In Nepal, there are many famous and towering peaks, making it one of the hot spots for tourists. It has its own living cultural explorations and remote and deep valleys that will help you to escape from this modern and crowded place. And, when it comes to choosing a place for an exploration in Nepal, most travelers flock to well-known and crowded routes like the ABC and Everest Treks. However, beyond these paths lie scarce places away from the crowd. Among these, the Badimalika trek and Rara Lake are two of them, both sitting in far western Nepal, which is rich in culture, yet they offer a very unique way to experience beauty. Many people would like to explore these places as part of a group trek.
Badimalika Trek: sacred hills and untouched trails
It is situated in the far west of Nepal, in the Bajura District. This trek can be a little tough, as you need to walk to the hilltop, but it is a rewarding and spiritually enriching trek, and here locals also hold a yearly fair in August. The surrounding air of this place will feel pure with natural fragments. Here you will be greeted warmly by the villagers, and the culture here blends with Hindu and ancient hill traditions. The Badimalika Trek is not just about peaks, it is about faith and solitude. Here, you will sense a bond between land and belief, for many, the Badimalika Trip is a journey inward as much as outward.
Key highlights:
- Passes through forests, ridges, and villages where life feels unchanged.
- Views stretch across the Api, Saipal, and even the Kanjirowa ranges.
- Noticing pilgrims walking barefoot and hearing chants at night camps.
Rara Lake, the holy lake of the mountains
Rara is Nepal’s largest lake, situated in the far west of Nepal in Mugu. The water shines deep blue, changing shade with the sky. Moreover, reaching Rara is easier than the Badimalika Trek. A short flight to Talcha Airport, then a half-day walk, will bring you to the lake. Families, solo travelers, and students all visit to enjoy the beauty of this place. Rara Lake is a peaceful lake made visible, and this lake also holds cultural meaning. Here, local Thakuri and Tibetan-influenced groups celebrate their festivals at the bank of this lake. That is why it feels more about calm than worship.
Key highlights:
- Rara National Park is full of peaceful pine, spruce, and juniper forests.
- Very remote and sees few tourists.
- Enjoy the backdrop views of the Himalayas.
Which escape should you choose?
If you want a raw adventure and deep culture, choosing the Badimalika Trek will be favorable for you. However, the trials are harder and the lodges are fewer. You sleep in tents or basic homes. This trek is best for those who enjoy remote paths and do not mind rough places, and want to feel local. The reward is silence, mountain views, and meeting locals who live far from modern life. You will also see deep faith as pilgrims walk these same trials with devotion and chants.
On the other hand, choose Rara Lake if you want beauty with ease. The touring path of this is gentle, and you can even rent horses. Here you can find the best guesthouses that are suitable for older travelers, families, or anyone with limited time. The local culture here is warm but also calm, giving you enough space for rest as well as providing you with learning.
Nonetheless, both Rara Lake and Badimalika reveal the hidden soul of far west Nepal. However, your choice depends on what you value more, the challenge and the faith of the Badimalika Trek, or the peace and calm of Rara Lake. Moreover, joining group trekking in these places can provide you with safety, shared guidance, and a richer experience.
Final word
Both the Badimalika Trek and Rara Lake shine in their own way. One tests your spirit with faith and hard trials, whereas the other soothes your soul with calm water and wide skies. In truth, the best escape depends on what your heart seeks, the challenge or peace. Either way, you return with a deeper love for Far West Nepal. With over 25 years of experience, Trek Nepal Int’l ensures every journey is guided with expertise, care, and deep local insight.
FAQs
1. Where is Badimalika situated?
It lies in the far west Nepal in Bajura District.
2. How hard is the Badimalika trip?
The paths are steep and remote, making it moderately hard for the average person.
3. Which one among them should I choose?
Pick Badimalika for challenge and culture, or you can choose Rara Lake for peace and ease.
4. To visit both places, when is the best time?
The best seasons for both are spring and autumn.
5. What makes Rara Lake unique among other lakes of Nepal?
It is Nepal’s largest lake, famous for its clean, shining water and peaceful environment.