Day 01: Kathmandu
We arrive in Kathmandu and are warmly welcomed and subsequently transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu
After breakfast at the hotel we enjoy a full day sightseeing of Kathmandu City, Swaymbhunath, Patan & the Tibetan Handicraft Centre.
Durbar Square is the heart of Kathmandu and encompasses not only Durbar Square, but also Hanuman Dhoka Square, Basantapur Square, Hanuman Dhoka, and Maru Tole. With more than 50 temples and shrines within a few blocks of one another, the square contains one of the most concentrated groupings of historical structures in the valley. This complex of palaces, courtyards and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, were once the seat of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu.
Swayambhunath is one of the World's most glorious Buddhist Stupas. Painted on the four-sides of the spire bases are the never sleeping eyes of Lord Buddha, always keeping a close watch over the Valley from a top of a hillock. It lays 3 kms. West of the city and situated about 77m above the level of the Valley.
Patan, originally known as Lalitpur, is situated on the southern bank of the river Bagmati River and is 5 kms southeast of Kathmandu. Its Durbar Square is an enchanting melange of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the former royal palace complex is the center of Patan's religious and social life, and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects. One remarkable monument here is a 17th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna, built entirely of stone. At the Tibetan Handicraft Centre we witness the making of Tibetan and Nepali Handicrafts. Overnight Hotel
Day 03: Kathmandu / Pokhara (drive 180 kms / 110 mi)
After breakfast we drive to Pokhara. (6 / 7hrs drive approx)
Pokhara is situated in the foothills of the magnificent Mt. Macchapuchre, Pokhara valley (827m) and is an enchanting city soaked in tranquility. It is the starting point for many of Nepal's most popular trekking and rafting destinations. The serenity of the Phewa Lake accompanied by the grandeur of Machhapuchhre creates an ambience of peace and magic. Pokhara is home to dense forests, gushing rivers, clear lakes and a world famous view of the Himalayas.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 04: Pokhara-Chitwan (drive 120 kms / 73 mi)
Today we drive to Chitwan - approximately 4 / 5 hr drive. Upon reaching the National Park, we are met by the Representative of Narayani Safari and transferred to the Lodge.
Chitwan, which means "heart of the jungle", is one of the finest national parks in Asia, renowned for its diverse and dense wildlife. The Royal Chitwan National Park is a lush valley situated in the foothills of Churia ranges, 75m South West of Kathmandu and is the first National Park of the Kingdom. The Park is famous for its variety of wildlife especially the Great one Horned Indian Rhinoceros and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.
Safari Narayani Lodge is strategically located on an elevated bluff that overlooks the Rapti River and the National Park beyond. Lunch is served upon arrival at the Safari Narayani Lodge. We head directly to the elephant breeding area for our first thrilling encounter. After a short briefing, we proceed on elephant back into the Royal Chitwan National Park to search for the indigenous wildlife.
Later we are free to retire to our rooms or perhaps join company around the " Ramailo Bar ". Enjoy a delicious dinner in the restaurant.
Overnight: Narayani Safari Lodge (2 nights) (B, L, D)
Day 05: Chitwan
Wake up call at dawn! (timing will vary depending on the season) Enjoy a two-hour Elephant ride in the Lamital area, the pride of Chitwan National Park, where the animals are numerous and sightings frequent.
After breakfast, a ride in a traditionally dugout canoe takes us from the Lodge to Kasara, the park headquarters. We ride on the Rapti River for approximately 5 km. On this silent ride we have the opportunity to view aquatic birds and see animals on the riverbanks. At the end of the ride, a visit will be made to the Gharial Project and possibly to Kasara Palace.
From the Gharial project we begin our Jungle walk with a trained naturalist and a tracker accompanying us. We arrive back at the Lodge in time for Lunch and a short rest.
Depending upon the season, an Elephant bathing demonstration will be held in the Rapti River, and we are most welcome to join in giving the elephants a scrub. Later in the afternoon, visit an ethnic Tharu Village. The surrounding farmland and villages have a pulse of their own, giving it a sense of timelessness. We return to Safari Narayani Lodge by jeep for dinner and overnight at lodge. (B, D)
Day 06: Chitwan / Kathmandu (flight)
After breakfast at the lodge we proceed to Bharatpur airport to connect with our flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu we are met and transferred to our Hotel.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 07: Morning free, departure, transfer to international airport. |