Royal Trek with wildlife tour
Nepal is a place steeped in the traditions of ancient cultures. Our journey begins with cultural tours as well as the trek in the Middle Himalaya in a stunning off-the beaten track is virtually untouched by the modern world. These are the paths once taken by Nepal’s royalty as they traveled south to winter in India. In the subtropical jungle of Royal Chitwan National park we travel astride elephants watching for wildlife and even the elusive one horn Rhino.
The Royal Trek is one of the shortest treks that follow a shrub like path along the foothills of Annapurna, north of the Pokhara valley. The Royal Trek is so-named because Prince Charles and his 90 person entourage had explored this route in the early eighties. This trek provides the opportunities for meaningful cultural experiences with the diverse mix of people and cultures that inhabit this region.
The journey of Royal trek begins in the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara and passes through beautiful Gurung hamlets. During the trek, we are able to enjoy stunning views of the eloquently built hillside rice terraces, the magnificent Annapurna range, Machapuchhre [fishtail] and the different Mountain views. The trip finally ends at the scenic Begnas Lake which is about 30 km West of Pokhara City.
The Royal trekking trip is basically recommended for beginners who are restricted by time to trek longer. This Royal trek presents a true picture of uniqueness and allowing us the chance to capture traditional lifestyles of the tribes whose ancient religious practices and traditions have remained unchanged for thousands of years. Compared to other trekking areas in Annapurna region, Royal trekking route is less crowded, so you can get more close to nature, culture and life style.
Upon your arrival in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our local representative who will bring you to the boutique lodge located over a hill top next to the Shivapuri National park, the lodge is beautiful and it represent Nepals heritage when it comes to traditions, hospitality and architecht in an amazing way.
Upon arrival at the lodge, everyone will be assigned their room and rest of the time is free for relax and enjoy the place. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by the local team at the Lodge. Overnight in Chhahari Retreat - Kathmandu. Web: www.chhahari-retreat.com
After breakfast, we set out to explore the palaces, temples and monasteries of Kathmandu valley. We start driving to Bhaktapur, the drive is approximately about one an half hours. It is one of the three medieval principalities of Kathmandu valley and best the preserved one.
Bhaktapur, with its Durbar Square and beautiful temples, intricate wood carving in the balconies and windows and fabulous stone sculptures and clean, brick paved streets give the impression of being an open air museum. The major attractions of Bhaktapur are the palace of 55 windows, the giant Taleju Bell in front of the palace, the gold gilded gate with beautiful metal works in its semicircular pediment, the royal bath tank inside the palace, 5 storied Naytapola temple, Duttratraya Temple, and Pujarinath complex with Peacock window-the masterpiece woodcarving in Nepal.
We walk through the narrow alleys with private houses on both sides, and visit the potter’s square where we learn the traditional methods of pottery making and sneak a peek into the wood carver’s workshop near Duttratraya. After spending a good amount of time at the Bhaktapur we continue drive to our next destination site Pashupatinath Temple.
Pashupatinath Temple one of the holiest Hindu Temples in entire South Asia. The temple is situated on the bank of sacred Bagmati River, which is a tributary of the sacred Ganges. Admission to the temple is reserved for Hindus only, yet we can have close up view of the temple from the other side of the river. The temple and the surroundings are vibrant with rites and rituals performed by Hindu devotees. We will also have the opportunity to watch the Hindu cremation services in the bank of the river. Spending a good amount of time in Pashupatinath temple, we continue drive to Boudhanath stupa, and then you will have a lunch in a local restaurant with a view of stupa.
After a lunch break, you will do touring around the giant Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist shrines in South Asia. The stupa with 100 m (328 ft.) diameter and 40 m (130 ft) height can be spotted from many viewpoints in Kathmandu. There are a number of Buddhist monasteries around and the area is dominantly Tibetan in character and reminds very much of the Barkhor area of Lhasa in Tibet. After spending a good amount of time in Bhaktapur we will return to the hotel late afternoon & check in hotel.
At the noon, there will be a pre trip discussion where you can meet our trekking leader who will brief you regarding your trek & tour as well as provides you opportunity to ask any questions you may have regarding your upcoming adventure. You might shop around the city if you need any gears for the trek during the evening time. Overnight in Chhahari Retreat- Kathmandu
Today, we take an hour's mountain flight in the morning. Mountain flights are done daily by various domestic airlines, taking-off from Kathmandu airport offering an unparalleled panoramic views of the Himalayas taking you within camera range of the highest peaks in the world. After the mountain flight, we start a guided tour to four of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Kathmandu Durbar Square holds the palaces of the medieval Kings who ruled over the then Kathmandu Kingdom.
Early morning, you will proceed for Mountain flight takes off from Kathmandu Airport and flies east in modern Jet stream 41 fully pressurized and air-conditioned fleet, where you can enjoy a seemingly endless chain of snowcapped peaks as you fly above the clouds, over glaciers and lakes, rivers and gorges from your private individual window. The clear, non-tinted window offers a great opportunity to experience and photograph the aerial view of the Kathmandu valley and the landscapes of Nepal.
Our vehicle will wait for you during your flight, while you finished your mountain flight trip, then transfer to your hotel for a breakfast. After breakfast, we set out to explore the palaces, temples and Monasteries of Kathmandu valley. We begin from Swayambhunath, the drive is approximately about 1 hrs.
Swayambhunath:
This is one of the world's most glorious Buddhist Chaityas. It is said to be 2000 years old. Painted on the four sides of the spire's base are the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. It is 3 km west of Kathmandu city and is situated on a hillock about 77m above the level of the Kathmandu valley and hence commands an excellent view of the valley. This stupa is the oldest of its kind. It was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Monument List in 1979.The unique architecture of Swayambhunath is one of the most easily recognizable symbols of Nepal. From here one can enjoy a spectacular view of Kathmandu City. Legend says that in ancient times the valley was a lake and it was known as the serpent's lake. Saint Manjushree cut the southern part of the valley and drained the water out. The Swayambhunath was the first exit and became the most important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Spending an hour in Swayambhunath stupa, we head to our next destination site Kathmandu Durbar Square, the drive is approximately about 20 minutes.
Kathmandu Durbar Square:
Duly recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO, this particular area best known as Kathmandu Durbar Squares lies in the heart of this city. The locals know this area by its old name "Hanuman Dhoka" palace square an ancient seat of the Nepalese Royalty. The Hanuman Dhoka Palace complex consists of a huge Royal Square exposing a tremendous variety of temples Dedicated to different Hindus gods and goddess. Most of the buildings we see here date from 15th to 17th Century. Today you will have lunch in one of the local restaurants in Durbar Square.
After spending an hour in Durbar Square, we browse through the narrow streets of Assan and Indrachowk, the traditional business hub of Kathmandu & we will enter to Thamel, which is stringed with shops selling souvenir items and personal gears for trekkers.
We will also visit the Garden of Dreams which reminds us of the setting of the Victorian Era. We will spend the quality time in the serene atmosphere Garden of dreams that is decorated with an array of blooming flowers, water fountains and dew ponds. Other activities at Garden of Dreams include sipping hot coffee in Kaiser Café and visiting Kaiser Library.
In the evening, there will be a dinner hosted by our team at to a Palace for dinner, you will be served excellent authentic Nepalese cuisine which will introduce you to the Nepalese food culture. After dinner you will return back to the hotel.
Overnight in Chhahari Retreat- Kathmandu
Enjoy an early al fresco breakfast before a morning drive to the Pokhara. After breakfast we drive to Pokhara by private vehicle. If the weather will be clear, you can take pleasure in amazing views of green mountains and villages. Upon reaching the Pokhara, you will have a warm welcome by hotel staff. Everyone will be assigned their room and the afternoon is as well as a free time to relax. The enchanting city, which offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, five peaks of Annapurna and others. Pokhara has numerous lakes, known as 'Tal' in Nepali which offer fishing, boating and swimming. Strolling around the Lakeside city and exploring it in the evening is enjoyable.
Overnight in Hotel –Pokhara
Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we drive to Bijayapur Khola to begin our trek. The drive is approximately 1 hrs. Then we start our trek to Kalikasthan, initially we start our walk for about an hour through flat paddy fields and cross the river. After crossing the river the trail starts to ascend to Kalikasthan. Lunch will be served midway through the climb. After arriving at Kalikasthan, we rest for some time then explore the surrounding areas. We spend overnight at a Camp.
Overnight in Camp–Kalikasthan
After breakfast, we start walking through the villages. We walk along the ridge of the mountain which offers good views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal. Today, we can explore many villages, its locals and the rhododendron forests.
Overnight in Camp–Syaklung
After breakfast at the camp, we start walking through the Gurung village gives an opportunity to observe the local lifestyle. We move ahead playing a game of hide and seek with the rhododendron and Sal trees. Half way through the walk there is a 400m descent, then a 600m ascent for us to arrive at Chisapani. This is the best view point to see the Himalayan Panorama. You will see Dhaulagiri to the west of Annapurna.
Overnight in Camp–Chisapani
This is our last day of trek. After breakfast at the camp, we walk half way down the hill to Rupatal and climb about 200 meters to arrive at Sundare Danda. Walk 15 minutes down to Begnas Tal and enjoy an hour of boating. Transfer to Pokhara, check in at a hotel and take rest
Overnight in Hotel –Pokhara
After a sumptuous buffet breakfast at the hotel, we will continue our journey to Chitwan National Park about 180 kilometers take a 4-5 hour’s drive.
Upon arrival, welcome drink is served and rooms will be assigned. After some refreshments and having lunch we get the briefing about the facilities and jungle activities by the naturalist. The Naturalist will introduce background data and history of the Royal Chitwan National park as well as some other topics relating to wildlife. They will also introduce about Elephant –back safari: Guests will ride on an elephant to explore the jungle and wildlife the one-horned rhinoceros, several types of deer, monkeys, wild boar, and different kind of birdson this exciting ride.
At the end of the day overnight stay at the lodge, after having dinner.
Overnight in Resort–Chitwan
Early morning guests will be mounted on elephant back and taken for a jungle safari for 2-3 hours penetrating through dense grasslands to view wildlife in their natural habitat. This grass commonly known as elephant grass is dense and grows to a height of 18-20 ft. It is the favorite habitat for rhinoceros and other mammals.
After breakfast, the guests are taken to our elephant stables where a senior naturalist brief about the interesting and unbelievable habits of elephants. Here one may witness the rare scene of the elephants at bath. Lunch at the Resort
In the afternoon, we will take a drive through the jungles in four wheel drive jeep followed by a canoe ride down the Rapti River. The river ride provides the opportunity of viewing the Gharial crocodiles as well as the mugger crocodiles, fresh water dolphins, otters and varieties of water birds.
PROGRAM DETAIL:
Wake –up call followed by tea or coffee, and then proceeds on a Nature walk. This encounter on foot with the environment will introduce the main features of eastern Chitwan. Sal forest, open grassland and riverside jungle. Our guides will help you identify some species of birds, plants and other wildlife that you may encounter.
Elephant briefing program: Learn more about these fascinating animals during a visit to our elephant stables. (For the brave ones there is even a crash course in riding or take leading the elephants) Remaining hours before the afternoon program: take a dip in the pool, or relax on your verandah. Hammocks and the library are at your disposal.
Canoeing: A traditional dug-out canoe takes you on a silent trip down the Rapti River to view aquatic birds and the animals of the river banks. Back to the Jungle (Optional depending on water level – not favorable in winter time Nov – Feb)
Tharu stick dance: Farmers of the nearby villages will show some of their traditional skills and dances.
Bird watching: after early morning tea/coffee we go for the bird watching around the Jungle.
Elephant –back safari: Guests will ride on an elephant to explore the jungle and wildlife the one-horned rhinoceros, several types of deer, monkeys, wild boar, bison, sloth bear, with this exciting ride.
Overnight in Resort–Chitwan
Web: www.tigerlandresort.com
After breakfast in the morning, since Chitwan is a bird paradise of resident and migratory birds, making it a delightful and educational experience for every bird watcher. The special bird watching tour can be arranged too. Then, you will be transferred to Bharatpur airport to catch a flight to Kathmandu, by jeep or coach from Resort, which is 22 km south from the airport. We meet our representative at the Kathmandu airport who will assist us to get in a hotel. While we check into a hotel we get some refreshments. You can spend the afternoon leisurely, or perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping or go on a cycle rischwa tour in Kathmandu.
In the evening, we celebrate the successful completion of our journey, with a farewell dinner together with our team at the restaurant which has a large selection of wonderful dishes to choose from.
Overnight in Chhahari Retreat- Kathmandu
Web: www.chhahari-retreat.com
Your trip comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. A representative from our team will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight.
