Chitwan Wildlife Extension

Nepal - Trip code OHR Wildlife
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Extend your stay in Nepal with an excursion into the wild heart of Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dense jungle, winding rivers and open grassland make Chitwan one of Asia's most remarkable wildlife havens. Here, the elusive Bengal tiger is the ultimate spot, but there's so much more to see, from the rare one-horned rhino to elephants and exotic birds. Explore by canoe, jeep and on foot - and watch for wildlife from our riverside lodge.

Why we love this trip
  • Safaris by jeep - Spot one-horned rhinos, langur monkeys, and spotted deer on two jeep safaris in the park.
  • Canoe adventure - Take to the water and keep your eyes peeled for gharials, mugger crocodiles and birdlife on the riverbank.
  • Stay at a jungle villa - Immerse yourself in Chitwan's nature at our riverside villa, where wildlife is never far away.

  • Included meals

    Breakfast: 4

    Lunch: 3

    Dinner: 3

  • Trip staff

    Driver(s)

    Safari Guide(s)

  • Transport

    4WD

    Boat

    Minibus

    On Foot

  • i

    Accommodation

    1 nights comfortable hotel

    3 nights comfortable lodge

  • i

    Trip pace:

    Moderate

Itinerary

Day 1 - Join in trip Kathmandu, transfer to Chitwan National Park

This morning, a transfer takes you from your hotel to Chitwan National Park, 170 kilometres/105 miles away. The drive will take around six hours, including stops. To arrange your transfers, please provide your Kathmandu hotel or preferred airport at the time of booking, as this information is required to confirm your pick-up and drop-off.

Your home for the next three nights sits on the tranquil banks of the Rapti River, at Jungle Villa Resort - a peaceful retreat where wildlife sightings can often be enjoyed right from the lodge's viewing deck.

On arrival, a welcome lunch will be served before you choose how to begin your Chitwan experience this afternoon.

One option is a cultural visit to a nearby village, home to the indigenous Tharu people. Believed to be among the original inhabitants of the region, the Tharu have a deep-rooted connection to the forests of the Terai and are often referred to as the 'people of the forest'. During your visit, you'll gain insight into their traditional way of life, their relationship with the jungle, and their enduring cultural heritage, followed by a stop at the local museum.

Alternatively, you may prefer to head straight into the wilderness on a guided jungle walk with an expert naturalist - an excellent introduction to the rich biodiversity of Chitwan National Park.

This evening, you can deepen your understanding of the region's wildlife with a short presentation, Chitwan: A Wildlife Paradise, or enjoy a vibrant Tharu cultural dance performance.

Please note that this is a stand-alone extension, available to book on any date (subject to availability). While it has been designed to complement several of our group tours, this isn't a group experience -you're unlikely to be travelling with other Explore customers. As the trip is unescorted, there will be no tour leader accompanying you. You will most likely be accompanied by other lodge guests on your activities in Chitwan.

Accommodation:

Jungle Villa Resort (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Lodge

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2 - Full day in Chitwan - morning canoe ride on Rapti River, afternoon jeep safari

Rise early this morning for a serene start on the Rapti River, setting out in a traditional 'patela' canoe alongside an expert naturalist. As you drift quietly along the river, the banks of Chitwan National Park begin to come alive with wildlife.

Keep watch for the critically endangered Gharial, as well as mugger crocodiles basking in the shallows and a rich variety of birdlife overhead. During the warmer months, the riverbanks may also attract chital deer and even the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, drawn to the water's edge for a morning drink.

After your canoe safari, return to the lodge for some free time - relax, enjoy the riverside setting, and reflect on the morning's sightings before your next adventure.

Later, set out on an afternoon jeep safari, venturing deep into Chitwan's diverse landscapes of grassland, riverine forest, and dense woodland. One of the park's greatest conservation successes is the recovery of the endangered one-horned rhino, now thriving here thanks to decades of protection, with Chitwan National Park home to the majority of the world's population.

As you explore, look out for wild boar, sambar deer, langur monkeys and sloth bears. And if you're very lucky, there's always the possibility of encountering the elusive Royal Bengal tiger.

This evening, unwind with a BBQ dinner served on the outdoor deck (weather permitting) - the perfect way to end a day immersed in the sights and sounds of the jungle.

Accommodation:

Jungle Villa Resort (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Lodge

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 - In Chitwan, guided jungle walk and afternoon jeep safari

An early morning guided jungle walk marks the beginning of another day in Chitwan. The walk will be led by an expert naturalist guide who will introduce you to the smaller species you might not have spotted on the jeep safari. The walk also gives you the chance to learn more about the unique ecosystem in Chitwan.

Returning to the lodge, you'll have a few hours to relax by the pool, read a book or catch up on sleep, before we embark on our second jeep safari covering the community forest within the buffer zone of the park.

Accommodation:

Jungle Villa Resort (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Lodge

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 - Return to Kathmandu

It's time to big farewell to Chitwan this morning after breakfast. You'll be transferred from our lodge to your hotel in Kathmandu - a journey of six hours including stops.

After arriving into the capital by late afternoon, the rest of the day is free for you to explore Kathmandu at your own pace. You might like to visit the Boundhanath Stupa when the setting sun highlights the golden spire, or visit the UNESCO-listed Patan Durbar Square. Alternatively, seek out some famous Nepalese momo dumplings before calling it a day.

Accommodation:

Hotel Ambassador (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 5 - Trip ends in Kathmandu

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Kathmandu.

There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart from Kathmandu at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel.

If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), which is around 15 minutes from the hotel.

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Trip information

Climate and country information

Nepal

Climate

Temperatures in the lower altitude regions are extremely pleasant, with variations in temperature from 8°C (46°F) to the highest of 31°C (88°F). The mountains are best admired, with greater air clarity, from October to January, while from February to May the skies may be hazy. Monsoon rains are strongest in June, July and August. The coldest months are December and January.

Time difference to GMT

+5.45

Plugs

2 Pin Round

Religion

Hinduism

Language

Nepali

Budgeting and packing

Clothing

Lightweight and breathable clothing made from natural fibres, such as linen or cotton, is advisable, particularly if travelling during the hot months of March to May.
For wildlife spotting, bright coloured clothing should be avoided. Neutral colours and earthy-toned clothes, such as khaki, beige, brown etc, will help you blend into the environment more.
Long-sleeve tops and trousers will help protect you from the intense sun and mosquitoes, especially during the jungle walks and safaris. Similarly, closed-toe walking shoes or walking trainers (with grip) will help you navigate the uneven terrain on the guided walks.
To protect you from the sun, a wide-brim hat will keep the sun off your head during the jeep and walking safari. Some choose to bring hat with a foldable neck protector to proect your neck from the sun.
A buff to protect your face from dust during the jeep safari, and also protect your neck, is strongly advised.
The morning activities can be carried out during chilly morning, especially if travelling during the Winter Season - November to February. In which case, warm layers, such as a fleece and jacket, will keep you comfortably warm.
It generally advisable to bring a waterproof jacket due to the unpredictability of the weather. This is essential in the months running up to Monsoon season (March - May).

Equipment

Binoculars are essential for wildlife spotting. and will enhance your overall wildlife experience.
Insect repellent, sun cream, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle are all strongly recommended. To carry your essentials during your safaris, it's important to bring a small bag or day backpack.

Nepal

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.


Lunch price
£8
Dinner price
£10
Beer price
£3
Water price
£0.5
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Nepali Rupee.
Recommended Currency For Exchange
US$ or GBP.
Where To Exchange
In major cities and towns
ATM Availability
Although you may occasionally find cash machines these are very unreliable - do not rely on plastic!
Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are not generally accepted except in larger establishments in Kathmandu.
Transport, Accommodation, Food & Drink

Transport Information

4WD, Boat, Minibus, On Foot

Accommodation notes

Jungle Villas Resort is located on the banks of the River Rapti, giving the property a great vantage point to spot wildlife at the riverside from the property's observation deck. The lodge also features a restaurant that serves traditional nepali food using organic ingredients produced by local farmers, as well as Continetal, Indian and Chinese cuisine. The property also has a bar and a pool to relax in after activities.

Nepal

Food and drink

Can you drink the water? 
The water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip. 

 

Essential Information

Government Travel Safety Advice

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination's safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. Relevant government website links for UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens are available on our Travel Safety page.

If you'd like some inital information on country-specific entry requirements, such as visas or any health declaration forms, please refer to our Entry Requirements page.  The services and information on this page are provided by a third party, and so we will still recommend that you cross check this against your government website for the latest advice.
 

Under 18 immigration guidance

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions
 

Booking conditions

Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
 

Minimum age restrictions

For our group tours, the minimum age is 16. The minimum age on Family trips varies between 7 and 11 - please check the 'Family information' section of the trip page for more information. 


Your safety and enjoyment on tour

We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at cr@explore.co.uk as soon as possible. Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities. This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred. 
 

Your Tour Leader

All tours aside from extensions, Galapagos cruises and polar expeditions will be led by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments in country – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.

Transfers

Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.

Booking a land only package with Explore

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. 

You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.


Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.

The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.  

Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.  

For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.


Flight Information

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

 

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Nepal

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against malaria, infectious hepatitis, typhoid, tetanus, polio and Japanese encephalitis. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on different prophylaxis available against malaria. Although not compulsory, travellers may wish to take immunisation against meningococcal meningitis. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by on the NaTHNaC website and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

Wildlife information
Award Winning Explore Leaders
Find out more
Price Guarantee Promise
Find out more
Airport Transfers
Find out more
Print Trip Notes

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