Safari in Nepal: nature tour in South/West Nepal | 15 days

One of our staff members will be waiting for you at the airport. He or she will be holding a sign with our logo on it. This will make it very easy for you to find each other as you exit the airport, without any hassle. After a warm welcome, a private driver will take you by car to your accommodation in Kathmandu. Our staff member will accompany you on the way and will also assist you with check-in. Depending on your arrival time in Kathmandu, you’ll have free time to go on an adventure. Explore the lively old town of Kathmandu, such as the streets of Asan. Be sure to check out the charming markets and colorful temples and stupas. During a short ‘meet & greet’ with Chuda or one of our staff members, you’ll receive helpful tips and have the opportunity to ask questions.

After breakfast, you’ll depart by private car for Chitwan National Park, the first national park on your trip. This park is a must-see on any safari in Nepal.
After arriving in Chitwan, you’ll have free time to explore the area. Take a stroll along the river: you’ll see the local Tharu people at work, and animals come to drink there. Elephants roam freely behind the lodge, so you can watch them from the deck. Very occasionally, a rhinoceros might even pop by to say hello.

The Royal Chitwan National Park is one of the most beautiful and well-known wildlife parks in Asia. The park features vast forests, large open grasslands, and marshy terrain dotted with creeks and pools. It is home to more than 50 different species of mammals and 450 different species of birds!

In the morning after breakfast, you’ll set off in an open jeep toward the entrance to Chitwan National Park. The crisp morning air and soft light lend the landscape a magical quality. You’ll drive through misty grasslands, along narrow dirt roads, and past dense sal forests—the ideal habitat for wildlife.

There’s a good chance you’ll spot a rhinoceros striding majestically through the tall grass or a herd of deer watching intently from the edge of the forest. Crocodiles, too, are often seen lazing along the riverbanks, basking in the morning sun. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a leopard or a Bengal tiger, hidden deep in the thicket.

During the safari, there will be several stops where you and your nature guide will get out at safe spots to track animals or spot birds. Chitwan is known as a birdwatcher’s paradise: kingfishers, hornbills, and even the rare osprey can often be spotted here.

In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch in a sheltered spot surrounded by nature. Afterward, continue your journey along the Rapti and Narayani rivers, where you’ll often find elephant tracks or spot a troop of langur monkeys watching curiously from the trees.

By late afternoon, you’ll return to your lodge, dusty but satisfied. With a cold drink on the terrace, you’ll look back on a day full of wonder—one of the purest nature experiences Nepal has to offer.

The day begins peacefully on the banks of the Rapti River, where a wooden canoe awaits you. As the sun slowly rises, you glide silently across the water. Only the sound of lapping water and singing birds breaks the silence. On the banks, you’ll see crocodiles basking in the sun and colorful kingfishers skimming low over the water. Occasionally, you’ll hear the splash of a fish or the trumpeting of an elephant in the distance.

After about 45 minutes of canoeing, you’ll disembark at the edge of the jungle and begin your jungle hike with an experienced nature guide. The pace is slow, and there’s plenty of time to listen, observe, and learn. The guide will point out tiger tracks, explain the medicinal properties of plants, and help you identify birds, deer, and monkeys.

The hike takes you through various types of vegetation, from dense savanna to open grassland. Along the way, you may spot rhino tracks or even a fresh scratch mark left by a leopard. At lunchtime, there’s a simple picnic in a shady clearing in the jungle.

In the afternoon, you slowly make your way back toward the park’s exit. The sounds of the jungle grow louder as the day goes on: chirping insects, calling birds, and the rustling of animals in the bushes.

This excursion is a truly sensory nature experience, ideal for those who enjoy quietly immersing themselves in the jungle.

One last day in Chitwan National Park—and what a day it is! Today, you’ll bid farewell to the jungle with a jeep safari to a less-visited but exceptionally rich nature reserve: the Twenty Thousand Lakes, known locally as Bishazari Tal.

In an open jeep, you’ll head south in the early morning toward the park’s vast buffer zone. This region lies between the imposing Mahabharat Hills to the north and the Siwalik Hills to the south, covering no less than 3,200 hectares of wetlands, lakes, grasslands, and forests. Along the way, you’ll pass small villages, open plains, and possibly even a herd of grazing deer or a curious rhinoceros.

Bishazari Tal is a paradise for birdwatchers: here you can hear and see countless species—from brightly colored bee-eaters to stately herons. In the early morning, there’s a good chance you’ll also spot otters, turtles, or even a crocodile along the banks. Thanks to the mix of open water, reed beds, and jungle, this area offers a unique glimpse into the Terai ecosystem.

There’s plenty of time to take a leisurely stroll through safe areas, spot birds with binoculars, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of this unspoiled natural setting. Along the way, the guide will share fascinating insights into the importance of this region for biodiversity and local conservation efforts.

This excursion is a fitting and atmospheric way to end your stay in Chitwan—one last deep breath of jungle air, birdsong, and sweeping views.

After breakfast, you’ll depart from Sauraha for the drive to Lumbini. The drive takes about 6 hours and gives you the chance to admire Nepal’s nature and scenery. This extra stopover was intentionally planned because the one-day trip to Bardia is too long and tiring.

Upon arrival in Lumbini, you can relax and unwind at your accommodation. Lumbini is famous as the birthplace of Buddha, and the large temple complex also offers peaceful, natural areas. The expansive grounds surrounding the temples have many quiet spots where you can enjoy the serenity of nature. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind, stroll along the green paths, and enjoy the tranquility of the area before continuing on to your next destination.

With its stately bearing and red head, the sarus crane is the tallest flying bird in the world—it can grow up to 1.80 meters tall! One of Nepal’s largest populations of sarus cranes lives around Lumbini. What makes this bird especially remarkable is its lifelong fidelity: sarus cranes mate for life, and their graceful courtship dance is a beautiful sight to behold. The wet rice fields and marshes around Lumbini form an important breeding ground for this endangered species. Thanks to Lumbini’s religious significance and local conservation efforts, their habitat here remains relatively safe, making this area unique for birdwatchers and conservationists alike.

Today starts early. After an early breakfast, you’ll head west for a long but fascinating drive to Bardia National Park. Along the way, the landscape gradually changes: from the plains around Lumbini to the vast savannas, rivers, and forests of western Nepal. You’ll arrive in Bardia around noon, where a delicious lunch awaits you at your homestay.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore a nearby Tharu village on foot, accompanied by a local guide. The Tharu people are the indigenous community of this region, with a rich culture, unique architectural style, and traditional way of life. You’ll learn how they have lived in harmony with nature for generations and get a first glimpse of life on the edge of the park. A peaceful, atmospheric introduction to the people and surroundings of Bardia—a wonderful warm-up for the wilderness experiences of the coming days.

Bardia National Park: rugged wilderness in western Nepal
Bardia National Park is the largest and most pristine protected nature reserve on the Terai Plain in western Nepal. Far from the crowds of mass tourism, this park offers an authentic safari experience. Wild elephants, leopards, crocodiles, rare swamp deer, and the elusive Bengal tiger inhabit the dense jungles and live along the wide rivers. Thanks to the quiet trails and small-scale approach, the chances of spotting wildlife are high and the experience is intense.

Today you’ll enjoy a true wilderness experience: accompanied by an experienced local nature guide, you’ll hike into the heart of Bardia National Park. A jungle hike is the best way to fully immerse yourself in the park. Your guide will point out paw prints in the sand, the warning calls of monkeys or deer, and help you spot predators and other wildlife—from a safe distance, of course.

You’ll walk along narrow trails, occasionally cross a river, and stop regularly at lookouts or shelters by the water. There, you’ll wait in silence, hoping for that magical moment when a herd of deer comes to drink, a crocodile makes an appearance, or even a tiger emerges from the bushes. In total, you’ll hike about 15 to 20 kilometers, with plenty of rest breaks and a packed lunch along the way.

An immersive day in nature, where all your senses are on high alert.

Today you’ll set out early for an adventurous jeep safari in the vast Bardia National Park. As the sun slowly rises above the misty jungle, you’ll drive deeper into the park in an open-top jeep, to places that are difficult to reach on foot. The wind blows across your face, the scent of damp grass and fresh earth hangs in the air, and the soft crackling of branches beneath the tires accompanies your ride.

Your guide scans the surroundings intently: playful monkeys swing through the trees, deer dart away at the forest edges, and by the river, crocodiles lie motionless, basking in the sun. You’ll stop regularly at observation towers and watering holes, where you’ll wait in silence for wild elephants, rhinos, or—with a little luck—even the elusive Bengal tiger.

The jungle is alive, and today you are part of it. Every movement, scent, and sound brings you closer to nature than ever before.

🧠 Fun fact:
Nepal is one of the few countries in the world where the Bengal tiger population is growing. In 2010, Nepal, along with 12 other countries, pledged to double the number of tigers by 2022—a goal that Nepal is one of the few countries to have actually achieved. Thanks to stricter protection measures, the creation of tiger corridors between national parks, and close collaboration with local communities, the number of wild Bengal tigers in Nepal has risen from approximately 121 in 2009 to 355 in 2022. Their numbers are increasing particularly noticeably in Bardia and Chitwan National Park.

After breakfast, you’ll set off on foot into nature, heading toward a tributary of the mighty Karnali River. You’ll walk through a quieter part of the buffer zone, where community forests dominate the landscape—forests that are protected and managed by the local population. In this green corridor between Bardia National Park and India’s Katharniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, animals move freely between the two areas. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers: with a little luck, you’ll spot colorful kingfishers, owls, woodpeckers, and maybe even a stray rhinoceros on the riverbank.

Around noon, you’ll join a local Tharu family for a homemade lunch—a unique opportunity to experience the daily life of this special community up close. You’ll be back at your homestay around 1:30 p.m. The rest of the afternoon is free. It’s the perfect time to relax, read a book on the terrace, or simply reflect on all the experiences you’ve had in the jungle.

Interesting fact about the Tharu people
The Tharu are known as the “indigenous people of the Terai” and have managed to protect themselves for generations against malaria, a disease that was once widespread in the jungles of southern Nepal. Their genetic adaptation to these conditions made them the only people able to live permanently in the swampy forests, where others could not survive. As a result, their traditions, lifestyle, and architecture remained virtually untouched for centuries—offering a fascinating glimpse into a unique cultural heritage.

Today you’ll explore the jungle from a different perspective: the water. Don’t worry if “rafting” makes you think of whitewater and adrenaline—this trip is calm and relaxed. The Karnali is a tranquil river along this stretch, perfect for gliding silently through the landscape.
After breakfast, you’ll head to Chisapani, where the rubber boat is waiting. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you’ll drift slowly downstream. With no engine noise and minimal movement, you glide almost silently along the banks of Bardia National Park. This silence allows you to get closer to the animals without being noticed. You’ll make regular stops at watering holes and river crossings—who knows, you might spot a deer, a crocodile, or even an elephant.

The lush vegetation along the river is teeming with life, with countless species of birds singing or perching briefly on a branch. It’s a particularly peaceful day when you can truly experience the jungle with your eyes and ears wide open.

Please note: if the water level is too low, the itinerary will be adjusted, and you’ll combine a half-day of leisurely rafting on another section of the river with a half-day of hiking in the park.

After an early breakfast, you’ll set off toward the far west of Nepal, to Shukla Phanta National Park. Along the way, you’ll make a special stop at the enchanting Ghodaghodi Lake. This vast lake district consists of a mosaic of ponds, marshes, and grasslands—a total of thirteen shallow lakes that together form an important habitat for birds and other wildlife.

You stroll peacefully along the banks, where purple water lilies adorn the water and the sounds of birds echo from all around. This is the perfect spot to stretch your legs and quietly enjoy nature. You might even spot a kingfisher or a great white egret here, while dragonflies skim low over the water.

After a picnic lunch along the way, you’ll continue your journey westward. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at your lodge, located near the entrance to Shukla Phanta National Park—a place where the true, unspoiled Nepal begins.

Shukla Phanta National Park
Shukla Phanta National Park, located in western Nepal, is a pristine nature reserve known for its vast grasslands, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. The park is home to rare species such as the Bengal tiger and the sambar deer, which live here in large herds. Birdwatchers can enjoy a variety of native bird species.

This relatively unknown park offers a peaceful and authentic experience, ideal for nature lovers seeking adventure. Whether you’re spotting wildlife or hiking through the vast grasslands, Sukla Phanta offers a unique opportunity to explore Nepal’s unspoiled nature.

Today, you’ll explore the remote and unspoiled Shukla Phanta National Park by jeep. This vast 305-square-kilometer park consists of grasslands, forests, riverbeds, and wetlands, making it an ideal spot for wildlife viewing. The jeep will take you through the park, past vast grasslands and picturesque lakes such as Rana Tal, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy the serene landscape.

Shukla Phanta is home to no fewer than 46 species of mammals, including majestic Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, sloth bears, wild elephants, and, of course, the iconic swamp deer. In fact, the group of sambar deer in this park is the largest herd in the world! Along the way, you’ll stop at various spots to observe animals and enjoy the rich birdlife, making this safari an extraordinary experience.

With a little luck, you’ll get to see these impressive animals up close as you travel along the park’s quiet trails. It’s a unique opportunity to discover the wild nature of western Nepal and explore one of the country’s most unspoiled corners

Please note: Park accessibility
Although Shukla Phanta National Park is a breathtaking nature reserve, the park is not always maintained to the highest standards. This can mean that certain parts of the park, especially the grasslands, are difficult to access. The tall grass can obstruct visibility and make some areas impassable, which affects the safari experience. Therefore, certain routes or specific sections of the park may be temporarily closed to visitors, depending on conditions. Nevertheless, the jeep safari remains a great way to explore the park’s diverse ecosystem and spot wildlife, even if some areas are inaccessible.

Today begins with a roughly 2-hour drive from your accommodation in Sukla Phanta to Dhangadi Airport. Your guide will ensure that everything goes smoothly so you can check in for your flight to Kathmandu without any worries. After a short domestic flight, you’ll arrive in the capital, where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy.

If you’re still looking to unwind after your nature experiences in Sukla Phanta, you can visit the Garden of Dreams, a beautiful neoclassical garden in the heart of Kathmandu. This green oasis offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a moment of quiet reflection.

Whether you choose to spend a quiet moment in the garden or continue exploring the city, this final day in Kathmandu gives you the chance to take it all in at your own pace before heading home.

Note on the Domestic Flight from Dhangadi to Kathmandu

Please note that the domestic flight from Dhangadi to Kathmandu may occasionally be canceled due to adverse weather conditions. In that case, your flight will be rerouted to Nepalgunj, from where you will still fly to Kathmandu. Although we do everything we can to ensure your flight goes smoothly, such schedule changes may sometimes be unavoidable, depending on weather conditions in the far west of Nepal. Your guide and the local tour operator will keep you informed of the situation and arrange an alternative solution to ensure your trip remains as comfortable as possible.

Unfortunately, the end of your trip is approaching. Depending on your flight time, you might still have some time to pick up a few souvenirs or discover a few more interesting spots.
You will be picked up at the reception desk of your accommodation at least 3 hours before your flight’s departure time. The driver will take you to the airport. We hope you take home lots of wonderful memories!

Domestic flights in Nepal may sometimes be delayed or even canceled due to weather or other conditions. In the event of a cancellation, the flight to Kathmandu may be rerouted via Nepalgunj. Please note that there may occasionally be changes to your itinerary. We will always keep you updated with the latest information and assist you with alternative arrangements.

For hikes and safaris in the nature parks, it’s important to bring appropriate clothing, such as comfortable hiking shoes, lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors, a hat, and protection from the sun (sunscreen and sunglasses) and mosquitoes. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars for wildlife spotting! A raincoat is also recommended, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season.

The best time to travel to southwestern Nepal is between October and March. This is the dry season, making the weather milder and ideal for hiking and safari tours. The rainy season, from June to September, brings lush greenery, is very hot, and makes some trails difficult to navigate, so it’s important to take the season into account when planning your trip.

During the trip, you’ll travel in comfortable jeeps for the safaris and a private car with a driver for transportation between the various national parks. The drives can be long, but they offer you the chance to discover Nepal’s rural beauty. Please note that the roads can sometimes be bumpy, which may extend travel time. Travel by jeep is usually comfortable, but it can be a bit unpredictable depending on weather conditions.

There is no Wi-Fi or internet access within the nature reserves themselves, especially in the more remote areas. This gives you the chance to truly enjoy your surroundings and experience nature in peace and quiet. However, there are plenty of internet options available in Kathmandu, Sauraha, Lumbini, and Bardia.

The nature parks are well-patrolled, and our guides know the area inside out. Although wild animals such as elephants, tigers, and rhinos are found in the parks, the guides are well-trained to ensure your safety and make sure you are not in any danger. It is always important to follow your guide’s instructions, especially when hiking near wildlife.

It’s best not to bring gifts or goods for local communities, as this can encourage begging. Sustainable tourism is key, and supporting local initiatives and projects is a positive way to contribute to the communities you visit. Talk to your guide or the staff at the lodge where you’re staying about the best ways to support the local economy, such as by buying handmade products or enjoying local cuisine in the villages.

The nature parks are located in areas home to diverse ethnic communities, such as the Tharu people. It is important to respect local customs and traditions. The local communities will welcome you warmly, but it is important to be mindful of the culture and customs of the residents, especially when visiting local villages or participating in cultural events.