It is the main feature of Rara National Park, located in Jumla and Mugu Districts of Karnali Province.

[4] In September 2007, it was declared as a Ramsar site, covering 1,583 ha (6.11 sq mi) including the surrounding wetland.

Local people believe that the god Thakur shot an arrow to open the passage of the lake reducing the damage caused by flooding.

From December to March, the temperatures go low below the freezing point, and heavy snowfall occur up to one meter, blocking the way to the lake.

[14] Rara Lake does not have connection to the national road network and can only be reached from the nearest town Jumla by trekking.

From Nepalgunj there is two ways to reach the lake, one is by following the salt route to Humla and another following a number of trails through Dolpo region.

[17] Due to over-grazing and defecation, the national park conservation officers are facing a challenge to preserve the lake.