In late 2017, I reached out to Samsara Trekking with a specific request-a guide who could both hike and bird watch. Prem organized an amazing itinerary with a Langtang Valley trek and a visit to Bardia National Park in the terai. Throughout the entire planning process, Prem was kind and patient with all my questions. He set up our hotel in Kathmandu, our trekking permits, and our flights to and from Nepalgunj.
In October of 2018, Raj met us at the airport and our 16 day adventure began! We started with the Langtang Valley trek, taking our time and bird watching the entire way. We made it up to Kyanjin Ri, ate wonderful food, met kind people, and had fun chats with Raj. The birds were magnificent, including several vulture species, Himalayan Monal, Tibetan Snowcock and Ibis bill! Raj took great care of us throughout the trek.
When we arrived at Samsara Safari Camp right outside the gates of Bardia, we felt like we were in the lap of luxury! Not only did we see many magnificent birds, including Great Hornbill, but we saw both rhinos and elephants from such a close distance we could hear them chewing. It was an experience I will never forget.
We saw 270 species of birds while in Nepal and made friends who feel like family. It was absolutely the trip of a lifetime, and I would never hesitate to recommend Prem and Raj Thapa and their team to help you plan your trip and guide you through Nepal.
