The Rara to Simikot Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and breathtaking trekking adventures, connecting the pristine beauty of Rara Lake in Mugu with the rugged Himalayan gateway of Simikot in Humla. This 17-day journey takes you deep into untouched wilderness, ancient villages, and culturally rich mountain communities. Far from crowded trekking routes, this expedition offers pure solitude, dramatic landscapes, and an authentic Himalayan experience that feels timeless and untouched.
The Rara to Simikot Trek is a rare Himalayan journey through Nepal’s remote Karnali region. Starting from the peaceful turquoise waters of Rara Lake, the trail ascends through pine forests, alpine meadows, deep river valleys, and high ridges above 4,000 meters.
This trek offers a true wilderness experience where modern infrastructure disappears and nature takes over. Along the way, trekkers pass through isolated settlements where people still live traditional mountain lifestyles deeply connected to nature and Tibetan-influenced culture.
The journey ends at Simikot (2,910m), a historic Himalayan trading hub and the gateway to the sacred Mount Kailash region. This trek is ideal for adventure seekers who want raw nature, cultural depth, and an off-grid Himalayan experience.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)/Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel, welcome briefing.
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing/Visit Swayambhunath, Boudhanath & Pashupatinath UNESCO sites.
Day 03: Fly Kathmandu → Nepalgunj (150m)/1.5-hour flight to the western lowlands.
Day 04: Fly Nepalgunj → Talcha Airport (2,735m)/Gateway to Rara National Park.
Day 05: Trek Talcha → Rara Lake (2,980m) | 3–4 hrs/First view of the stunning turquoise lake.
Day 06: Rara Lake Exploration Day/Walk around lake, wildlife spotting, village visit.
Day 07: Rara → Karnali Riverside Camp | 4 hrs/Descend through forested trails.
Day 08: Riverside → Bam Village (2,700m) | 5–6 hrs/Cross suspension bridges & ridges.
Day 09: Bam → Jogimara (3,005m) | 6 hrs/Scenic ridge walking and valley views.
Day 10: Jogimara → Piplan (1,700m) | 7 hrs/Descend through villages and river crossings.
Day 11: Piplan → Apsia Lekh (3,195m) | 7–8 hrs/Steep climb to high alpine meadows (4,000m+ pass region).
Day 12: Apsia Lekh → Punkha Khola | 6 hrs/Ridge trail with panoramic mountain views.
Day 13: Punkha Khola → River Camp | 5–6 hrs/High altitude descent to yak grazing lands.
Day 14: River Camp → Simikot (2,900m) | 6–7 hrs/Final descent to Humla headquarters.
Day 15: Fly Simikot → Nepalgunj → Kathmandu/Scenic Himalayan flight return.
Day 16: Contingency Day in Kathmandu/Buffer day for weather delays or relaxation.
Day 17: Departure/Transfer to airport for final departure.
Spring (March–May):
Clear skies, rhododendron blooms, ideal trekking conditions.
Autumn (September–November):
Best visibility, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures.
❌ Winter: Very cold, snow blocks high routes
❌ Monsoon: Slippery trails and flight delays
This trek is classified as Moderate to Strenuous.
Meals included:
Facilities:
This trek explores the culturally rich Karnali region:
🚐 Transportation Details
All internal logistics are arranged for smooth expedition travel.
Permits Required:
Safety Tips:
👉 Book your Rara to Simikot Trek with Ghumnajaau today
📞 Contact us for customized itineraries & group discounts
Limited departures available – secure your adventure now!
It starts from Rara (Mugu) and ends at Simikot (Humla).
It is moderate to strenuous due to long walking days and remote terrain.
The trek reaches above 4,000 meters in certain high passes.
Yes, Rara National Park Permit and Humla Restricted Area Permit are required.
Yes, this is a full camping-style trekking expedition.
No, most of the route has no connectivity.
Freshly cooked Nepali, continental and energy meals during trek.
Not recommended for beginners due to remoteness and difficulty.
Spring and autumn are the best seasons.
It is available mainly as private or small group (2–6 people).