Annapurna Base Camp vs Rara Lake
Pick Annapurna Base Camp for
a real challenge
Pick Rara Lake for
peace and quiet, nature, fewer people, an easier walk, fewer days
| Annapurna Base Camp | Rara Lake | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Nepal, Kaski, Gandaki | Nepal, Mugu, Karnali |
| Highest point | 4,130 m | 2,990 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Easy–moderate |
| Trek distance | about 110 km | about 35 km |
| Days on the ground | 8–10 | 6–7 |
| Best months | Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov | Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Snow likely | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar | Dec, Jan, Feb |
| Crowds in season | Busy | Quiet |
| Daily spend | about ₹3,500 | about ₹3,500 |
| Gateway | Pokhara | Nepalgunj / Kathmandu |
| With kids | Not advised | Not advised |
| With seniors | Not advised | Not advised |
| Permits | ACAP permit. Guide rules for foreign trekkers changed in 2023 — check current rules for Indian nationals with the Nepal Tourism Board. | Rara National Park permit + TIMS. |
Annapurna Base Camp: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Rara Lake: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely