Nepal Chitwan and Everest Extension

Fly to Kathmandu and spend the afternoon on a guided walking tour of the Kathmandu bazaar and famous Thamel area. Overnight at the Hotel Malla in the heart of Thamel.

After breakfast you will fly or drive to Chitwan National Park. Our goal is to get you there in time for an afternoon elephant safari. If you drive you will pass interesting villages and scenery along the way. Chitwan is one of the world's best habitats for the rare Bengal Tiger and the One-horned Rhinoceros. Albout 642,744 acres of lush riverine grasslands and subtropical forests provide the last sanctuary for hundreds of species of birds and other animals. You have a very private location in a relatively small, but comfortable camp with excellent guides, food, and facilities. This is probably the best facility for viewing larger mammals. (B,L,D)

Today you will explore the jungle on foot and on elephant back and look for birds, wild boar, deer, rhinoceros, and the elusive Bengal Tiger. Canoe trips will take you on the hunt for crocodiles. Usually activities begin as the jungle wakes up before dawn. After resting during a mid-day break, you will head out again with your naturalist in search of game. In the evening there is usually a sumptuous meal and a campfire program for you to enjoy  while the jungle's night sounds sing around you. (B,L,D)

Return to Kathmandu by air or land today, getting a glimpse of village life in the southern plains of Nepal along the way. Lunch and dinner are on your own to explore the dozens of restaurants in Thamel. (B)

Rise early today for your transfer to Thribhuwan Airport for the Mt. Everest mountain viewing flight. You will have excellent views of many of the highest Himalayan peaks. Many of the rhododendron trees in the forests below you should be in bloom. In the afternoon you'll visit Patan, the sister city of Kathmandu, to explore this World Heritage Site's exceptional architecture. If time and traffic conditions permit you'll also vist Pasupatinath, one of the most famous and venerated Hindu Temples of Nepal. (B)

Depending on your flight time, we may have a chance to hike to the famous Swayambhunath Temple to observe the early morning rituals of Buddhist pilgrim devotees. Transfer to the airport for departing flight to Delhi or Bangkok, where you may need to overnight. Return to USA on Day 20. (B)