Rara Lake vs Bhaktapur & Patan
Pick Rara Lake for
peace and quiet, nature, adventure, fewer people
Pick Bhaktapur & Patan for
culture and heritage, tight budgets, family trips, an easier walk, a smaller budget, fewer days
| Rara Lake | Bhaktapur & Patan | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Nepal, Mugu, Karnali | Nepal, Kathmandu Valley, Bagmati |
| Highest point | 2,990 m | 1,400 m |
| Difficulty | Easy–moderate | Easy |
| Trek distance | about 35 km | No trek needed |
| Days on the ground | 6–7 | 2–3 |
| Best months | Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov | Oct, Nov, Dec, Feb, Mar, Apr |
| Snow likely | Dec, Jan, Feb | Rarely |
| Crowds in season | Quiet | Busy |
| Daily spend | about ₹3,500 | about ₹2,500 |
| Gateway | Nepalgunj / Kathmandu | Kathmandu |
| With kids | Not advised | Great |
| With seniors | Not advised | Great |
| Permits | Rara National Park permit + TIMS. | Indian citizens: passport or voter ID. Separate entry fee for each Durbar Square. |
Rara Lake: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Bhaktapur & Patan: when to go
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely