1)
• Warm cotton trousers (2 pairs)
• Shirts and T-shirts ( 4 pieces)
• Lightweight cotton long pants ( 3 pairs)
  
• Long under wear (2 pieces)
• Short under wear (4 pieces)
• Sun hat or scarf ( 1) Woolen hat (1)
• Sunglasses (1)
• Lightweight gloves (1)
• Rain coat(1)
• Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof (1)

OTHER EQUIPMENT

• Sleeping bag (4 seasons) 1
• Down jacket -1
• Day pack – 1
• Water bottle – 1
• Sun cream
• Sunglasses
• Flash light with spare bulbs, batteries, lip salve,  gaiters.

Booking & Payment Conditions

Explore Alpine Adventure and Alpine Explore Nepal tour and trek is a well-known government licensed trekking and touring company in Nepal. We accept your bookings under the following terms and conditions.

1. When you confirmed trip, we need photo copy of your passport and 30% down payment of the total price for advance flight tickets, hotel booking and permit process.

2. Payments can be wired by bank transfer to our company bank account or Master Card and Visa Card. but we give preference bank transfer to our company account.

Please inquiry for bank accounts for your convenience.

3. Bank service charge should be paid by the clients themselves at the time of deposit.

4. In addition, payments can be made by Cash, Travels Cheque, Master Card or Visa Card as well. If you would like to make the payment by Master Card or Visa Card, the cards payment handling bank service charge 3.5% will charge to the card holder. 

5. After receiving photo copy of your passport, and 30% advance form you, we send you final confirmation receipt.

6. Remaining balance can be made after your arrival in Nepal. Full payment should be made before trip departure. Be mindful, we also reserve the right to cancel your trip provided full amount is not paid in time.

7. Travel insurance is compulsory for all Clients undertaking any tour. It should provide adequate protection for the full duration of the tour or Trek to cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter evacuation, loss of luggage, etc.

8. If you wish to arrange your travel insurance from our Company, we will arrange travel insurance for you.

9 Cancellation by the Client: Cancellation of a confirmed booking must be made by the Client in writing either in written documents or on an email. Cancellation shall valid with approval from the company after receiving document. Trip shall then be termed as cancelled and as a cancellation charge, 30% of the trip amount would be deducted from the advance paid.

10 Risk & Liabilities:

We are committed to providing the best services which will give you a once in a life time journey in this connection, we perform our duties honestly & seriously to make your journey very smooth & pleasant. However, the entire programs in Nepal/Tibet/Bhutan are conducted strictly under the rules and regulation of theirs’ own policies.
There for Explore Alpine Adventure and its related organization shall not be responsible for any changes in the itinerary due to unavoidable circumstance such as govt. restriction, Land slide, road blockage, flood, snow political unrest, cancellation of flight, delay, sickness or accident, Any extra cost incurring there of shall be borne by the clients on the spots.

Thank you for choosing Explore Alpine Adventure. We look forward to meet you In Nepal and serve you better.

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