Kathmandu isn’t just about ancient temples and bustling markets; it’s also the gateway to some of Nepal’s most stunning national parks. Surrounded by lush forests, towering mountains, and diverse wildlife habitats, Kathmandu offers a surprising variety of nature-based tours. Whether you’re after an exhilarating jungle safari in Chitwan, a scenic hiking adventure in Shivapuri, or a cultural experience combined with wildlife spotting, this list has a lot to offer. We’re particularly fond of tours like the 3-Day Chitwan National Park Jungle Safari, which balances wildlife, comfort, and culture, making it a perfect introduction for first-timers.
For those considering a deeper dive into wildlife and adventure, the Jungle Tower Night Stay offers an unforgettable overnight experience inside the jungle, and the 3-Night Chitwan Tour combines multiple days of safaris with a unique tower stay. Meanwhile, the sharper, more active hikers will appreciate the Shivapuri National Park and Nagarkot trek for its panoramic mountain views and forest walks. Each tour provides a distinctly different way to experience Nepal’s natural beauty.
1. 3-Day Chitwan National Park Jungle Safari Tour Package with Pick Up
This guided tour offers a straightforward, 3-day immersion into Chitwan’s wildlife and culture. The package includes park entrance fees, all meals, and comfortable transfers, making it an excellent value for those who want a hassle-free experience. You’ll enjoy a jeep safari, canoe rides, and a jungle walk, with the chance to see one-horned rhinoceroses and maybe even Royal Bengal tigers. The program also includes a visit to a Tharu village and a cultural dance show, adding local flavor to your wildlife adventure.
What makes this tour stand out is its balanced itinerary and positive reviews, averaging a 5-star rating from 166 reviews. Travelers appreciate the friendly guides and the smooth logistics, with many noting the value for money at $200 per person. The accommodations in a three-star resort near the park provide comfort without breaking the bank. This tour is perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a comprehensive, budget-friendly safari experience.
Bottom line: For a well-organized, affordable introduction to Nepal’s jungle, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for wildlife lovers who want a taste of everything without the fuss.
2. 3 Nights 4 Days Chitwan National Park with Tower Night Stay
This longer, more adventurous tour includes a night staying inside a wooden tower in the jungle, offering an unforgettable wildlife viewing opportunity. Over four days, you’ll participate in jeep safaris, bird watching, canoeing, and nature walks, with the highlight being the tower stay — a rare chance to sleep right in the middle of the wilderness.
The package is praised for the tower experience, which allows you to observe animals like rhinos and elephants from a close but safe distance, all while enjoying electricity and water in the tower. The full itinerary balances daytime safaris with a night in the jungle, and reviews highlight how memorable this is, calling it a “must-do” adventure. The package is priced at $350, reflecting the unique experience and extensive activities.
Bottom line: If you’re after an adventurous, immersive wildlife experience, especially if you want to spend a night in the wilderness, this tour is a top choice.
3. Kathmandu Shivapuri National Park and Nagarkot Hiking – 3 Days
This tour combines hiking through Shivapuri National Park with a scenic stay in Nagarkot. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a gentle break from city life. The trip includes a visit to Budhanilkantha Temple, a hike through lush forests, and views of the Langtang Range. The Nagi Gompa monastery offers a peaceful stop, and the trip culminates with panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Rated 5/5 by 20 reviewers, this tour is praised for its easy pace and beautiful scenery. The cost is $350, making it a reasonable option for those wanting to combine cultural sights and outdoor activity. It’s suitable for beginner hikers and travelers who prefer a relaxed, informative experience.
Bottom line: For a balanced mix of nature, culture, and mountain views, this tour offers great value and a peaceful retreat.
4. 3-Day Guided Safari Tour in Chitwan National Park in Nepal
This 3-day guided safari provides an immersive experience into Chitwan’s wilderness. The itinerary includes canoe rides, jungle walks, jeep safaris, and cultural shows. The tour emphasizes personalized, expert-led safaris and includes all park fees and most meals for $199.
Guests note the enthusiastic guides who share their 25 years of birding experience and help spot rhinoceroses, tigers, and crocodiles. The tour’s value is high at $199, especially considering the included activities and comfortable accommodations. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a focused wildlife adventure with more personalized attention.
Bottom line: For those seeking a guided, wildlife-rich experience on a moderate budget, this tour is a strong contender.
5. Kathmandu: Nagarjuna National Park Hike with Hotel Pickup
This half-day hike offers a peaceful escape to Nagarjuna Forest, with panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and Himalayan peaks. Starting with a pickup from your hotel, the tour explores biodiverse forests and visits the sacred Jamacho Monastery.
Rated 5/5 from a single review, this tour is perfect for busy travelers who want a short but rewarding outdoor activity. The price is only $5, making it a budget-friendly way to experience nature without leaving the city.
Bottom line: Ideal if you want a quick nature fix close to Kathmandu, especially if you’re short on time.
$5 per person
6. 3-Day Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park
This family-friendly package covers two nights in Chitwan with a variety of safari activities, including jeep safaris, bird watching, and visits to Tharu villages. The tour emphasizes comfort and relaxation in a casual, friendly atmosphere.
Reviews are limited, but the emphasis on family and honeymooners suggests a relaxed pace and kid-friendly options. Priced at $172.47, it’s a good choice for travelers wanting a gentle safari without strict schedules.
Bottom line: For families or first-time safari-goers seeking a relaxed, comfortable wildlife experience, this package is suitable.
$199.00 per person
7. Jungle Tower Night Stay in Chitwan National Park 2 Nights 3 Days
This tour combines a night at a jungle tower with another night in a deluxe resort. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want to spend a night immersed in nature. The tower stay is built at the edge of the river, offering a close-up view of animals like elephants, rhinos, and tigers.
The itinerary includes village tours, jungle walks, and a night in the tower. The reviews highlight the exciting experience of sleeping inside the park, with electricity and water included, priced at $270. It’s a specialized tour suited for adventure travelers.
Bottom line: If you’re after a night in the wilderness with wildlife sightings from your sleeping quarters, this tour offers a memorable experience.
$270.00 per person
8. 3 Day Chitwan National Park, Jungle Safari Package all Inclusive
This all-inclusive safari focuses on wildlife spotting and culture. The itinerary includes canoe rides, nature walks, and jeep safaris. You’ll stay in a comfortable resort and enjoy three meals a day plus park fees for $150, making it one of the most budget-friendly options.
Rated 5/5 by one reviewer, it delivers a comprehensive experience with excellent value. Guests appreciate the well-organized schedule and the opportunity to see bengal tigers, rhinos, and exotic birds.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a full, budget-conscious safari with all activities included.
$150.00 per person
9. Shivapuri National Park Day Hiking – Budanilkantha, Nagi Gumba, Sundarijal Hike
This day hike offers an easy outdoor escape with visits to Budanilkantha Temple, Nagi Gompa, and Sundarijal. The focus is on biodiversity and mountain views, with the opportunity to see birds, monkeys, and rhododendrons.
Rated 5/5 from one review, it’s a great introductory hike for those short on time. The $90 price makes it accessible for nearly all travelers wanting a nature walk with cultural highlights.
Bottom line: For a short, scenic hike combined with cultural sites, this tour offers good value and flexibility.
$90.00 per person
10. 3 Days Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park
Offering a soft, family-friendly safari, this package includes jeep safaris, Tharu village visits, and wildlife spotting. It emphasizes a relaxed pace and is tailored for families or honeymoon couples wanting a peaceful experience.
With a price of $172.47, this tour is suitable for those who want a gentle introduction to the park’s wildlife and local culture without strenuous activities.
Bottom line: Ideal for families or first-timers seeking a gentle, well-rounded safari.
11. Chitwan National Park Tour
This private three-day trip is customized to your schedule, including cultural visits, jungle safaris, and wildlife viewing. With park fees and most meals included, it costs $144 per person. The flexible itinerary suits travelers who prefer a personalized experience.
Reviewers mention the friendly staff and the opportunity to spot elephants, rhinos, and crocodiles. The optional flights or private transport add convenience, especially for tight schedules.
Bottom line: For a tailored safari experience, this private tour offers flexibility and personalized attention.
12. Kathmandu: Shivapuri National Park Hiking Day Trip
This full-day hike challenges you to reach Shivapuri Peak and see views of the Himalayas. The tour includes a visit to Nagi Gumba and the origin of the Bagmati River. It’s perfect for those wanting a longer outdoor day with panoramic mountain vistas.
Rated 3.3/5 from three reviews, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with moderate hikes. The price of $62 makes it an affordable way to enjoy Nepal’s natural scenery.
Bottom line: For a full-day scenic hike, this tour provides excellent value, especially for outdoor enthusiasts.
$62 per person
13. 2 Night 3 Days Chitwan National Park/From Kathmandu/Pokhra
This short, two-night trip includes wildlife safaris, Tharu village visits, and river cruises. It’s ideal for travelers on a tight schedule wanting a quick yet immersive wildlife experience.
No specific reviews are provided, but the itinerary emphasizes cultural and wildlife encounters, making it suitable for beginners or those seeking a brief escape from city life.
Bottom line: For a compact, culturally rich safari, this tour packs a lot into just a few days.
$150 per person
14. From Kathmandu: 3-Day Chitwan National Park & Elephants Tour
This 3-day tour emphasizes elephant encounters, including visits to an elephant breeding center. It features jeep safaris, cultural shows, and wildlife spotting.
Priced at $240, the tour offers a well-rounded experience with a focus on elephants and conservation. It’s suitable for animal lovers who want a deeper connection with one of the park’s most iconic species.
Bottom line: If elephants are your thing, this tour provides an engaging way to connect with Nepal’s gentle giants.
$240 per person
15. 4 Days with One Tower Night Stay in Chitwan National Park
This extended four-day experience includes a night in the jungle tower, scenic safaris, and jungle activities. It’s designed for nature lovers seeking an in-depth adventure.
The highlight is the tower stay, offering close-up animal sightings from your sleeping quarters, with scenic river rides and wildlife safaris adding to the experience. The price of $366 reflects the comprehensive itinerary and special accommodation.
Bottom line: For travelers craving a longer, immersive wilderness journey, this tour delivers with its combination of comfort and adventure.
$366 per person
How to Choose the Right Nepal National Park Tour
When selecting your perfect adventure, consider your budget, time constraints, and interest level. For budget-friendly safaris, the 3-Day Chitwan Jungle Safari offers great value with comprehensive activities. If you want a luxury experience, the Tower Night Stay combines overnight jungle living with wildlife sightings.
For active travelers, the Shivapuri Mountain Hike and the Day Hiking to Shivapuri Peak provide scenic routes with cultural stops. Those with limited time might prefer the 2 Night Chitwan Tour, which packs wildlife and cultural experiences into a short trip.
Booking early is advisable, especially for tours with limited availability like the Jungle Tower Night Stay, ensuring you secure your spot in these popular Nepalese adventures.
To sum it up, Kathmandu offers a wide range of national park tours from budget safaris to luxury wilderness stays. Whether you want to spot tigers in the jungle, hike mountain trails with stunning views, or simply learn about local culture amid nature, there’s an option for you. For wildlife lovers, the Chitwan safaris are unmatched, and for active hikers, Shivapuri and Nagarkot provide scenic escapes. Planning ahead and choosing an experience aligned with your interests will make your Nepal adventure truly memorable.