Bardiya Wildlife and Rara Lake Tour

  • Private
  • Family
Horse Grazing around Rara lake
Sinja Valley
Bardiya National Park
Duration10 Days
Trip GradeEasy
Maximum Altitude3,600 meters at Murma Top
ActivitiesTour, Short Hike & Safari
Group Size2-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Best TimeFebruary - May & September - December

Discover Nepal's Untouched Wilderness

The Bardiya Wildlife and Rara Lake Tour gives you a true exploration of the most pristine and untouched of Nepal. It's an ideal off-the-beaten-track experience, far from the usual trail of mass tourists. It will be a combination of the serene Rara Lake—one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in Nepal—with Bardiya National Park for the thrilling experience of wildlife encounters while in search of an exceptional insight into natural and cultural treasures in the heart of Western Nepal.

An expertly crafted itinerary will ensure that you see the very best of what each of these out-of-the-way regions has to offer. Touching down in Kathmandu, you'll be overwhelmed by Nepal's rich cultural heritage before venturing out into the wild. We have long experience guiding adventurers around the challenging, marvellous landscape of Nepal, so we know what it takes to make our journey amazing and unforgettable. The Bardiya Wildlife Rara Lake Tour is more rather a visit, an exploration into hidden wonders of Nepal, with experts who know these lands like the back of their hand.

Highlights

  • Explore the vast, varied cultural history of Kathmandu and its UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Attend the tranquil beauty of Rara Lake, the largest and most pristine lake in Nepal.
  • Trek to Murma Top for the view of Rara Lake and the Himalayas.
  • Jungle safaris filled with action in Bardiya National Park in search of Bengal tigers and elephants.
  • Drive through the diverse landscape of Western Nepal, from the plain lands of the Terai to the hills of Kalikot.
  • Be surrounded by the unexplored beauty of the remotest regions of Nepal.
  • Explore with expert guides versed in wildlife and local culture to get an insider's view.
  • Bardiya National Park hosts a unique biodiversity, including some rare wildlife and more than 400 species of different birds.

Bardiya Wildlife and Rara Lake Tour is one of the most unforgettable tours that can ever be experienced, steeped in the very natural and cultural identity of Nepal. This particular trip is designed for those travelers who consider vacationing to mean more than fun; it is intended for those seeking to explore and know more about the world's beauty, become inspired by it, and explore themselves. Join us on this unforgettable adventure and discover the true essence of Nepal.

Itinerary

Bardiya Wildlife and Rara Lake Tour: On arrival in Kathmandu, visit the rich cultural heritage sites of Kathmandu City, and then fly to Nepalgunj. After a scenic drive through the hills of Western Nepal lays the serenely placed Rara Lake, and then we hike to Murma Top to catch Bird's-eye views. We travel to Bardiya National Park for a couple of days of exciting jungle safaris. The journey ends with the flight back to Kathmandu from Nepalgunj. It is a perfect scenic blend of beauty with wildlife adventure.

Trip PlanExpand All

Welcome to Kathmandu! As you land at the Kathmandu airport, one can receive a grand salutation in the capital city of Nepal with the colorful, crowded energies that stand high against the majestic backdrop of the giant Himalayas. Kathmandu City is located at an elevation of 1,400 meters, and it is a blend of ancient culture and modernity.

Shikhar’s representative will transfer you to the hotel. Rest of day at leisure to relax, acclimatize, and absorb initial impressions of this historic city; prepare for the adventure that lies ahead as tomorrow is a discovery of the rich tapestry of Kathmandu's culture.

Max Altitude: 1,400 meters Accommodation: Hotel

Today, you will find many cultural treasures waiting for you in Kathmandu—or at least we are going to start right away. We will go and see Kathmandu Durbar Square, the ancient palace of hundreds of years housing numerous palaces, temples, and others. From here you will climb up to the hilltop of Swayambhunath, called the Monkey Temple, from where there are beautiful views of Kathmandu Valley.

The tour goes on with visits to the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines, and Boudhanath Stupa, a very important center for Tibetan Buddhism.

As the evening falls, we connect with a flight to Nepalgunj; we hold at Nepalgunj for the night, preparing for the journey towards the remote corners of Western Nepal.

Max Altitude: 150 meters Meals: Breakfast & DinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Early this morning, we set out through the undulating hills and the fertile green countryside of western Nepal to the serene landscapes of Kalikot.

Manma, the district headquarters of Kalikot, is at an altitude of 1,800 meters. It is certainly a beautiful drive with swirling roads that literally contour the hillside, providing views over the Karnali River and scattered villages perched on the slopes of the hills.

The air becomes colder as the elevation ascends, the terrain changing toward a ruggedness. In Manma, everything feels a world away from the pressures of city life.

Max Altitude: Approx. 1,800 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Today is simply an awesome drive deep into the mountains down to the stunning Rara Lake lying at an elevation of 2,990m. Rara is the biggest lake in Nepal and is often called the 'Queen of Lakes'. Today's drive is torturous but rewarding as we pass through remote villages and thick jungle.

Reaching Rara Lake is a complete transmission of surroundings with a magical blend of the snow-capped peaks and lush pine forests. This will leave you speechless as you arrive—the brilliant blue waters of the lake against the high Himalayas. Tonight, we sleep right up close and personal to this tranquil lake, under a sky full of stars.

Max Altitude: Approx. 2,990 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

We will hike to Murma Top to have one of the best views of Rara Lake and the surrounding Himalayas. The hike is through pine forests and traditional villages, all uphill, to a height of about 3,600 meters. From the top of Murma Top, one can  witness  a stunning view of the azure-colored lake, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains.

Then after soaking in the breathtaking views, we start making our way back down, snake back to Rara Lake, and set base camp beside its shores for another peaceful night by the lake. This hike will not just bag great scenery; it will let one connect with the intact beauty of Nepal's wilderness.

Max Altitude: Approx. 3,600 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

We will bid goodbye to the serene beauty of Rara Lake today as we commence the return journey. Driving back to Rakam, we traverse the same diverse landscapes again; this will surely be a time to hark back to the beauty of the surrounding natural environment and what cultural variation we experienced yesterday.

Rakam is a small settlement beside the Karnali River at a lower altitude of about 1,500 meters. This drive is long, but it's always changing with the vistas of rural Nepal, from rugged mountains to lush valleys. We will spend the night in Rakam, preparing ourselves for the adventure that awaits at Bardiya National Park.

Max Altitude: Approx. 1,500 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

The journey continues as we head south towards Bardiya National Park, one of the most liked wildest treasures of Nepal. The place is located 8-9 hours away through the Terai region in its diversity of landscapes, contrasting with the hilly terrain behind us; Bardiya is located at an elevation of about 152 meters. After this long scenic drive, your perfect haven will be the lush jungle and peaceful surroundings. Your incredible wildlife experience will come alive tomorrow in the dense forests and wide grassland of this park with trekking.

Max Altitude: 152 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

The entire day will be spent exploring Bardiya National Park's diverse wildlife. Early morning drive into the jungle will be for a jeep safari, guided jungle walks, or even a river safari, depending on the season.

Bardiya contains a vast array of wildlife: Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, various species of deer, and different bird species. Diverse ecosystems, from grasslands to riverine forests, have been the perfect setting in which to sight these majestic creatures in their own habitat.

It is then time to lie on the banks of the river and watch the sun end another day while reflecting over all the happenings during the day in this paradise for wildlife.

Max Altitude: 152 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Finally, after this exhilarating experience in Bardiya, we drive back to Nepalgunj, which takes around an hour. We take a flight from here to head back to Kathmandu; hence the whole adventure is complete.

Again, with this short flight, the last glimpse of Nepal's varied landscape—starting from the plains of the Terai, then ending at the towering peaks of the Himalayas.

On arrival in Kathmandu, you will have the evening to rest up and no doubt get around the city some more or do some last-minute shopping. Take a minute to reflect on what's really been an amazing journey through some of Nepal's more unknown treasures, from the limpid waters of Rara Lake to the jungles of Bardiya.

Max Altitude: 1,400 meter Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Today your trip to Nepal concludes. As per the flight schedule, you have some free time for final shopping or a short sightseeing trip around in case you are interested. Our team will then transfer you to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.

Take home, within your minds and in your memories, the last traces of Nepal's untouched wilderness, its warm hospitality, and the differing experiences that made this trip truly unforgettable. Have a good journey back home and we look forward to welcoming you back to these Himalayan adventures!

Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
Included
  • Transportation to and from Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
  • Two nights in a tourist category hotel in Kathmandu, breakfast included.
  • One night in a tourist category hotel in Nepalgunj with all meals.
  • All activities in Bardiya National Park(Including 2 night accomodation and all meals(BLD))
  • Nepalgunj – Rara Lake – Bardiya – Nepalgunj in a Private Jeep
  • Local guest house accommodation in the mountains.
  • Rara National Park Permit
  • Government-authorized, experienced guide
  • Insurance, food, accommodation, and wage for guide
  • Hygienic meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trip in the mountains.
  • All equipment (sleeping bag and duffel bag which has to be returned after the completion of tour)
  • First Aid Kit
  • Service charge and government taxes
Excluded
  • International airfare
  • Meals in Kathmandu (besides breakfast)
  • Your personal expenses, shopping, etc.
  • Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, tea and coffee
  • Tips for guide and driver
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)

 

Dates & Availability
Departure Date
Status
Price
Departure Date
Starts: October 10, 2024Ends: October 19, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$995
Departure Date
Starts: October 18, 2024Ends: October 27, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$995
Departure Date
Starts: October 21, 2024Ends: October 30, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$995
Departure Date
Starts: October 29, 2024Ends: November 07, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$995

Note: We always try our best to operate according to the set itinerary for Bardiya Wildlife and Rara Lake tours, but, in case of very bad weather, road blocked, and other unusual incidents which are not in our control, the itinerary can be changed. So be prepared to be flexible on your travel itinerary. Security and enjoyment are the major considerations within our concerns, and we will try our best to the fullest even in the event of changes. Also, please obtain your travel insurance as it is much of a recommendation to cover yourself in case of changes or any issues caused during your trip.

Essential Information

Why Choose the Bardiya Wildlife Safari with Rara Lake Tour?

Is This Trip Right for Me?

If you are one of those who enjoy blending natural beauty with cultural immersion, the Bardiya Wildlife and Rara Lake Tour would be the perfect choice. This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy tranquil scenery, unique wildlife, and authentic cultural experiences. Various activities involve the interests of all kinds of visitors, from a deeply dedicated nature enthusiast and a wildlife fan to those looking for an escape from the noise. Itinerary inclusions involve some long drives and moderate hikes, but it's truly well worth it. You will be able to experience the serenity of Rara Lake, framed against snowy mountains, and see Nepal's wildlife in raw beauty within its natural habitat.

What Should I Expect in terms of Wildlife and Scenery?

It is also a wildlife haven; Bardiya National Park offers just about the best chance in Asia of spotting the elusive Bengal tiger in the wild. The park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, rhinoceroses, leopards, and more than 400 species of birds. You are guided by expert park ecologists in our safaris and jungle walks, perfectly guaranteed to bring you the best possibility of sighting these magnificent animals within the park.

Another attraction in the journey is Rara Lake, which is also identified as the 'Queen of Lakes'. Set in an elevation of 2,990 meters above sea level, Rara Lake is a scene backed up by alpine meadows and thick forests that is not so easy to match. The hike to Murma Top shows a more beautiful view with the azure waters of this lake set against the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. It's a sumptuous feast for the senses, with things that few travelers have ever seen.

How Experienced are the Guides?

Our guides do not only possess knowledge in trekking and wildlife, but they know how to passionately share their love for the natural beauty of Nepal with you. They have been operating treks in these areas for many years and bring along a wealth of information, knowledge, and experience toward the local culture and environment. Be it to let you glimpse a rare bird or explain the significance of a local tradition; at every step, our guides will work toward maximum enrichment of your experiences. Their expertise and dedication will produce for you not just an ordinary tour but a transformative journey in Bardiya Wildlife and Rara Lake.

What Makes this Trip Unique?

This Bardiya Wildlife and Rara Lake Tour provides an ideal blend of nature's perfections and colorful ethnography. Unlike most Nepal treks, the routes taken during this tour are off the beaten path and thus offer a seclusion and serenity hard to find in this busy world. This well-planned three-day itinerary is balanced with adventure and relaxation so that it has enough space to be fully immersed in. Distinct memories of those moments—be it spotting a tiger in the wild or sitting beside Rara Lake during sunset—stay back with you long after returning home.