Chitwan National Park Travel Guide

Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s premier wildlife sanctuary and UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its diverse ecosystems, thrilling jungle safaris, and rich Tharu culture. Located in southern Nepal, it is home to Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, wild elephants, gharial crocodiles, and over 500 bird species.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Chitwan offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.

Essential Information About Chitwan National Park

  • Location: Southern Nepal, spanning Nawalparasi, Parsa, and Makwanpur districts.
  • Established: 1973 (Nepal’s first national park).
  • Size: 952.6 sq km (367.8 sq mi).
  • Best Time to Visit:
    • Autumn (September-November) – Ideal for wildlife spotting and pleasant weather.
    • Winter (December-February) – Cool temperatures and clear skies.
    • Spring (March-May) – Best time for birdwatching and lush greenery.
    • Monsoon (June-August) – Heavy rain, making jungle treks difficult.
  • Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR).
  • Language: Nepali and Tharu (English is spoken in tourist areas).
  • Time Zone: Nepal Standard Time (NST) UTC+5:45.
  • Entry Fees:
    • Foreigners: NPR 2,000 (~$15 USD).
    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000 (~$7.50 USD).
    • Nepali Citizens: NPR 150.

Interesting Facts About Chitwan National Park

  1. Chitwan means “Heart of the Jungle”, derived from ancient Sanskrit.
  2. Home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, which was once on the brink of extinction.
  3. One of the last strongholds of the Bengal tiger in Nepal.
  4. The park protects one of the few remaining populations of wild Asian elephants.
  5. Chitwan is an important birding destination, with over 500 species, including the giant hornbill and kingfishers.
  6. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 for its unique biodiversity and conservation efforts.

How to Get to Chitwan National Park

By Air

  • Fly from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport (BHR) – The nearest airport, only 15 km from Sauraha (gateway to Chitwan).
  • Flight Duration: 20 minutes.
  • Taxi from Bharatpur to Sauraha: NPR 500-1,000 (~$4-8 USD).

By Road

  • From Kathmandu:
    • Tourist Bus – 5-7 hours (costs NPR 1,000-1,500).
    • Private Car/Jeep – Faster, takes about 5 hours.
  • From Pokhara:
    • Bus ride takes 5-6 hours.
  • From Lumbini:
    • Bus ride takes 4-5 hours.

Best Things to Do in Chitwan National Park

1. Jungle Safari (Jeep or Walking Safari)

  • Explore the deep jungle in a 4×4 jeep or on a guided walking safari.
  • Spot one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, deer, wild boars, and elephants.

2. Canoe Ride on the Rapti River

  • Drift down the Rapti River in a traditional canoe, spotting gharial crocodiles and exotic birds.

3. Visit the Elephant Breeding Center

  • Learn about elephant conservation and baby elephants.

4. Birdwatching

  • A paradise for bird lovers, with species like hornbills, kingfishers, and egrets.

5. Tharu Cultural Experience

  • Visit Tharu villages to experience their traditional dance, mud houses, and local food.

6. Explore the Crocodile Breeding Center

  • See hatchlings and adult gharial crocodiles, a critically endangered species.

7. Sunset at Rapti River

  • Enjoy a breathtaking sunset over the river, with drinks at a riverside café.

Best Accommodation Options in Chitwan

Luxury Resorts

  • Barahi Jungle Lodge – A 5-star eco-lodge with luxury cottages and jungle views.
  • Meghauli Serai – Taj Safari Lodge – Offers exclusive wildlife safaris and premium services.

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Green Park Chitwan – Comfortable rooms with a swimming pool and great food.
  • Park Safari Resort – A good balance of affordability and luxury.

Budget Stays

  • Hotel Parkland – Affordable and centrally located.
  • Chitwan Forest Resort – A great option for budget travelers and backpackers.

Cultural and Modern Attractions in Chitwan

Tharu Cultural Museum

  • Learn about the Tharu people, their traditions, and lifestyle.

Bishazari Tal (20,000 Lakes)

  • A wetland area with stunning biodiversity, perfect for photography and nature walks.

Elephant Bathing Center

  • Watch elephants splash in the river, and even join in!

Dining and Nightlife in Chitwan

Best Restaurants

  • KC’s Restaurant & Bar – Great Nepali and continental food.
  • Jungle View Restaurant – Riverside dining with BBQ options.
  • Friends Café – Serves excellent coffee and organic meals.

Nightlife in Chitwan

  • Riverside Bars – Enjoy drinks while watching the sunset over the Rapti River.
  • Cultural Dance Shows – Experience Tharu dance performances in the evening.

Best Day Trips from Chitwan

  1. Devghat – A sacred Hindu pilgrimage site at the confluence of two rivers.
  2. Bandipur – A hilltop town with amazing Himalayan views, 3 hours away.
  3. Lumbini – The birthplace of Buddha, about 4-5 hours from Chitwan.

Getting Around Chitwan

  • Walking & Cycling – Best for exploring Sauraha town.
  • Taxis & Rickshaws – Available for short distances.
  • Jeep Rentals – Essential for jungle safaris and visiting remote areas.

Practical Tips for Visiting Chitwan National Park

  1. Wear Neutral-Colored Clothes – Bright colors can disturb wildlife.
  2. Pack Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes and leeches are common in the jungle.
  3. Respect Wildlife – Keep a safe distance and avoid making loud noises.
  4. Carry Cash – ATMs are limited, and most local businesses accept cash only.
  5. Follow Park Rules – Avoid littering and stay with your guide during safaris.

Conclusion

Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s ultimate wildlife destination, offering thrilling safaris, rich culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re tracking tigers, canoeing with crocodiles, or experiencing Tharu traditions, Chitwan promises an adventure like no other.

🌿🐘 Plan your Chitwan adventure today and explore Nepal’s wild side! 🦏🚣‍♂️

Chitwan National Park, Nepal
Chitwan National Park, Nepal
Scroll to Top