Trishuli River Adventure & Chitwan Wildlife Tour with rafting, jungle safari, cycling, canoeing, and Thamel visitTrishuli River Adventure & Chitwan Wildlife Tour with rafting, jungle safari, cycling, canoeing, and Thamel visit

Kathmandu and Chitwan Tour - 7 Days

  • Duration7 Days
  • Route Grade Comfort Travel
  • Trip Style River Adventure and Wildlife Experience
  • Starting City Kathmandu
  • Ending City Kathmandu
Price fromUS$485US$590
Kathmandu and Chitwan Tour - 7 Days map

Trip Overview

This 7 day Kathmandu and Chitwan National Park Tour is a nature and cultural journey. Beside Kathmandu Valley's Cultural depth, the trip explores the Trishuli River, Chitwan National Park, and the traditional Tharu community.

You will enjoy gentle river rafting, riverside walks, a traditional Tharu village visit, a canoe trip, a jungle walk, community cycling, and a local cooking experience, all supported by comfortable accommodation and private transportation throughout.

Trip Detail

Information
Detail

Trip Code

GN107N

Starting Point / End Point

Kathmandu to Kathmandu

Accommodations

Lovely 3+ star hotels in Kathmandu, Trishuli riverside, and Chitwan National Park

Max Altitude

Approximately 1,324 m

Duration

7 Days, 6 Nights

Country

Nepal

Trip Grade

Easy to Moderate, suitable for travelers seeking light adventure activities

Activities

Gentle river rafting, riverside walk, Tharu village visit, canoe trip, jungle walk, community cycling, local cooking experience

Best Season

Autumn from September to November and Spring from March to May

Transportation

Private vehicle for all road transfers, rafting equipment for the river section, canoe for the Chitwan jungle activity

Meals

6 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, and 5 Dinners

Itinerary Overview

This 7 day, 6 night holiday takes you from Kathmandu to the banks of the Trishuli River for gentle rafting and riverside exploration, then onward to Chitwan National Park for wildlife, village, and cultural experiences, before returning to Kathmandu. Throughout the journey, you will enjoy private transportation, comfortable accommodation, and included meals.

Here is a quick look at how your 7 day tour unfolds.

  •  Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and enjoy free time to explore the city.

  • Day 2: Drive to the Trishuli River and check into Trishuli Riverside Lodge.

  • Day 3: Enjoy gentle rafting and a riverside walk, then drive on to Chitwan.

  • Day 4: Visit a Tharu village, enjoy a canoe trip, and a jungle walk.

  • Day 5: Join a community cycling tour and a local cooking experience.

  • Day 6: Return to Kathmandu.

  • Day 7: Departure.
     

Why You Will Love This Trip

  • A Gentle River Adventure: The rafting section on the Trishuli River is suitable for beginners and families, offering an exciting yet manageable introduction to whitewater rafting in Nepal.

  • Riverside Relaxation: Staying at Trishuli Riverside Lodge allows you to unwind by the water, away from the busy city, while enjoying the sound of the river and the surrounding hills.

  • Wildlife and Nature in Chitwan: Chitwan National Park is one of Nepal's most important protected areas, known for its forests, grasslands, and diverse wildlife, offering a completely different landscape from the hills and mountains.

  • Authentic Tharu Village Culture: A visit to a local Tharu village gives you insight into the traditions, homes, and daily life of one of the indigenous communities of the Chitwan region.

  • Hands On Local Experiences: Community cycling and a local cooking experience allow you to engage directly with village life, rather than simply observing it from a distance.

  • Community Cycling and Local Cooking: Cycle through nearby villages at a relaxed pace and join a hands on cooking experience where you will prepare traditional Nepali dishes using fresh local ingredients alongside members of the local community.

  • A Relaxed Nature Holiday: This well paced itinerary combines rivers, forests, villages, and cultural experiences without long or demanding walks, making it suitable for families, couples, and travelers seeking an easy holiday in Nepal.
     

Altitude & Activities

This itinerary combines river based activities, jungle walks, cycling, and cultural visits at low to moderate elevations, making it accessible to most travelers with a normal level of fitness.

Day
Location
Altitude
Activities
Travel Time

Day 1

Kathmandu

1,324 m

Airport transfer and free time

Airport transfer

Day 2

Trishuli River

Approximately 450 m

Drive to the Trishuli River and lodge check in

Approximately 3 hrs drive

Day 3

Trishuli River to Chitwan

Approximately 450 m to 150 m

Gentle rafting, riverside walk, and drive to Chitwan

Approximately 2 to 3 hrs rafting and 3 to 4 hrs drive

Day 4

Chitwan

Approximately 150 m

Tharu village visit, canoe trip, jungle walk

Full day activities

Day 5

Chitwan

Approximately 150 m

Community cycling and local cooking experience

Full day activities

Day 6

Kathmandu

1,324 m

Return drive to Kathmandu

Approximately 5 to 6 hrs drive

Day 7

Kathmandu

1,324 m

Departure

Airport transfer

Accommodation and Meals

You will spend 1 night at Skye Inn Kathmandu on arrival, 1 night at Trishuli Riverside Lodge on the banks of the Trishuli River, 3 nights at Safari Adventure Lodge in Chitwan, and your final night back at Skye Inn Kathmandu. The trip includes 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners.

Day
Location
Accommodation
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 1

Kathmandu

Skye Inn Kathmandu

N/A

Not Included

Included

Day 2

Trishuli River

Trishuli Riverside Lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 3

Chitwan

Safari Adventure Lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 4

Chitwan

Safari Adventure Lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 5

Chitwan

Safari Adventure Lodge

Included

Included

Included

Day 6

Kathmandu

Skye Inn Kathmandu

Included

Not Included

Not Included

Day 7

Departure

N/A

Included

N/A

N/A

Cost Includes

Cost & Inclusions

This relaxed 7 day holiday includes accommodation at Skye Inn Kathmandu, Trishuli Riverside Lodge beside the Trishuli River, and Safari Adventure Lodge in Chitwan. The package also includes private transportation, an experienced English speaking guide, gentle rafting, cultural experiences, and guided activities, along with the meals listed in the table above.

Cost Includes
Cost Excludes

Private airport arrival and departure transfers

International airfare to and from Nepal

Private vehicle transportation for all transfers

Nepal entry visa fee

Rafting equipment and safety gear for the Trishuli River section

Travel insurance

Canoe trip and jungle walk activities in Chitwan

Lunch on Day 1, and Day 6

Community cycling and local cooking experience in Chitwan

Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, shopping, and phone calls

Experienced English speaking guide throughout the tour

Tips for guides and drivers

6 nights accommodation as per itinerary

 

6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners 

 
Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you outside the arrival terminal with a company name board and transfer you to Skye Inn Kathmandu in Thamel. After checking in, you are free to relax after your journey or explore the lively streets of Thamel, where you will find cafes, restaurants, local markets, and souvenir shops. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and meet your guide for a short briefing about the adventure ahead.

  • Route: Tribhuvan International Airport to Skye Inn Kathmandu

  • Altitude: 1,324 m

  • Accommodation: Skye Inn Kathmandu

  • Meals: Welcome Dinner

  • Highlights: Airport meet and greet, hotel check in, free time in Thamel, welcome dinner

    After breakfast, drive from Kathmandu to the Trishuli River, a journey of approximately 3 hours by private vehicle. The route follows the Prithvi Highway through winding mountain roads, passing traditional villages, terraced farmland, rivers, and green hills before reaching Trishuli Riverside Lodge. Enjoy lunch at the lodge before spending the afternoon relaxing beside the river, taking in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. The remainder of the day is free to unwind before tomorrow's river adventure.

    • Route: Kathmandu to Trishuli River by private vehicle

    • Altitude: Approximately 450 m

    • Accommodation: Trishuli Riverside Lodge

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    • Highlights: Scenic countryside drive, Trishuli River Valley, riverside lodge, peaceful natural surroundings

      After breakfast, begin a gentle rafting experience on the Trishuli River. This river is well known for its beginner friendly sections that combine calm water with a few enjoyable rapids, making it suitable for first time rafters and families. Professional rafting staff will provide a safety briefing and all necessary equipment before you start.

      Following the rafting experience, enjoy a relaxed riverside walk where you can appreciate the peaceful environment, observe local village life, and take in views of the surrounding hills. After lunch, continue your journey to Chitwan National Park, one of Nepal's most popular wildlife destinations. The drive follows the Trishuli River before entering the fertile plains of southern Nepal. Upon arrival, check into Safari Adventure Lodge and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere for the rest of the evening.

      • Route: Trishuli River rafting section, riverside walking trail, and onward drive to Chitwan

      • Altitude: Approximately 450 m to 150 m

      • Accommodation: Safari Adventure Lodge

      • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

      • Highlights: Gentle rafting experience, riverside nature walk, scenic drive, arrival in Chitwan

        After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to a traditional Tharu village, where you will learn about the history, customs, architecture, and daily lifestyle of the indigenous Tharu community, who have lived in the Chitwan region for generations.

        Later, enjoy a peaceful canoe trip along the Rapti River, offering opportunities to appreciate the tranquil river environment and the surrounding landscapes. Continue with a guided jungle walk led by experienced naturalists who will introduce you to the diverse plants, birds, and ecosystems found within the buffer zone of Chitwan National Park. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.

        • Route: Chitwan local sightseeing and nature activities 

        • Altitude: Approximately 150 m

        • Accommodation: Safari Adventure Lodge

        • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

        • Highlights: Traditional Tharu village, canoe trip, guided jungle walk, nature and cultural experiences

          After breakfast, explore the peaceful villages surrounding Chitwan by bicycle. Cycling at a relaxed pace allows you to experience rural life, agricultural landscapes, and friendly local communities while enjoying the quiet countryside away from busy roads.

          Later, take part in a hands on cooking experience where local hosts introduce you to traditional Nepali cooking techniques and ingredients. Learn how everyday Nepali meals are prepared before enjoying lunch made up of the dishes you have helped create. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing at your lodge before dinner.

          • Route: Community cycling routes around Chitwan 

          • Altitude: Approximately 150 m

          • Accommodation: Safari Adventure Lodge

          • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner 

          • Highlights: Village cycling, rural landscapes, cultural interaction, traditional Nepali cooking experience

            After breakfast, leave Chitwan and begin the return journey to Kathmandu by private vehicle. The drive passes through river valleys, small towns, and scenic hills before reaching the Kathmandu Valley. After checking into Skye Inn Kathmandu, the rest of the day is yours to relax, do some last minute shopping, or explore nearby attractions at your own pace. For dinner this evening, you are free to explore Thamel's local restaurants and enjoy a taste of authentic Nepali cuisine.

            • Route: Chitwan to Kathmandu by private vehicle 

            • Altitude: 1,324 m

            • Accommodation: Skye Inn Kathmandu 

            • Meals: Breakfast 

            • Highlights: Scenic return drive, Kathmandu Valley, free afternoon, evening at leisure

              After breakfast, enjoy some free time depending on your flight schedule before being transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Our representative will assist with your departure transfer, bringing your 7 day Trishuli River Adventure, Chitwan Wildlife and Village Experience Tour to a memorable conclusion.

              • Route: Skye Inn Kathmandu to Tribhuvan International Airport

              • Altitude: 1,324 m

              • Meals: Breakfast

              • Highlights: Airport transfer, departure from Nepal

                Trip Information

                Know Before You Book

                • Visa Requirements: For this 7 day trip, you will need to apply for a 15 day Nepal visa, which comfortably covers your stay. All citizens of the world except Indian passport holders need a visa to enter Nepal, and most travelers can get a Visa on Arrival. The 15 day tourist visa fee is USD 30. You can apply and pay online in advance here: https://nepaliport-new.immigration.gov.np/. We recommend completing the online application ahead of time to save time at the airport.

                • Passport Validity: Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date, with at least one blank page for your visa stamp.

                • Fitness Level: This is an easy to moderate adventure holiday. The rafting section is beginner friendly, and the walking, cycling, and jungle activities are suitable for travelers with a normal level of fitness. No prior rafting experience is required.

                • Traveler Suitability: This tour suits travelers who enjoy light adventure activities such as gentle rafting, cycling, and jungle walks. Families with older children, couples, and groups of friends will find the pace comfortable and engaging.

                • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and adventure activities such as rafting is recommended.

                • Currency & Payment Methods: We accept payments in major currencies such as USD, EUR, and GBP, though it is a good idea to carry some Nepali Rupees for smaller personal expenses.
                   

                Accommodations, Meals & Transportation

                • Typical Accommodation Used: During your journey, you will stay at Skye Inn Kathmandu, Trishuli Riverside Lodge on the banks of the Trishuli River, and Safari Adventure Lodge in Chitwan, offering a comfortable stay throughout the tour.

                • Meals: The package includes 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners, as detailed in the accommodation and meals table above. Meals not included allow you to explore local restaurants and enjoy a taste of authentic Nepali cuisine 

                • Guide Support: An experienced English speaking guide accompanies you throughout the tour and provides assistance during rafting, village visits, jungle walks, and cultural activities.

                • Transportation: This package includes private airport transfers, private vehicle transfers between destinations, rafting equipment for the Trishuli River section, and a canoe for the Chitwan jungle activity.
                   

                Seasonal & Weather Updates

                • Autumn from September to November: Autumn offers pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and comfortable conditions for rafting, wildlife activities, cycling, and sightseeing. It is one of the best seasons for this holiday, with excellent visibility and enjoyable weather throughout the journey.

                • Spring from March to May: Spring brings warm weather, lush green landscapes, and blooming forests. Comfortable temperatures make it an excellent time for gentle rafting, canoe trips, jungle walks, and village experiences, while many birds and wildlife are active around Chitwan National Park.

                • Winter from December to February: Winter offers cool mornings and evenings with pleasant daytime temperatures. In Chitwan, the warmer afternoon sunshine often encourages wildlife to spend more time in open grasslands, riverbanks, and forest clearings, making this a rewarding season for nature enthusiasts. Warm clothing is recommended for mornings and evenings, especially in Kathmandu.

                • Monsoon from June to August: The monsoon season transforms the countryside into a vibrant green landscape. Rivers and forests become especially beautiful, although occasional rainfall may affect some outdoor activities. Rafting and wildlife activities are operated according to weather and river conditions to ensure guest safety.
                   

                Health & Safety

                • General Wellbeing: The tour stays at low to moderate elevations and does not involve high altitude trekking. The itinerary is suitable for travelers comfortable with light physical activity.

                • Rafting Safety: All rafting activities are conducted with trained guides and safety equipment, including life jackets and helmets. Please follow your guide's instructions at all times.

                • Wildlife Areas: During jungle walks and canoe trips, guests should always follow the instructions of their guide. Wildlife should be observed from a safe distance without disturbing the natural environment.

                • Cycling: Community cycling follows quiet village roads at a relaxed pace. Wearing the provided safety equipment and following your guide's instructions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

                • Healthcare Facilities: Full hospital facilities are available in Kathmandu and Chitwan. Your guide and driver can assist with local arrangements if required.
                   

                Packing Checklist

                • Essential Clothing: Pack lightweight and comfortable clothing suitable for warm daytime temperatures, along with a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.

                • Footwear: A pair of sandals or water shoes for rafting, and comfortable walking or cycling shoes for village and jungle activities.

                • Trail Gear: A sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, and a light rain jacket, especially if travelling during the monsoon season.

                • Personal Items: A small daypack, a dry bag for valuables during rafting, a reusable water bottle, insect repellent, personal toiletries, camera, power bank, and any personal medications you need.
                   

                Important Notices

                • Wildlife Viewing: Wildlife sightings in Chitwan National Park cannot be guaranteed as animals move freely within their natural habitat.

                • Travel Advisories: Before you travel, we recommend checking the latest travel advice issued by your home country. Our team is happy to provide local updates before your trip.

                • River Conditions: Rafting activities are subject to river water levels and weather conditions. Our guides will assess conditions on the day and make suitable arrangements to keep the activity safe and enjoyable.

                • Responsible Travel: We encourage you to respect local customs, dress appropriately when visiting villages, ask permission before photographing local people, and help protect the rivers, forests, and villages you pass through.

                Trip Preparations
                • Is this tour suitable for beginners with no rafting experience?

                   Yes. The rafting section on the Trishuli River is beginner friendly and is accompanied by trained guides and full safety equipment.

                • This tour combines river rafting and a riverside stay with the wildlife, village, and cultural experiences of Chitwan, offering a more varied and active journey.

                • You will learn about the traditions, homes, and daily life of the Tharu community, one of the indigenous groups of the Chitwan region.

                • Yes, the canoe trip is conducted by experienced local canoe operators along a calm stretch of river, with safety equipment provided.

                • You will cycle at a comfortable pace through peaceful villages, farmland, and local communities around Chitwan. The route is designed for leisure rather than endurance, making it suitable for most travelers with basic cycling ability.