Pokhara vs Rara Lake
Pick Pokhara for
family trips, couples, workations, an easier walk, fewer days
Pick Rara Lake for
peace and quiet, nature, adventure, fewer people
| Pokhara | Rara Lake | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Nepal, Kaski, Gandaki | Nepal, Mugu, Karnali |
| Highest point | 1,600 m | 2,990 m |
| Difficulty | Easy | Easy–moderate |
| Trek distance | No trek needed | about 35 km |
| Days on the ground | 3–4 | 6–7 |
| Best months | Oct, Nov, Dec, Feb, Mar, Apr | Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Snow likely | Rarely | Dec, Jan, Feb |
| Crowds in season | Busy | Quiet |
| Daily spend | about ₹3,500 | about ₹3,500 |
| Gateway | Pokhara | Nepalgunj / Kathmandu |
| With kids | Great | Not advised |
| With seniors | Great | Not advised |
| Permits | Indian citizens: passport or voter ID; no visa needed. | Rara National Park permit + TIMS. |
Pokhara: 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