Nepal · Homestay Experiences

7-Day Rara Lake Retreat with Tharu Homestay in Nepalgunj

7 Days Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Witness the breathtaking, crystal-clear blue waters of Rara Lake, Nepal's magnificent "Queen of Lakes."
02 Experience authentic Nepali hospitality with an immersive overnight stay at a traditional Tharu community homestay.
03 Hike the scenic trail around the perimeter of Rara Lake, surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountain views.
04 Enjoy a peaceful boating excursion on the tranquil, reflective surface of Rara Lake.
05 Learn firsthand about the unique culture, cuisine, and lifestyle of the indigenous Tharu people of the Terai.
06 A unique, off-the-beaten-path itinerary combining Nepal's high-altitude nature with its rich lowland culture.

Escape the ordinary on a 7-day journey through Nepal's remarkable contrasts, from the tranquil, sapphire-blue waters of Rara Lake to the warm, vibrant culture of the Terai plains. Designed for travellers seeking both stunning landscapes and authentic human connection, this retreat combines scenic flights, lakeside hikes, peaceful boating, and an immersive Tharu homestay experience. Discover Nepal's largest lake, walk through beautiful pine and juniper forests, and connect with local traditions in an off-the-beaten-path adventure that blends high-altitude nature with rich lowland culture.

Escape the ordinary on a 7-day journey through Nepal's remarkable contrasts, from the tranquil, sapphire-blue waters of Rara Lake to the warm, vibrant culture of the Terai plains.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Nepalganj, Kathmandu, Rara National Park

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Fly to Nepalgunj and Experience a Tharu Homestay

Take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj in the Terai lowlands. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a nearby Tharu village and check into your community homestay, where you will be welcomed by a local family. In the afternoon, explore the village, learn about Tharu culture and architecture, and enjoy a delicious, traditionally cooked dinner.

Day 02

Scenic Flight to Rara Lake

After an early breakfast, transfer to Nepalgunj Airport for the scenic flight to Talcha Airport, the gateway to Rara. From Talcha, enjoy a short and pleasant hike of approximately 2 hours to the shores of Rara Lake. Check into your teahouse and spend the rest of the day absorbing the first breathtaking views of the stunning blue lake.

Day 03

Full-Day Parikrama Around Rara Lake

Today is dedicated to exploring the beauty of Rara. We will embark on a parikrama, a hike around the entire perimeter of the lake. The trail winds through beautiful pine and juniper forests, offering ever-changing perspectives of the lake and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic spot along the way.

Day 04

Boating on Rara Lake and Hike to Murma Top

Experience the tranquility of Rara with a peaceful boating trip on its glassy surface in the morning. In the afternoon, for those feeling energetic, we will hike up to Murma Top (3,630 m). The climb is rewarded with a spectacular panoramic viewpoint overlooking the entire lake and the majestic Himalayan panorama.

Day 05

Return Flight from Rara to Nepalgunj

After a final lakeside breakfast, hike back to Talcha Airport for the flight back to Nepalgunj. The short flight offers a final, stunning aerial view of the region. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, check into a comfortable hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Day 06

Explore Nepalgunj and Fly Back to Kathmandu

Depending on the flight schedule, you may have some time in the morning to explore Nepalgunj city, known for its Bageshwori Temple and the bustling border market. Later, take the afternoon flight back to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.

Day 07

Final Departure

You will be transferred to the airport for your final international departure.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All government and local taxes.
Private accommodation
Local transportation

What's Not Included

Flights from your home country to Nepal and Nepal visa fee.
Travel and rescue insurance (you must have this).
Money for your own needs (drinks, snacks, cleaning clothes, etc.).
Tips for guides and other helpers.
Money for boating or horse riding at Rara Lake.

What to bring

Warm layers (fleece, warm jacket) for Rara
Light cotton clothes for Nepalgunj
A rain jacket
Comfy pants for walking
T-shirts
Strong, broken-in walking boots
Comfy sandals or shoes for the homestay
A good backpack
A sleeping bag (for cold nights at Rara)
Walking sticks
Sunglasses
A sunhat
A full first-aid kit
Water cleaning tablets or a filter
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Your own soap and other items
Passport
Visa
Flight tickets
Travel insurance papers
A few passport-sized photos
A power bank (power can be tricky)
Camera with extra batteries
An offline map app

Know before you go

Be prepared for basic facilities, especially at Rara Lake, where you will stay in simple, clean teahouses/lodges. The homestay is an authentic family home, not a hotel. This trip prioritizes experience over luxury.
The flights to and from the mountain airstrip at Talcha are highly dependent on clear weather. Delays are possible, so a flexible attitude is essential.
This trip involves moderate hiking at high altitudes (around 3,000 m / 9,800 ft). You should be in good physical condition and able to walk for several hours a day.
While at the Tharu homestay, please be a respectful guest. Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos of people, and embrace the opportunity to learn about their way of life.
At Rara Lake, there is very limited to no Wi-Fi or mobile phone service. Consider this a chance to disconnect from technology and connect with nature.
Your travel insurance must cover medical emergencies and flight cancellations.

Logistics