A trek along the Jumla Rara Ultra Marathon route offers breathtaking glimpses of Karnali's untouched landscapes!

This trekking adventure along the route of the Jumla Rara Ultra Marathon was truly extraordinary. Starting from Jumla and culminating at the breathtaking Rara Lake, the journey offered stunning views, cultural richness, and an unforgettable connection with nature. Here are some snapshots from the route, capturing its raw beauty and inspiring trails.

It takes a full two-day trek to reach Rara Lake in Mugu from Jumla. Nowadays, daily jeep services are available, offering a quicker option to reach Mugu in approximately 7-8 hours. With small bazaars scattered along the route, it’s convenient for solo or backpack trekking. If you need any guidance or support for your journey, feel free to reach out to me!

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About the Jumla Rara Ultra Marathon

The Jumla Rara Ultra Marathon, organized by the Karnali Sports Club, Jumla, is a globally recognized endurance race held in the remote and scenic Karnali region of Nepal. Led by Hari Rokaya, the race director, patron of the club, and a Nepali sports legend—known as a three-time Everest Marathon winner and Guinness World Record holder for the fastest time in the world’s highest marathon—this event stands as a testament to the spirit of adventure and resilience.

The marathon begins in Jumla, a district celebrated for its vibrant cultural heritage and untouched natural beauty. It weaves through rugged terrains, lush forests, and high-altitude trails, culminating at the serene Rara Lake, Nepal's largest and most pristine lake.

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Highlights of the Marathon

• Spectacular Route: Challenging trails, dramatic landscapes, and awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas make this route unforgettable.
• Cultural Immersion: Participants experience the unique traditions and hospitality of the local communities along the way.
• Adventure Tourism: As one of the premier events in western Nepal, the marathon attracts athletes and tourists, boosting eco-tourism in the Karnali region.
• Endurance Challenge: Open to elite and amateur runners, the race is a true test of physical and mental strength.

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Significance

The Jumla Rara Ultra Marathon symbolizes the spirit of exploration and adventure, spotlighting the untapped potential of the Karnali region as a destination for extreme sports and sustainable tourism. It highlights the region's extraordinary natural and cultural heritage while fostering its preservation and promotion.

This iconic event offers participants not just a race, but a transformative journey through one of Nepal's most remote and breathtaking regions.

Discovering Shilajit: An Unforgettable Journey in Jumla

I had the unique opportunity to serve as the local resource person for two adventurous brothers from Morocco during their recent trip to the Shilajit mining site in Nepal. Aziz and Driss embarked on an exhilarating expedition from Jumla to the remote mining location in Malikabota, situated in the Kanaka Sundari Rural Municipality. As they navigated through the rugged terrains of Nepal, they encountered breathtaking scenery and explored the ancient art of Shilajit mining at an altitude of 3,500 meters.

Shilajit is a natural substance primarily found in the mountainous regions of Nepal, India, and Tibet. Highly valued for its medicinal and therapeutic properties, Shilajit has gained recognition for a variety of health benefits. It is known to boost energy and stamina, support heart health, and enhance cognitive function. In traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda, Shilajit holds significant importance. Its rich cultural history, combined with its growing popularity as a wellness supplement, has solidified its reputation as a natural powerhouse.

In our captivating interview, the brothers recounted their unforgettable journey and shared their firsthand experiences of discovering Shilajit in its raw form. The journey was not merely about reaching a destination; it was about the adventure and discovery along the way.

The Purpose of the Journey

When asked about the purpose of their trip, Aziz expressed, “This journey was all about adventure and discovery. We traveled with the aim of exploring one of Nepal's hidden treasures—Shilajit. We were eager to experience not only the beauty of the landscape but also the ancient process of mining this precious substance.” Their enthusiasm was palpable, and their desire to delve deeper into the local culture and traditions made their trip meaningful.

Highlights of the Adventure

The highlight of their adventure was undoubtedly reaching the mining site at 3,500 meters. Aziz described the feeling of accomplishment that washed over them as they stood at the site, taking in the breathtaking views. “The excitement of discovering Shilajit made the climb worth every effort. Sharing that moment with Driss and the other miners was truly unforgettable,” he remarked.

The Journey to the Mining Site

Describing the journey to the mining place, Driss noted, “The road itself was an adventure. It was rugged and challenging, filled with twists and turns as we climbed higher and higher. The landscape kept changing, from forests to rocky terrain. At times, it felt like the road was pushing us to our limits, but that’s what made it so exhilarating. Every step felt like we were unlocking a new level of Nepal’s beauty.

Working Alongside Local Miners

Working alongside the miners at such high altitudes was another eye-opening experience for the brothers. The thin air at such elevations made every task more strenuous. However, the skilled miners guided them through the process with remarkable efficiency. Aziz expressed admiration for their deep connection to the land and their extensive knowledge of Shilajit mining, which he found truly inspiring.

Discovering Shilajit

The experience of discovering Shilajit in its natural state was surreal for both brothers. “Seeing it being extracted from the earth made it feel real,” Driss stated. They felt as though they were uncovering a hidden piece of nature’s treasure, and the moment was nothing short of magical.

A Changed Perspective

Reflecting on how the trip changed their perspective on travel, Aziz shared, “This journey made me realize that travel is not just about seeing places, but about experiencing them deeply—through their people, history, and natural resources. It’s the moments of shared effort, like mining alongside locals, that make travel meaningful.”

A Recommendation for Adventurers

When asked if they would recommend this journey to others, both brothers were enthusiastic. “Absolutely! It’s not for the faint-hearted, but if you’re looking for an authentic adventure, this is it. The scenery, the people, and the journey to discover something as rare as Shilajit will stay with you long after you leave Nepal.”

Their journey not only enriched their understanding of Shilajit but also allowed them to forge lasting connections with the land and its people, making it an unforgettable experience that they will cherish for years to come.

The Guthichaur Grassland and Research Centers in Jumla !

Guthichaur, a renowned high-altitude grassland in Karnali Province, Nepal, features vast meadows ideal for livestock grazing, including sheep, cows, buffalos, horses, mules, and donkeys. The area also famous for the Mountain Agricultural Research Institute and the Sheep and Goat Research Program, established by the government to enhance livestock management and agricultural practices.