Red Panda Wilderness Experience

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o., operating through its local partner, Jagdamba Holidays. Our representative will be waiting with an official Monkvana sign and a traditional marigold garland to welcome you to Nepal.

You will then be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. For late-night arrivals, transportation will be arranged according to your arrival time.

Your representative will also provide information about the tour briefing and group meeting. During the briefing, we will review your travel plans and included services and introduce you to your trekking or tour guide.

Before the journey begins, all participants will complete the required travel and liability forms. Any outstanding tour balance should also be settled during the meeting.

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your guided sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley at around 9:00 AM. Travel by private vehicle with your knowledgeable guide and discover some of the valley’s most important cultural and religious landmarks.

Begin with Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a historic medieval city renowned for its well-preserved Newari architecture, ancient temples, royal courtyards, and intricate wood and stone carvings. Explore highlights such as the 55-Window Palace, Golden Gate, Nyatapola Temple, and Pottery Square while learning about the city’s rich history and traditional culture.

Continue to Boudhanath Stupa, one of Nepal’s largest Buddhist stupas and an important center of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Walk around the impressive stupa, observe devotees performing ritual prayers, and explore the surrounding monasteries, prayer wheels, and traditional shops.

Continue your sightseeing at Pashupatinath Temple, one of Nepal’s most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites, situated along the banks of the Bagmati River. Explore the surrounding temple complex and learn about Hindu traditions, religious rituals, and the spiritual importance of this ancient site.

After completing the sightseeing tour, return to your hotel with a deeper appreciation of Kathmandu Valley’s diverse cultural heritage, where ancient Newari traditions, Buddhist practices, and Hindu spirituality come together. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu Domestic Airport for a scenic 45-minute flight to Bhadrapur (94 m), located in the lush lowlands of eastern Nepal. As the aircraft rises above Kathmandu, enjoy impressive aerial views of terraced hills, winding rivers, forested landscapes, and distant Himalayan peaks. The flight gradually descends towards the warm and fertile Terai plains, marking the beginning of your journey into the remote eastern Himalayas.

Upon arrival at Bhadrapur Airport, meet your jeep driver and proceed on a scenic overland journey towards Shree Antu (2,328 m). Covering approximately 61.6 km in 4–5 hours, the route gradually climbs from the Terai plains through rolling hills, lush forests, terraced farmlands, tea plantations, and traditional rural villages. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of eastern Nepal, with changing landscapes and peaceful countryside scenery as you approach the Ilam Tea Hills. Shree Antu is renowned for its lush tea gardens, misty hill landscapes, and spectacular sunrise views. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable stop during the journey, depending on your preferred timing and convenience.

Upon arrival in Shree Antu, check in at Shree Antu Community Homestay, one of the region’s finest community homestays, and experience the warm hospitality and authentic rural lifestyle of eastern Nepal. Surrounded by tea estates, peaceful villages, and fresh mountain air, it offers a relaxing and enriching end to the day. Accommodation is provided in a twin-sharing room with a shared bathroom, with breakfast and dinner included.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, continue your journey into the remote eastern mid-hills of Nepal, leaving the lush tea hills of Shree Antu behind. The scenic drive takes you through rolling forested ridges, traditional villages, and serene landscapes, offering a peaceful transition into the quieter and less-travelled areas of eastern Nepal.

Upon departure from Shree Antu, proceed on a scenic overland journey towards Dobate (2,660 m). The journey from Shree Antu to Dobate covers approximately 50 km and takes around 4–5 hours, following winding rural roads through dense forests, rolling hills, terraced farmland, and traditional villages. The route is primarily vehicle-based, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscapes and peaceful mid-hill scenery. The surrounding forests are rich in biodiversity, and birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts may have opportunities to spot colourful birds, small mammals, and other species along the way. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable stop during the journey, depending on your preferred timing and convenience.

Upon arrival in Dobate, check in at Dobate Community Homestay, located in the heart of Dobate Village, and experience the warm hospitality and authentic rural lifestyle of eastern Nepal. Surrounded by forested ridges, peaceful village landscapes, and fresh mid-hill air, the community homestay offers a tranquil and welcoming place to rest after a scenic day of travel and exploration. Accommodation is provided in a twin-sharing room with a shared bathroom, with breakfast and dinner included.

After a hearty breakfast at the Dobate Homestay, set out on a guided red panda tracking trek through the pristine forests surrounding Dobate, Ilam, Eastern Nepal. This day offers one of Nepal’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences, as you explore the natural habitat of the elusive red panda. Early morning mist often drapes the forest, while the peaceful surroundings create an atmosphere of anticipation and discovery, making this an ideal experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

The trek spans approximately 5–6 hours along gentle forest trails near Dobate (2,660 m), with gradual ascents and descents. It is moderately challenging, making it ideal for travellers who enjoy active exploration without technical climbing. The trail passes through dense bamboo forests, majestic oak trees, and vibrant rhododendron forests, all prime habitats for the rare red panda. Guided by experienced trackers, learn to identify wildlife signs, observe feeding patterns, and understand ongoing conservation efforts, while enjoying abundant birdwatching opportunities. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable location during the trek, depending on the day’s activities and convenience.

The remote forest provides a profound sense of solitude and connection with nature, creating a truly immersive wildlife experience. After completing the trek, return to Dobate Community Homestay and enjoy the warm hospitality and peaceful mountain setting. Accommodation is provided in a twin-sharing room with a shared bathroom, with breakfast and dinner included. The day concludes with shared stories, hearty local meals, and time to relax in the tranquil surroundings of Dobate Village.

After a hearty breakfast at the Dobate Homestay, set out for a full day of guided red panda tracking and biodiversity exploration through the pristine forests surrounding Dobate (2,660 m). The unhurried pace offers an immersive opportunity to explore the rich forest ecosystem and increase your chances of encountering Nepal’s remarkable wildlife. The peaceful surroundings encourage close observation and a deeper appreciation of the area’s natural beauty, making this an ideal experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

The trek lasts approximately 5–6 hours and is moderately challenging, with gradual ascents and descents and regular breaks to keep the journey comfortable and adaptable to wildlife movements. The forest trails pass through diverse bamboo, oak, and rhododendron forests, providing excellent habitats for the elusive red panda as well as numerous bird and insect species. Guided by experienced trackers, learn to identify wildlife signs, observe feeding patterns, and gain insight into ongoing conservation efforts and the rich biodiversity of eastern Nepal. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable location during the trek, depending on the day’s activities and convenience.

The remote forest provides a profound sense of solitude and connection with nature, with quiet, rarely travelled trails offering a truly immersive wildlife experience. After completing the trek, return to Dobate Community Homestay and enjoy the warm hospitality and peaceful mountain setting. Accommodation is provided in a twin-sharing room with a shared bathroom, with breakfast and dinner included. The day concludes with shared stories, hearty local meals, and time to relax in the tranquil surroundings of Dobate Village.

After a hearty breakfast at the Dobate Homestay, begin the scenic journey from the peaceful eastern mid-hills towards the fertile plains of eastern Nepal. The road gradually descends through lush forests, rolling hills, tea gardens, and traditional villages, offering beautiful views of the changing landscapes and rural surroundings. As you leave the remote highlands behind, the journey continues towards Birtamode, situated at approximately 300 m (984 ft) above sea level.

The journey from Dobate to Birtamod covers approximately 90 km and takes around 5–6 hours, following winding rural roads through forested slopes, agricultural valleys, local settlements, and emerging towns. Along the way, enjoy opportunities to admire the scenery, take photographs, and observe the transition from the cooler mid-hills to the warmer subtropical plains. The route also provides glimpses of daily life, local markets, farming communities, and the diverse culture of eastern Nepal. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable stop during the journey, depending on your preferred timing and convenience.

Upon arrival in Birtamod, check in at Siddharth Hotel Grand City and take some time to relax and refresh after the scenic drive. Accommodation is provided in a twin-sharing room with a private bathroom, with breakfast and dinner included. Later, enjoy a short walk around the local market and town centre, exploring nearby shops, cafés, restaurants, and the lively streets of Birtamode. This offers a simple opportunity to experience the everyday atmosphere and local life of eastern Nepal.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, begin the day with an authentic private vehicle journey across the fertile Terai plains, offering an immersive glimpse into everyday Nepali life. The expansive landscape unfolds under open skies, with lush fields, distant villages, and rural settlements creating a vibrant backdrop for the journey. This cultural journey provides an opportunity to experience Nepal beyond the usual tourist routes and observe the rhythms of local life.

The scenic overland journey from Birtamod to Janakpur covers approximately 265 km and takes around 6–7 hours, with Janakpur situated at 74 meters above sea level. While physically easy, the journey requires patience and adaptability, offering an authentic taste of local travel rhythms and everyday life in Nepal. The route winds through quaint villages, sparkling rivers, bustling markets, and fertile agricultural lands rich with rice, sugarcane, and mustard fields. Although wildlife sightings are minimal, the journey remains alive with the sights, sounds, and colours of Nepal’s cultural life. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable stop during the journey, depending on your preferred timing and convenience.

Upon arrival in Janakpur, one of Nepal’s most sacred and vibrant religious cities, check in at Hotel Mithila Yatri Niwas and take some time to relax and refresh after the journey. Accommodation is provided in a twin-sharing room with a private bathroom, with breakfast and dinner included. Later, explore the colourful streets, admire traditional Mithila art, and experience the living heritage of Janakpur through local rituals, festivals, and cultural performances. The city is renowned for the magnificent Janaki Temple, a major Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Sita (Janaki), and its rich Mithila culture and centuries-old traditions.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, begin the scenic overland journey from Janakpur to Chitwan (207 m ), travelling through the diverse landscapes of Nepal’s southern plains and central lowlands. The route offers an authentic glimpse into everyday life, with fertile farmland, rural settlements, local markets, and changing landscapes along the way.

The journey from Janakpur to Chitwan follows the route through Bardibas, Pathlaiya, and Hetauda, covering approximately 232 km and taking around 5–6 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. As the journey progresses, the landscape gradually changes from the flat Terai plains to forested areas and the foothills around Hetauda, before continuing towards Chitwan. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable stop during the journey, depending on your preferred timing and convenience.

Upon arrival in Khairahani, Chitwan, check in at Banbas Resort, located beside Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a full-board stay with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, together with jungle safari activities during your stay. Set among wild trees, wetlands, and rich birdlife, the resort offers an immersive natural setting close to the park and its diverse wildlife. The peaceful surroundings provide an ideal opportunity to relax and experience the natural beauty and wildlife of Chitwan National Park.

After breakfast at Banbas Resort, begin a rewarding day of wildlife exploration in Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Nepal’s most important protected areas. The main highlight is a 3–4-hour guided jeep safari, taking you through the park’s diverse landscapes of sal forests, grasslands, wetlands, and riverine habitats. The safari offers an immersive opportunity to experience Chitwan’s natural environment while learning about its wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation efforts.

During the 3–4-hour jeep safari, explore forest tracks and open grasslands where you may encounter the one-horned rhinoceros, spotted deer, wild boar, monkeys, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. The park is also home to the Royal Bengal tiger, although sightings are rare and never guaranteed. Depending on the day’s programme and park conditions, the experience can be complemented by birdwatching, nature walks, canoeing, or other guided wildlife activities. Lunch will be served at the resort or arranged by your guide, depending on the day’s activities and schedule.

After the safari and other activities, return to Banbas Resort, Khairahani, and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings. Set among wild trees, wetlands, and rich birdlife, the resort provides a comfortable setting to relax after an exciting day in the national park. Enjoy your full-board accommodation, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, and take time to appreciate the tranquillity and natural beauty of Chitwan National Park.

After breakfast at the hotel in Chitwan, begin the scenic overland journey to Kathmandu, leaving the peaceful Terai plains behind. The road gradually climbs through forested hills, river valleys, terraced farmland, and traditional villages, offering changing landscapes as you make your way towards the Kathmandu Valley.

The journey from Chitwan to Kathmandu covers approximately 163 km and takes around 5–6 hours by private vehicle or tourist bus, depending on road and traffic conditions. The route follows the scenic highway through Mugling and along the Trishuli River, with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and rural settlements. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable stop during the journey, depending on your preferred timing and convenience.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check in at Hotel Kailash Kutee in Thamel and take some time to relax and refresh after the journey. Accommodation is provided in a Deluxe Twin Room with a private bathroom, and breakfast is included. The convenient location in Thamel also allows you to enjoy some free time exploring the lively streets, cafés, restaurants, and local shops.

As your Himalayan journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on Nepal’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences—from majestic mountain landscapes to the warm hospitality of local communities.

For a smooth departure, a representative of Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o., operating through its local partner Jagdamba Holidays, will meet you at your hotel approximately 3.5 hours before your scheduled flight and provide a comfortable transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.

Thank you for choosing Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o. and Jagdamba Holidays. We look forward to welcoming you again on future journeys across the Himalayas and beyond.