Rafts and rhinos

Your rafting in Nepal begins at Charaundi, the starting point of this Chitwan national park tour. We can organise a private transfer for you from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Charaundi (at an additional cost) - just ask one of our travel specialists. When you arrive in Charaundi, you'll have time to grab a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants. After lunch and a brief instruction on the rafting, it's time to hoist yourself into your lifevest, hop into the rubber raft and make your way downstream. You'll need a couple of serious rapids to get the hang of effective paddling so don't expect to stay dry. The Trisuli has a couple of serious class 3 rapids, but there are plenty of calmer stretches where you can gently float along enjoying the scenery of remote river valleys and canyons. In the evening, when your rafting in Nepal experience is done, you'll set up camp on the river bank and enjoy a hard-earned tasty dinner.It's time for drinks around the campfire, as you listen to the sound of the river and hyenas howling in the distance.

In the morning, you'll set of on another 3 hour rafting trip. Slowly the vegetation around you will become more jungle-like and eventually you will arrive in the Royal Chitwan National Park. You'll check into your bungalow and after lunch, you'll head off on an elephant safari. Perched high on one of these impressive animals, you'll be in a fantastic position to spot the many animals hidden in the tall grass. With a bit of luck you'll see your first wild rhino (although it's actually easier to spot them on foot). The scenery in Chitwan is beautiful. On the plains, you'll have a great view of the lowlands sloping into the foothills and transforming into the peaks of the Himalayan giants. So after your exhilarating experience rafting in Nepal, it is now time to enjoy the Chitwan experience.

Chitwan national park is undoubtedly at its most stunning at dawn, when the early morning golden light seeps across the plains, giving it a mystical atmosphere. The river is even more magical. Working elephants stride through the water, rickety ferries glide to the other side and rhinos graze contentedly in the grass. Today, you will start off with a guided walk through the jungle, hiking along narrow paths through the forests and plains where the high grass seems almost impenetrable. It may be a little scary knowing that this grass could hide rhinos, leopards and tigers, but your experienced guide will know exactly what he's doing, so don't worry. If a rhino gets too close, you'll be quickly directed to scramble up the nearest big tree, your heart thumping at the thrill of it all. As sweet and harmless as those rhinos may seem, don't underestimate them. Their poor eyesight often causes them to storm defensively into any unfamiliar noise or smell, so it's wise to follow your guide's instructions very closely. Later on there will be a spine-tingling crocodile walk down the overgrown banks of the river, lined with wily crocodiles ready to snap.  

This morning, you'll take a jungle walk through the long grasses of the park. We can also definitely recommend washing the elephants. They love their morning bath and playing around together - and with you. It's a very special experience. After this, the module ends. We can organise your transport back to Kathmandu or Pokhara, either by the great tourist Green Line Bus service or by private car. Haven't had enough of Chitwan yet? Then try our tour into the jungle with the Tharu.