Duration
3 Days
DIFFICULTY
Easy
GROUP SIZE
1-12
MAX. ALTITUDE
1350 m
Best Season
Spring,Autumn,winter
Accomodation
Resort
Meals
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Walking per day
1 hour
Overview
Discover Chitwan National Park: A Wild Encounter with Nature
Chitwan became Nepal’s first National Park in 1973. The UNESCO declared the park a World Heritage site in 1984. It is in the southwestern of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, which covers 932 square km. The park boundaries have been delineated by the Narayani and Rapti River in the north and west, and the Reu River and Someshwor hills in the south and south-west. Its eastern part borders the Parsa Wildlife Reserve. There are roughly 70% of Sal (shorea robusta) trees, 20% of grassland in the forest of the national park.
There are more than 43 species of mammals in the park. More than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles are found in the park, some of which are the marsh mugger crocodile, cobra, green pit viper and various species of frogs and tortoises.
The estimated population of rhinos is about 400. We can see the wild elephant, white footed gaur (the world’s largest wild cattle), leopards, wild boar, sloth bear and several species of deer including the spotted, barking, and Sambar and hog deer, in this park. It is the home of one-horned rhinoceros and harbors, including the Royal Bengal tigers. The moist areas and numerous ox-bow lakes are perfect for marsh crocodiles. Some of the other animals found in the park are Sambar deer, chital, barking deer, sloth bear, common leopard, palm civet, wild dog, languor and rhesus monkeys.
The park hosts around 500 species of birds. The giant hornbill, black stork and white stork are, among others, the endangered birds. The commonly seen birds are peafowl, red jungle fowl, and different species of egrets, herons, kingfishers, flycatchers and woodpeckers. March and December are the best time for bird watching.
The Tharu indigenous people are pre-dominant in this area. They have their own language and unique culture and tradition. There are different types of lodge available inside and outside of the park to be chosen as per your budget and interest. Usually, tourists spend 2 nights and 3 days over there with possibility to extend. The following are the main activities in Chitwan.
Location and Geography
Chitwan National Park lies in the south-central part of Nepal, covering areas of Chitwan, Nawalpur, Parsa, and Makwanpur districts. It spans an area of 952.63 square kilometers (367.81 sq. miles) and is situated at altitudes ranging from 100 meters to 815 meters above sea level.
The park forms part of the Terai Arc Landscape, a vital ecological corridor connecting protected areas of Nepal and India. It is bordered by the Rapti and Narayani Rivers to the north, the Reu River and Someshwor Hills to the south, and Parsa National Park to the east.
Climate
CNP has a subtropical monsoon climate with three main seasons:
Summer (March–June): Hot and humid, with temperatures rising up to 40°C.
Monsoon (July–September): Heavy rainfall rejuvenates the dense vegetation.
Winter (October–February): Cool and dry, ideal for wildlife viewing, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 23°C.
Flora
The park’s landscape is a stunning mix of sal (Shorea robusta) forests, grasslands, riverine forests, and wetlands.
Sal forests cover nearly 70% of the park.
The remaining area includes grasslands (known as phantas) and riverine forests of khair (Acacia catechu), sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo), and cotton trees (Bombax ceiba).
More than 700 species of plants have been recorded, contributing to the park’s high biodiversity and ecological balance.
Fauna
Chitwan National Park is home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife:
Mammals: Over 68 species, including the greater one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, leopard, sloth bear, gaur (Indian bison), and wild boar.
Birds: More than 540 species, such as the great hornbill, kingfishers, peacocks, paradise flycatchers, and several migratory species that arrive during winter.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Notable species include the mugger crocodile, gharial, king cobra, and several species of frogs and turtles.
Fish: The park’s rivers support over 120 species of fish, making it an important aquatic habitat.
Conservation Significance
Chitwan has been a pioneer in Nepal’s conservation success story. Once severely affected by poaching and habitat destruction, the park now stands as a model for wildlife recovery:
The one-horned rhinoceros population has increased significantly from fewer than 100 in the 1970s to several hundreds today.
The Bengal tiger population has also shown steady growth due to strict anti-poaching measures and habitat management.
The park works closely with local communities and organizations like the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) and the WWF to promote eco-tourism and sustainable development.
Local Communities and Culture
The park’s buffer zone is home to indigenous communities such as the Tharu, Darai, Bote, and Majhi people. The Tharu culture is especially prominent — their traditional houses, dances, cuisine, and handicrafts attract many visitors.
These communities play a key role in conservation by participating in community forestry, anti-poaching patrols, and eco-tourism enterprises.
Tourism and Activities
Chitwan National Park is one of Nepal’s top tourist destinations, offering diverse activities:
Jeep Safaris and Canoe Rides: For close encounters with rhinos, deer, and crocodiles.
Elephant Breeding Center Visit: To learn about elephant conservation.
Bird Watching: A paradise for ornithologists, especially during migration seasons.
Nature Walks and Jungle Treks: Guided by trained naturalists.
Cultural Programs: Tharu dance performances and village tours.
River Safaris: On the Rapti or Narayani rivers for scenic views and aquatic wildlife.
The main entry point to the park is Sauraha, a tourism hub located about 170 km southwest of Kathmandu.
Challenges
Despite its success, Chitwan faces ongoing challenges:
Poaching and illegal wildlife trade
Human-wildlife conflict, particularly with rhinos and elephants
Habitat fragmentation due to agricultural expansion and infrastructure development
Climate change affecting river ecosystems and grasslands
Continued community involvement and sustainable tourism are vital for overcoming these issues.
Conclusion
Chitwan National Park stands as a symbol of Nepal’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Its unique blend of tropical forests, rich wildlife, and vibrant local culture make it a living treasure of biodiversity. For nature lovers, researchers, and adventure seekers alike, Chitwan offers an unforgettable glimpse into the wild heart of the Himalayas.
Activities in Chitwan National Park:
Canoe Trip: Canoeing is provided on the Rapti River for you to view crocodiles basking or swimming and aquatic plants in the river.
Bird Watching: In the early morning you could watch the birds. There are around 500 species of resident and migratory birds.
Jungle Drive: There is more chance to see different types of wildlife through jungle drive. We can drive 35 km deep of jungle to visit the Crocodile Breeding Center.
Jungle Walk: Our nature guide will take you deep into the park to introduce the vegetation, wildlife and the importance of the local eco system. It is an exiting program to grasp a glimpse of mysterious wild animals.
Elephant Breeding Centre: In the Elephant Breeding Center, there are more than 20 elephants. They are 1-60 years old. June-July is the copulation season of the elephant.
Village Tour: Close to your lodge around the national park, there is a Tharu village where you will learn and see the life style and tradition of Tharu indigenous peoples.
Cultural Program: In the culture programme you will enjoy the Tharu stick dance and other cultural programmes performed by the Tharu people in one of the evenings during your stay.
Elephant Safari: Elephant riding into the depth of the jungle is an exciting trip to approach the wild animals, birds and plants.
Elephant Bathing: Elephant bathing is a unique experience. Visitors join the daily bath of the elephants that helps the elephants to scrub themselves to clean and cool down from the hit. You wouldn’t like to miss the chance to get bathed by the elephants through their trunks which they do happily without any cruelty imposed on them.
Highlights of Chitwan National Park
- Nepal’s First National Park (Since 1973) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Asia’s best wildlife reserves.
- Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger & One-Horned Rhino – Spot rare and endangered species in their natural habitat.
- Elephant Safari & Jungle Jeep Drive – Explore deep into the lush Sal forests and grasslands teeming with wildlife.
- Canoe Ride on the Rapti River – Witness crocodiles, aquatic birds, and serene river landscapes.
- Birdwatcher’s Paradise – Over 500 species of resident and migratory birds, best seen from March to December.
- Authentic Tharu Culture – Experience traditional dance, cuisine, and village life of the indigenous Tharu people.
- Elephant Breeding & Bathing Experience – Visit the breeding center and join elephants for a refreshing river bath.
- Guided Jungle Walks – Learn about the park’s flora, fauna, and ecosystem with expert naturalists.
- Eco-Lodges & Riverside Resorts – Choose from budget-friendly to luxury accommodations surrounded by nature.
- Perfect 3-Day Getaway – Ideal for wildlife lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers visiting Nepal.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
- Departure from Kathmandu or from Pokhara
- Departure from Kathmandu or from Pokhara with airplane, tourist bus, or private jeep
- Welcome drinks and lunch at the hotel
- Village tour in the evening
Day 2 :
- Jungle activities and adventure
- Canoeing in the Rapti River
- Jungle walk or jeep safari or elephant ride
- Observe elephant bath and participate in it if you are interested
- Visit the Elephant Breeding Center
- Lunch
- Dinner –culture program
Day 3 :
- Bird watching and departure for Kathmandu
- Bird watching early in the morning
- Breakfast
- Departure for Kathmandu or selected destination
Price ranges:
- Budjet Package: US$ 150.00
- Standard Package: US$ 250.00
- Dilux Package: US$ 350.00
Itinerary
-
Day 1 :
Departure from Kathmandu or from Pokhara
Departure from Kathmandu or from Pokhara with airplane, tourist bus, or private jeep
Welcome drinks and lunch at the hotel
Village tour in the evening
-
Day 2 :
Jungle activities and adventure
Canoeing in the Rapti River
Jungle walk or jeep safari or elephant ride
Observe elephant bath and participate in it if you are interested
Visit the Elephant Breeding Center
Lunch
Dinner –culture program
-
Day 3 :
Bird watching and departure for Kathmandu
Bird watching early in the morning
Breakfast
Departure for Kathmandu or selected destination
From: $150
Cost Includes
- Pick up and drop transport as mentioned in the itinerary
- Accommodation for 2 nights at a lodge or resort (twin-sharing)
- 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during stay inside Chitwan region
- Jungle activities & permits: e.g., jungle walk, canoe ride, safari, elephant centre visit
- Entry/park permit fees for the national park
- An experienced guide or naturalist
- Transfers from Chitwan district bus station or airport (or from Kathmandu/Pokhara if specified)
Cost Excludes
- Transport from your home city to Kathmandu/Pokhara (if you’re coming from elsewhere)
- Upgrades: luxury lodge, private vehicle, flight transport instead of bus
- Optional extras: extra night stay, premium resort, spa, extra activities beyond standard itinerary
- Personal expenses: tips, drinks/alcohol, shopping, insurance, visa fees
- Any domestic flight surcharge (if you arrive by air)
Talk with a travel expert with more than a decade of experience and plan your adventure.
SUPPORT
Important Information Before Your Trip to Nepal
Payment: Down payment: 15% of total payment is required to confirm the reservation.
Payment of the Balance: Rest amount can be paid in our office after your arrival.
Arrival Point: You will be met at the Kathmandu international airport. Our office representative will be waiting for you holding play card of the Nepal Mountain Lovers Treks and Expedition. In case of your change plan, please let us inform.
Booking Air Ticket: If you don’t have regular travel agent, please visit makemytrip.com, www.kayak.com, www.vayama.com. They offer you very good price.
Room System: Normally we have two people in a room. Twin bed or single bed depends on the choice of guests and budget. If tourists want single room, s/he should pay single supplementary.
Trekking Leading Person: Our trekking guide will lead the whole trip with his/her helpers and porters.
Currencies: USD, AUD, EURO are major acceptable currencies in Nepal and visa and credit cards also accepted. There is ATM facility in city area.
Altitude Sickness: Altitude sickness will start from 3000 meter height. Trekkers should immediately inform trekking guide if faced any problems.
Drinking Water: We can get mineral water and boiled water in city area and in some trekking places. We use water purification tablet or liquid in some remote trekking sites.
Laundry Facility: Laundry facility are available in city area but not during the trekking.
Visa: You can get arrival visa at Kathmandu airport that cost 25 USD for 15 days and 40 USD for 30 days. Please bring 2 passport size photos. You can get your visa from the closest Nepali embassy.
Orientation Program: Before starting trekking, trekkers are provided with an orientation by our office representative or trekking guide about the necessary trekking information.
Group Size: There will be maximum 12 persons in one group.
Accommodation: You will stay in a nice tourist standard hotel/resort in city areas. Normal hotels or tents are available during the trekking.
Foods: We provide breakfast, lunch, dinner. Tourists can get continental food both in city and trekking places. Food during the trekking might not meet the standard of your country.
View of Mount Everest: Trekkers to Everest region will of course see the Mount Everest. For trekkers visiting other regions where they cannot view Mount Everest, there are daily mountain flights which approach close to Mount Everest.
Travel Insurance: It is compulsory to have travel insurance.
Personal Expenses: It depends on your spending interest and shopping. There are some expensive handmade carpets, Thanka paintings, jewelries and handicrafts to purchase in Nepal.
Luggage: We take only about 10kg per person in trekking. Your excess baggage will be stored in a hotel.
Tips: Tips are highly accepted and appreciated.
Rules and Regulation
Nepal Mountain Lovers Treks and Expedition accepts your reservation under the following rules and regulations.
1. If the balance payment is not paid before your departure for trekking, the booking will be cancelled without any refund.
2. If there is war or the situation of the country is out of control and the country faces emergency situation before your arrival to Nepal, we inform you not to come Nepal and refund your payment. But in case of any emergency situation or war after your arrival or during the trekking, we will not refund your money. But we will try our best to make your trip successful and pleasant. In such situation, we may need to change the trip plan and itinerary.
3. In case of increase in government royalty and other costs such as the national park fee, you have to pay extra money.
4. If you commit any illegal act or disturbance for the safety and welfare of the group, our leader or guide can ask to leave the group without any right to refund.
5. If you have any complain with regards to trekking and tour please inform our tour leader or company. All kinds of valid complain are welcomed and processed with necessary actions.
6.You are responsible to ensure that all travel documents are with you during the entire trip.
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Sarah J.
A perfect blend of adventure and relaxation! My trip to Chitwan National Park with Nepal Mountain Lovers was an unforgettable experience. From thrilling jeep safaris to peaceful canoe rides along the Rapti River, every moment was filled with excitement. Spotting rhinos, deer, and even a glimpse of a Bengal tiger made the trip extra special. The accommodations were excellent, and the local Tharu cultural experience was a highlight. Highly recommend for wildlife lovers!