Overview
Nepal’s short distance between climates gives it an unusual range of landscapes, from lush moist forests and sparse alpine desert to grassland and tall Terai forest in the south. Chitwan Valley sits in this lowland belt, and Chitwan National Park has UNESCO World Heritage status for its natural, cultural, and landscape features.
The park is home to endangered species including the one-horned rhinoceros, the Royal Bengal tiger, and wild elephants. Chitwan’s jungle safari draws visitors for its elephant back rides, canoe rides, village tours, bird watching, and jungle walks, along with a look at the daily life of the local Tharu community. This tour pairs the safari with Kathmandu’s major monuments and an extension to Pokhara.
Pokhara offers panoramic views of Fishtail (Machhapuchhre), Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. Sunrise from Sarangkot is one of the trip’s standout moments. The city also has Fewa Lake, Devi’s Fall, the World Peace Pagoda, caves, and several sacred temples to see. The tour wraps up with a traditional Nepali dinner and a live cultural show.
Folk music and dance run deep in Nepali tradition. With over 100 ethnic groups in a country this size, each carrying its own music, dance, dress, language, and customs tied to festivals and long-held myths, the cultural range is significant. Traditional Nepali food centers on daal-bhaat, curry, pickle, vegetables, and mutton or chicken.
Entry regulations and conservation details for the park are available from Chitwan National Park.
For the temple and heritage side of the capital, see our Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour.
Suggestion: Bring binoculars and a camera with extra batteries for the safari.
Highlights
- Tour of major World Heritage Sites
- Visits to main temples and religious shrines
- Jungle tour and elephant safari
- Scenic drive on the hilly roads between Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara
- Small hikes and side activities along the way
- Mountain views throughout the tour
