The Kingdom of Nepal is landlocked between its vast neighbours; India and China, though it is shaped by their cultures the towering Himalaya have maintained the strongest influence. Just slightly larger than England this country has the greatest range of altitude, from just 100m above sea level to the summit of Everest at 8848m, and contains 10 of the worlds 14 highest peaks.

A wide range of habitats are found between the fertile lowlands of the Terai and the four major mountain ranges that are interspersed with valleys and cultivated slopes. Between the tropical forests and the snowline a staggering 840 bird species have been listed, representing almost 10% of the world’s species. Although populations of some mammals have certainly suffered in the past due to hunting and habitat destruction, the protection afforded by National Parks has gone a considerable way in stabilising and reversing the situation.

The chance of seeing an impressive number of one-horned rhino at Royal Chitwan National Park is hard to match. Royal Bardia offers a realistic possibility of seeing rare Gangetic dolphins and an increasing chance of tiger sightings, though still not comparable with Ranthambhore or Bandhavgarh in India. Both parks have a wealth of other mammal species alongside incredible bird lists, whilst Kosi Tappu is primarily a birding destination.

We recommend a minimum stay of four days at any major National Park in order to maximise your wildlife encounters, but it is always a matter of luck. Unlike India, many of the lodges in Nepal are within the park boundaries, so the viewing opportunities never cease, and excursions are taken on foot, by jeep and elephant back or water-borne in rafts and canoes, it is also possible to climb viewing towers and wait quietly to observe passing wildlife.

Between safari stays there are plenty of fascinating destinations and activities, day treks can be taken in the Kathmandu Valley or longer camping treks to view the Annapurna Range. River rafting trips offer an interesting alternative to road travel. The Kathmandu Valley in fact contains three ancient cities; Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan, each with historic city squares, spectacular temples and atmospheric Buddhist stupas. However a highlight for many will be the warmth of the Nepali people and the simple beauty of the villages passed through en route.

All of the accommodation that we offer has been chosen to provide the comforts expected by Western travellers, such as good food, attached bathrooms and friendly English speaking staff. At the parks our selections are also based on the quality of the wildlife guides who will accompany you. Due to their remoteness some locations cannot offer electricity or a continuous hot water supply, but the natural compensations are immeasurable.

Our brochure and web site are not a definitive guide to the locations visited by Tiger Trails, we can work together to design an ideal tour to meet your own aspirations. We are here to offer advice and guidance regarding all aspects of your trip, whether tracking a rhino, taking a short trek in the Himalayan foothills or sampling some of Nepal’s unique culture and hospitality.