Rara Lake & Bardia Expedition – The Ultimate Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure – 17 Days

17 days

5.0 (18 verified reviews)

Himalaya, Mustang et spiritualité

Cross Nepal from east to west on an epic 17-day expedition off the beaten track. After visiting Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini, venture into the rugged tracks of remote western Nepal through Surkhet and Kalikot.

Discover the turquoise alpine waters of Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest and most pristine mountain lake at 3,000 meters altitude, before descending into the dense subtropical jungles of Bardia to track wild Bengal tigers on foot.

Trip Highlights

Overland 4x4 expedition across the rugged wilderness trails of western Nepal.
Discovery of legendary Rara Lake, Nepal's largest and most pristine high-altitude lake (3,000m).
Wild alpine hikes through fragrant blue pine and juniper forests within Rara National Park.
Complete walking safaris and 4x4 tracking in Bardia National Park for wild tigers and elephants.

Is this trip right for you?

Wildlife & Tracking

Nature & Adventure

Culture & Local Life

Relaxation & Scenery

Evenings & Social

Pace & Effort: Adventurer

Detailed Itinerary (17 days)

Day-by-day itinerary led by our native master trackers and certified expedition guides.

Day 1

Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, meet our expedition team, private transfer to hotel, and leisure time in Thamel.

Day 2

Day 2 – Cultural Exploration of Kathmandu

Explore the historic temples of Kathmandu Valley: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Day 3

Day 3 – Drive to Pokhara

Scenic road trip to Pokhara, nestled beside Phewa Lake with views of the Annapurna mountain range.

Day 4

Day 4 – Exploration of Pokhara Valley

Boating on Phewa Lake, visiting World Peace Pagoda, and exploring local mountain viewpoints.

Day 5

Day 5 – Drive to Lumbini (Birthplace of Buddha)

Drive southwest to Lumbini and tour the sacred Mayadevi Temple and monastic garden complexes.

Day 6

Day 6 – Drive to Surkhet

Journey northwest through rural hill roads into the historic valley of Surkhet in Western Nepal.

Day 7

Day 7 – Scenic Road to Kalikot

Ascend dramatic gorges along the Karnali Highway to Kalikot, enjoying rugged mountain panoramas.

Day 8

Day 8 – Arrival at Sapphire Lake Rara

Drive and hike through rhododendron and pine forests to reach Lake Rara (3,000m), Nepal's largest and most pristine alpine lake.

Day 9

Day 9 – Exploration of Lake Rara & Murma Top

Trek around the sapphire lakeshore and hike up to Murma Top (3,700m) for a 360° panoramic view of the lake and snowy peaks.

Day 10

Day 10 – Return Drive to Kalikot

Bid farewell to Lake Rara and retrace the mountain track back down to Kalikot for an overnight stop.

Day 11

Day 11 – Drive South to Bardia National Park

Descend from the mountains into the warm Terai lowlands, arriving at our tranquil jungle lodge at Bardia.

Day 12

Day 12 – Full-Day 4x4 Safari in Bardia

Dawn-to-dusk jeep safari exploring prime tiger and rhino habitats across Bardia with expert trackers.

Day 13

Day 13 – Second Day of Intensive Safari

Explore riverine forests, watchtowers, and natural watering holes for big cats and Asian elephants.

Day 14

Day 14 – Walking Safari & Deep Jungle Immersion

Experience the pulse of the jungle on foot with our native Tharu trackers. Safe, quiet, and thrilling close-up nature tracking.

Day 15

Day 15 – Leisure Day & Tharu Village Walk

Relax at the lodge, visit local village artisans, and enjoy an evening traditional Tharu cultural celebration.

Day 16

Day 16 – Flight to Kathmandu

Short drive to Nepalgunj Airport for domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Free afternoon for shopping.

Day 17

Day 17 – International Departure

Private transfer to airport for your return flight home.

What is included in your expedition

Included in the rate

✓All accommodations (selected boutique eco-lodges & traditional heritage hotels)
✓Full-board in the jungle (3 healthy and locally prepared meals daily)
✓Domestic flights & private ground transfers specified in the itinerary
✓Official National Park conservation permits & entry fees
✓Mentoring by certified native master trackers (Pawan / Kiran)
✓Dedicated 24/7 personalized assistance from Robin & local concierge

Not included

✕International flights (Home country – Kathmandu)
✕Nepalese tourist visa fees (approx. $30 to $50 on arrival)
✕Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
✕Mandatory personal travel & medical evacuation insurance
✕Discretionary tips for local trackers, camp staff, and drivers

Exclusive Add-on +350 € / person

Wild Bush Camping Night Add-on in Bardia National Park

Experience an unforgettable night at a temporary bush camp deep in tiger territory with our master trackers Pawan & Kiran. Complete gear provided, hot campfire dinner, and an evening listening to the pure sounds of the jungle.

Verified Explorer Reviews

100% authentic verified explorer feedback on Google Reviews.

★ 5.0 Google Reviews

Adrien Noat

Verified Explorer • Safari Bardia & Babai

★★★★★

“An unforgettable experience with Pawan and Robin. Observing a wild Bengal tiger on foot in complete safety remains the greatest travel moment of my life. Everything was perfectly orchestrated.”

Jean Tramoy

Verified Explorer • Expédition Bivouac

★★★★★

“The bivouac nights in the heart of Babai Valley are pure magic. The trackers' naturalist expertise is astounding. An authentic, deeply respectful journey into raw nature.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book an expedition?

Once you select your expedition, our team will send your booking confirmation by email.

To confirm your reservation, a 30% deposit is required upon registration.

The remaining balance is payable upon arrival in Kathmandu.

Can I customize my trip?

Absolutely! Our local team crafts bespoke private itineraries tailored to your dates, preferences, and pace. Simply let us know what you envision.

Are there group discounts available?

Yes, we offer special rates for small private groups and families. Contact us for custom pricing.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, you must hold personal travel insurance covering safari activities, remote wilderness, and medical evacuation.

What is included in the expedition price?

Our expeditions include boutique eco-lodge accommodations, all meals in the field, private transport, certified master trackers, and all official national park permits.

How many travelers per group?

Our expeditions are strictly limited to 4 to 10 travelers to preserve the silence required for wildlife tracking and guarantee safety.

What is the physical difficulty level?

This trip is rated Adventurer. Our master trackers adapt the walking pace to ensure everyone enjoys the expedition safely and comfortably.

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