The Terai Trail: Birding & Wildlife Safari Across India and Nepal
Tour Duration: 15 nights/16 days
Tour Destinations: Delhi – Kishanpur – Dudhwa – Bardia – Chitwan – Pokhara – Sarangkot – Kathmandu – Patan – Nagarkot – Kathmandu Fly back
Embark on a captivating journey through the pristine Terai ecosystem of northern India and the Himalayan foothills of Nepal. Begin with immersive wildlife experiences in Kisanpur Sanctuary and Dudhwa National Park, known for Bengal tigers, barasinghas, and vibrant birdlife. Then, cross into Nepal to explore the wilderness of Bardia and Chitwan National Parks through jeep safaris, canoe rides, birdwatching walks, and guided jungle treks.
Continue your adventure in Pokhara, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, where stunning views of the Annapurna Range, serene lakes, and bustling bazaars await. In Kathmandu, discover rich cultural heritage with visits to Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and other UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Conclude your tour in Nagarkot, where a sunrise retreat offers breathtaking panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear mornings.
Day 1: Arrival in New Delhi
Arrive at New Delhi Airport, where our representative will welcome you and assist with hotel check-in and travel documentation. Enjoy a relaxed evening or explore nearby markets.
Overnight in Delhi.
Day 2: Delhi to Kisanpur Wildlife Sanctuary (Dudhwa Tiger Reserve)
Drive approx. 6 hours (390 km) to Kisanpur Sanctuary, a peaceful haven known for wetlands, tall sal forests, and rich birdlife. Spot over 450 species around Jhadi Tal, including otters, spoonbills, and pochards.
Overnight at a forest lodge.
Day 3: Kisanpur to Dudhwa National Park
Start your day with a morning safari in Kisanpur, spotting barasingha, jungle cats, and more. Later, drive 30 km to Dudhwa National Park. After lunch, enjoy your first safari in this pristine Terai reserve.
Overnight at the lodge.
Day 4: Wildlife Safaris in Dudhwa
Spend a full day on jeep safaris exploring sal forests, grasslands, and swamps. Dudhwa offers excellent sightings of tigers, rhinos, elephants, and rare birds in a less-touristed setting.
Overnight at the lodge.
Day 5: Dudhwa to Bardia National Park (Nepal)
Cross into Nepal via road (4–5 hrs). After immigration formalities, continue to your jungle lodge in Bardia National Park. Enjoy your first safari in this remote tiger territory.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Days 6–7: Exploring Bardia
Morning and afternoon jeep safaris explore Bardia’s untouched wilderness. Spot elephants, Gangetic dolphins, rhinos, and more. Between safaris, enjoy village walks or riverbank relaxation.
All meals and overnight at the lodge.
Day 8: Bardia to Chitwan National Park
Drive 8–9 hours through lush valleys and riverine plains to reach Chitwan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Settle into your resort and enjoy light cultural introductions.
Overnight at Tigerland Safari Resort.
Days 9–10: Wildlife & Culture in Chitwan
Discover Chitwan through canoe rides, birdwatching, jeep safaris, and cultural dance shows. Spot crocodiles, kingfishers, and rhinos. Visit the Crocodile Breeding Center and enjoy guided nature walks.
Overnight at the resort.
Day 11: Chitwan to Pokhara
Drive 5–6 hours to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna range. Spend the evening by Phewa Lake or enjoy a relaxing lakeside walk.
Overnight at Hotel Pokhara Grande.
Day 12: Sightseeing in Pokhara
Visit landmarks like Devi’s Falls, Bindabasini Temple, Old Bazaar, and Seti Gorge. Enjoy leisure time to explore lakeside cafés or local markets.
Overnight at Hotel Pokhara Grande.
Day 13: Sarangkot Sunrise & Leisure Day
Witness a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Sarangkot. Enjoy free time for paragliding, boat rides, or relaxation.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 14: Pokhara to Kathmandu
Drive approx. 6–7 hours to Kathmandu. On arrival, check in and explore Thamel, famous for local shopping and vibrant culture.
Overnight at Hotel Everest or similar.
Day 15: Kathmandu to Nagarkot via Heritage Tour
Explore iconic sites like Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Visit Patan Durbar Square before driving to Nagarkot for sunset views.
Overnight at Hotel Country Villa.
Day 16: Sunrise at Nagarkot – Departure
Enjoy a sunrise view of the Himalayas, possibly including Mount Everest. After breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu Airport for your onward journey.
Tour Inclusions – What’s Covered in Your Wild Nepal & India Journey
• 15 nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels, jungle lodges, and eco-resorts, as per the detailed itinerary
• Daily breakfast, with all meals included during stays in national parks such as Kisanpur, Dudhwa, Bardia, and Chitwan
• Farewell cultural dinner in Kathmandu with live local performances
• All airport transfers and overland travel in a private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver
• Seamless India–Nepal border crossing assistance, including vehicle and guide handover
• Guided city tours in Delhi, Pokhara, Kathmandu, Patan, and Nagarkot with English-speaking local guides
• Wildlife safaris in Dudhwa, Bardia, and Chitwan National Parks with expert naturalists
• Nature activities including guided birdwatching walks, canoe rides, and village explorations in Chitwan
• Visit to Crocodile Breeding Center and Tharu tribal cultural program in Chitwan
• Sunrise excursion to Sarangkot with views of the Annapurna range
• All national park and monument entrance fees as per the itinerary
• Bottled mineral water provided during all drives and sightseeing
• Complete assistance for hotel check-ins, safaris, sightseeing, and border formalities
• All applicable government taxes and service charges included
Tour Exclusions – What’s Not Included
• International flights to/from Kathmandu
• Visa fees for both India and Nepal (must be arranged prior to travel)
• Travel insurance – highly recommended for coverage against delays, medical needs, or cancellations
• Meals not listed under inclusions – specifically lunch and dinner in Delhi, Pokhara, Kathmandu, and Nagarkot
• Any kind of beverages, including bottled water outside safaris, soft drinks, or alcoholic drinks unless specified
• Personal expenses such as laundry, calls, tips, camera/video fees, and porterage
• Unforeseen costs due to natural events, flight disruptions, political unrest, or local strikes
• Any increase in park fees, fuel surcharges, or taxes after your booking confirmation
• Optional activities like paragliding, boating, massages, or spa treatments not listed in the itinerary
• Any service not specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” section