If you are on the lookout for a serene ambiance away from the hustle and bustle of everyday commute, then look no further as the Rara National Park is there to cater to all your needs and whims. The Rara National Park has a history that dates back to 1976 when it was established. This utopia resides on the far northwestern part of Nepal and covers an area of about 106 km2.
The major attraction of this park is the pristine Rara Lake that serves as a device that is used to reflect on the many sins of people. The park ranges in elevation from 2800 meters to 4039 meters, with the highest point being the Chuchemara hill. The Rara National Park is desolate as desolate can get but it is one of its more intriguing traits that has contributed so much towards its significance in this modern world.
Climate in Rara national park
The Rara National Park is a great place to visit, but one needs to be aware of the prevailing future trends in order to magnify the enthusiasm by at least 100 times. The climate in the Park is the most pleasing during the summer but becomes pretty cold and oppressive during the winter. Furthermore, the cold winds bring snow, which makes trekking and sightseeing impossible.
The best times to visit the park are in September, October, April, and May so, if you plan your tour to Rara National park is best.
Vegetation and Wildlife in Rara national park
The National Park has an elevation that ranges from 2,800 meters to a maximum of 4,039 meters above sea the level. This variation in altitude has helped numerous species of plants to thrive here. A recent study dictates that over one thousand and seventy species of flora are found in Rara National park. The flora found here range from rhododendrons, fir, oak, and birch to the much amazing and rare Himalayan spruce and blue pine. The flora found here are normally classified into 2 types. They are below 3,200 meters and above 3,200 meters. The ones above 3200 meters are considered to be much rare and harder to find.
In terms of wildlife, the park houses over 51 species of mammals and 241 species of birds. Along with that, the park is also home to 2 species of reptiles, amphibians, and numerous species of fish. During your stay in the park, you can find animals like musk deer, red panda, snow leopard, yellow-throated marten, otter, and langur. Migrating birds are also prone to make the Rara National Park as their home. There are new sightings of birds and animals too, but some of them are not properly recorded.
People around Rara National park
The people living in the remote areas of Mugu and Jumla are mostly of Thakur community. You can even find people of Chhetri and Brahmin communities but in a small proportion. They follow Hinduism, however, there are some of them who follow Buddhism as well. The villages are sparsely populated as the majority of the residents here have migrated to the major cities or in the Terai region. The people here are largely dependent on agriculture and animal husbandry.
How to reach Rara National park
The easiest and most convenient way to reach Rara National park is by taking a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, and then another flight from Nepalgunj to Jumla. From here, we need to walk for at least 3 days. The trail is a blend of numerous ups and downs, and we can see donkeys & yaks in these parts. The trek to Rara lasts normally between 10 to 15 days.
Trekking permits and fees to enter Rara National park
The trekking permit for the Rara National Park can be obtained from either the Kathmandu or from the Park entrance counter. SAARC member countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka have a permit cost that is comparatively less. Nepalese people do not require a permit at all. The cost of a restricted area permit is USD 90 for the first 7 days and USD 15 per day after the first 7 days are required to enter the National park.
Things to do around the national park
Trekking
In terms of size, the Rara National Park pales in comparison to other huge national parks. Although the park is small, it houses a plethora of natural and enigmatic landmarks. The trek starts from Kathmandu, and after two quick flights, you will reach Jumla. It is a desolate town that sits right in the middle of the barren hills. You can see numerous apple orchards. The trek goes along the Tibetan border and the trek provides fascinating views of the Himalayas.
Boating at Rara Lake
The oval Rara Lake is colossal and stands out in the greenery as a turquoise gem. From the park, the gorgeous views of snowy mountains are simply amazing. In the lake, there are a variety of fishes, and the clear blue water allows us to do some soul searching as well. The blue waters of the lake are soothing to do boating. Although there are boating facilities available elsewhere, the one in Rara is utterly marvelous.
Sightseeing in the Rara national park
The mountain region of Far Western Nepal is a perfect hub to indulge in some sightseeing. The Rara National Park located in the Mugu district. The people who are keen to observe the prevalent culture and wildlife can take a trip into the Rara National Park. Take a quick elephant ride in the park to breathe in the many mysteries of the park from above. As you dwell deep into the amazing colors of green, blue, and red, you’ll feel similar to watching an amazing movie.
