Max. Elevation
Overview
Discover the remote landscapes and rich cultural heritage of western Nepal on an unforgettable journey from Simikot through the Humla region to Rara Lake. This lesser-traveled route offers a rare opportunity to explore a peaceful part of the country, far from the busy trekking trails of the Everest and Annapurna regions.
Along the way, you pass through traditional villages inhabited by Chhetri, Brahmin, and Thakuri communities. Experience local lifestyles, observe traditional architecture, and enjoy the warm hospitality of people living in Nepal’s remote mountain regions. The trail winds through beautiful hills, forested landscapes, quiet valleys, and scenic countryside, revealing a different side of the Nepal Himalayas.
One of the highlights of the journey is Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest lake, renowned for its clear blue waters, surrounding forests, and tranquil mountain setting. Spend a relaxing day beside the lake, enjoying nature, exploring the surrounding trails, and taking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Unlike demanding high-altitude mountaineering routes, this trek focuses on cultural discovery, natural beauty, and the experience of traveling through a remote region at a comfortable pace. Accommodation is provided in tents, with a dedicated kitchen team preparing meals throughout the camping journey.
As the first stage of the Great Himalayan Trail crossing, the Humla to Rara Lake trek offers an excellent introduction to Nepal’s remote western landscapes. It is an ideal choice for travelers seeking an authentic trekking experience, meaningful cultural encounters, and a chance to discover a less-explored part of Nepal.
Itinerary
Expand AllUpon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our local team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey.
Later, attend a trek briefing where our team will explain the itinerary, preparations, and important details for your upcoming adventure. If you arrive early, you can explore the surrounding area, experience Nepalese culture, or sample traditional local cuisine at your leisure.
- Transfer: Airport to hotel by private vehicle
- Altitude: Approximately 1,350 m
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
After the tour, return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day preparing for your upcoming Simikot to Rara Lake Trek. Check your trekking equipment and enjoy a relaxing evening before the adventure begins.
After breakfast, enjoy a half-day guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley. Visit Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of Kathmandu; Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world; and Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic royal complex famous for its traditional architecture, temples, and cultural heritage.
Activity: Half-day guided sightseeing tour
Altitude: Approximately 1,350 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Take a scenic one-hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, located in the lowland Terai region near the Indian border. On clear days, enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel or lodge and prepare for the journey into western Nepal.
Flight: Approximately 45 minutes
Transfer: Approximately 30 minutes
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Lodge or hotel
Fly from Nepalgunj to Simikot, the remote administrative center of Humla District. As the aircraft climbs towards the Himalayan foothills, the landscape changes from the warm Terai plains to rugged hills and mountain valleys. After arriving in Simikot, complete the necessary formalities and explore the village and its surroundings. Later, settle into camp and enjoy your first evening in the mountains.
Flight: Approximately 35 minutes
Transfer: Approximately 30 minutes
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Tent camping
Begin trekking from Simikot, descending towards the Karnali River and continuing to Kharpunath. Cross the Chuwa Khola by bridge before following the trail towards Kharpel. The route passes through terraced rice fields, forested slopes, and traditional settlements in the beautiful Yanchu Khola Valley. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this rarely visited region before reaching River Camp.
Walking time: Approximately 7 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +1,000 m / -1,000 m
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Tent camping
Continue through remote mountain terrain towards Margor Lek, climbing through forested hills and open slopes. After crossing the high point of the day, descend towards Punkha Khola, where you will set up camp. Along the way, you may encounter local villagers travelling between settlements and traditional farming areas.
Walking time: Approximately 6 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +1,100 m / -100 m
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Tent camping
Trek towards Apsia Lek through a landscape of agricultural terraces, remote villages, and rolling mountain ridges. Depending on trail conditions, the route may pass through Rodikot or follow the higher trail via Tach. The journey offers an authentic glimpse into rural life in western Nepal, far from the usual trekking routes. At Apsia Lek, enjoy views of surrounding peaks, including Chankeli Himal, Saipal Himal, Darma Himal, and Buhari Himal.
Walking time: Approximately 6 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +400 m / -200 m
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Tent camping
Descend towards Chargaon, a traditional village surrounded by terraced farmland and green hillsides. Take time to observe local customs and experience the daily life of communities in this remote part of Nepal. Continue downhill through small hamlets and narrow trails until you reach Piplan, where a suitable campsite provides a peaceful place to rest.
Walking time: Approximately 5 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +200 m / -1,650 m
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Tent camping
Leave Piplan and continue south through the rugged landscapes of the Karnali region. The trail passes through scattered villages and crosses several steep sections as you gradually gain elevation towards the foothills of Chankheli Pass. Small streams and seasonal waterways accompany parts of the route. Set up camp at Jogimara and prepare for the next stage of the journey.
Walking time: Approximately 6 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +1,400 m / -200 m
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Tent camping
Continue along the mountain trail after the previous day's challenging ascent. The route crosses ridges and descends through increasingly frequent settlements, offering changing views of the surrounding hills and valleys. After crossing the Chankheli Pass area, continue towards Bam, where you will spend the night at camp.
Walking time: Approximately 6 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +850 m / -950 m
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Tent camping
Trek towards Gamgadhi, the administrative headquarters of Mugu District. Although the destination may appear close, the trail crosses several ridges before reaching the Mugu Karnali River. Continue through villages and climb towards Gamgadhi, where the landscape becomes busier and more populated. Explore the small town and experience the atmosphere of one of western Nepal's remote regional centers.
Walking time: Approximately 4 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +200 m / -800 m
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Tent camping
Spend the day exploring beautiful Rara Lake, Nepal's largest lake and the centerpiece of Rara National Park. The excursion takes you through forested hills and scenic trails surrounded by pine and other coniferous trees. Enjoy the lake's clear blue waters, peaceful atmosphere, and views of the surrounding mountains. Depending on the route and your group's pace, you may visit the area around Chhapri.
This day can also serve as a contingency day if weather or travel conditions affect the itinerary.
Walking time: Approximately 6 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +1,000 m / -1,000 m
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Tent camping
Transfer to Talcha Airport for your flight to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Enjoy the transition from the remote mountain region back to the lowlands and capital city. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and relax after your trekking adventure.
Flight time: Approximately 1 hour to Nepalgunj and 1 hour 20 minutes to Kathmandu, subject to schedules
Transfer: Approximately 1 hour
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included; dinner not included
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Keep this day flexible as a safety buffer in case of weather-related delays or changes to domestic flights during the trek. If everything goes according to plan, enjoy a free day in Kathmandu. You can explore the city's cultural landmarks, visit local markets, or relax at your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner not included
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu
Enjoy your final morning in Kathmandu at leisure. Depending on your international flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Our team will arrange your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
Transfer: Approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic
Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner not included
Accommodation: Not included
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Plan a Private TripIncluded & Excluded
Included Points
Airport Pick- up and drop : Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
Accommodation in kathmandu : 3 nights sharing a twin bedroom at the hotel (3 Star category) in Kathmandu on a bed and breakfast basis.
Welcome dinner : One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office Staff.
Permits : All necessary paper works: Trekking Permit
Staff insurance : Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.
Map : Region Trekking map.
Member Transportation : Flight as per itinerary
Member luggage : Up to 15 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek carried by porters.
Foods and lodging : 3 meals a day (BLD; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation on a sharing basis in a tea house/camp during the trek.
Camping equipment : All necessary camping equipment during the trek if required.
Guide : Government licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sightseeing in Kathmandu valley.
Porter : Porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) during the trek.
Staff Salary and allowance : All Nepalese staff and porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, food, and clothing.
Medical kit : Comprehensive Medical kit.
Excluded Points
International airfare : International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
Nepal visa fees : Nepal Visa fee is US$ 40 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days (USD$ 100).
Lunch and dinner : Lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara (also in case of early return from Trekking than the scheduled itinerary).
Extra nights in kathmandu and pokhara : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
Insurance : Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical, and emergency evacuation.
Personal Expenses : Telephone calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.Telephone calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.
Personal Equipment : Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears, etc.
Toiletries : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
Filming : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
Internet services : Internet facility during the trek is not included.
Tips : Tips for Guide, porters, and staff.
Extra : Any other services or activities that are not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Trip Information
Your Guide and Team
Your guide, from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure, is responsible for the success of your trip and oversees your team. Do not hesitate to ask him questions, respect his position as the team leader, and above all follow his advice! Often your guide is the only English-speaking member of the team. In the mountains and, especially when during high-altitude travels, your guide is responsible for the safety of the group. The instructions he gives and the remarks he makes to all participants must be carefully followed. The interest and safety of the trekking group must be preserved, even when it may be to the detriment of an individual member of the group.
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Your Nepalese team may consist of several people, each with different responsibilities. They are:
The Guide Leader (Sirdar) is responsible for and leader of the whole team and is treated with respect by all. Often he has earned his position by starting as a porter and rising through the ranks.
The Assistant Guide is actively helping clients under the leader’s direction and set camp.
The Porter is the load carrier for the trekking group. As Nepal is a mountain country with few roads, porters are employed to carry loads. Compliance with regulations and common courtesy dictates the maximum weight carried and the minimum wage paid. Porters are provided with gear based on the routes they follow and with insurance for alpine treks.
Each trekker is allotted the following maximum weights per person: Lodge (tea house) Accommodations: 15 kg maximum; Tent Camping: 22 kg maximum; Expeditions/summit ascents: 20 kg maximum. The porters are given a premium wage for carrying loads over 30 kg.
In addition, the Nepal Alpinist Club takes care to take out insurance for the Guide and porters. Specific equipment is allocated to them for crossing passes at altitude (even if wearers often refuse to put on shoes due to lack of habit).
Accommodations in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu, you will accommodate in a hotel. We use different hotels depending on availability. The two preferred hotels are:
Hotel Ramoda: Located in the heart of Thamel, this hotel is ideal for walking the bustling streets of Kathmandu. The spacious rooms all have a bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. A fully equipped and active dining room is available for all meals, and the breakfast buffet offers a wide choice of foods. The hotel offers currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Sampada Garden: Located just 20 minutes on foot from Thamel and Durbar Square, this hotel is convenient for exploring Kathmandu. The rooms have all the necessary comforts for your stay: air conditioning, bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Breakfasts are served as a generous buffet. The hotel provides currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Accommodation during the Simkot to Rara Trek
For lodge accommodation: meals are prepared by the cooks of the lodge and are taken from the lodge's dining room.
Here is a typical one-day menu:
Breakfast: eggs, toast or chapati, or Tibetan bread or pancakes, or pancakes, butter/jam, tea or coffee
Lunch: a main course, tea or coffee
Dinner: soup, main course, fruit (fresh or canned), tea or coffee
During the trek, tea or coffee is served with meals. Two cups per person are included.
Apart from these included menus, other drinks and foodstuffs will be at your expense.
Water: provide tablets (Hydroclovazone, Micropur, or another type) to disinfect the water you put in your water bottle, depending on the source and on the advice of your guide. It is sometimes possible to buy purified water and refill your water bottle without having to buy bottled water. You can also buy mineral water in the cities (not included in the price) but its ecological balance is poor, as you know. Also, we do not recommend it.
Preparation for the Trek
Preparing for the trek requires several months of preparation with 4 to 6-hour walks every weekend for stamina and participating in a sport that requires short periods of high exertion.
Medical check-up
Being in good health is essential to fully enjoy your Alpinist Club trip. If your last medical visit was more than four years ago, please get another general physical exam and tell your doctor the nature of your trip (climate, altitude, difficulty, etc.). The altitude also has the effect of reviving dental problems or other chronic pain, so getting a dental checkup is also prudent. If you are undertaking a high-altitude expedition, we advise you to consult a mountain medicine specialist.
Acute Mountain Sickness
This trip takes place at high altitudes, so some people may experience altitude-related discomforts like headaches, loss of appetite, and swelling of limbs. Most of these symptoms usually go away within a few days, but sometimes they can develop into a serious illness: pulmonary or cerebral edema. There are no preventive drugs for AMS. Diamox diuretic is often effective for symptomatic relief, but you should first check with your doctor to verify that it is not contraindicated for you. Think about it before you go.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Expand AllTrekkers will pass through majestic Himalayan views, ancient villages, and the pristine Rara Lake, Nepal's largest and most scenic lake, on this well-known off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Depending on the route and walking speed, the trek often lasts 15 days.
The ideal seasons are spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) because the trails are at their best and the weather is clear.
The difficult paths, steep elevation, and isolated position make the trek quite difficult. Those with some prior trekking experience are advised to do it.
You will need two permits for this trek. You will need a Restricted Area Permit and Rara National Park Permit to enter these areas.
The hike reaches an elevation of about 3,800 meters (12,467 feet), therefore acclimatization is crucial.
Basic tea houses or tents in remote locations are the most common forms of lodging during the trek. The possibilities are slightly greater in more developed areas, such as Rara Lake. They provide basic facilities.
Seasonal vegetables, Nepali dal-bhat (rice and lentils), and a few snacks make up the majority of meals. It is a good idea to include high-energy snacks.
It requires a moderate degree of fitness. It is strongly advised to prepare beforehand with aerobic activities, hiking, or mild trekking.
The Simkot to Rara Trek is unique as it blends natural beauty with cultural exploration. This journey leads you into unexplored areas of western Nepal where traditional ways of life have not been altered, in contrast to well-known treks like Everest or Annapurna. You'll go by isolated villages, engage with the people of Jumla and Humla, and take in the stunning scenery, which includes the immaculate Rara Lake.