Rafting and safari in Nepal, from the Seti River to Chitwan National Park
In summary
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Sports
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Duration5 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationAsia / Nepal
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions92.17 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
In a few words
Embark on a unique adventure in the heart of Nepal , a journey through nature, culture, and gentle sensations. From the very first days, a rafting trip down the Seti River immerses you in a soothing landscape, surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches – ideal for an active introduction to the region. Next, you'll travel to Bandipur , a traditional village nestled in the highlands, where you can savor a peaceful atmosphere and spectacular views of the Himalayan range . This unspoiled place, far from the tourist crowds, invites you to connect with nature and contemplate its beauty. At the end of your trip, head to Chitwan National Park for a safari deep in the jungle , in search of one-horned rhinoceroses , Asian elephants , and even Bengal tigers . An immersive experience , punctuated by unforgettable wildlife sightings, awaits you before your return to Kathmandu , enriched by contrasting memories of mountains, rivers, and rainforests.
The highlights
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Gentle rafting on the Seti River between wild beaches and lush forests
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Immersion in Bandipur, a village perched facing the peaks of the Himalayas
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An unforgettable safari in Chitwan to encounter rhinos and Bengal tigers
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Rafting
- Average duration/day: 2h
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 3h
Management
French
Program
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From rafting under the Annapurnas to the gentleness of Bandipur
- Transportation Car - 15h - 90km
- Activity Rafting
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Rural hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
In the morning, you'll meet your group at your hotel in Pokhara before a short transfer to the rafting starting point. You'll descend the Seti River for about 1.5 hours, navigating manageable rapids with the Annapurna massif as your backdrop. After this aquatic adventure, you'll travel to Bandipur, an ancient Newar trading village perched high in the mountains. You'll arrive in time for lunch. In the afternoon, you'll explore the surrounding area on foot, among orange groves and with sweeping views of the Himalayan range, including Manaslu (8,163m) in your sights.
Day 1 -
Sunrise over the Himalayas and immersion in Bandipur
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Accommodation Rural hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Early in the morning, you'll witness the sunrise from Tudikhel, a viewpoint offering a breathtaking panorama of the Himalayan peaks. The day continues on foot through the peaceful lanes of Bandipur, a charming Newar village where cars roam freely among traditional wooden houses and small local shops. In the afternoon, an easy hike takes you to the Magar village of Ramkot, perched on a ridge. This approximately 4-hour round-trip walk, with minimal elevation gain, allows you to discover the surrounding countryside while enjoying stunning mountain views.
Day 2 -
Heading towards the Terai and immersing ourselves in the Tharus culture
- Transportation Car - 02h - 55km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, you'll depart for Chitwan National Park, crossing valleys and rivers, including the Marsyangdi and Trishuli. The landscape gradually transforms: the mountains give way to the Terai plains, a tropical region with flat terrain and a warmer climate. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and then enjoy a horse-drawn cart ride through the surrounding villages. The return journey is on foot, offering a chance to observe the daily life of the Tharu people, a local community living in a traditional way. In the evening, you'll attend a Tharu dance performance, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of sticks and drums.
Day 3 -
Wild immersion in the heart of Chitwan Park
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A day dedicated to exploring Chitwan National Park, a true wildlife sanctuary in the heart of the Terai. You'll hike through the jungle, then embark on a boat trip on the river, ideal for spotting crocodiles, exotic birds (such as the bar-headed goose or the Indian roller), and other species roaming freely. The day also includes a visit to the elephant breeding center, to better understand the connection between these pachyderms and the local communities. The park is also home to rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, and many other iconic animals of this tropical region.
Day 4 -
Back to Kathmandu and the end of the adventure
- Transportation Bus - 05h - 136km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After this stay immersed in nature's soothing rhythm, you'll return to Kathmandu, traveling through Nepal's rolling landscapes. Your arrival marks the end of our services, leaving you with cherished memories of a complete immersion in the mountains, local cultures, and wildlife.
Day 5
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Transportation according to the program (private)
- Tourist bus: Chitwan - Kathmandu
- Rafting in Pokhara
- Accommodation with breakfast (2 nights in Bandipur)
- Full board accommodation (2 nights in Chitwan)
- French-speaking guide/naturalist on site
- Local permits
- Staff insurance
- All local taxes
The price does not include
- Airport/hotel/airport transfers
- Accommodation in Kathmandu / Pokhara
- International flights
- Meals not mentioned (Pokhara, Bandipur, Kathmandu)
- Beverages (including water)
- The Nepalese visa ($30)
- Repatriation insurance, helicopter, hospital, medical, etc.
- Tips
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Toiletries (preferably biodegradable products)
- Biodegradable cleaning wipes
- Sunglasses with a high protection rating
- High protection sunscreen
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues
Clothing to bring
- Cap or hat
- Beanie (only in winter)
- Neck warmer or scarf to protect yourself from the sun
- Warm fleece jacket (winter only)
- Waterproof and breathable windproof jacket with hood
- Lightweight down jacket for breaks or evenings (winter only)
- Long shorts
- Comfortable walking pants
- Lightweight walking shoes
- Lightweight shoes for evenings and travel days
