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11 Days

The Magnificent Mountains to Jungles Trip
A Perfect Balance of Adventure and Relaxation in Nepal

The Magnificent Mountains to Jungles Trip

As your adventure commences in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, prepare to be enthralled by a cultural tour de force. Explore the rich heritage of Nepal as you visit its most significant cultural sites, where history comes to life against a backdrop of ancient temples, intricate architecture, and bustling markets. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and let the spirit of the city captivate your senses.

Leaving the bustling city behind, we venture westward to Pokhara, known as Nepal's "adventure capital." Here, your trekking team awaits, ready to guide you on an exhilarating yet accessible journey through the breathtaking Annapurna region. Trek amidst rhododendron forests, surrounded by awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks. This low- altitude trek is perfect for beginners and families, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and challenge yourself in the most enchanting setting.

From the tranquility of the mountains, we transition to an exhilarating river adventure. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience as we embark on a two-day rafting expedition down the mighty Seti River. This thrilling water journey is designed to cater to both first-time rafters and children, ensuring safety and excitement in equal measure. As the river carries us along its mesmerizing path, we find solace in the untouched beauty of nature, spending nights camping under a starlit sky.

The final leg of our journey takes us to the southern plains of Nepal, known as the Terai, where the wonders of Chitwan National Park await. Prepare to be immersed in a true jungle adventure as we spend a whole day in the company of majestic elephants. Join the elephant herd as they gracefully navigate through the forest, indulging in refreshing river baths and assisting the mahouts in preparing their nourishment. At Tiger Tops, our commitment to ethical elephant experiences ensures that activities are centered around the well-being and natural behavior of these magnificent creatures.

Inside the confines of Chitwan National Park, we explore the remarkable flora and fauna aboard our classic vintage Land Rovers, offering both comfort and convenience. Traverse the lush landscapes, witnessing the vibrant biodiversity that thrives within this protected sanctuary. Glide silently along the serene waterways in our non-motorized wooden boats, embracing the tranquility and immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the jungle.

Throughout this two-week mountain to jungle expedition, our dedicated team will take care of all logistics, ensuring a seamless and carefree experience. From airport transfers to hotel bookings and adventure activities, we have everything meticulously planned to provide you with the utmost comfort and enjoyment. You can simply relax and savor each moment, knowing that every detail has been taken care of.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by Tiger Tops staff who will ensure a seamless transfer to Dwarikas Hotel. Nestled in the heart of the bustling city, Dwarikas Hotel offers a luxurious 5-star retreat. In the afternoon, you have the option to embark on a guided tour to discover the captivating sights of the capital.
Day 2: Full Day Kathmandu Sightseeing

After a satisfying breakfast, your day begins with a sightseeing tour of Pashupatinath, the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal. Located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts thousands of pilgrims during the festival of Mahashivaratri. From Pashupatinath, we proceed to Boudhanath, a magnificent Buddhist stupa and a revered site for Buddhists worldwide. Surrounded by numerous monasteries, this stupa offers a serene atmosphere. Enjoy a delightful lunch on the rooftop of one of the many restaurants near the stupa.

Next, we visit Swayambhunath, also known as the "Monkey Temple." This ancient shrine, over 2500 years old, sits atop a hill and provides a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley. Adorned with the compassionate eyes of Buddha, Swayambhunath symbolizes wisdom and unity. After a day filled with exploration, return to your accommodation.

Day 3: Fly to Pokhara and Start Trekking to Ghalegaun (1940 meters)

Following a sumptuous breakfast, embark on a 25-minute morning flight to Pokhara. On a clear day, you'll witness the breathtaking Annapurna Ranges unfold before your eyes from the airplane. From Pokhara, we continue our journey by road, accompanied by guides and porters, to the starting point of our trek.

The trek begins with a scenic half-hour drive through beautiful Gurung villages and picturesque rural landscapes. As we traverse the hills, covered in dense rhododendron forests, we pass by old and traditional Gurung villages. Despite its proximity to modern Pokhara, these villages offer a glimpse into traditional Nepalese life, where farmers tend to their cattle and crops and enjoy the company of their families over a cup of tea. Our day's hike concludes with a rewarding climb to the ridge, where our team and camp eagerly await our arrival.

Day 4: Trekking to Ghalegaun (Continued)
We continue our trekking adventure, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the Annapurna region. The trail leads us through enchanting landscapes, including forests and paddy fields. Along the way, we encounter more Gurung villages, each with its own charm and authenticity. These villages offer an opportunity to rest, interact with the locals, and savor the tranquility of traditional Nepalese rural life. After a day of walking, we reach the ridge where our team and camp warmly welcome us.
Day 5: Finish Trek and Transfer to Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge

On the fifth day of your adventurous journey, you will be completing your trek and heading to the picturesque Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge. The final leg of the trek involves a pleasant and gradual descent through lush forests and green meadows. As you approach the villages, the path widens, making it easier to traverse. Your destination is one of the largest Gurung villages in the region, offering a fascinating glimpse into the local culture. If you have the time and energy, it's highly recommended to explore this charming village.

Connected by road to Pokhara, the village serves as the meeting point where your vehicles will be waiting for you. The drive from the village to Pokhara takes approximately three and a half hours, treating you to breathtaking views of the Himalayas along the way. Nestled 1,000 feet above the Pokhara Valley, the Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge is a serene sanctuary boasting a magnificent backdrop of the Himalayan peaks. Whether you're recovering from your trek or looking to engage in day walks,

Day 6: Drive to Damauli and Start Rafting on Lower Seti River

two-day river rafting adventure on the Lower Seti River. The Seti River is classified as a grade III river, offering a mix of gentle stretches and exciting white water rapids. As you raft for 3-4 hours each day, you'll be treated to stunning natural scenery that surrounds you.

The Seti River originates from the southeast slopes of the majestic Machapuchre, also known as Fish Tail Mountain. It is renowned for its scenic beauty and lacks intimidating rapids, making it accessible to both Kathmandu and Pokhara.

After a refreshing breakfast, you'll arrive at the put-in point near the Seti River, where the rafts are inflated, and a comprehensive safety briefing is provided. Within 20 minutes of floating, you'll encounter the first Grade 2 rapid, which adds an element of excitement to your journey. As you continue, you'll enter a picturesque jungle corridor, where you can unwind and explore the narrow valley adorned with hanging vegetation and vibrant birdlife.

Lunch will be served on a sandy beach, offering you an opportunity to relax before encountering more Grade 2 rapids. The sight of the Sarang Ghat bridge serves as a reminder to fasten your life jacket buckles as you navigate a thrilling Grade 2+ rapid.

Day 7: Half-Day Rafting and Transfer to Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge

After a satisfying breakfast and packing up, we set off from camp at approximately 9:30 am. This day is dedicated to exploration, bird-watching, photography, and learning about the local culture. As we make our way, a delicious lunch will be served en route, ensuring you enjoy a balanced and flavorful meal. The adventure continues with an exhilarating encounter with Grade 2+ rapids, leading us to the confluence of Trisuli River. From there, a short float trip takes us to the take-out point at Gai Ghat.

At this juncture, our expert guide will disassemble the raft, deflate it, and load it onto a minibus and start the journey to Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge by the western edge renowned Chitwan National Park. Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge stands out as an exceptional destination that combines thrilling activities, immersive wildlife experiences, and serene natural beauty. Embark on a journey with us as we delve into the exciting activities and experiences that await you during your stay at Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge.

As we arrive at the entrance of Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge, the warm and welcoming staff greet us with a refreshing welcome drink in the inviting dining hall. Following this, a delicious lunch awaits you in the serene garden. Take some time to settle into your cozy rooms and explore the lodge grounds. If you're tempted, indulge in a refreshing dip in the large swimming pool while basking in the sunshine, sipping a cool beverage, and enjoying a good book. Later, join us for tea and biscuits in the main area before embarking on a leisurely stroll to the Narayani River, accompanied by our resident elephants and a knowledgeable naturalist. Witness the elephants bathing and frolicking in the water while you savor your sundowners. As the day winds down, return to the lodge for a revitalizing shower and chilled drinks, followed by a delightful dinner.

Day 8: Elephant Experience
Prepare yourself for an early start as we join the elephants on their journey to the grasslands. Witness the mesmerizing sight of elephants grazing amidst the morning mist, and celebrate the occasion with a steaming cup of traditional Nepali tea. You'll even have the opportunity to learn grass-cutting and binding techniques from the skilled mahouts. Back at the camp, a fulfilling breakfast awaits, setting the stage for a morning spent in the company of the mahouts. Learn the art of making "kuchis" (elephant sandwiches), observe the elephants' leisure time in the corrals, or participate in any other planned activities the mahouts have in store. A delicious lunch will be served around noon, providing the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind during the hot midday hours, just like the elephants. As the late afternoon brings pleasant temperatures, embark on a guided walk through the jungle alongside the elephants and their mahouts. Observe their movements, witness their eating habits, and listen to their rumbling and trumpeting, all while our naturalist educates you about the surrounding wildlife and vegetation. Traverse through the diverse landscapes of the jungle, grasslands, and wetlands, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.
Day 9: River and Jeep Safari
Start the day with a delectable al fresco breakfast beneath the shade of mango trees. Feast on fresh fruits, yogurt, eggs, and bacon, ensuring a perfect start to your day of adventure. Following breakfast, prepare for an unforgettable river safari on the Narayani River. The excursion begins with a leisurely stroll in nature through the enchanting forest alongside the river. This leads to a peaceful and relaxing drift downstream on the river.As you cruise along the wide expanse of the river, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse birdlife and wildlife that inhabit the area. Among the highlights are the endangered fish-eating Gharial crocodile and its more fearsome relative, the Marsh- Mugger. Head back to the lodge for a Nepali-style lunch, and if you wish, indulge in some more sunbathing and relaxation by the pool during the early afternoon. Later in the afternoon, join our knowledgeable naturalist for an exciting jeep safari within the national park. Explore the wonders of nature from the comfort and convenience of our classic vintage Land Rovers. Feel free to ask questions and absorb the wealth of knowledge our naturalists possess about the animals and the history of Chitwan National Park. During the safari, you'll encounter various wildlife species, including deer, birds, monkeys, and, if luck is on your side, the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.
Day 10: Departure from Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge
During the morning, enjoy a relaxed breakfast while our staff takes care of loading your luggage onto our vehicles. These vehicles are prepared to transport you on a one-hour drive back to Bharatpur airport.Enjoy the scenic route, and if you're fortunate, catch sight of another Gharial or Marsh Mugger Crocodile as you cross the Babai River. After the flight back to Kathmandu, spend another enchanting evening soaking up the beauty of Nepal at Dwarikas Hotel. The rest of the day can be devoted to further exploration of Kathmandu with the assistance of a Tiger Tops tour operator. For an exquisite dining experience, consider arranging dinner at the beautifully refurbished Royal Stables, which house boutique stores and the renowned French restaurant, Chez Caroline.
Day 11: International Departure
Your final day in Nepal can be spent at your leisure until it's time for your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight. Take this opportunity to reflect on the remarkable experiences you've had during your stay and cherish the memories of your extraordinary adventure in Nepal.