7 Days Nepal Wildlife Tour to Chitwan: A Soulful Journey of Cultural & Safari

Namaste! Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal! Upon your arrival at the airport in Nepal, the tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit and then escort you to the hotel in downtown Kathmandu. You can have a good rest in your hotel and get ready to explore Kathmandu Valley with your guide the next day.

Kathmandu is the largest city in Nepal, located in the Kathmandu Valley, which is surrounded by the majestic Himalayan mountain range. The city boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage, with numerous ancient temples, palaces, and monuments. Its architecture beautifully blends traditional Newari style with modern designs. Kathmandu is renowned for its vibrant street life and bustling markets, such as the Asan Bazaar and the Thamel district (street), offering a wide range of goods and services. The city's rich festival culture, stunning architecture, and friendly people make it a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Arrival Ideas: Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) serves as the main gateway to the city, accommodating both domestic and international flights. You can fly directly to Kathmandu from major cities such as Lhasa (1.5-2 hours), Hong Kong (5.5 hours), Chengdu (2.5 to 3.5 hours), Beijing (3.5 to 4.5 hours), Shanghai (4 to 5 hours), and Guangzhou (5 hours 15 minutes) in China. Other cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore in India, as well as Bangkok (Thailand), Singapore, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Dubai (United Arab Emirates), Tokyo (Japan), Seoul (South Korea), London (UK), Paris (France), Frankfurt (Germany), Istanbul, New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto also offer flights to Kathmandu. The availability of direct flights to Kathmandu can also vary depending on the season and airline. So, checking with flight booking websites or our travel consultants for the latest information and options is always a good idea.

Today, you will explore 3 World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and Patan. Begin by visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square (World Heritage), one of three royal palace squares in the Kathmandu Valley. You won't miss the Hanuman Dhoka, an iconic red palace adorned with intricate wooden carvings, which served as the residence of Malla Kings for centuries. Most of our guests arm to visit Kumari Ghar (House of the Living Goddess) and Taleju Temple (closely linked to the tradition of the Kumari). Through the Kumari Chowk, you may have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Kumari (a young girl worshiped as the living goddess Durga), who is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists in Nepal. The Kumari is selected from a Buddhist family through traditional tests and is believed to be the incarnation of the Goddess Taleju (Durga) until she reaches menstruation age. Dashain Festival (October; a 15-day festival) and Tihar Festival (November; Festival of Lights) offer the best chances of seeing the Kumari in public processions. The Bhairav Statue is also one of the best spots to experience Hindu culture, where you can witness local people worshipping the fearsome god Bhairav, the protector of the city.

Then, move on to Swayambhunath Temple (Stupa), also known as the Monkey Temple due to the swarms of monkeys that inhabit the area. Located on a hilltop on the western edge of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath Stupa (World Heritage) is visible from a distance. You can climb the steep stairs to reach the top of the hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley and even the Himalayas on clear days. As a must-visit destination in Kathmandu, the stupa is believed to have been built over 2,500 years ago, making it one of the oldest Buddhist sites in the world. The base of the stupa is surrounded by colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, carrying prayers and blessings to the heavens. It is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, signifying the coexistence of diverse beliefs in Nepal while showcasing Newari artistic heritage. Take your time to indulge in the temple's serene and spiritual ambiance, basking in its captivating architecture and embracing its natural beauty.

After that, head to visit Patan Durbar Square (World Heritage), which is 5km away, about a 0.5-hour drive. Located in Patan (Lalitpur), this square is renowned for its ancient architectural masterpieces, including dozens of Buddhist and Hindu temples, pagodas, stone, and wood carvings. Like Kathmandu Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square served as the Royal Palace of the Malla Kings before Prithivi Narayan Shah conquered the Three Malla Kingdoms of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur in 1769 and consolidated them to found the modern state of Nepal. He also established the capital of Nepal in Kathmandu. Patan is believed to have been established around 2,300 years ago and is the oldest of the three cities that make up the Kathmandu valley. It is a dazzling display of Newari architecture such as Krishna Mandir (21 golden spires and exquisite stonework), Golden Gate (ornate golden doorway), Sundari Chowk (enchanting courtyard).

Optional Morning Activity:
Mountain Scenic Flight: Take a scenic mountain flight at 6:30 AM from Tribhuvan International Airport to see the fantastic Himalayan peaks (Mount Everest is 20 miles from your window), lakes and glaciers. The flight lasting around one hour. After your flight, we would take you back to the hotel for breakfast.

This morning, you will travel about 18 km, taking about 1hour, to reach Bhaktapur (Bhadgaun), also known as An Open Museum. Stepping into Bhaktapur Durbar Square (World Heritage), you will be transported to a bygone era of Malla Dynasty grandeur. It served as the seat of the Malla kings from the 12th to 15th centuries and was the capital of the Greater Malla Kingdom until the 15th century. The square is an assembly of grandiose palaces, courtyards, and temples. Among these, the 55 Window Palace is particularly notable for its intricate wooden carvings and the elaborate balcony that gives the palace its name. The Golden Gate, which serves as the entrance to the main courtyard of the palace, is an exemplary work of repoussé artistry, adorned with figures of deities and mythical creatures. The Nyatapola Temple, which towers above the square with its five-story structure, is the tallest temple in Nepal. Nearby, the Vatsala Temple, with its distinctive stone construction and the famous "bell of barking dogs," adds to the square's spiritual ambiance. Enjoy leisurely walks in this living museum, where festivals, rituals, and daily activities continue to reflect the traditions of the Newar people. Bhaktapur is also famous for its pottery, and if time permits, you can visit Pottery Square to see pots being thrown, dried in the sun, and fired.

Next, drive to visit another World Heritage site called Changu Narayan Temple (7km, 0.5h). Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is revered as the oldest in Nepal, with origins dating back to the early 4th century. Architecturally, this temple is a masterpiece of Nepalese temple design, showcasing the two-tiered Pagoda style. The temple complex is adorned with intricately carved wood, metal, and stone artworks that depict various deities, as well as scenes from Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. While wandering in the temple, you can read more about Hindu mythology and marvel at the skill of ancient Nepalese artisans and their artworks from the 5th to the 12th century. The hilltop location offers breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley.

Then, head back toward Kathmandu (20km, 1h) and pay a visit to Pashupatinath Temple (World Heritage) - a stunning pagoda-style Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. As the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, dating back to around 400 B.C., the main temple complex located at the Bagmati River is only open to Hindus. However, non-Hindus can observe the temple from the terraces on the east side of the river. Pashupatinath is often regarded as the Nepali equivalent of Varanasi in India. Originating in the Himalayan Mountains, the Bagmati River is believed to possess purifying qualities for the soul and holds immense sacred significance for both Hindus and Buddhists. Along the banks, there are platforms dedicated to cremation rites. For generations, families have brought the bodies of their loved ones who have passed away to the river, washing their feet and sprinkling drops of water on their faces. It is believed that the river washes away a person's sins and facilitates their journey to heaven. The bodies are then cremated along the riverbanks, and the ashes are scattered into the water. From across the river, you will notice numerous hermit caves to the north of the cremation platforms. For centuries, hermits and ascetics have been meditating in these caves, and this practice continues to this day. Slow down in NEPAL, the place well-known as Never Ending Peace And Love.

At last, you will head to Bodhnath which is a focal point for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal and home to Boudhanath Stupa (one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world). You can join the Tibetan pilgrims, and walk around the Boudhanath Stupa (World Heritage) clockwise, turning the prayer wheels under the protective gaze of Buddha's eyes. This is a way to show respect for the Buddha and to accumulate merit. The Boudhanath Stupa is 36 meters tall and 108 meters in diameter, designed as a mandala to represent the Buddhist cosmos. The structure is dominated by a massive dome, at the top of which sits a square tower adorned with the omnipresent eyes of Buddha, gazing serenely in the four cardinal directions. These eyes symbolize the omniscience of Buddha, offering protection and wisdom to all who seek refuge. Surrounding the stupa, prayer flags flutter in the wind, carrying mantras and prayers for peace, compassion, strength, and wisdom far and wide. In the evening, thousands of butter lamps illuminate the plaza surrounding the stupa. Equally fascinating are the surrounding streets, lined with Tibetan monasteries and shops selling religious art, Tibetan handicrafts, and traditional Nepali items.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

This morning, you will depart from Kathmandu and head to Chitwan National Park (world Heritage) for the Jungle Safari. It is about 180km (6 hours drive) away. (Optional: Take a morning flight to Chitwan from Kathmandu; 22mins).

Chitwan, once a royal hunting ground, was established as a national park in 1973. It is now one of the rare habitats of the Asian one-horned rhinoceros and sera last refuge for Bengal tigers. Today, the rhinoceros population has recovered to nearly 700, and Bengal tigers, crocodiles, deer, bears, leopards, as well as 525 kinds of birds, such as kingfishers, hawk, hornbill etc., thrive in Chitwan. Here, you can observe wildlife and natural surroundings, and enjoy the pleasures of outdoor activities.

In the afternoon, upon arrival in Chitwan National Park, you can walk around Tharu Village to observe local tribal life and their traditional mud houses. Here, you will find an Elephant Breeding Center (optional). The purpose of this center is to protect the elephant population, and it is currently home to more than 20 elephants, including both adults and calves. Since elephants have a large appetite, the staff responsible for caring for the elephants are trained to work with adult elephants as assistants. They take the adult elephants into the jungle every day to cut grass for them. In the evening, you can enjoy the sunset by the banks of the Rapti River. You can also witness a dance performance by the Tharu ethnic group (optional). Feel free to join in the dance and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of this exotic land.

Have a good rest at your hotel at leisure and get ready for next day’s full day jungle activities inside Chitwan National Park.

Optional Jungle Activities for this afternoon: (If Time Permits)

1. 3:30 PM: Boat safari (Approx. 2: 00 Hours) with Sundowner at confluence point. Floating downstream the Rapti River, towards the park's western boundary formed by Himalayan Narayani, offering our unique sundowner experience at the confluence point. Along the way, enjoy the marvelous tropical forest scenery of Chitwan and, if you're lucky, you might have close encounters with animals such as crocodiles and peacocks.
2. 7:00 PM: Slide presentation. One of our jungle experts will introduce background data and history of the Chitwan National Park as well as some other topics relating to wildlife. Your questions are most welcome.

(Please note that the activities will be subject to change based on the weather situation and the time.)

Take a full day inside Chitwan National Park, immerse yourself in nature, enjoy the jungle activities for a memorable experience. As the largest wild animal park in Nepal and one of the biggest forest parks of Asia, the Royal Chitwan National Park is the best place to enjoy bird watching, jungle walking, jeep safari, and canoeing.

During your adventure in the park, you may spot the superstar of the park - the endangered greater one-horned rhinoceros. You can explore the jungle in an open jeep (jeep safari). This is more exciting because you will have more chances to see more wild animals than riding an elephant. In Nepal's Chitwan National Park, the most commonly encountered animals are spotted deer, crocodiles, peacocks, and various bird species. The next in line are the Asian one-horned rhinoceros, turtles, and monkeys. The most elusive animals to encounter are Bengal tigers, bears, and leopards. The journey takes about 4 -5 hours, and if you can, go in the morning when the animals are more active.

Canoeing (1hour; Optional) along the Rapti River is a very popular way. Sitting on the boat with local guide to watch waterfowls, crocodiles, deer and even the Gangetic dolphin, is quite relaxing and memorable. Stay overnight in Chitwan.

Jungle Activities Time Table for Reference:
1. 6:30 AM: Jeep Safari in the jungle: (Duration:4-5 Hours)
Proceed for the Jeep Safari crossing the Rapti River by Patela Boat to start with from Bhimle army check post. There are two choices of routes available, which our naturalists pick upon their experience on current sightings and animal movement.
Route 1: Bhimle post - Sukhibhar post towards Kasara (park headquarter)
Route 2: Bhimle post - Reu River- Surung Khola
Route 3: Bhimle Post - Reu River- towards Khoria Muhan Post
2. 3:00 PM: Walking Safari: (Duration:2-3 Hours)
A walk inside the National park accompanied by an experienced naturalist and nature guide to explore the wildlife, flora & fauna and birding.
(Please note that the activities will be subject to change based on the weather situation and the time.)

Warm Tips:
1.Sunset: If the weather is good, you must go to the riverside to watch the sunset! Enjoy the priceless sunset on the "East Rapti River" with the locals.
2. Dress code: Long sleeves, long pants, sneakers, and a sun hat. First, it's for sun protection, and second, to avoid scratches while trekking through the jungle. Avoid wearing bright-colored clothes to prevent disturbing the wildlife. There can be a significant temperature difference between morning and evening, so remember to stay warm and bring insect repellent.
3. Equipment: Bring a camera with a telephoto lens and binoculars (useful for capturing and observing distant animals).
4. Elephant rides: Riding an elephant can be quite bumpy, and it doesn't allow you to venture as deep into the wilderness or see as many animals as a jeep safari.
5. Jeep Safari is prohibited during monsoon season by the park authorities from Jun. -Sept. and in some season it can prolong till Oct. Although jungle exploration in Chitwan is well-established, exercise caution and be careful once you enter the forest. Avoid speaking loudly and follow the instructions of your guide to prevent any trouble.
6. Chitwan has a tropical monsoon climate, with the rainy season occurring from June to September. While you can visit during other seasons, the best time to travel is from October to March.
7. Bird watching: Nepal is home to 9% of the world's bird species, and Chitwan is one of the best birdwatching destinations in Nepal. You can allocate an additional day (at your own expense) to hire a bird watchingguide and enjoy observing and photographing birds.
8. Boat trips are also subject to water levels and local conditions on the Rapti River.

This morning, after breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu (6-hour road trip) or head to airport to catch your flight back Kathmandu (Optional). In the afternoon, take a leisure walk around Thamel district, which is a haven for tourists visiting the city due to its fascinating streets. Enjoy the rest of the day and stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Optional: In the evening, relax and indulge in a cultural feast of Nepali traditional dinner and dancing.

It is time to end your 7-day Nepal tour. You will have some free time in Kathmandu and explore more on your own till your guide escorts you to the airport for your flight to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Asia tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!