Nepal Gay Trekking Adventure

After breakfast, let’s set out for Bandipur, a picturesque Newari Village perched on the Mahabharat Range above the Marsyandi River Valley. Frozen in time, Bandipur is a living museum of Newari culture, boasting winding lanes adorned with traditional Newari houses. The village offers a captivating panoramic view of the Annapurna range, including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal.

Explore Tundikhel, a field to the northern end of Bandipur’s main bazaar. It serves as an exceptional vantage point for witnessing both the Marsyangdi Valley and the majestic Himalayan Range  in a single breathtaking frame. Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Langtang, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, the legendary Gorkha palace, and the renowned Manakamana peak are all visible from this spot. Additional sights include Bimalnagar and Dumre Bazaar.

Then, we will continue our exploration to Thani Mai, also known as Purano Kot, originally a fort, west of the main bazaar. A leisurely twenty-minute climb leads to the top, where a small temple houses several ancient statues. Adjacent to it is the newly built temple of Thanithan Mai. Local belief holds that praying to the god Mahadev at this site during a drought can bring rain. Perched on a hilltop above the bazaar, Thani Mai provides stunning views of the mountains and the village, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Day 8: Bandipur – Chitwan

After having breakfast, we will embark on a journey from Bandipur to Chitwan. Nestled in the Inner Terai lowlands, Chitwan National Park boasts diverse landscapes, including Sal forests, towering elephant grasslands, hills, ox-bow lakes, and flood plains along the Narayani, Rapti, and Reu rivers. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Natural) since 1984, the park covers an expansive 932 sq.km. It houses an impressive array of wildlife, including 56 mammal species, 49 amphibians and reptiles, and 525 bird species.

Notable residents range from the endangered one-horned rhinoceros and Royal Bengal tiger to gaur, wild elephants, four-horned antelopes, leopards, sloth bears, and an assortment of other creatures, big and small. The park is also a habitat for cobras, kraits, pythons, and marsh mugger crocodiles in its swampy areas and numerous oxbow lakes. The Narayani River hosts one of the last populations of the rare and endangered fish-eating gharial, alongside one of the world’s four species of freshwater dolphins.

Chitwan is a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering sightings of vibrant woodpeckers, hornbills, Bengal floricans, red-headed trogons, and winter birds like waterfowls, Brahminy ducks, pintails, and bareheaded geese. Summers bring nesting migrants such as the fabulous paradise flycatcher, the Indian pitta, and parakeets, while winter sees migratory birds from Siberia.

Upon reaching Barahi Jungle Lodge via Chaubiskothi, 32 km from the main highway in Bharatpur, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and a brief overview of the program and facilities.

Lunch awaits at Banyan Café or by the Pool. In the afternoon, we will embark on a boat safari with a sundowner experience at the confluence point, floating downstream the Rapti River towards the park’s western boundary formed by the Himalayan Narayani.

Engage in a slide presentation where one of our jungle experts will delve into the background data and history of Chitwan National Park and other wildlife-related topics. Feel free to ask any questions. Let’s cap off the day with dinner at Banyan Café.

Day 9: Chitwan

Explore the jungle on a Morning Jeep Safari, spanning approximately 4-5 hours. The adventure begins with a Patela Boat ride across the Rapti River from Bhimle army check post. Our seasoned naturalists select between three routes based on their insights into recent animal sightings and movements.

Route Options:

1. Bhimle post – Sukhibhar post towards Kasara (park headquarters)
2. Bhimle post – Reu River- Surung Khola
3. Bhimle Post – Reu River- towards Khoria Muhan Post

Indulge in a breakfast break at a picturesque and secure location chosen by the Naturalist during the safari. Please note that the Jeep Safari is restricted during the monsoon season (June-September) by the park authorities, and sometimes it may extend until October.

Following the safari, enjoy leisure time for relaxation by the pool or make use of the spa facilities until lunchtime.

Savor a delightful lunch at Banyan Café or opt for a poolside dining experience.

This afternoon we will embark on a Walking Safari, guided by an experienced naturalist and nature guide, offering a deeper exploration of the National Park’s wildlife, flora & fauna, and birding opportunities. (2-3 hours)

Or, instead of a walking safari, we will enjoy a short village walk to experience daily life of the people. We will have an experienced communicator to help enhance the knowledge on the life of Tharu people. (2 hours)

As the day winds down, witness the vibrant Tharu Cultural Dance, where farmers from nearby villages showcase their traditional skills and dances.

Day 10: Chitwan – Kathmandu

This morning, we will check out of our lodge and transfer to Bharatpur airport for our flight to Kathmandu.

We will explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a city rich in religious architecture. Its clean, narrow streets lead to hidden temples and bustling artisan workshops. Discover the local lifestyle, with communal courtyards for bathing and socializing. Bhaktapur is renowned for cultural handicrafts, making it an ideal shopping destination for unique souvenirs. Key attractions include the 55 Window Palace, Golden Gate, and Nyatapola Temple.

Later we will arrive at Aphalu’s Nest, a “place for lasting bond in true natural harmony” for the experience of dinner with Surendra in Thimi.

Surendra is former colonel of the Nepalese army; Surendra and his wife Aphalu now live a peaceful retreat in their home near Thimi. Accustomed to traveling around the world for many years, the couple has a real appetite for meetings, sharing and discovery of other cultures. Surendra takes pride in showing guests his recently cultivated vegetable garden, sharing tales of his distinguished military career through official photographs, and narrating the remarkable story of how he lovingly rebuilt the ancestral home where he was born.

During your visit, you will have the privilege of joining Aphalu and Surendra for a meal they have prepared with care. This is not just a chance to savor authentic Nepalese cuisine but also an opportunity to connect with this delightful couple and immerse yourself in their world. Their warmth, stories, and hospitality are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Day 11: In and Around Kathmandu

Following breakfast, our day begins at Boudhanath Stupa, one of Nepal’s largest spherical stupas, surrounded by over 50 monasteries. Witness the calming evening ambiance with butter lamps and the scent of sage. Interact with monks at Shakya monastery, where the Hi-Lama will bless you with a Khada Himalayan Silk Scarf, providing a memorable spiritual experience.

Our next stop will be Pashupatinath Temple, located on the banks of Bagmati River is the sacred Pashupati Temple. Pashupati is a manifestation of Shiva and means ‘The Lord of Animal’. This temple has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. The temple premise consists of temples, ashrams, idols, and inscription added over centuries.

Tonight we will enjoy our Farewell Dinner.

Day 12: Departure

Today we transfer to the Kathmandu airport for our flights home or onto your next adventure.