Ghorepani Trek chitwan safari

After having breakfast, we head to Nayapul (1,070m) on an approximately 1-hour drive via private vehicle. Eventually, we descend on the trail that passes through the vintage rhododendron forest along the banks of Modi Khola to Birethanti (1,015m). Here, we are required to show our TIMS and Trekking pass at ACAP check-post. From this point onwards, the trail continues along the north bank of the Bhurungdi Khola then ascends uphill to Hille (1,495m). After a brief and gentle climb, we arrive at the village of Tikhedhunga (1,540m). We will run into the graceful rice and millet fields en route. Staying on the trail, we will encounter a bit tough stretch of trail that includes 3000 stone steps that eventually leads to Ulleri (2,070m).

At the village of Ulleri, we will catch the initial sighting of the mighty Himalayas that encompasses the peaks of Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m). After getting the motivation in the form of snowscapes, we trek to the village of Banthanti (2,250m) that is primarily inhabited by the native Magar communities. Further, the trail passes through the alluring forest of rhododendron and oak i.e. apparently the largest in Asia. Here, we will get a window of opportunity to gaze the colorful flowers of rhododendron especially red, blooming throughout the entire forest that just seems like a ‘Garden belonging to heaven on the Earth’. With this divine sight on our mind, we trek across Nangethanti (2,430m) then finally to our today’s final destination: The village of Ghorepani.

Ghorepani is one of the biggest villages in the Annapurna Region which is predominantly inhabited by Magar communities. The word Ghorepani originates from two words in Nepali. The words, Ghora means Horses and Pani means water. This place was a resting stop where ancient traders found water for their horses. But today, the village few guesthouses that render lodging and meals to the people trekking in Annapurna Region. You’ll spend the night before an early morning trek to the apex of Poonhill that utilizes about 2 hours (Includes ascend and descend to/from Poonhill) to witness the astonishing sunrise vistas. At Poonhill, you’ll be stunned to see the sky painted red and orange by the sunrise hues. Afterward, once we return to Ghorepani, we can observe the splendid panoramic outlook of the snow-capped peaks Dhaulagiri Massif, Tukuche, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre on a clear day. Also, we can experience the traditions and culture of the natives that never ceases to amaze us!! Thereafter, we ascend on the trail ushering to Deurali (2,920m) then advances through the prepossessing rhododendron forest. From here, we progress down to Banthanti (3,180m) then the village of Tadapani (2,630m). From this point onwards, we trek to Bhise-Kharka across the forest on the trail that ultimately leads to the Ghandruk Village.

The village of Ghandruk is primarily populated by the native Gurung communities that make this village, the largest Gurung settlement in the Annapurna Region. The exquisite village flaunts the 360o vistas comprising the picturesque snow-capped peaks of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre Range, and Hiunchuli mountains. Here, you’ll also get the right set of circumstances to experience and learn the Gurung tradition and culture first-hand via friendly natives themselves. A visit to Ghandruk Gurung Museum will also help a lot. Waving goodbye to friendly natives; we trek to Syaulibazar. Afterward, pursuing the trail that passes from the corner of the Modi Khola; we arrive at Birethanti (1,015m); finally arriving at Nayapul (1,070m). From here, we’ll take a ride on a private vehicle to Pokhara that will take about 1 hour. At Pokhara City, either you can enjoy an evening stroll or cycle around the enchanted Lakeside area or you can take pleasure in watching the alluring sunset vista at Sarankot (10 km west of Pokhara City).

Fromriverbank Pokhara, Chitwan is 6-7 hours away by drive. The winding highway, all along the way, could sway your body time and again, but the views of the lush valleys outside of the window of the vehicle is just incredible.

Once you arrive at Chitwan, we will check-in to our hotel and then, catch a short walk along the river bank of Rapti to witness the sun setting down from the seemingly never-ending plains of the Terai belt of Nepal. On the other side of the river, we may as well encounter Gharials and Muggers basking in the sun. It is a pleasant experience.

Today is one of the most fascinating days of the whole trip as we are about to launch our steps into the wilds of Chitwan. First, we will go for a short canoe ride into the Rapti river to see the wild species of crocodiles basking in the sun. There is also a short forest walk program during which one naturalist will accompany us to explain about the wild surprises in the trip.

After lunch, we will hit on a safari tour in Chitwan. You will have two options to choose from- Elephant safari or jeep safari. Either way, you can explore the wilderness of Chitwan. Having said that, you must keep in mind that the elephant could enter into the deep sections of the forest while jeep only runs in the road tracks- mostly in the buffer zone of the forest. One horned rhinoceros, Peacock, Deer, etc. are frequently encountered on the way. However, the Royal Bengal Tiger is a hardly seen animal.

Later in the evening, there is a cultural show, performed by the indigenous Tharus. For the night, we will stay at Chitwan.

Finally, we will return to Kathmandu   after a quick breakfast in our hotel. By the time we arrive at any of these destinations, it would have been night.

Today marks the end of your adventures in the Himalayan Nation. We are happy to get an opportunity to help you throughout your entire expedition; sharing every difficult and joyful moment. We expect to see you again and hope that we can be helpful to you when you plan your next adventure in Nepal. This time, our representative will accompany you to the airport to make certain that you have a safe flight back home.