Dhampus Sarangkot Trek with Bandipur and Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour
| Trip code | |
| Package name | Dhampus Sarangkot Trek with Bandipur and Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour |
| Duration | 10 |
| Max. elevation | 2065 m |
| Level | Easy |
| Transportation | Domestic flights (optional) and all ground transportation as per itinerary |
| Accomodation | Hotel in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and the best lodge on the trek. |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 0 per person |
Highlights
- Panoramic Himalayan views from Dhampus and Sarangkot, including Annapurna and Machhapuchhre
- Spectacular sunrise and sunset from Sarangkot
- Scenic short trek through traditional Gurung villages and terraced farmlands
- Exploration of the beautiful lake city of Pokhara
- Cultural experience in the preserved hill town of Bandipur
- Wildlife adventure in Chitwan National Park
- Jungle activities: jeep safari, canoeing, bird watching, and crocodile spotting
- Visit to the Elephant Breeding Center and the Tharu cultural show
- A combination of trekking, culture, and jungle safari in one itinerary
- Suitable for beginners, families, and all age groups
Overview
The Dhampus Sarangkot Trek with Bandipur and Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour is a perfectly balanced Nepal experience combining short trekking, cultural exploration, and wildlife adventure. Starting from Kathmandu, the journey takes you to the scenic lake city of Pokhara before beginning a gentle trek through traditional villages like Dhampus and Sarangkot. Along the trail, you will witness panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges, terraced fields, and authentic Gurung culture.
After the trek, the journey continues to the charming hilltop town of Bandipur, known for its preserved Newari culture and mountain vistas. The final highlight is a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park, where you can experience Nepal’s rich biodiversity, including rhinos, crocodiles, and exotic bird species.
- Scenic short trek with Himalayan views
- Cultural immersion in Dhampus and Bandipur
- Sunrise from Sarangkot viewpoint
- Wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park
Best Season for Dhampus Sarangkot Trek with Bandipur and Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour
The best time to undertake this tour is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). During these seasons, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the mountain views are at their best. Rhododendron forests bloom beautifully in spring, adding vibrant colors to the trekking trails, while autumn offers crisp air and excellent visibility.
Winter (December–February) is also suitable, especially for those who prefer fewer crowds, though mornings can be chilly in the hills. Summer/monsoon (June–August) brings lush greenery but also rain, which can affect trekking trails and visibility. However, Chitwan is particularly vibrant during this time with rich wildlife activity.
Best season highlights:
- Spring: blooming flowers and moderate weather
- Autumn: clear skies and the best mountain views
- Winter: quiet trails and a peaceful experience
Dhampus Sarangkot Trek with Bandipur and Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour: Difficulty and Transportation
This trek is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners, families, and travelers with limited trekking experience. Daily walking hours range from 3 to 6 hours, with gradual ascents and well-defined trails. The altitude remains below 2,000 meters, so the risk of altitude sickness is minimal.
Transportation is flexible and comfortable, with options including tourist buses, private vehicles, or short domestic flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara. Road journeys offer scenic views of rivers, hills, and rural landscapes, while flights save time and provide aerial Himalayan views.
Difficulty & transport overview:
- Easy to moderate trekking level
- Suitable for beginners and families
- Mix of road travel and optional flights
Food and Accommodation for Dhampus Sarangkot Trek with Bandipur and Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour
Accommodation throughout the tour ranges from comfortable hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan to cozy teahouses during the trek. These lodges provide basic but clean rooms with warm hospitality and stunning views. In Bandipur, boutique-style guesthouses reflect local architecture and culture.
Food options are diverse, including traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat, as well as international cuisine such as pasta, noodles, and continental meals. In Chitwan, meals are often served buffet-style with a mix of local and Western options.
Food & stay highlights:
- Comfortable hotels and traditional teahouses
- Variety of Nepali and international cuisine
- Warm hospitality and scenic stays
Dhampus Sarangkot Trek with Bandipur and Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour Permits
To complete this tour, you will need a few essential permits. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required for trekking in the Dhampus–Sarangkot region. Additionally, a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card is necessary for trekker registration and safety.
For Chitwan, entry permits to Chitwan National Park are required, which are usually arranged by your tour operator. These permits contribute to conservation efforts and help maintain sustainable tourism in Nepal.
Required permits:
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
- TIMS Card
- Chitwan National Park entry permit
Why Choose Dhampus Sarangkot Trek with Bandipur and Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a complete Nepal experience within a short timeframe. It combines trekking, culture, and wildlife without the physical demands of high-altitude expeditions. The diverse landscapes—from mountains to jungles—make it a truly enriching journey.
Choosing Asiana Treks and Tours ensures professional service, experienced guides, and well-organized logistics. Their local expertise enhances your experience, offering deeper cultural insights and ensuring safety and comfort throughout the trip.
Reasons to choose this tour:
- Perfect blend of trekking, culture, and wildlife
- Suitable for all experience levels
- Operated by an experienced local company
- Time-efficient yet diverse itinerary
Trip Preparation
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,338 m) and transfer to hotel
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Asiana Treks and Tours and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey or take a gentle stroll around the vibrant streets of Thamel, known for its shops, cafés, and cultural atmosphere. In the evening, a briefing session will be held to introduce your trekking program, safety guidelines, and itinerary highlights. This is also a great opportunity to meet your guide and clarify any last-minute questions. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2 : Drive to Pokhara (860 m) – 6 hours (220 km / 137 miles). Optional flight
After breakfast, you will begin a scenic drive to Pokhara, passing through picturesque countryside, terraced farmlands, rivers, and small settlements. The journey offers beautiful views of hills and occasional glimpses of the Himalayas. Alternatively, you may opt for a short domestic flight for a quicker, more comfortable experience with aerial views of the mountains. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel and have free time to explore the lakeside area, famous for its peaceful ambiance and stunning views of Machapuchare and the Annapurna ranges. Enjoy a relaxing evening by the lake. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 3 : Drive to Phedi and trek to Dhampus (1,750 m) – 3 hours
After breakfast, you will take a short drive to Phedi, the starting point of your trek. From here, the trail ascends gradually through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. The trek is relatively short but rewarding, offering your first close-up views of the Annapurna range. As you approach Dhampus, the scenery becomes more dramatic with panoramic mountain vistas. Dhampus is a charming Gurung village known for its hospitality and stunning sunset views over the Himalayas. Spend the evening soaking in the peaceful mountain environment. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Dhampus.
Day 4 : Trek to Sarangkot (1,600 m) via Naudanda and Kaskikot (1,788 m) – 6 hours
Today’s trek is longer and more diverse, taking you along ridgelines and through beautiful villages like Naudanda and Kaskikot. The trail offers continuous views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with glimpses of Pokhara Valley below. You will pass through forests, farmland, and culturally rich settlements, experiencing authentic rural life. After several hours of trekking, you will arrive at Sarangkot, a famous viewpoint known for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. The evening provides an opportunity to witness a spectacular sunset over the Himalayas. Overnight stay in Sarangkot.
Day 5 : Sunrise at Sarangkot and Walk down to Pokhara (860 m) – 4 hours. Pokhara sightseeing
Early in the morning, you will visit Sarangkot Viewpoint to witness a stunning sunrise over the Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks. After breakfast, you will descend to Pokhara through scenic trails. Upon arrival, you will embark on a sightseeing tour covering major attractions, including Phewa Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride, the World Peace Stupa for panoramic views, the towering Pumdikot Shiva Statue, Davis Falls, and the sacred Gupteswor Mahadev Cave. The day blends natural beauty with cultural exploration, offering a complete Pokhara experience. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Day 6 : Drive from Pokhara to Bandipur (1,030 m) – 1 hr 43 min. Bandipur sightseeing. (Optional: Drive from Pokhara to Chitwan (415 m) – 6 hours).
After breakfast, you will drive to Bandipur, a beautifully preserved hilltop town known for its traditional Newari architecture and cultural charm. The short journey takes you through scenic hills and countryside. Upon arrival, you will explore Bandipur’s stone-paved streets, old houses, temples, and viewpoints offering stunning Himalayan panoramas. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and rich heritage make it a unique destination. Alternatively, travelers with time constraints may choose to drive directly to Chitwan. Enjoy a relaxed evening soaking in the cultural ambiance. Overnight stay in Bandipur.
Day 7 : Sunrise view from Thani Mai – 30 minutes. Drive to Chitwan (415 m) – 2 hr 16 min. Evening walk around Chitwan National Park area and Tharu Cultural Show at night.
Wake up early for a short hike to Thani Mai Temple, a popular viewpoint offering spectacular sunrise views over the Himalayas and surrounding hills. After breakfast, you will drive to Chitwan, descending from the hills into the subtropical plains of southern Nepal. Upon arrival, check into your jungle resort and enjoy some leisure time. In the evening, take a walk around the Chitwan National Park buffer zone and visit a nearby Tharu village to learn about their unique culture and lifestyle. End the day with an engaging Tharu Cultural Show. Overnight stay in Chitwan.
Day 8 : Full-day Chitwan activities: Canoeing, bird and crocodile watching, visit to Elephant Breeding Center, Jeep Safari.
Today is dedicated to exploring the rich biodiversity of Chitwan National Park. You will start with a peaceful canoe ride along the Rapti River, where you can observe crocodiles and aquatic birds. This is followed by guided jungle walks and birdwatching activities. You will also visit the Elephant Breeding Center to learn about conservation efforts. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting jeep safari deep into the jungle, where you may encounter wildlife such as rhinos, deer, monkeys, and possibly even Bengal tigers. The day is filled with adventure and nature experiences. Overnight stay in Chitwan.
Day 9 : Drive from Chitwan to Kathmandu (1,338 m) – 6 hours
After breakfast, you will begin your return journey to Kathmandu. The drive follows rivers, hills, and small towns, offering a final glimpse of Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation, shopping, or exploring any sites you may have missed earlier. You may also enjoy a farewell dinner hosted by Asiana Treks and Tours, celebrating the successful completion of your trek and tour. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 10 : Final departure
Your memorable journey with Asiana Treks and Tours comes to an end today. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. The team will ensure a smooth transfer and bid you farewell, hoping to welcome you again for another adventure in Nepal.
Inclusions
What is included?
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
- All ground transportation (tourist bus/private vehicle)
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bandipur & Chitwan
- Teahouse accommodation during trekking
- Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner during trek and safari)
- Professional trekking guide and necessary support staff
- Annapurna Conservation Area permits and TIMS Card
- Chitwan National Park entry permit
- Chitwan National Park safari activities (jeep safari, canoeing, jungle walk)
- Sightseeing in Pokhara, Bandipur, and Chitwan
- First aid kit and necessary arrangements by Asiana Treks and Tours
What isn't included?
- International airfare and Nepal visa fees
- Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, laundry, phone calls)
- Travel insurance (mandatory but not included)
- Tips for guide, porter, and driver
- Extra meals in cities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities and upgrades (flight, luxury hotels, etc.)
- Emergency evacuation or medical costs
- Personal trekking equipment and gear
Complimentary
