Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days

The Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour is a carefully designed journey that combines Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, scenic hill landscapes, authentic village life, and ethical wildlife experiences in one seamless itinerary. Organized by Alpine Club of Himalaya, this family-friendly and immersive tour offers the perfect balance between exploration, relaxation, education, and adventure. From ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley to peaceful Himalayan sunrises in Nagarkot and responsible jungle activities in Chitwan, this 8-day Nepal tour showcases the country’s diversity in a meaningful and comfortable way.

This itinerary is ideal for families with children, couples, and travelers seeking a safe, culturally enriching, and wildlife-focused Nepal experience without extreme trekking. Each day is thoughtfully planned to ensure gradual travel, comfortable private transfers, ethical activities, and engaging local interactions. With experienced guides and personalized service from Alpine Club of Himalaya, travelers gain deeper insights into Nepal’s history, spirituality, rural traditions, and biodiversity while enjoying reliable logistics and handpicked accommodations.

Your journey begins in Kathmandu, the cultural heart of Nepal, where ancient temples, bustling courtyards, and sacred monuments reflect centuries of art and devotion. Guided sightseeing includes iconic UNESCO-listed landmarks such as Swayambhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple, offering travelers a deep understanding of Nepal’s Hindu and Buddhist traditions. After exploring the valley, a scenic drive leads to Nagarkot, a peaceful hill station known for panoramic Himalayan views and unforgettable sunrise moments. Here, guests enjoy gentle village walks, interaction with local families, and meaningful exposure to rural life, agriculture, and traditional customs in a relaxed setting.

The adventure continues in Chitwan, home to the famous Chitwan National Park. Unlike typical wildlife tours, this itinerary focuses on ethical and child-friendly nature activities. Instead of animal riding or forced interaction, guests participate in guided jungle walks, birdwatching, and educational nature programs led by experienced naturalists. Cultural visits to local Tharu communities provide insight into indigenous traditions, architecture, farming practices, and sustainable lifestyles. These interactive experiences allow travelers to connect with local people while learning about conservation and community-based tourism.

The tour concludes with a scenic flight from Bharatpur back to Kathmandu, offering beautiful aerial views of Nepal’s landscapes before a farewell dinner in Thamel. Throughout the journey, Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures private transfers, knowledgeable guides, comfortable hotels and resorts, ethical wildlife practices, and personalized service.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to experience the Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour with Alpine Club of Himalaya is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions for sightseeing in Kathmandu, enjoying clear Himalayan sunrise views from Nagarkot, and exploring the jungles of Chitwan National Park.

Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures, blooming rhododendron forests, and excellent mountain visibility. It is an ideal time for guided cultural tours, village walks, and ethical wildlife activities, as the weather remains comfortable across Kathmandu Valley, hill regions, and the Terai plains of Chitwan. Wildlife sightings are often rewarding during this season, and nature appears fresh and vibrant.

Autumn (September to November) is considered the peak travel season in Nepal due to stable weather, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures. This is the best period for panoramic Himalayan views from Nagarkot and optimal jungle exploration in Chitwan. Major Nepalese festivals such as Dashain and Tihar also take place during this time, allowing visitors to experience authentic cultural celebrations.

Winter (December to February) is suitable for travelers who prefer fewer crowds. While mornings and evenings in Nagarkot can be cold, daytime sightseeing in Kathmandu and wildlife activities in Chitwan remain comfortable and enjoyable.

The monsoon season (June to August) brings lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, but occasional rainfall may affect mountain visibility and outdoor activities. However, this period is excellent for birdwatching and experiencing Nepal’s countryside at its most vibrant.

Overall, spring and autumn provide the most balanced weather, clear views, and comfortable travel conditions for this cultural and wildlife journey organized by Alpine Club of Himalaya.

Weather and Climate

Nepal offers diverse weather and climate conditions due to its varied geography, ranging from lowland tropical plains to high hill regions. During the Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour with Alpine Club of Himalaya, travelers experience three main climatic zones: the temperate climate of Kathmandu, the cool hill climate of Nagarkot, and the subtropical climate of Chitwan National Park.

In Kathmandu Valley and Nagarkot, spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild temperatures, clear skies, and excellent mountain visibility. Daytime temperatures typically range between 18°C to 28°C, while mornings and evenings in Nagarkot can be cooler due to higher elevation. Winter (December–February) brings chilly mornings and evenings, especially in hill areas, though daytime sightseeing remains comfortable.

Chitwan, located in the southern Terai region, has a warmer and more humid climate. Spring and autumn are pleasant for jungle walks and wildlife activities, while winter is mild and ideal for safaris. Summer and monsoon (June–August) can be hot and humid with occasional rainfall, but the landscape becomes lush and green, enhancing birdwatching opportunities. Overall, the tour is enjoyable year-round, with spring and autumn providing the most balanced and comfortable weather conditions.

Ethics You Should Follow

Responsible and ethical travel is an important part of every journey organized by Alpine Club of Himalaya. Travelers are encouraged to respect local culture, traditions, and religious practices when visiting temples, heritage sites, and villages. Modest dress, polite behavior, and asking permission before taking photographs of people are strongly recommended.

During wildlife activities in Chitwan, guests should follow strict ethical guidelines. This includes avoiding animal riding, not disturbing wildlife, maintaining a safe distance from animals, and listening carefully to professional naturalist guides. Feeding wild animals or engaging in forced interactions is discouraged to ensure conservation and animal welfare.

Environmental responsibility is equally important. Travelers should minimize plastic use, dispose of waste properly, conserve water and electricity, and avoid littering in natural areas. Supporting local communities by purchasing handmade goods, respecting village customs, and participating in community-based experiences helps promote sustainable tourism.

By following these ethical practices, travelers contribute positively to Nepal’s environment, wildlife conservation efforts, and local communities while enjoying a meaningful and responsible travel experience.

Photography and Drone Policy

Photography is encouraged throughout the Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour, as Nepal offers stunning cultural landmarks, Himalayan landscapes, and rich wildlife experiences. However, travelers must follow respectful and legal guidelines. When visiting religious sites in Kathmandu, such as Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa, photography may be restricted in certain areas. Always ask for permission before photographing local people, monks, or ceremonies.

Drone usage in Nepal is strictly regulated. Flying drones without official permission from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and other relevant authorities is prohibited, especially near heritage sites and protected areas such as Chitwan National Park. Drone flights inside national parks require special permits and are generally restricted to protect wildlife and visitor safety. Alpine Club of Himalaya can provide guidance on obtaining the necessary permissions, but travelers are responsible for ensuring full compliance with Nepal’s aviation and conservation laws. Unauthorized drone use may result in fines, confiscation of equipment, or legal action.

Flora and Fauna

The Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour provides travelers with an incredible mix of cultural exploration, Himalayan scenery, and rich biodiversity. From the urban landscapes of Kathmandu to the forests and riverbanks of Chitwan National Park, participants experience a wide variety of ecosystems.

In Nagarkot and the Kathmandu Valley, the landscape is dominated by temperate forests with oak, pine, rhododendron, and maple trees. These forests support numerous bird species, including Himalayan bulbul, red-vented bulbul, and various pheasants, making this region ideal for birdwatching and nature photography. Small mammals, lizards, and colorful butterflies add to the biodiversity encountered during gentle village walks and short hikes.

In contrast, Chitwan National Park is a lowland Terai jungle ecosystem, rich in dense sal forests, grasslands, and riverine vegetation. This region is home to some of Nepal’s most iconic wildlife, including one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, and elephants, along with a remarkable variety of birds such as kingfishers, storks, and hornbills. Ethical jungle walks and canoe rides allow visitors to observe wildlife in their natural habitats without disturbing the ecosystem. Local Tharu communities coexist harmoniously with the forest, and participants may see domesticated water buffalo and cattle as part of the cultural landscape.

By combining high-altitude forests, Himalayan vistas, and lowland Terai biodiversity, this 8-day tour offers a comprehensive nature and wildlife experience in Nepal, appealing to adventure seekers, families, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Guided by Alpine Club of Himalaya, travelers can enjoy safe, ethical, and educational wildlife encounters while appreciating the region’s natural beauty.

Accommodation

This premium Nepal tour is designed with luxury and comfort in mind. Guests stay in carefully selected 5-star hotels in Kathmandu and Chitwan, offering modern amenities, spacious rooms, excellent dining options, spa facilities, and high standards of hospitality. These properties provide a relaxing environment after daily sightseeing and wildlife activities.

In Nagarkot, accommodation is arranged in a 4-star hotel with panoramic Himalayan views, ensuring a comfortable and peaceful hill-station experience. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms, scenic terraces, and quality dining services, allowing guests to fully enjoy the sunrise and mountain atmosphere.

Throughout the journey, Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures that all accommodations meet international comfort standards, prioritizing cleanliness, safety, and personalized service to enhance the overall travel experience.

Transportation

All transportation during the tour is arranged privately by Alpine Club of Himalaya to ensure comfort, safety, and flexibility. Airport transfers in Kathmandu are provided with private vehicles and professional drivers. For sightseeing tours within Kathmandu Valley and transfers to Nagarkot and Chitwan, guests travel in air-conditioned private vehicles suitable for the group size.

The return journey from Chitwan includes a domestic flight from Bharatpur to Kathmandu, offering a quick and scenic travel experience while minimizing long road travel. All vehicles are well-maintained, driven by experienced drivers, and selected to provide a smooth and comfortable journey across Nepal’s varied terrain.

Meals

During the Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour with Alpine Club of Himalaya, meals are thoughtfully planned to ensure comfort, hygiene, and a taste of authentic Nepali and international cuisine. Daily breakfast is included throughout the trip, served at your hotel with a variety of continental and local options. In Chitwan National Park, full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided at the luxury resort, offering freshly prepared dishes in a safe and comfortable dining setting. A special farewell dinner is arranged in Kathmandu on Day 7, allowing guests to enjoy a memorable evening before departure. All meals are prepared in reputable hotels and resorts, ensuring quality, cleanliness, and dietary flexibility where required.

Drinking Water

Safe drinking water is an important part of comfortable travel in Nepal. During the tour, bottled mineral water is readily available at hotels and resorts. In Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Chitwan, guests can purchase sealed bottled water easily. Alpine Club of Himalaya also encourages environmentally responsible practices by recommending reusable water bottles where possible. In hotels and resorts, purified or filtered water is often available. Guests are advised not to drink tap water directly and to rely on bottled or properly treated water throughout the journey.

Tour Guide

Professional guidance is an essential part of this luxury Nepal tour. In Kathmandu, a licensed cultural tour guide accompanies you during the heritage sightseeing program, providing detailed explanations about historical monuments, temples, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

While driving from Nagarkot to Chitwan National Park, a tour guide will accompany the group to ensure smooth coordination, provide insights about the regions you pass through, and assist with any travel needs.

In Chitwan, a dedicated and experienced naturalist guide will take care of you during jungle activities, birdwatching, and community visits. These guides are trained in wildlife behavior, conservation ethics, and guest safety, ensuring a responsible and educational experience.

On Day 2, a short-guided hike in Nagarkot is included, allowing guests to explore nearby villages and scenic viewpoints with the support of a local guide. This gentle walk enhances your understanding of rural life and provides a safe and enriching experience for all age groups.

Throughout the journey, Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures knowledgeable, friendly, and professional guides to deliver a smooth, informative, and memorable Nepal travel experience.

Safety and Security

Safety and security are a top priority on the Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour with Alpine Club of Himalaya. All transfers, sightseeing tours, and jungle activities are carefully organized to minimize risk, with professional drivers, licensed guides, and trained naturalists accompanying you at all times. In Chitwan, wildlife activities are conducted ethically and safely, with strict adherence to park regulations, ensuring guests maintain a safe distance from animals. Hotels and resorts chosen for the tour follow international safety standards, including fire safety, security personnel, and well-maintained facilities. Guests are also briefed on travel safety, local customs, and responsible behavior to ensure a secure and stress-free experience.

NCell SIM Card for the Group

To stay connected during the tour, Alpine Club of Himalaya provides one NCell SIM card for the group. This ensures reliable communication for coordinating transfers, guides, and emergency contacts throughout the journey. NCell coverage is strong in Kathmandu, Nagarkot, and Chitwan, while mobile signals may be limited in some remote areas. The SIM card also allows access to 4G data for maps, weather updates, and messaging, keeping the group connected while traveling safely.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants on this tour. It should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, loss of luggage, and evacuation in case of illness or accident. Alpine Club of Himalaya strongly recommends purchasing comprehensive insurance that includes coverage for jungle activities, domestic flights, and travel in rural areas. Having proper insurance ensures peace of mind for guests and provides financial protection in case of unforeseen events during the expedition.

Passport and Visa

All international visitors to Nepal require a valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of arrival. A Nepal visa is required for most nationalities and can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or in advance from a Nepalese embassy. Alpine Club of Himalaya advises travelers to carry multiple passport copies, visa documents, and emergency contact information. Ensuring proper documentation is essential for smooth entry, travel, and participation in cultural and wildlife activities throughout the tour.

Permit and Entrance Fees

During the Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour with Alpine Club of Himalaya, all necessary permits and entrance fees for sightseeing and park visits are included in the package. This includes entry fees to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, such as Swayambhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.

In Chitwan National Park, all park entrance fees are covered, including ethical wildlife activity permits and guided nature walk fees. By including these costs in the package, Alpine Club of Himalaya ensures that travelers do not face additional expenses at key cultural and wildlife sites, allowing for a seamless and stress-free experience.

ATMs Availability

Nepal is increasingly well-connected in terms of banking services, and ATMs are widely available in major cities such as Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, as well as in tourist hubs like Nagarkot and Chitwan. Most ATMs accept international debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro) and provide cash in Nepali Rupees.

However, ATMs are limited or nonexistent in smaller villages, remote hill areas, and during the jungle portion of the tour in Chitwan. Alpine Club of Himalaya advises guests to carry sufficient cash for minor expenses, souvenirs, or optional activities. Hotels, resorts, and many restaurants accept credit cards, but having cash on hand ensures convenience, especially in rural or remote areas.

This combination of pre-paid permits and knowledge of ATM availability allows travelers to enjoy a smooth and well-prepared journey across Nepal, from cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu to immersive wildlife experiences in Chitwan.

Last Minute Booking

Alpine Club of Himalaya understands that travel plans can change or sometimes be decided at short notice. That’s why last-minute bookings for the Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour are welcomed, subject to availability. Even for travelers making reservations close to the departure date, the team strives to secure accommodations, domestic flights, and private transport to ensure a smooth journey.

Last-minute bookings are ideal for spontaneous travelers or families seeking a short cultural and wildlife adventure in Nepal. To facilitate this, guests are encouraged to share essential information such as passport details, dietary preferences, medical conditions, and any special requirements as early as possible. The experienced team at Alpine Club of Himalaya will provide personalized support, confirm arrangements promptly, and guide travelers through the logistics, ensuring a stress-free start to their Nepal journey.

Online Pre-Trip Briefing

To ensure every guest is fully prepared and confident before arrival in Nepal, Alpine Club of Himalaya provides a comprehensive online pre-trip briefing. This session covers all important aspects of the tour, including a detailed day-by-day itinerary, accommodation standards, transportation arrangements, cultural etiquette, ethical wildlife practices, and safety and security guidelines.

Participants are also briefed on weather conditions, recommended clothing, and essential travel documents such as visas, passports, and permits. Optional activities, including scenic mountain flights or helicopter trips to Everest Base Camp, are explained in detail so travelers can make informed choices. The online briefing not only helps guests plan and pack effectively but also builds excitement and ensures they arrive in Nepal well-prepared to enjoy the cultural, natural, and wildlife experiences that the tour offers.

Group and Private Bookings

The Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife tour is highly flexible and can be tailored for private or group bookings, depending on the traveler’s needs. Private bookings are ideal for families, couples, or small friend groups seeking a personalized travel experience with customized accommodations, departure dates, and optional activities. Guests traveling privately receive dedicated guides, private transport, and attention to individual preferences, ensuring a comfortable and tailored experience.

For larger parties, such as school groups, corporate teams, or community tours, Alpine Club of Himalaya can arrange group bookings with careful planning for transportation, guided tours, and activities suitable for all participants. Group packages also benefit from dedicated naturalist guides in Chitwan, experienced cultural guides in Kathmandu, and optional coordinated experiences such as short hikes in Nagarkot. Both private and group travelers enjoy the same high standard of service, luxury accommodations, ethical wildlife activities, and safe, seamless logistics, making the tour suitable for every type of traveler seeking a memorable Nepal experience.

Optional Trip – Helicopter Tour to Everest Base Camp or Mountain Flight

For travelers looking to add a once-in-a-lifetime aerial experience to the Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour, Alpine Club of Himalaya offers optional helicopter trips to Everest Base Camp (EBC) or scenic mountain flights. These experiences provide a unique perspective of the Himalayas, allowing guests to witness some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, without trekking to high altitudes.

The helicopter tour to Everest Base Camp offers a full-circle adventure, flying over the Khumbu region and landing near the base of Everest. Travelers can explore the base camp area, take photographs, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding glacial valleys and high Himalayan peaks. This is an excellent option for those with limited time, for families, or for anyone seeking the thrill of being close to the world’s tallest mountain in comfort and safety.

Alternatively, the mountain flight option provides a shorter, yet equally spectacular, aerial experience. Guests can view the Himalayan range from the air, flying over major peaks and valleys, with clear views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and other majestic mountains. The flight is carefully timed for optimal visibility, usually in the early morning when skies are clear.

Both options are fully organized with experienced pilots, modern aircraft, and safety measures in place. Alpine Club of Himalaya handles all logistics, including airport transfers, permits, and pre-flight briefings, ensuring a safe, seamless, and unforgettable adventure. Adding a helicopter or mountain flight is an incredible way to enhance your Nepal experience, combining awe-inspiring Himalayan views with convenience and luxury.

Final Notes

Before beginning the Discover the Best of Nepal Including Wildlife – 8 Days tour, it is important to ensure that all travel arrangements, personal documents, and packing are in order to guarantee a smooth and enjoyable experience. This tour has been carefully designed for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and cultural travelers, involving moderate physical activity such as short hikes in Nagarkot, guided village walks, jungle walks, canoe rides, birdwatching, and cultural sightseeing. While not highly strenuous, participants will experience a variety of environments—from bustling city streets in Kathmandu to forest trails and riverbanks in Chitwan—so proper preparation is essential.

We recommend packing comfortable walking shoes, light yet protective clothing, and accessories suitable for both warm, humid conditions and cooler mornings or evenings. Layered clothing is ideal to adapt to the changing weather in the Terai region, Chitwan National Park, and the Kathmandu Valley. Guests should also test their footwear and any gear prior to travel to ensure comfort during outdoor activities.

At Alpine Club of Himalaya, your comfort, safety, and satisfaction are our top priorities. Our experienced team is available to provide guidance before departure, during transfers, and throughout your tour. With professional support, ethical wildlife activities, and thoughtfully planned cultural experiences, this tour is designed to deliver an unforgettable journey through Nepal’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation by the Participant

If a participant wishes to cancel their booking for the tour, they must notify Alpine Club of Himalaya in writing (via email or official communication). The following cancellation charges will apply:

• 60 days or more before the tour start date: 20% of the total tour cost will be retained as an administrative fee.
• 30 to 59 days before the tour start date: 50% of the total tour cost will be retained.
• Less than 30 days before the tour start date: Full payment is non-refundable.

These fees cover pre-arranged services such as hotel reservations, transport arrangements, entrance fees, and guide services.

Cancellation by the Organizer

In rare circumstances, if Alpine Club of Himalaya must cancel the tour due to unforeseen or uncontrollable events—such as severe weather, natural disasters, or safety concerns—participants are entitled to:

• A full refund of all payments made, or
• The option to reschedule the tour for a later available date.

Participant safety is the top priority, and cancellations are only made when absolutely necessary.

Force Majeure Clause

Alpine Club of Himalaya is not responsible for cancellations, delays, or additional costs arising from force majeure events, including but not limited to:

·       Natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, or landslides

·       Political unrest, border closures, or government restrictions

·       Health emergencies, epidemics, or pandemics

·       Airline disruptions, airspace closures, or transport strikes

In such situations, participants will be responsible for any additional personal expenses, including accommodation, flight changes, or insurance claims. We strongly recommend that all travelers obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and unforeseen force majeure events before joining the tour.