Just got back a few days ago, had a great time though not very relaxing, lots of traveling but saw so much
went with a group which I've done before & really enjoy though I think when I go back I'll do it independently to have more flexibility.
started in Kathmandu which was hot, dusty and very noisy, don't like cities so didn't enjoy it, driving was a free for all
and walking had enough hazards dodging cars, motorbikes and more in very narrow streets, it was an experience but not somewhere I would choose to spend any time.
next day flew to Biratnagar and transfered to Koshi Tappu national park, the camp was great, very basic but lovely location, big comfortable tents, food was outstanding considering the basic setup, curried everything, even breakfast
Park is small but seemed unspoilt, had a very nice day on the river exploring in inflatables and rest of the time on foot, took a drive to the flood barrage to see river dolphins which was a highlight.
moved onto Chitwan after a few days, Machan Paradise view got some very mixed reviews on trip adviser so was a bit worried but it was a great, the issues listed weren't apparent at all, nothing was too much trouble for staff (inc serving coffee & biscuits at 0530 for a few early risers) everything was comfortable and clean, i usually get itchy feet when away so like moving around but didn't want to leave, magical place.
Park is huge with mix of grassland, rivers & forrest, explored on foot, jeep and elephant. It was full on and quite tiring but got to see a lot of the park plus plenty of crocs, mammals and birds.
Back to Kathmandu for a few days but spent most of the time in Phulchoki Forrest, up to about 9000ft in the hills SE of the city, had armed police with us which was unexpected but tourists have been robbed in the area. Great views over the himalayas and alive with birds, not the time of year for flora but still found a few interesting things, the dirt tracks and steep drops were a bit scary
weather was hot & sunny all the time, coming back to snow & freezing winds not much fun!
has been a long held ambition to visit and didn't disappoint, will be going back to Machan to explore Chitwan more in a few years.
few random pics....
flight to Biratnagar, Everest on left trailing cloud
Koshi Tappu camp
Posh tent
St Andrews Cross Spider, dont like 8 legged beasties
but these were fascinating
Koshi Tappu
