Chitwan National Park Tour: Cycling and Lunch Review

Planning a visit to Nepal and thinking of experiencing its wildlife? So, too a trip to Chitwan National Park should, in a way, totally be on your list. Specifically, there are tons of ways to see this beautiful area, from jeep safaris to walking tours. But, like, the “Chitwan National Park and River Cycling Tour with Lunch” could be an option that combines adventure, nature, and culture. As a matter of fact, you get exercise. We tried it, so let’s explore what makes this tour pretty amazing and also a couple of things to keep in mind.

What to Expect on the River Cycling Tour

Alright, the tour typically begins pretty early in the morning. So, it’s definitely worth getting a somewhat prompt start. The first bit usually includes a briefing from your guide, who will fill you in on what you’ll see. Basically, you will learn about the route and important safety tips. So, safety first! It’s almost important. The cycling part usually takes you through local villages. This gives you a peek into the area’s culture and way of life. Pretty fascinating!

Now, as I was saying, the trail takes you alongside the Rapti River. Just a little word to the wise, keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife. By the way, the ride is generally quite chill. It’s pretty level, yet there can be a couple of bumpy spots. Just a little heads up.

Oh, very often the river crossing can be done via a local boat. Like your traditional dugout canoe or maybe even by walking if the water level permits. Just be prepared to maybe get your feet wet. It’s an adventure, very! Plus, cycling allows for closer access to all the amazing stuff surrounding you unlike traveling by jeep.

Wildlife Encounters and What You Might See

The reason you are in Chitwan. We know you love animals. Now, while this isn’t solely a wildlife safari, just so you know, there’s a solid chance you’ll see cool wildlife along the way. I mean, rhinos, deer, loads of colorful birds. They are sometimes spotted along the trail.

So, just remember to bring binoculars! In some respects, you might want a zoom lens if you want to snap pics of the local wildlife. We spotted loads of cool species during the cycling tour. Of course, you won’t always see everything that’s out there, right? That’s nature, alright?

The Cultural Aspect: Village Visits

Just so you know, a good part of the cycling tour goes through Tharu villages. By the way, these are the local people of Chitwan. This part could be really cool because it lets you check out their culture up close. So, you might see how they live. Or you may catch them doing traditional things like farming. You get to actually interact and not just watch from a distance. It’s pretty respectful and offers some good cultural understanding.

Basically, you can check out the traditional mud houses and, of course, local dress. Naturally, sometimes the tours set up chats with local families, depending on who’s running the tour, right? If you want to learn more, it may be good to ask the tour operator when you book if this is an option!

Lunch by the River: A Taste of Nepal

Alright, halfway through the trip, very often there’s a stop for lunch by the riverbank. A lot of tours include what they claim is “traditional Nepali food”. It tends to be dal bhat. So, lentils, rice, veggies, maybe some chicken or goat curry, you know, the usual Nepali meal. It usually depends on the tour. We really suggest that you double check about dietary preferences or needs when you are booking your trip.

In that case, if the weather is fine, it could be an awesome opportunity to eat outside while just relaxing by the water. Meanwhile, be aware that sometimes it’s served picnic-style.

What to Bring on Your Cycling Tour

Anyway, before you even pedal off, it’s smart to pack the right stuff. Remember sunglasses or even sunscreen. That tends to be key! It helps protect you from the sun. Arguably, there are not loads of shady spots on the road. Definitely carry water because you will probably get quite dehydrated. As a matter of fact, we like hydration backpacks, very. It lets you drink easily while cycling. Another smart plan? It might be worthwhile to bring insect repellent. Plus, it would be smart if you wore clothing for sports that might let your skin breathe. Of course, comfy shoes are a smart idea.

Is This Tour Right for You?

So, is this trip for everybody? Well, maybe, maybe not. It’s good if you want an active type thing. Plus, you can experience the villages surrounding Chitwan Park. Yet, if you aren’t super fit. You know, you don’t cycle tons! That said, just ask the trip operator what the distance is plus what sort of bike you use. Or ask if there’s an e-bike choice.

So, if you are someone who loves to watch loads of wildlife from close up. Also, someone who wants the cushiest style of travel. Maybe think about taking another option, actually. A Jeep safari could be more what you might like, right? Overall, so, too this cycle-and-lunch trip mixes a couple of elements well. It has a dash of fitness plus some seeing of things while mixing in local food and culture, anyway.

At the end of the day, be it a jeep safari or a hike, get to know all you could before committing to an exploration choice in the region, very! That way it might meet your travel requirements and desires.

In conclusion

• Cycling along Rapti River offers some lovely scenery.
• Keep an eye out, and you will be able to spot a few birds plus deer.
• Visiting Tharu towns can expose a traveler to a lovely indigenous community.
• The lunches are really an interesting introduction to tasty meals from Nepal.
• Prioritize proper apparel and essentials in anticipation of heat plus sunlight during cycling escapades.

In the grand scheme, by the way, consider if this blend suits an interest as this would bring activity alongside a peek to nature including some lovely culture plus gastronomy there.

You could find many activities alongside the park and in wider Nepal itself, basically! With all being so lovely there.