Nepal 106 Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal. Although the wildlife enthusiast may only stop here en- route to national parks and rural areas, the Kathmandu valley has some wonderful, colourful sights for visitors. Kathmandu centre is an eclectic mix of palaces, courtyards and temples and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just outside the city is the hilltop Buddhist temple complex of Swayambunath, which offers fabulous views of the surrounding snow- covered mountains. The forested slopes of Phulchowki also present good birdwatching and photographic opportunities. You will be rewarded by spending one or two days here. Dwarika's Hotel HIGH Kathmandu's premier property. It's a unique hotel, traditional in design, and consisting of 74 rooms and suites located around courtyards, gardens, a temple and a swimming pool. The hotel incorporates antique Newari wood carvings and traditional Nepalese arts and crafts, and is located not far from the holy temple of Pashupatinath in a quiet suburb of Kathmandu. Hotel Yak & Yeti HIGH One of Kathmandu's top hotels. It benefi ts from being centrally located in Durbar Marg, near to ancient temples, shops and restaurants. The hotel contains 270 comfortable rooms, restaurants, tennis courts, pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and gym. Shivapuri Heights MID A charming house, run by one of our long- standing local partners, with stunning views into the Kathmandu valley from its position high up in the Shivapuri Reserve. There are just three bedrooms, plus a living room, library and your own private chef to prepare meals. It's the perfect retreat for those wanting a secluded rural getaway, while experiencing a typical Nepalese friendly welcome. Sitting at the heart of the Himalaya, Nepal is one of the most spectacular countries on earth. What makes this mystical mountain kingdom so special? The warm and friendly people, rich blend of Buddhist and Hindu cultures, an exceptional variety of both birds and mammals and a remarkable diversity of habitats. Over 850 species of birds are found in Nepal, and amongst its larger mammals are tiger, leopard, greater one- horned rhinoceros, elephant, water buffalo, gaur, three species of bear, deer, antelope, and in the mountains a population of wild sheep and goats. Kathmandu Talk to an expert 0845 130 6982

The Shanker Hotel MID A 100- year old palace situated just a few minutes' walk from the heart of Kathmandu. Formerly owned by Nepalese royalty, the property retains its characterful, majestic air and has a lovely large swimming pool, tranquil gardens and 104 good- sized bedrooms and suites, all tastefully decorated and restored. Royal Chitwan National Park Royal Chitwan National Park is located in the lowlands of southern central Nepal. The park comprises 976 square kilometres of sal and riverine jungle, a magnificent environment which contains a greater variety of wildlife than any other area of Nepal. Over 480 species of birds have been recorded here, as well as many mammals, reptiles and numerous insects. boar, sambar, muntjac, chital, rhesus and hanuman monkeys, whilst reptiles include marsh mugger and gharial crocodiles. Wildlife viewing is an exciting mix of elephant safaris, jungle walks, game drives and river trips. Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge HIGH This lodge is ultimate luxury in a fantastic natural setting in the heart of the park. Chitwan is famous for its treehouses and bungalows, which contain 20 guest rooms with fans and en- suite bathrooms. There is a large circular open- roofed dining area and bar, and resident expert naturalist guides lead safaris on highly trained elephants, well- maintained vehicles and boats. Choose Tiger Tops Jungle Camp for a tranquil experience, closer to nature. Here, 12 twin and double safari tents enjoy sweeping views across the tall alluvial grasslands of Chitwan to the snowy Himalayan peaks. Each tent has an en- suite bamboo bathroom and is equipped with lanterns. Machan Paradise View MID A jungle safari resort beside the Rapti River, overlooking Royal Chitwan National Park. Five large bungalows each contain four large, comfortable rooms, which combine modern amenities with a Nepalese feel. The resort is just fi ve minutes from the park headquarters, Gharial Breeding Centre and Elephant Breeding Centre. There is a dining room, swimming pool and bar. Exciting rafting trips can also be organised to and from Machan Paradise View, along the Trisuli River. Machan Wildlife Lodge MID Machan Wildlife Lodge is inside the park and in a great location for birdwatching, for which we'd recommend it. It has lovely, thatched en- suite bungalows and has been designed in accordance with the park's natural environment. It has comfortable accommodation for those who want a tranquil place to stay, with added convenience for wildlife activities. ASIA | NEPAL 107 NEPAL WILDLIFE EXTRAVAGANZA Highlights . Tiger and wild elephant at Bardia National Park . Explore by raft, canoe, jeep, foot and on elephant- back . Enjoy the company of a wildlife expert A wonderful trip exploring Nepal's best- loved wildlife spots. Throughout the tour you'll be accompanied by one of our wildlife experts, who will inspire and inform you with knowledge and detail of Nepal's many mammals, birds and reptiles. Chitwan and Bardia combine perfectly to create chances to see tiger, elephant and one-horned Indian rhinoceros by foot, elephant- back, jeep, canoe and raft! Of course, there's much more to discover in both parks, from your comfortable accommodation, and you'll also explore the rich tapestry of Nepal's capital, Kathmandu. GROUP TOUR ITINERARY Day 1 Depart UK for Kathmandu Day 2 Arrive Kathmandu and transfer to The Shanker Hotel Day 3 Full day birdwatching tour on Phulchowki Hill ( BL) Day 4 Drive to Chitwan, spotting birds along the way, arrive at Machan Paradise View ( BLD) Day 5 Search for wildlife by foot, elephant- back, canoe and jeep. We've also arranged a special wildlife presentation for our groups in Chitwan ( BLD) Day 8 Drive to Lumbini, birthplace of the Lord Buddha ( BD) Day 9 Transfer to Bardia, Rhino Lodge ( BLD) Day 10 Explore the reserve by river raft and game trails. Early morning and late afternoon excursions provide a good chance of seeing tiger and wild elephant ( BLD) Day 13 Fly to Kathmandu for overnight ( B) Day 14 Depart Kathmandu for UK ( B) Day 15 Arrive UK Departure dates 21 Nov - 5 Dec 2010 10 Apr - 24 Apr 2011 20 Nov - 4 Dec 2011 Our November 2010 departure will be led by Dr. Hem Sagar Baral, director of Bird Conservation Nepal. Flight inclusive cost per person From £ 2795 Land only cost per person From £ 1895 Single room supplement From £ 390 What's included Flights ( fl ight inclusive package only), transfers, meals as indicated, twelve nights hotel/ lodge accommodation Max. group size 12 Tour code WNCB Ask for our full tour dossier KATHMANDU LUMBINI ROYAL BARDIA NATIONAL PARK ROYAL CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK NEPAL INDIA Ganges River CHINA Ghagara River Or visit us on the web www. wildlifeworldwide. com