Nepal’s capital offers quick access to some of the country’s finest national parks, and I’ve found the tours departing from Kathmandu to be wonderfully organized.
The standout experience is the Lower Dolpo Trek – a challenging but rewarding 15-day journey that lets you experience authentic village life and pristine alpine lakes.
I love Shivapuri National Park‘s day hikes, particularly for travelers short on time – you’ll get fantastic waterfall views and wildlife spotting just an hour from the city.
My personal favorite is the 4-day Chitwan safari; nothing beats watching rhinos and tigers in their natural habitat from a safe distance.
Let’s explore these top-rated national park tours in detail.
Key Points
- Chitwan National Park Safari Tours offer the best opportunity to spot wildlife like rhinos, tigers, and elephants in Nepal.
- Shivapuri National Park Day Hikes provide scenic mountain views and culture near Kathmandu.
- Lower Dolpo Trek combines trekking, cultural experiences, and the chance to see rare wildlife like blue sheep and snow leopards.
- 6-day Nepal Tours cover Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara, showcasing the country’s diverse landscapes and activities.
- 2-day Chitwan National Park Tours focus on the park’s biodiversity and provide a quick wildlife experience.
From Kathmandu: Unspoiled Wilderness Trek(Lower Dolpo Trek)
Travelers can embark on an unforgettable trek through the untamed landscapes of the Lower Dolpo region, starting from Kathmandu.
The 15-day Upper Dolpo Trek offers a chance to explore the turquoise gem of Shey Phoksundo Lake, visit the ancient Shey Gompa monastery, and cross the high-altitude Kang La Pass at 5,350m.
This trekking adventure promises culture in remote Dolpo-pa villages and the possibility of spotting rare wildlife like blue sheep and snow leopards.
Priced from $3,633.72 per person, the trek includes domestic flights, accommodation, permits, experienced guides, and all meals during the journey, providing a comprehensive and flexible experience.
Read our full review: From Kathmandu: Unspoiled Wilderness Trek(Lower Dolpo Trek) Review
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Kathmandu: Scenic Shivapuri National Park Hiking
From right out of the capital city of Kathmandu, adventurers can embark on a scenic hiking expedition through the lush confines of Shivapuri National Park.
The 8-hour experience, including 4-6 hours of hiking, costs £33.69 per person and offers a chance to discover hidden waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and stunning mountain vistas.
The hike, led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, starts from Budhanilkantha with pickup options in Bhaktapur, Kathmandu, and Lalitpur.
Visitors can expect to see monkeys, birds, and possibly deer, while learning about the park’s flora and fauna.
The tour includes pick-up, drop-off, guides, bottled water, and lunch, making it a family-friendly adventure with memorable experiences and photo opportunities.
Read our full review: Kathmandu: Scenic Shivapuri National Park Hiking Review
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Kathmandu: 4-Day Private Chitwan National Park Safari Tour
Visitors to Kathmandu can enjoy the natural wonders of Chitwan National Park with a 4-day private safari tour.
This all-inclusive excursion offers the chance to spot iconic wildlife like rhinos, tigers, and elephants, as well as experience Tharu cultural performances.
The itinerary includes a jeep safari, canoe ride, and the option to explore the park on foot or by bicycle.
Accommodation, meals, transportation, and park fees are all covered, making it a hassle-free way to discover one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
With flexible booking and free cancellation, this tour provides personalized attention and comfortable stays for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Read our full review: Kathmandu: 4-Day Private Chitwan National Park Safari Tour Review
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6 Days Nepal Tour With Chitwan National Park
Embark on an unforgettable 6-day journey across Nepal’s captivating landscapes, immersing oneself in the vibrant culture of Kathmandu, the untamed wilderness of Chitwan National Park, and the serene beauty of Pokhara.
Starting at $556.66 per person, this tour offers the opportunity to visit iconic sites, participate in a jungle safari, and enjoy stunning Himalayan views.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option, the tour ensures flexibility and convenience.
Highlights include sightseeing in Kathmandu, an elephant safari in Chitwan, and boating in Pokhara, complemented by comfortable hotel accommodations and a farewell dinner with cultural entertainment.
Read our full review: 6 Days Nepal Tour With Chitwan National Park Review
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From Kathmandu: 2 Day Short Wildlife National Park Tour
Situated just a short distance from Kathmandu, the 2-Day Short Wildlife National Park Tour offers travelers a chance to dive into the heart of Chitwan National Park’s rich biodiversity.
Priced from $153.08 per person, this tour includes round-trip transportation, accommodation, park entrance fees, and guided activities such as a jeep safari and birdwatching.
Participants can expect to encounter one-horned rhinos and Bengal tigers, as well as enjoy Tharu culture through traditional performances.
With flexible booking options and a focus on the park’s highlights, this tour provides an efficient and affordable way to explore Chitwan’s natural wonders from Kathmandu.
Read our full review: From Kathmandu: 2 Day Short Wildlife National Park Tour Review
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Day Hike to Shivapuri National Park From Kathmandu
Those seeking a rejuvenating nature escape can embark on a day hike to the serene Shivapuri National Park, just a short drive from the bustle of Kathmandu.
This 8-hour excursion takes adventurers through lush forests, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and Himalayas.
Highlights include visiting the Nagi Gompa Buddhist monastery and the sacred source of the Bagmati River.
With an experienced English-speaking guide, round-trip transportation, and all necessary fees included, this private group tour provides a seamless way to immerse in the area’s natural and cultural wonders, all for KR1,112 per person.
Read our full review: Day Hike to Shivapuri National Park From Kathmandu Review
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3-Day Guided Safari Tour in Chitwan National Park in Nepal
Nestled within the lush landscapes of Nepal, the Chitwan National Park beckons adventurers seeking an immersive wildlife experience.
The 3-Day Guided Safari Tour, operated by The Great Adventure Treks & Expedition, offers a comprehensive exploration of this captivating destination.
Travelers can expect a private, wheelchair-accessible tour with a maximum of 10 participants, accompanied by meals, drinks, and personal expenses covered.
Pickup is available from either the hotel or Tribhuvan International Airport, with operations running daily from 7 AM to 9:30 PM.
Boasting a perfect 5-star rating across 5 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Nepal’s premier national park.
Read our full review: 3-Day Guided Safari Tour in Chitwan National Park in Nepal Review
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15 Days Relaxing Nepal Explore Trip With Easy Trek, Tour, National Park Safari
This immersive 15-day Nepal exploration package offers travelers a well-rounded experience, blending trekking, tours, and a safari in Chitwan National Park.
Starting in Kathmandu, the trip includes permits, a guide, airport shuttle, heritage tour, and accommodations. Travelers will explore Pokhara and Chitwan, with round-trip transportation and private transfers.
The package also features a Nagarkot sunrise tour and all meals during the Chitwan safari. With a moderate fitness level required, this trip caters to travelers seeking a relaxing yet comprehensive introduction to Nepal’s natural and cultural highlights.
The free cancellation policy and positive reviews make this an appealing option for those looking to discover Nepal’s wonders.
Read our full review: 15 Days Relaxing Nepal Explore Trip With Easy Trek, Tour, National Park Safari Review
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Shivapuri National Park Day Hiking – Budanilkantha, Nagi Gumba, Sundarijal Hike
Situated within the Kathmandu Valley, Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park provides day hikers a chance to enjoy the park’s lush forests and capture sweeping vistas of the Himalayas.
The Shivapuri National Park Hiking Tour takes visitors on a journey to Budanilkantha, Nagi Gumba, and Sundarijal. The tour includes private transportation, lunch, bottled water, park entry fees, and coffee or tea.
Pickup is available from your hotel or a designated location, and the tour is private for your group. With a 5-star rating based on 1 review, this hiking adventure is suitable for most travelers, except those with back problems.
Priced from $90, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Shivapuri National Park Day Hiking – Budanilkantha, Nagi Gumba, Sundarijal Hike Review
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The Sum Up
Kathmandu offers a variety of national park tours, from the unspoiled wilderness of Lower Dolpo to the scenic Shivapuri National Park. Visitors can enjoy a private safari in Chitwan National Park, a two-day wildlife tour, or a multi-day guided safari. These tours provide opportunities to explore Nepal’s diverse natural landscapes and wildlife, making Kathmandu an excellent starting point for discovering the country’s incredible national parks.