Rara Lake

Rara Lake in Mugu District, Karnali Province, is Nepal's largest lake (10.8 km²) and among its most pristine. At 2,990 metres above sea level, the deep azure lake is ringed by thick Himalayan forest and the peaks of Rara National Park. Wildlife includes musk deer, red pandas, snow leopards, and migratory water birds. The remote location means few visitors — access requires either a domestic flight to Jumla followed by a 2–3 day trek, or a longer overland journey from Surkhet. The remoteness is precisely the appeal for travellers seeking complete wilderness without crowds. The lake is visible from its shores as a brilliant turquoise sheet surrounded by dark conifer forests.