3 day itinerary for Chitwan, Lumbini

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Chitwan

• Start your day by arriving in Chitwan, a beautiful region known for its national park and wildlife.
• Check into your hotel and freshen up before heading out to explore the area.
• In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling jungle safari in Chitwan National Park. Hop on a jeep or an elephant and venture into the wilderness to spot exotic animals like rhinos, tigers, elephants, and various bird species.
• After the safari, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Rapti River, enjoying the serene surroundings and maybe even catching a glimpse of a crocodile or two.
• In the evening, indulge in a traditional Tharu cultural dance performance, where you can witness the vibrant costumes, music, and dance of the local Tharu community.

Day 2: Exploring Chitwan

• Start your day with an early morning bird-watching tour. Chitwan is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 500 species of birds found in the region. You can spot colorful birds like the Bengal florican, Asian paradise flycatcher, and the great hornbill.
• After breakfast, visit the Elephant Breeding Center, where you can learn about the conservation efforts and breeding programs for elephants. You can even get up close and personal with these gentle giants and even feed them.
• In the afternoon, take a canoe ride along the Rapti River. This peaceful journey will allow you to observe the diverse flora and fauna along the riverbanks, including various bird species, crocodiles, and maybe even a rare Gangetic dolphin.
• End your day with a visit to the Tharu Cultural Museum, where you can learn about the rich history, traditions, and lifestyle of the Tharu community through exhibits and artifacts.

Day 3: Journey to Lumbini

• After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Chitwan and embark on a scenic drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
• Upon arrival, visit the sacred Maya Devi Temple, which marks the exact spot where Buddha was born. Explore the temple complex and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
• Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Lumbini Garden, which houses various monasteries built by different Buddhist countries. Each monastery showcases unique architectural styles and offers a peaceful ambiance for meditation and reflection.
• In the afternoon, visit the Ashoka Pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC to commemorate his pilgrimage to Lumbini. This ancient pillar is an important historical landmark and a symbol of peace and unity.
• End your day by witnessing the mesmerizing sunset at the World Peace Pagoda, also known as the Shanti Stupa. This iconic structure offers panoramic views of Lumbini and is a perfect spot for introspection and tranquility.

These three days in Chitwan and Lumbini will give you a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, culture, and spirituality. Enjoy your journey and make unforgettable memories!