The majority of travelers visit Nepal for trekking in the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and other popular trekking destinations. There are treks for trekking lovers that can be done in a week like Langtang Trek, Tamang Heritage Trek, Gosainkunda Trek, Helambu Trek, Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Pikey Peak Trek, and many more. Besides high mountains and trekking trails, Nepal has a lot of touring activities to offer to visitors as well who are planning to spend a week in Nepal. You can also combine touring destinations like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park, and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve during your one-week stay in Nepal. With a full week in Nepal, you have time to cover a lot of ground on a sightseeing tour, wildlife safari, and short treks if you wish to or it’s on your bucket list.
Itinerary 01. Ghorepani, Poon Hill trek
The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is a well-known short trek in the Annapurna Region. It generally takes about 5 to 7 days to complete this trek. It has a relatively low elevation of 3,210 meters and is full of breathtakingly beautiful views, easy hikes, authentic culture, and rich in flora and fauna. The trek is also named as the Annapurna Panorama because you will enjoy spectacular panoramic vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. For those who are beginner trekkers seeking a quick break from their daily routine and those who have no time for a longer trek, it is the perfect journey. This trekking route can be taken as an introductory short trek to the Annapurna region. This trek acts as a warm-up for the longer treks. The journey is suitable for people of all ages, but it is especially suitable for families with young children.
Poonhill (3,210 m) provides a bird’s-eye perspective of the Western Himalayas like Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), and the towering Annapurna Range. From Poonhill, you can see the Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, Fang (Varaha Shikhar), and Lamjung Himal as well. The trek allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature’s splendor, as well as the intriguing cultural experiences of Magar and Gurung ethnic groups in one of the world’s most beautiful Annapurna regions.
The best time to go trekking in Ghorepani Pooonhill is spring and autumn. The trek can be done even in the winter season because of its lower altitude. Trekking in the winter is one of your alternatives if you want to witness the Himalayas in the Annapurna region completely blanketed with snow. Nearly everyone may participate in the winter treks up Ghorepani Poon Hill. January and February are the dry months, with temperatures ranging from 27 to 30mm. These months will be too cold to trek in the higher altitudes. So, Ghorepani Poonhill is the perfect option. If you’re lucky, you may even experience snowfall on Poon Hill around this time.
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal
Day 2: Fly to Pokhara, drive to Tikhedunga, and trek to Ulleri
Day 3: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani
Day 4: Early morning hike to Poonhill and trek to Tadapani
Day 5: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk
Day 6: Drive to Pokhara
Day 7: Fly to Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, feel free to check out the tourist hub area Thamel and prepare for the trek. If you have an early arrival and leisure time, you can go for a sightseeing tour. The Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, or Boudhanath Stupa, are world heritage sites and are close to Thamel.
After the wonderful stay in Kathmandu, the trek starts after taking a 30-minute flight to Pokhara and then driving to Tikhedunga passing the Bhurungdi river through the small villages with terraced farms. Upon reaching Tikhedunga, we officially start our trek walking towards Ulleri. The walking will be a steep ascent and quite tiring with a distance of about 2 km uphill taking around 2- 3 hours to reach Ulleri from Tikehedunga. But the beautiful view on the way and glimpses of mountains and lively surroundings from Ulleri will rejuvenate you despite the long drive and hard climbing.
On day three, the trail winds through a lush forest with blooming rhododendrons (spring), passing numerous waterfalls, small rivers, and villages with restaurants and lodging facilities. There are several spots to pause for refreshments like snacks, tea, and refilled water. Also, you have a chance to stop in at nearby villages and talk to locals to learn more about their way of life and culture. Today, we will climb for the majority of the day as well, sometimes slowly and sometimes steeply until we reach Ghorepani. There are two Gorepani villages: Lower Ghorepani and Upper Ghorepani around 10 minutes and 100 meters apart. We must first reach Lower Ghorepani, and then ascend the stairs to Ghorepani. If you want to stay away from the crowds, spend the overnight at Lower Ghorepani. You can even continue on to Upper Ghorepani at the hilltop to lessen the climb to Poon Hill the next morning.
Today is all about the Poon Hill sunset. The first half of the day requires a 3:30 AM wake-up call. The trek’s high point is standing atop Poon Hill to view the sunrise over the snow-capped mountains. From Ghorepani, it takes roughly 45 minutes to reach the summit of Poon Hill. Today’s overall ascent and descent will be a little bit more if you start from Lower Ghorepani than from Ghorepani. The trail is straightforward to follow even in the dark because there will be many other hikers on the way. Simply follow the headlamps’ lights to your destination. Take your headlamps, water, and cameras to take stunning photographs from the top. Poon Hill is a favorite location for many photographers due to its breathtaking views.
From the summit, the sunrise is really stunning. The ascent and an early wake-up call are absolutely worthwhile. The Poon Hill offers the breathtaking views of glaciers and many mountains, including Dhaulagiri (8,167m/26,795ft), Annapurna I (8,097m/26,566ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/24,787ft), Khangsar Kang (7,485m/24,557ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/23,684ft), Machhapuchhare (6,993m/22,943ft), Hiunchuli (6,441m/21,132ft), and other peaks above 6000 meters.
The second half of the day starts after descending from Poon hill. Reaching Ghorepani, we will have our breakfast and head towards the village of Tadapani through the stone-paved paths and lush forests. The breathtaking vistas continued as we hiked along the hill slope in the direction of Deurali. Following Deurali, the trail descends and re-enters the woods full of chirping birds on rhododendrons, pine, and oak trees. The views of Annapurna II and Machapuchare surprise you playing hide and seek amidst the forest until we reach Tadapani. When you get to Tadapani, you will observe that it also gives you a chance to admire the tremendous Annapurna mountains to the fullest.
If you’re lucky, you might even see some mountains this morning from your bedroom window. The route we take today is the quickest and simplest of our entire journey. most of the way down, take in the spectacular panorama of the mountains. We will gradually make our way through the dense forest with waterfalls at Bhaisikharka (2,523m) until we arrive at the picturesque Gurung settlement of Ghandruk (1,980m).
Ghandruk is a Gurung settlement and a popular starting and ending point for treks in Nepal’s Annapurna range (including treks to Annapurna Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit). In the northern part of Ghandruk, you may find traditional houses and little shops, and in the southern portion, there are a lot of restaurants and well-equipped resorts. There are also two Gurung museums where you may get a close-up look at this native Nepalese group’s history, traditions, and culture. There, you can try some local cuisine. Hire the traditional outfit for a distinctive experience and, of course, for photos. Your last night on the trip will be spent in Ghandruk.
After spending the night at Ghandruk, pack your belongings and get ready for a 2- to 3-hour ride from Ghandruk to Pokhara. When you check in the hotel, the hotel will provide everything you need, including free hot showers, a comfortable bed, and rooms. You have the rest of the day to visit Pokhara, a lakeside city. On this day, you might hire a bike and explore, go boating in neighboring lakes, go shopping on the lakefront, or simply unwind with a drink at a lakeside café. Pokhara’s lakeside comes alive as dusk falls; you may enjoy the lively nightlife and live music.
This morning, We take a private vehicle or a flight and travel from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Once you reach Kathmandu, you will have free time to go exploring and souvenir shopping.
By the time your journey is finished, we hope you will have made memories that you will cherish forever. After an exciting and satisfying week exploring the best of Nepal, you will depart Kathmandu with lifetime experiences.
Itinerary 02. Explore Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara
This 7-day tour in Nepal takes you to most of the exciting places visited in Nepal within 7 days rather than focusing on a specific destination. This includes a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, jungle activities in the wilderness of Chitwan National Park, a nature-filled excursion in Pokhara that involves a sunrise view from Sarangkot and the breathtaking Himalayan views and chill out at Phewa lakeside, and a return trip to Kathmandu.
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Full-Day City Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 03: Fly to Chitwan and half-day jungle activity
Day 04: Chitwan Jungle Activities
Day 05: Drive from Chitwan to Pokhara
Day 06: Full-day Pokhara Sightseeing
Day 07: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
When you arrive in Kathmandu, take time to explore Thamel, the city’s main tourist destination, and get ready for the trip. If you arrive early and have some free time, you can take a sightseeing trip to nearby world heritage sites Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, or Boudhanath Stupa. Otherwise, you can visit these places the next day.
On day two, the Kathmandu Valley will be the focus of our daylong exploration. Most adventures and trips in Nepal begin in Kathmandu, the country’s capital. The city is also known as the “City of Temples” as there are more temples. In every few minutes of walking in the city, you will pass by temples, large or little in size. The Newari population in Kathmandu has continued to uphold its traditional customs, culture, and architectural designs. Some locations in Kathmandu can give you the sense that you are in a historic town.
The Kathmandu valley is culturally and historically rich with three medieval cities; Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. The valley is a museum in itself with noteworthy historical and religious sites that are listed as World Heritage Sites. The fifth-century Pashupati Nath Temple is a well-known Hindu temple that we shall visit. Swayambunath, well known as the “Monkey Temple,” and Bouddhanath, one of the biggest stupas in the world and a significant Buddhist site, are the places you must visit. You can also visit the Durbar Squares, which are old palaces in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan that are adorned with magnificent stone and wood sculptures that are a reflection of Nepal’s artistic achievements from prehistory.
On day three, we’ll leave for the airport in Kathmandu, take a 20-minute flight to Bharatpur, and then drive in a private vehicle to a hotel near the Chitwan National Park. As soon as we get to the hotel, have a moment to relax in the jungle and experience an entire change in scenery. Watch for wildlife and birds while unwinding at your jungle retreat. And you will receive a briefing on the activities for the next day. Then, we’ll embark on a half-day jungle safari in one of Asia’s best wildlife reserves.
In a traditional dugout boat, we will enter the Rapti River under the guidance of a nature guide. On the voyage, one may view wildlife, such as birds and crocodiles basking by the river, as well as rhinos and Royal Bengal tigers that visit the river to drink. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Rapti River’s sunset in the evening while unwinding and recharging in the silence of soaring birds and dugout boats returning to port. Take in an evening performance of a traditional Tharu dance when you get to the hotel.
On day four, embark on a full day of jungle activities, including jungle jeep safari, elephant bathing and feeding, jungle walking, and bird watching. Experience the thrill of seeing wildlife like the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger, Wild Elephants, Leopard, Sloth Bear Spotted Deer, Hog Deer, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Gharial Crocodiles, and a large variety of birds in the wild.
Following our jungle safari tour in Chitwan, we continue our journey to Pokhara on day five, one of the most well-known breathtaking lake cities, which is nestled beneath Mt. Machhapuchre (Fishtail). There aren’t many places in the world with as many natural wonders as the Pokhara Valley does. The valley provides breathtaking views of the Annapurna Mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre, and five more peaks. The city serves as a starting point for trekkers heading to the Annapurna Region because of its proximity to the Annapurna mountain range. After a long travel of about 6 hours drive, you can unwind in Pokhara by taking a stroll along the lake and relaxing with a cold beverage of your choice.
On day six, we will engage ourselves in the enjoyable and exciting activities Pokhara offers. The early morning sunrise from the Sarankot is captivating while taking in the breathtaking golden rays of sunrise against the Annapurna Range. Sarangkot is the famous hilltop viewpoint that offers wonderful and wide scenic views of the Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake that please your eyes. After that, we return to the hotel for breakfast. Later on in the day, we have the choice of visiting some of Pokhara’s well-known sites, such as Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Seti River Gorge, Phewa Lake, and Barahi Temple. Boating in Phewa Lake, visiting Tal Barahi in the middle of the lake, and touring revered temples, spotless waterfalls, and magnificent caves, are other attractions in Pokhara. Learn about the history of mountaineering and the Himalayas by visiting the International Mountain Museum. Visit Pumdikot’s Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa, and Lord Shiva Statue for panoramic vistas of the Pokhara Valley.
On day seven, we will fly from Pokhara while enjoying the ambiance of the city and its splendor. The majestic Himalayas will be the scenery for the final time during the flight. If the weather is clear, the Himalayas can be seen continuously throughout this beautiful flying trip. Once you reach Kathmandu, you may use your free time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing, or you may want to unwind at the hotel. You will leave Kathmandu the next morning with life-changing experiences after a fun and fulfilling week spent discovering the best of Nepal.
Itinerary 03. Explore Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Bardia
This tour is a combination of culture, nature, and wildlife tour in a single trip. This 7-day tour package for Nepal covers all of the top tourist destinations, including Kathmandu, Bardia National Park, Bhaktapur, and Nagarkot. This simple road trip is great for families or groups of friends because it is appropriate for people of all ages, including children and the elderly.
The tour starts from the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu also known as the city of temples with rich culture and heritages. In Kathmandu, one can tour historic temples, Durbar squares, stupas, and the cultural confluence between Buddhism and Hinduism. The Kathmandu Valley is home to seven out of the ten UNESCO-listed world historic sites. The three largest medieval cities in the Kathmandu Valley are Kathmandu, Lalitpur (Patan), and Bhaktapur all with old Durbar Squares. Other notable tourist destinations near the Kathmandu Valley include Nagarkot, the naturally famous hilltop station for the sunrise over the stunning vistas of the Himalayan Ranges. The tour also takes you to one of the undisturbed and unspoiled largest protected areas of Nepal, Bardia National Park with rich vegetation, flora, and fauna.
Your arrival day in Kathmandu will be the first day; If you arrive early and have time to spare, you can visit any tourist site based on your arrival time. Take a bit of time exploring Thamel, the city’s main tourist area, and preparing for the trip as well.
The plan for the second day includes visits to some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple (the sacred and largest Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva), Bouddhanath Stupa (the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal), Swayambhunath Stupa (a significant Buddhist shrine at a hilltop with overlooking view of the valley), and Kathmandu Durbar Square ( the culturally and historically rich place with ancient art and architecture). Following your sightseeing, we will travel to Nagarkot for the night. The highlight of your stay in Nagarkot will be relaxing at the end of a long day tour with a splendid sunset and awakening to a stunning sunrise.
On the third day, we get an early morning to get glimpses of sunrise shining over the mighty mountains from the Nagarkot. Nagarkot is a well-known hill station close to Kathmandu from where you can witness the breathtaking Himalayan ranges and stunning sunsets and sunrises. Then, on our way back to Kathmandu, we will be visiting the Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Patan Durbar Square. Bhaktapur and Patan are the most significant and beautiful historic towns in Nepal. Both Durbar squares have their own unique and rich cultural heritage and are renowned for their magnificent art and religious architecture that has been preserved effectively.
On day four, we travel to Nepalgunj, where you will be met by a hotel vehicle and driven to Bardia National Park on a three to four-hour private drive. Following our arrival in Bardia, the naturalist will provide a summary of the day’s activities as we have some refreshments and lunch. Then, to understand more about the Tharu culture and way of life, we’ll visit one of their communities. In the evening, we’ll delight ourselves in a Tharus cultural performance.
On the fifth day, we will begin our day by going on an exhilarating jeep safari with a knowledgeable naturalist to learn more about the area. You will therefore get the opportunity to see larger species including tigers, rhinoceroses, and elephants. In some places, we may get out of the jeep and have a nature stroll. This gives you the opportunity to interact closely with nature and learn about the little flora and fauna. Also, we will wait at the Machan tower to look around the vibrant jungle surroundings and spot the wildlife wandering around freely in the wild. This provides plentiful excellent wildlife photographic opportunities to the visitors as well.
On the sixth day, we embark on the thrilling tiger tracking journey on the tiger trails to spot these magnificent cats in the wild. At the same time, we will enjoy bird watching to see the great variety of birds found in Bardia. If we have some spare time, then we will engage ourselves in the jungle activities such as elephant bathing, canoe or boat riding, visit to elephant and crocodile breeding centers, and the Tharu museum.
On the last day of our tour, today, after the wonderful wildlife safari at Bardia National Park, we will drive to the Karnali River to watch the freshwater Gangetic Dolphins and then to Nepalgunj to catch a flight to Kathmandu.
Itinerary 04. Annapurna Dhampus, Ghandruk Trek
If you want an easy and short Himalayan trek, this trek is a worthwhile adventure. The trek itself lasts about one week, making it one of the shortest treks in the lower Annapurna Region. This region is the greatest for trekking which combines adventure, nature, plus culture, from picturesque mountain views to the authentic local village lifestyle. Discover Nepal’s distinct culture and traditions in a short amount of time. It is a low-altitude trek suitable for the bigger trekkers who have limited time. This trip is a fantastic opportunity to see the culture of traditional life in the Nepali countryside at Dhampus, Landruk, and Ghandruk. We will be sharing the path with shepherds and donkey trains and witnessing typical Nepali farming life. You will undoubtedly have the classic Himalayan trekking experience. Also, you will have a chance to learn about the Gurung culture, the largest ethnic group in Nepal’s Himalayas. All along the way during the trek, you will enjoy spectacular panoramic vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal
Day 02: Fly to Pokhara and drive to Astam
Day 03: Trek to Dhampus
Day 04: Trek to Landruk
Day 05: Trek to Ghandruk
Day 06: Drive to Pokhara
Day 07: Fly back to Kathmandu
As you fly towards the Trekkers Paradise Nepal, the beautiful views of the Himalayas, lush green hills, rivers, terraced filed and the city will greet you, and eventually reach Kathmandu. After clearing customs, a representative will be there to welcome you and help you transfer into your hotel. If you have an early arrival and spare time, you can visit any tourist site based on your arrival time. Take a bit of time exploring Thamel, the city’s main tourist area, and preparing for the trip as well. It’s a good idea to stroll at Kathmandu Durbar Square, the nearest World Heritage Site to Thamel where you may meander through tiny lanes lined with local eateries, historic temples, and small shops. The monkey temple that rises above the valley, Swayambhunath, is the ideal location to watch the sunset over the valley if you need to get some fresh air.
After a leisurely breakfast on day two, you will be driven to the domestic airport for your flight to Pokhara. Before landing in Pokhara, take a breath-taking 30-minute flight along the Himalayan Range and see four of the fourteen massive mountains in the world that are higher than 8,000 meters: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Manaslu, and Shishapangma. Upon arrival, a driver will meet you and take you (1-2 hours) out of the city along a beautiful route to the village of Astam, where you’ll step into a completely different peaceful world than the hustling and bustling city, Kathmandu. You can enjoy the stunning views of Machapuchare and the Annapurna Range along the route.
This morning on day three ,we will wake up to a breathtaking view of the Annapurna range, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and get you ready for the day ahead. After that, we will hit the trail and follow the ridgeline through the forest and then by the paddy fields to the beautiful Gurung village of Dhampus. A traditional Gurung settlement, Dhampus is located at a height of 1650 meters above sea level. The village provides a chance to learn more about the Gurung community’s way of life. The Gurung people are ethnic group in Nepal well-known for their bravery and service in the Gorkha regiments of the Nepali, Indian, and British armies.You can have village life experience while strolling around the village. . The major mountain ranges that can be observed from Dhampus are the Manaslu and Annapurna mountain ranges. Views of the sun rising and setting is breathtaking from the hilltop of this village.
On the fourth day, the most stunning sunrise with the Annapurna range in the background will be the first thing you see the following morning when golden rays of light touch your face. After breakfast, you will go through an orchid and rhododendron forest that is home to a variety of bird species to the village of Pothana and then on to Deurali. You may get fantastic views of the Himalaya, especially Mt. Dhaulagiri, the highest mountain in this area, from the ridge’s summit at Deurali. After some well-earned relaxation and time to take in the scenery, you’ll descend through the forest to Tolka, a charming Gurung village with a vibrant culture. Once you reach Beri Kharka, the trail then descends through forest and settlements to Landruk village situated above the Modi River. The picturesque Annapurna Range can be enjoyed alongside traditional Gurung culture here in Landruk too. The time you spent in Landruk, far from the city’s yelling, is sure to come in among your favorite experiences.
With breakfast in Landruk on day five, we will start to walks towards Ghandruk. After an hour of steep descent towards the river, the trail begins to climb rapidly for the next two to three hours through a scattering of villages with stunning views of the Himalayas. YWe will eventually arrive in Ghandruk, one of the biggest Gurung communities in western Nepal. You will have time to take in the scenery and snow-capped mountains including Gangapura, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna and Hiunchuli well from this lively village.
This morning on the sixth day of our trek, we will drive on a private jeep to Pokhara fron Ghandruk. The drive will be about 2- 3 hours including some occassionla breaks on the way. Once you reach Pokhara, you may relax by strolling along the lake and unwinding with a refreshing drink of your choice. Some of Pokhara’s well-known attractions, including Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Seti River Gorge, Phewa Lake, and Barahi Temple, are available for us to explore. Other Pokhara highlights include floating on Phewa Lake, visiting Tal Barahi in its center, and exploring famous temples, pristine waterfalls, and amazing caves. Visit the International Mountain Museum to learn about the Himalayas’ history of mountaineering. For expansive views of the Pokhara Valley, visit Pumdikot’s Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa, and Lord Shiva Statue.
On day seven, we will retun to Kathamndu on a flight. We will check you into the same hotel in Thamel as soon as you arrive in Kathmandu. The rest of the day can be spent taking a trip through the city, buying souvenirs, and enjoying some drinks. You could also go sightseeing at some of the surrounding world heritage monuments like Pashupatinath Stupa, or Boudhanath Stupa if you have some free time. We’ll take you to the farewell dinner in the evening and hear about your trekking.After a wonderful week-long trek to Western Pokhara, you will leave Nepal the next morning, returning home with lifelong memories and experiences.
Itinerary 05. Best of Chitwan National Park
If you are a wildlife adventure seeker, Chitwan National Park will be the best option for wildlife spotting activities in serene natural habitats. Chitwan National Park is the first national of Nepal established in 1973 and granted the status of a World Heritage Site due to its wide diversity. It is the habitat of the second largest population of the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros in the world. It serves as the tiger encountering spot with more than 128 Royal Bengal Tigers in the same habitat. More than 6 % of the world’s bird species (546 species of birds) are recorded and found in the forests, riversides, and lakesides around the park. The park is a must-visit place for spotting wild animals and birds in the lush forests of the flatlands of this Himalayan country.
This 7-day tour in the Chitwan National Park offers a wonderful chance to explore the diverse wildlife, natural beauty, and local Tharu culture of the region deeply. In fact, the park is known for its rich diversity and is the habitat of animals, birds, reptiles, and plants of different kinds of species.
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 2: Morning flight to Bharatpur and drive to the Chitwan National Park
Day 3: A Day with Elephants
Day 4: Jungle safari on jeep or foot
Day 5: Bird watching and Tharu cultural program
Day 6: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 7: Final Departure
Welcome to Nepal’s capital city of Kathmandu! Our office representative or your guide will meet you at the airport when you arrive and drive you to your accommodation. You have the rest of the day free to relax at the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you can visit any tourist attraction. Spend some time getting ready for the trip as well as exploring Thamel, the city’s main tourist destination.
On day two, we will drive to the Kathmandu airport, board a quick flight to Bharatpur in the morning, and then drive to a hotel close to the Chitwan National Park. When you arrive, a member of the lodge will meet you and accompany you to your lodge. Then the nature guide will provide a briefing about the activities of today and the next day. If we reach earlier today at the hotel, after lunch, we will go for a canoe ride in the Rapti River. The ride offers the chance to see birds, sunbathing crocodiles, and perhaps even a rhinoceros or a royal Bengal tiger that come to the river to satisfy their thirst. In the evening, relax and rejuvenate while enjoying the stunning views of the Rapti River’s sunset in total tranquility, surrounded by soaring birds and dugout canoes heading home.
Today will be really exciting and memorable as we get into the wilderness. Keep a keen eye and ear out for some of the park’s stunning wildlife. We will spend the full day exploring the jungle on a jeep for encountering the wildlife. An experienced naturalist will be guiding us about the park and its flora and fauna. A fast-moving jeep covers more area of the jungle. The more the areas, the more will be the chances of encountering wildlife. Jeep safari is a bit noisier which might sometimes threaten the wild animals and you cannot have the sight of their natural state of them. So we will do a jungle walk instead, another best alternative way to explore the jungle and view the wild animals very closely. Places like Rapti Machan, Tibkune, Dumre Check Post, and Ballori are reachable on foot and are famous tiger tracking spots of Chitwan National Park. After an early morning breakfast, we will drive to the national park. Packed lunch will be served for this day so we can focus on wildlife tracking all day long.
On the fourth day of our tour, we will spend the whole day with elephants. Enjoy watching the majestic sight of the elephants grazing in the early morning mist with a sip of hot tea. On your visit to Elephant Breeding Center (Hattisar), you will observe how the elephant meals are prepared and fed. You can also capture the nature and habits of elephants as well. The mahouts chop and gather the grass for the elephants to eat during the day in the grasslands next to the river. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the jungle with the elephants and their mahouts when the weather is favorable. When you stroll next to the elephants, you will observe their movements, observe what they consume, and listen to their communication. Another exciting amusement option available to tourists that you shouldn’t miss is elephant bathing. You can witness humorous elephants washing and interacting with people. The visitors are greatly entertained by the elephant’s water spray from its nostrils.
On the fifth day, we march on a jungle safari to witness some more wildlife, bird watching, and explore the Tharu cultural program in the evening. Chitwan National Park is one of the best spots for bird watching for viewing both local and migratory birds. Tourists relax watching the sunrise, sunset, and flying birds in the sky. Chitwan offers about 6 % of the world’s total bird species to encounter. Bengal Florican, Lesser Florican, and Giant Hornbill are the main birds that can be encountered in this park. Take in an evening performance of a traditional Tharu dance when you get to the hotel. Tharu people are the largest ethnic population group residing in Chitwan. They have their own culture and lifestyle. Tharu cultural program entertains the tourists visiting Chitwan National Park. This cultural program is experienced by most of tourists. Tourists get full entertainment from popular Tharu dances like Danda Nach( Stick dance), Ago Nach ( Fire Dance), and Mayur Nach (Peacock dance).
On day six, we will drive early in the morning to Nepalgunj and fly back to Kathmandu. After you reach Kathmandu, we will check you in the same hotel in Thamel. A city stroll and souvenir shopping and drinks are good ways to spend the rest of the day. Alternatively, if you have some spare time, then you can go sightseeing in some of the nearby world heritage sites to Thamel like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Stupa or Boudhanath Stupa. In the evening, we will take you to the farewell dinner and listen to your wildlife tour experiences.
The next morning on day seven, after the wondrous week’s tour to Chitwan, you will depart from Nepal to your home country with lifetime memories and experiences.
Itinerary 06. Best of Bardia National Park
Bardia National Park is the largest and undisturbed protected national park in the lowland Western Terai of Nepal covering an area of 968sq.km. It is the residence of 642 species of animals, 407 species of resident and migratory birds, 125 species of fish, 23 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 839 varieties of plants. It is one of the most peaceful, protected areas in the region and is home to endangered species. Bardia National Park nurtures the highest population of Asian Wild Elephants and the second highest population of Royal Bengal Tiger, Greater One-horned Rhinoceros, and Swamp Deer. It is the habitat of the tallest Asian Wild Elephant named “Rajagaj”. About 70% of the park is covered by forest having a balanced mixture of grasslands, savannas, and riverine forest. 839 species of flora and 642 species of fauna can be found that are famed for their abundance and diversity. Nature lovers will be amazed by the number of species that exist in this park.
Going on a journey to Bardia wilderness and spending a week in the park is certain to come out as one of your most memorable experiences in Nepal. The park is about an hour’s flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and a short drive from there will take you close to the natural beauty. If you’re a nature lover or wildlife enthusiast, embarking on a wildlife safari is a must-do in Bardia National Park. Furthermore, tracking the tiger trails in the park is one of the most thrilling and adventurous activities one needs to experience for a lifetime to know the magnificent Royal Bengal Tiger. Bardia is the spot to go if you want to get away from the throng and enjoy a calm jungle safari experience. In fact, Bardia National Park is tranquil and serene compared to other national parks in Nepal.
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal
Day 02: Fly to Neplagunj and drive to Bardia National Park
Day 03: Tiger Tracking and Jungle Activities
Day 04: Jeep safari and jungle walk
Day 05: Canoe riding and bird watching
Day 06: Elephant bathing and Tharu village excursion
Day 07: Fly back to Kathmandu
On your first arrival day in Kathmandu, you can visit any tourist attraction based on your arrival time if you arrive early and have time to spare. Spend some time getting ready for the trip as well as exploring Thamel, the city’s main tourist destination.
After breakfast on the second day, we travel to Nepalgunj, where a hotel jeep will meet you and drive you to Bardia National Park privately for three to four hours. The naturalist will give a briefing on the day’s activities once we arrive at Bardia while we enjoy some drinks and lunch.
On the third day, we set out on our wildlife discovery tour. Today, we will have the entire day searching for Tigers. You will travel to different potential tiger sighting hotspot territories. Bardia National Park is home to a huge population of Royal Bengal Tigers. Tigers can be found all across the park, and plenty of tiger evidence can be found. This day of the adventure will be exciting since you will be walking through three separate tiger regions. The notable tiger tracking areas in Bardia National Park, such as “Hatti Machan,” “Tinkune,” and “Kingfisher,” can be reached on foot.
Day four will be the exciting full-day jeep safari with a packed picnic lunch accompanied by an experienced nature guide to spot some larger animals like tigers, rhinoceroses, and elephants. In some locations, we can get out of the vehicle and go on a nature walk. This enables you to get up close and personal with the wildlife while learning about small flora and fauna. Occasionally, we will traverse through some animal trails, cross rivers, and have many pauses at watchtowers, river banks, and wildlife watering spots where wildlife sightings are more, and wait for the animals to come to the river to drink to spot them. At the same time, we will enjoy our lunch in the peaceful ambiance of the lush forests.
On the fifth day, we will enjoy canoe riding on the Karnali rivers. It is one of the best ways to see the park from different angles than by jeep or on foot. You can combine canoe riding with fishing as well if you enjoy fishing. A knowledgeable guide who is skilled at navigating the river will be with us. We get to enjoy the stunning sub-tropical scenery and the abundant wildlife as we ride on the canoe. It will be an incredible experience to see wild creatures quenching their thirst in the enormous Karnali River. Sometimes, you get a glimpse of the tigers, rhinos, and elephants on the bank of the river while they come to drink water. Also, the Karnali River is home to the critically endangered Gharial crocodile, marsh mugger, and gangetic dolphins, so we wouldn’t be the only ones floating in it. Additionally, this trip is great for birdwatching because the Bardia National Park is home to a large population of more than 407 species of resident and migratory birds. The greatest times to watch birds are early morning and late afternoon, just before the sun sets, during a forest walk or canoe riding.
On the sixth, we will take pleasure in playing with and swimming with the elephants in the river. Visitors to Bardia shouldn’t miss the fun and entertaining elephant bathing. Viewers find it quite fascinating to see an amusing elephant bathing and playing with humans and an elephant showering water on them from its nose. Get chilled out taking a dip into the river with the elephants. Then, we will visit a Tharu community to learn more about their way of life and culture. During the visit, make sure to go to the Tharu museum as well to see some traditional artifacts and get a much better insight into Tharu’s rural lifestyle, culture, and customs. In the evening, we will take pleasure in a Tharus cultural program. The Tharu ethnic dance show concludes the day.
Driving to the Nepalgunj airport on the seventh day, we will board a flight back to Kathmandu. We will check you into the same hotel in Thamel as soon as you arrive in Kathmandu. The rest of the day can be spent taking a walk through the city, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying some drinks. If you have time, you can also visit some of the surrounding world heritage sites in Thamel, such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, or Boudhanath Stupa. We’ll take you to the farewell dinner in the evening and hear about your wildlife trip adventures too.
After a wonderful week in Bardia National Park and Kathmandu, you will depart from Nepal the next morning with lifelong memories and experiences.
Itinerary 07. Nagarkot, Dhulikhel & Balthali Hike
In fact, hiking around the hills of the Kathmandu Valley is one of the greatest ways to experience the Himalayas without having to rough it in the wilderness. This hiking is the popular hiking nearby the capital city, Kathmandu with the traditional and rural villages, lifestyle, culture, food, and many more. The hike features hills filled with terraced farmlands and the majestic mountains view as the backdrop. You don’t have to go very far from Kathmandu to have a beautiful rural hiking experience. This famous hiking begins just outside of Kathmandu and leads you along paths just outside the valley. Anyone seeking other methods to appreciate Nepal’s natural beauty without committing to weeks spent in the mountains. The journey from Nagarkot, Dhulikhel to Balthali is possibly one of the favorite short treks and excellent day hikes Nepal has to offer.
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Drive to Jarsin Puwa and hike to Nagarkot
Day 03: Trek from Nagarkot to Dulikhel
Day 04: Trek from Dulikhel to Namo Buddha
Day 05: Trek from Namo Buddha to Balthali
Day 06: Trek from Balthali to Panauti and drive to Kathmandu
Day 07: Departure from Kathmandu
Your journey to the Himalayan nation of Nepal will officially begin when you land at Tribhuvan International Airport. It will be an exhilarating, amazing, and inspiring experience. You will be met by a representative of Trekkers Paradise after finishing the formalities at customs, and you’ll be taken to the hotel where you’ll be staying with all the amenities you need. Enjoy the hotel’s cuisine and hospitality while giving your exhausted body some rest. Depending on the arrival time of the day, you might have time to do some city sightseeing. Kathmandu Durbar Square is a great spot to begin because it’s close to Thamel, the main tourist destination. In the evening, you can stroll around the lively surrounding areas of Thamel itself.
On day two, we will drive in a private vehicle to Jarsing Pauwa, a village on the outskirts of the Kathmandu Valley, from where we start our hiking. Enjoy a few hours of hiking to Nagarkot walking through a pine forest along a ridge via villages with beautiful views of the valley and mountains. It is one of Nepal’s most scenic locations, offering views of the countryside, spectacular mountains, including Mt. Everest, and stunning sunrise and sunsets.
On the third day, spend the entire day trekking through villages and cultivated farms enjoying the landscapes as you travel from Nagarkot to Dhulikhel. During the walk today, we come across rural people and their daily lifestyles. The majority of the journey will have vistas of the Himalayas if the weather is clear. We will need to travel for 6 to 7 hours to reach Dhulikhel (1,440m), a historic town located 30 kilometers (km) east of Kathmandu. In addition to stunning views of the Himalayan range, the Newar village of Dhulikhel offers a traditional atmosphere. It’s engaging to stroll along the town’s historic area, which features some wonderful old Nepalese architecture and a number of noteworthy temples.
On the fourth day, make the three to four-hour hike from Dulikhel to Namo Buddha, one of the most significant Tibetan Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in Nepal. This sacred site is honored by an old stone slab and a stupa depicting Lord Buddha’s all-seeing eyes. Take some time to visit the serene Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery and the Namo Buddha Stupa. According to legend, Shakyamuni Buddha is said to have offered his flesh as a sacrifice o to feed a starving tigress and her cubs.
Trek from Namo Buddha to Balthali on the fifth day. You will mostly traverse Tamang villages, allowing you to observe a different way of life for one of Nepal’s different ethnic groups. The enchanting village, Balthali is relatively remote from the contemporary world and very traditional. One may enjoy breathtaking views of the Mahabharat forest and the entire northern Himalayan range from the village. The village is really the place to spend some time in peace amidst the greenery.
This day is the last day of the trek which includes 4 to 5 hours hike from Balthai to the Newari settlement of Panauti. You may view sculptures, inscriptions, and other artifacts in the museum at Panauti. Panauti is a medieval town that celebrates 28 different festivals on various days throughout the year. We will spend some time admiring the riverside temples and the exquisite residential architecture and carvings while taking some vintage photographs. Y Then we will be heading back to Kathmandu on a drive.
Today marks the conclusion of our exciting and eventful trek. We hope that your memories of this trip will entice you to return for more exploration and travel in the wonderful Himalayan country.