Chitwan National Park Safari
Experience a captivating safari in Nepal's first national park, Chitwan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover diverse wildlife, including rhinos and tigers, enjoy jungle activities like jeep safaris and canoe rides, and immerse yourself in the unique Tharu culture over a 3-day adventure.
Nepal’s first national park, is located 162 km south of Kathmandu in the lowlands of the Inner Terai. Covering an area of 932 sq. km, it includes hilly areas dominated by deciduous Sal for-ests. About one-fifth of the park comprises the floodplains of the Narayani and Rapti rivers, featuring dense elephant grass and riverine forests with silk cotton trees. This ecologically rich area provides habitat for diverse wildlife and exotic bird species. The park is recognized as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. Sauraha serves as the main gateway to the park and is also home to the indigenous Tharu community, known for their unique culture.
Chitwan National Park consists of tropical and subtropical forests, with Sal trees covering 70% of the area. Sal leaves are commonly used for making plates for festivals and religious offer-ings. Grasslands cover 20%, with over 50 species including the tall elephant grass, which can grow
Trip Facts
Location
Chitwan National Park, 162 km south of Kathmandu in the lowlands of the Inner Terai.
Best Season
October – March: Pleasant weather, best for wildlife sightings. April – May: Hot but good for tiger sightings near waterholes. Monsoon (June – September): Lush vegetation, fewer visitors, but limited visibility and some activity restrictions due to rain.
Accommodation
Wide range: Budget lodges, eco-resorts, mid-range hotels, and luxury jungle retreats. Popular areas: Sauraha (Chitwan) and Thakurdwara (Bardia). Homestays also available for cultural immersion.
Transportation
From Kathmandu or Pokhara: Tourist Bus: 5–7 hours to Chitwan. Domestic Flight: 20 min to Bharatpur (for Chitwan) or Nepalgunj (for Bardia) + short drive. Private Jeep/Car: Comfortable and flexible timing.
Ride through the jungle on an elephant and spot wildlife like the one-horned rhinoceros and, if lucky, the elusive Bengal tiger.
Explore deeper parts of the park on a guided jeep tour for better chances of wildlife sightings.
Glide along the Rapti or Narayani River and see crocodiles, gharials, and aquatic birds up close.
Home to over 525 bird species, Chitwan is a paradise for bird lovers, including storks, hornbills, and kingfishers.
Guided walks offer a closer look at flora and fauna, with expert naturalists ensuring safety and insights.
Learn about the conservation of captive elephants and see elephant calves.
Visit the conservation center for endangered gharials and marsh mugger crocodiles.
Explore local biodiversity and cultural exhibits at the park headquarters.
Enjoy traditional dances and music of the indigenous Tharu community.
Capture stunning sunsets along the Rapti River.
- Tourist Bus from Kathmandu to Chitwan and Chitwan to Kathmandu or Pokhara or Lumbini (both way transport).
- Accommodation on Twin/Double bedded rooms.
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the stay in Chitwan.
- All Jungle Activities as per Itinerary.
- Jungle tour guide.
- Chitwan National park
- Elephant Breeding Center visit
- museum entrance.
- Jeep Safari/ Elephant safari
Government taxes.
Domestic Airfare from Kathmandu to Bharatpur to Kathmandu (on request).
Video camera fee (USD100, per camera).
- Donation or Tips.
- Bar bills.
- Anything not mentioned in the itinerary, etc.
| Date | Duration | Status | Booked | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep 22, 2025 Sep 24, 2025 | 3 days | Open | Book Now | |
Oct 4, 2025 Oct 6, 2025 | 3 days | Open | Book Now | |
Oct 30, 2025 Nov 1, 2025 | 3 days | Open | Book Now | |
Nov 5, 2025 Nov 7, 2025 | 3 days | Open | Book Now | |
Nov 12, 2025 Nov 14, 2025 | 3 days | Open | Book Now | |
Nov 27, 2025 Nov 29, 2025 | 3 days | Open | Book Now | |
Dec 2, 2025 Dec 4, 2025 | 3 days | Open | 2 | Book Now |
Dec 10, 2025 Dec 12, 2025 | 3 days | Open | 2 | Book Now |
Dec 24, 2025 Dec 26, 2025 | 3 days | Open | Book Now | |
Dec 26, 2025 Dec 28, 2025 | 3 days | Open | 2 | Book Now |
Wide range: Budget lodges, eco-resorts, mid-range hotels, and luxury jungle retreats. Popular areas: Sauraha (Chitwan) and Thakurdwara (Bardia). Homestays also available for cultural immersion.
From Kathmandu or Pokhara:
Tourist Bus: 5–7 hours to Chitwan.
Domestic Flight: 20 min to Bharatpur (for Chitwan) or Nepalgunj (for Bardia) + short drive.
Private Jeep/Car: Comfortable and flexible timing.
Typical safari packages: 2 nights / 3 days or 3 nights / 4 days
Includes arrival, safari activities, cultural programs, and departure.
Jeep Safari (inside core areas of the park)
Elephant Safari (now limited; replaced mostly with jeep/foot safaris for ethical reasons)
Canoe Ride on Rapti or Narayani rivers to view crocodiles and aquatic birds
Nature Walk / Birdwatching with naturalist guides
Tharu Village Visit – learn about the local Tharu culture and traditions
Cultural Dance Performances by local communities
Elephant Breeding Center Visit (Chitwan) or Crocodile Breeding Center (Bardia)
October – March: Pleasant weather, best for wildlife sightings.
April – May: Hot but good for tiger sightings near waterholes.
Monsoon (June – September): Lush vegetation, fewer visitors, but limited visibility and some activity restrictions due to rain.
Chitwan National Park Permit: NPR 2,000 per person/day (foreigners).
Bardia National Park Permit: NPR 1,500 per person/day (foreigners).
Children under 10 years often free; SAARC nationals have reduced rates.
Permits can be arranged by tour operators or purchased at park entry gates.
Parks are malaria-free, but mosquito protection is recommended.
Always follow guide instructions during safaris.
Avoid feeding or approaching wild animals.
Travel insurance with medical and evacuation coverage is recommended.
Respect local Tharu customs during village visits.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas.
Photography is welcome but ask before taking pictures of people.
Lightweight clothing : neutral colors for safari
Warm layers : winter mornings can be chilly
Insect repellent and sunscreen :
Comfortable walking shoes/sandals :
Binoculars and camera : for wildlife viewing
Personal medications and reusable water bottle :
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