Sri Antu Travel Guide

Discover top attractions, hiking routes, best things to do, food and drink scenes, where to stay and local culture of Sri Antu. Read more for a complete travel guide.


Sri Antu Travel Guide - A Comprehensive Tour Guide

Sri Antu is a beautiful town in Eastern Tarai, Nepal, located in South Asia. Its scenic beauty and plethora of natural wonders have made it a popular destination among travelers. It is an ideal place for adventure and nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Nepal’s countryside. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will discuss the top attractions, hiking routes, best things to do, food and drink scenes, where to stay, and local culture of Sri Antu.

List of Places to Visit in Sri Antu

Sri Antu has a lot to offer in terms of tourist destinations. Here is a list of top-rated places you must visit during your trip to Sri Antu.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tamor River: A river that flows through the town offering stunning views of the surrounding hills.
  • Sri Antu Village: Experience the traditional lifestyle of the ethnic Rai community in Sri Antu Village.
  • Nepal Tea Garden: Visit the tea garden and learn about the production of tea leaves
  • Dantakali Temple: A popular Hindu temple revered by locals and tourists alike.
  • Kunjapuri Devi Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to the goddess Kunjapuri Devi.

Natural Attractions of Sri Antu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sri Antu Hill: A scenic hill offering breathtaking views of the sunrise and the surrounding hills.
  • Rai Gaon: A small village that offers an authentic experience of village life in Nepal.
  • Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve: a haven for bird lovers, the reserve is home to species like the Bengal Florican, Swamp Francolin, and more!
  • Makalu-Barun National Park: This national park is home to more than 3000 species of flora and fauna and is an ideal place for trekking and mountaineering.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sri Antu

Trails are abundant in Sri Antu, providing ample opportunity for hiking and biking enthusiasts. You will witness stunning views and experience the natural beauty of the region while taking part in these activities. Here are some of the most popular routes for trekking, biking and hiking in Sri Antu:

  • Sri Antu Hill Trek: A scenic trek that will lead you to lush jungles, charming villages, and picturesque landscapes.
  • Sri Antu Village Trek: A trek that leads you to the traditional Rai community and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
  • Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Cycling: A fun cycling tour where you can spot a variety of birds in the reserve.

Best Things to Do in Sri Antu: Activities and Tours

Apart from trekking and biking, there are many other things to do in Sri Antu. Here are some of the best activities and tours you can try during your stay:

  • White Water Rafting: Experience an adrenaline rush as you paddle through the rapids of the Tamor river, offering breathtaking views of the valley.
  • Bird Watching: Take a stroll near Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and spot around 500 species of exotic birds, including migratory birds.
  • Community-based Tourism: Discover the culture and lifestyle of the local community through activities like weaving, pottery making, and cooking.
  • Tea Tasting: Visit the tea gardens and indulge yourself in sampling the rich and flavorful tea grown in the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sri Antu

If you are planning to spend a week at Sri Antu, you can follow the itinerary below, which covers the best of the area’s destinations:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive at Sri Antu, enjoy a stroll around the village and watch the sunset from Sri Antu Hill.
Day 2 Take a cycling tour through Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and spot dozens of bird species.
Day 3 Visit the historical landmarks like Dantakali temple, Nepal Tea Garden or Kunjapuri Devi temple.
Day 4 Explore Rai Gaon and experience the traditional lifestyle of Nepalese villagers.
Day 5 Trek to Yakthung Monastery surrounded by hills and nature.
Day 6 Indulge in community-based tourism activities like weaving or pottery making.
Day 7 Go birdwatching in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve one more time or take a day trip to Makalu-Barun National Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Sri Antu

Sri Antu offers a variety of cuisines that cater to different palates. Here are some of the dishes and beverages you must try during your visit to Sri Antu:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dal Bhat: A staple dish in Nepal that comprises of lentil soup, rice, and vegetables.
  • Momos: A popular Nepali snack that includes dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
  • Gundruk: A fermented vegetable dish served with rice or bread.
  • Pakauda: A fried snack made of vegetables or meat.

Local Beverages

  • Chiya: A traditional tea made with milk and spices.
  • Chhang: A fermented local beer.

Where to Stay in Sri Antu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options available in Sri Antu ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Here are some of the best options according to your budget:

Budget

  • Snow View Guest House: A basic yet comfortable guest house with affordable prices.
  • Sarangkot Homestay: A cozy homestay that offers an authentic Nepalese experience.

Mid-Range

  • Namaste Homestay: A homestay with comfortable rooms and impeccable hospitality.
  • Tea House: A rustic tea house offering accommodation with scenic views of the surrounding hills.

Luxury

  • Hotel Orchid: A luxurious hotel with an outdoor swimming pool and spa.
  • Hyatt Regency Kathmandu: A world-class luxury hotel located in the heart of the city with all the modern amenities.

What to Buy in Sri Antu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shopping in Sri Antu would not disappoint, as there are plenty of local products you can take home as souvenirs. Here are some of the best souvenirs you can buy in Sri Antu:

  • Tea: Sri Antu is known for its high-quality tea, and you can pick up various types of tea leaves from the local markets.
  • Handicrafts: From woven bags to pottery, you can find different types of handicrafts made by local artisans.
  • Wooden Masks: You can find various handcrafted wooden masks representing different Nepalese gods and goddesses.
  • Jewelry: You can pick up jewelry made with precious stones and metals from the local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Sri Antu

The Rai community is predominant in Sri Antu, and their unique culture and customs make them stand out among other Nepalese communities. They have their indigenous language, dress, and dance forms. They celebrate various festivals throughout the year like Sakela, Udhauli, and Ubhauli. The locals are friendly and hospitable and are always willing to share their culture and customs with the visitors.

Best Time to Visit Sri Antu

The best time to visit Sri Antu is from March to May and from October to December. During these months, the weather remains pleasant, and the hills are covered with lush greenery. The monsoon season from June to September should be avoided due to the high probability of landslides and flooding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sri Antu

Do:

  • Respect local customs and culture.
  • Ask for permission before taking photos of locals.
  • Carry cash as most of the local shops and restaurants do not accept cards.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothes while visiting temples and other religious places.
  • Litter the environment.
  • Consume non-filtered water and uncooked food.

Safety and Health

Sri Antu is a relatively safe place to visit, but basic precautions should still be taken. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and healthy trip:

Safety in Sri Antu

  • Avoid trekking alone and always hire a guide.
  • Carry a map and a phone with you while trekking.
  • Follow your guide’s instructions while rafting to ensure your safety.

Health in Sri Antu

  • Drink only bottled water and avoid consuming uncooked food.
  • Carry mosquito repellent to avoid insect bites.
  • Avoid trekking at high altitudes if you have a history of altitude sickness.

Getting to Sri Antu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sri Antu

Biratnagar Airport is situated about 70km away from Sri Antu, and regular flights are available from various cities in Nepal.

Bus Stations Near Sri Antu

Buses to Dharan, Dhankuta, and other nearby cities are easily available from various locations in Nepal.

Other Options

You can also hire a private taxi or van to reach Sri Antu from any location in Nepal.

How to Get Around in Sri Antu

The best way to get around in Sri Antu is by hiring a taxi or a van. Biking and walking are other options that you can consider.

Where to Go Next from Sri Antu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some more days, there are many exciting places near Sri Antu that you can explore, such as:

  • Dharan: A bustling town located about 70km away from Sri Antu, known for its rich culture and traditions.
  • Ilam: A town located about 90km away from Sri Antu, renowned for its natural beauty and tea gardens.
  • Kanyam Tea Garden: A tea garden located about 45km away from Sri Antu, known for its quality tea leaves.

Conclusion

Sri Antu is an excellent destination for tourists interested in history, culture, and nature, and our comprehensive tour guide has provided all the pointers to plan a unique trip experience to Sri Antu. There are abundant trekking and biking routes, fascinating cultural attractions, accommodation options to match all budgets, and dining options to savor on authentic Nepali cuisine. So pack your bags, visit Sri Antu, and embark on an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and nature. Happy traveling!