Home to Chitwan National Park with exciting jungle safaris and rich wildlife.
Region
Bagmati Province
Altitude
150–815m
Best Season
October to March is ideal with dry, cool weather
Activities
6+ Available
Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the subtropical lowlands of the Terai, is Nepal's premier wildlife destination. Established in 1973, it protects one of the last remaining undisturbed Terai-Duar savanna and grassland ecosystems in the world. The park is home to over 700 wildlife species, including the one-horned rhinoceros (over 600), Bengal tigers, gharial and mugger crocodiles, wild elephants, sloth bears, and more than 500 species of birds. Jungle activities here are world-class — jeep safaris at dawn, canoe trips down the Rapti River with crocodiles on the banks, elephant encounters, and guided jungle walks. After the safari, soak in the authentic Tharu culture through traditional stick dances and village visits.
Jeep or elephant safaris at dawn offer the best chance to spot rhinos, tigers, and deer in the wild.
With over 500 species including the endangered giant hornbill, Chitwan is a world-class birding destination.
Glide silently down the Rapti River in a dugout canoe, spotting gharial crocodiles and river birds.
Walk through the jungle with armed naturalist guides and encounter wildlife at ground level.
Visit the elephant breeding centre, interact with these gentle giants, and learn about conservation efforts.
Watch the mesmerising Tharu stick dance and cultural programmes performed by local communities.
UNESCO-listed park covering 952 sq km of tropical forests, grasslands, and river systems teeming with wildlife.
The park's northern border where canoe trips reveal crocodiles, otters, and hundreds of bird species.
A conservation facility caring for domesticated elephants and their calves in natural surroundings.
The main tourist hub on the park's edge with lodges, Tharu cultural centres, and elephant bathing ghats.
October to March is ideal with dry, cool weather and good visibility in the park. April–May is hotter but still good for wildlife. Avoid the monsoon (June–September) when the park partially closes due to flooding.
Chitwan is 150km south of Kathmandu. Regular tourist buses and private cars take 4–5 hours. Alternatively, fly from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport (30 minutes) and take a taxi to Sauraha (30 minutes).
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