Rara Lake vs Everest Base Camp
Pick Rara Lake for
peace and quiet, nature, fewer people, an easier walk, a smaller budget, fewer days
Pick Everest Base Camp for
a real challenge, a spiritual journey
| Rara Lake | Everest Base Camp | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Nepal, Mugu, Karnali | Nepal, Solukhumbu |
| Highest point | 2,990 m | 5,364 m |
| Difficulty | Easy–moderate | Difficult |
| Trek distance | about 35 km | about 130 km |
| Days on the ground | 6–7 | 13–15 |
| Best months | Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov | Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov |
| Snow likely | Dec, Jan, Feb | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar |
| Crowds in season | Quiet | Busy |
| Daily spend | about ₹3,500 | about ₹5,000 |
| Gateway | Nepalgunj / Kathmandu | Kathmandu (Lukla flight) |
| With kids | Not advised | Not advised |
| With seniors | Not advised | Not advised |
| Permits | Rara National Park permit + TIMS. | Sagarmatha National Park entry + Khumbu local area fee. Check current guide rules. |
Rara Lake: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Everest Base Camp: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely