Introduction
A world of serendipitous adventure awaits you on this wonderful introduction to Nepal that’s ideal for first-time trekkers, adventurous families (kids five and up are welcome), or for those with limited time to spare from their busy schedule. In just 10 days, we really pack in a world of adventure, from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu’s temple-strewn maze of streets to the majestic splendor of the high Himalaya to the jungles of Chitwan National Park.

Our adventure starts with an immersion into the swirl of color that is Kathmandu. Then we get a taste of Himalayan trekking on easy day hikes through the friendly villages of the Annapurna foothills around Pokhara. Our hike takes us no higher than 6,700 feet, yet the scenery is truly unbelievable: 26,000-foot Himalayan ice giants are only 20 miles away, and the snowy flanks of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and the famous “fishtail” spire of Machapuchare seem almost within arm’s reach. Outside of Pokhara, we’ll base ourselves at Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge, set high on a ridge top a thousand feet above the Pokhara Valley. Thirteen individual stone bungalows are set in private gardens and situated to maximize the breathtaking vistas. Each room has a private verandah, adjoining bathroom, and is furnished with high-quality Tibetan wool carpets.

After our stay in Pokhara, we head to Chitwan National Park to see another side of Nepal. Here, among the flat jungles of the terai lowlands, we take nature walks, ride elephants, and board dugout canoes in search of rhino, sloth bear, colorful birdlife, and—the star of the show—the always-elusive and endangered Bengal tiger. Returning to Kathmandu, we have time for some last minute shopping, before heading home with a rush of lasting memories.

Trip Highlights

•Hike in the foothills of the Annapurnas and enjoy spectacular Himalayan mountain views
•Active exploration of Chitwan National Park, with its diverse wildlife, including the elusive Bengal tiger!
•Explore exotic Kathmandu, home to elaborate Hindu temples, Buddhist stupas, and lively bazaars

Details
10-day trip begins and ends in Kathmandu;
3 nights hotels, 3 nights mountain lodge, 3 nights deluxe tented camp; Private guide throughout

Activities
Moderate day hiking on uneven terrain (max. elev. 6,700'), nature walks, elephant rides, canoe excursions
Best Time to Go - September—mid-May

Flexible Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1 - Arrive in Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu. Our representative will meet you outside the customs and immigration area at the airport. He or she will answer questions, brief you on the immediate arrangements, and escort you to your hotel. The trip leader will hold a short briefing in the hotel around 4:00 p.m. regarding trek arrangements and a general orientation to Kathmandu. Most flights from the U.S. require three days of travel and overnight en route (you arrive in Kathmandu on the third day). More specific details will be sent to you in your pre-trip packet of information.
Dwrika’s Unique Nepalese Heritage deluxe Resort

DAY 2 - Touring the Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu is one of three former medieval city-states in the valley, along with Bhaktapur and Patan. Morning tour of Bhaktapur, which has preserved its ancient character and does a wonderful job of displaying medieval Nepalese town life.  A highlight is Durbar Square, with its many temples, remains of an ancient palace, and intricate Sun Dhoka (“Golden Gate”), a gilded copper gate crafted in 1753. In the afternoon, Kathmandu is yours to explore. By western standards, the city is intimate. You can visit the many interesting sights, shrines, and markets, or stroll in Kathmandu's fascinating Asan Tole bazaar. Don't miss Durbar Square, Thamel, Swayambhunath (the “Monkey Temple,” overlooking the entire Valley; go at sunrise or sunset!) and the King's Palace. You could also hire a driver to take you to the nearby ancient city of Patan.
B...Dwrika’s Unique Nepalese Heritage deluxe Resort

DAY 3-5 - Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge
This morning we take the short scenic flight to Pokhara and transfer to Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge, an elegant mountain lodge nestled among the Annapurna foothills. The Pokhara Valley is known for its dazzling mountain panoramas, but it’s also home to clans of Gurung, Magar, Brahmin, and Thakali people who have farmed and herded in these hills for centuries. While less famous than Nepal’s Sherpas, their hill cultures are no less interesting, with a rich mixture of Hindu, Buddhist, and animistic traditions. This is the region from which Britain recruited many of its famous Gurkha regiments. The afternoon is free to relax, or explore on foot the villages in the nearby countryside.

Each day we depart on hikes in the magical foothills of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal. Walks in this region provide memorable opportunities to meet the people of Nepal’s middle hills and take in the Pokhara Valley’s astounding Himalayan views. We have a packed lunch each day and return to our lodge in the late afternoon.
B, L, D each day...Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge

DAY 6-8 - Chitwan
Five-hour drive to Chitwan National Park, the jewel of Nepal’s wildlife parks since its inception in 1973. The main highlights of our wildlife activities are elephant rides to see the rare one-horned rhino, sloth bear, four species of deer, a dazzling array of tropical birds, and perhaps a leopard or tiger. Rhinos and deer are frequently sighted, but the chances of seeing a leopard or tiger are remote. The birdlife is fantastic—some 530 species have been sighted within the park. We’ll seek out the fauna via elephant back and on foot, and also take wooden boat rides into the watery realm of the threatened gharial crocodile, mugger crocodile, and numerous waterfowl.

Your accommodation is at Tiger Tops Tented Camp, set above a broad grassy plain. The camp features 12 comfortable safari-style tents with twin or double bed options and attached private bathrooms with hot water shower. Meals are served in a thatched central dining area with a nearby raised viewing platform, a great place to sit with a cold drink and watch the wildlife roam below.
B, L, D each day…Tiger Tops Tented Camp

DAY 9 - Kathmandu
In the morning we fly back to Kathmandu. The balance of the day is at leisure in Kathmandu.
B…Dwrika’s Unique Nepalese Heritage deluxe Resort

DAY 10 - fly home
Transfer to the airport for departure on homeward-bound flights.

Trip Cost

Please Contact us for best price and accommodation.

Note: Prices are based per person, double occupancy, with a separate cost for solo travelers. If you are traveling in a group but prefer single accommodations, a single supplement fee applies. Triple accommodations are not available in many of the destinations we visit.

What's Included?

• Services of an English-speaking  professional local guide
• Accommodation in hotel, lodge, and tented camp in Nepal
• Flights within Nepal (see separate cost above)
• Meals as noted (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
• Airport transfers
• Sightseeing as noted in the itinerary
• Ground transportation
• Tipping to driver, hotel, lodge and tented camp staff
• Basic medical and evacuation insurance

What's Not?

International airfare; lunches and dinners in Kathmandu; insurance other than basic medical and evacuation insurance as listed above (we strongly recommend you purchase the supplementary trip insurance offered by us, which includes trip cancellation insurance); optional tipping to leader; visas; excess baggage charges; airport taxes (if any); cost of obtaining a passport or medical immunizations; and items of a personal nature (sodas, alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.).

important Information

Arrival & Departure Information
You will be met at the Kathmandu airport on Day 1 and transferred to the Dwrika’s Unique Nepalese Heritage deluxe Resort. The trip ends in Kathmandu on Day 10.

Air Travel
International airfare is not included in the land cost of our trips. For air reservations, we recommend you contact the airlines directly, either by phone or the Internet. In addition, many travelers elect to use their “frequent flyer” miles when traveling with us. But please check with our staff before purchasing or obtaining your tickets, so we may verify your arrival and departure schedule.

Activity Level
Hiking in Nepal is for active people in good health who enjoy walking, even up steep hills (there is very little level walking in Nepal). To enjoy the short lowland hikes and the activities at Royal Chitwan National Park, you should be in good physical condition. If you are not optimally conditioned, we recommend that you start a training program at least three months before departure, gradually increasing the intensity and duration. The level of fitness and endurance needed for this trip requires regular aerobic exercise at least one hour 3-4 times per week, performing moderate intensity walking, cycling, swimming, or other forms of aerobic exercise. Check with your doctor before undertaking any new fitness program. If your health is questionable or your physical capacity is limited, please discuss other trip options with us.

Since you’re based at a comfortable hotel or lodge each night, you hike most days with only a daypack containing the essentials you need on the trail: water bottle, camera, light jacket, rain gear (there’s always a possibility of some rain in the mountains), and snacks.

Why travel with us

Why we are Your First Choice for Adventure
We are the pioneer in active adventure travel. No other adventure travel company can lay claim to that title. We are the group of professionals. We set the standard for adventure travel and have a strong reputation for excellence that we do everything we can to maintain. Since we are the leading adventure company, we have a lot to live up to, so we make sure we provide safe, quality trips and the best customer service to our passengers.

Our Guide
You will be accompanied throughout the trip by an English-speaking local guide. Besides ensuring everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch, he will provide a unique perspective on the local life, wildlife and culture as only a native can. His close familiarity with the local geography, history, culture, wildlife, and traditions are the key to a superb, informative experience—one you just can’t get on your own. In his friendly company, you will truly learn, enjoy, and share their passion for the country he calls home. You’ll be in good hands with him every step of the way. Guide assignments will be confirmed in the Final Bulletin sent to you three weeks prior to departure.

References
Don't take our word for how great our trips are. We'll be happy to provide you with references of satisfied past travelers. Just give us a call

Questions
Feel free to call us if you still have any questions or concerns. We're here to help you.

Note on Itinerary
Although we will do our very best to adhere to the itinerary schedule as listed, it is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control. Please read the Limitations of Liability and Booking Conditions in the four-page Participant Information Form.

This itinerary has been carefully designed for optimal value. You may wish to combine this tour with another or add extensions at the beginning or end of your trip. However, if you wish to customize this tour, other terms and conditions apply (ask us about information on customized adventures). Travel Agent commissions or any type of other discounts do not apply to this tour.

Note on Services
We often use local suppliers who provide services that may include transportation, equipment, logistic support, and other services (hotels, restaurants, etc.). We do not own or operate these independent suppliers. We work with service providers who share our commitment to safety and quality, and work closely with them to develop itineraries unique to us