Villages & Wildlife

9 days - from $590

Discover the best of Nepal from the fabled capital, Kathmandu, to the lakeside town of Pokhara, which stands in the shadows of the mighty Annapurnas. Here we visit a remote village, far from the tourist trail, and experience a way of life unchanged for centuries. At Chitwan National Park we seek out Nepal's unique and endangered wildlife, ranging from gharial and axis deer to the magnificent one-horned rhinoceros.

Highlights

• Bodhnath Stupa of Kathmandu - one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world
• Kathmandu’s hidden old town
• Pokhara's lake and panoramic views
• Ride a rickshaw, Kathmandu
• The wildlife of Chitwan National Park

Itinerary:

Day 1: Kathmandu2: Kathmandu3-4: Chitwan National Park5: Pokhara6: Hyenjakot Village7: Pokhara8: Kathmandu9: Kathmandu

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included:

• Gecko's expert English-speaking local tour guide.

• Sightseeing in Kathmandu including transport and entrance fees.

• Royal Chitwan National Park entrance fee and elephant ride with a wildlife guide.

• Visit to a Tibetan refugee camp.

• Short trek to visit a local school and the village of Hyenjakot.

• Overnight stay in a local hut as guests of the Hyenjakot villagers.

International flights, arrival and departure transfers, airport/departure taxes, visas, pre or post tour accommodation, meals, optional tours sightseeing or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature, laundry and flights unless specified. Some places that we visit charge additional fees if you are entering with a camera or camcorder - your city guide will advise on these and they can be paid for locally.