Chitwan National Park is a must-visit spot in Nepal! While it was once a popular hunting ground for royalty, in 1973 the National Park was created and in 1984 it became a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unfortunately, while the founding of the park was to protect the remaining endangered animals there, it’s known for its diverse wildlife, lush forests, and breathtaking landscapes. You can go on thrilling jungle safaris, spot rare animals like tigers and rhinos, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Don’t miss the chance to explore this amazing national park.
When To Visit Chitwan
The best time to visit Chitwan National Park in Nepal is during the dry season, which is from October to March. National Park is open throughout the year, but weather is pleasant, and you’ll have a higher chance of spotting wildlife during this time. If you’re planning a long visit to Chitwan National Park, I recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days there. This will give you enough time to explore the park, go on safaris, and fully immerse yourself in the wildlife and nature. Remember to check the weather conditions and plan your visit during the dry season for the best experience. Enjoy your time at Chitwan National Park Chitwan National Park is a great place to visit if you’re interested in wildlife and nature. The park is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, rhinos, and tigers. You can go on jungle safaris, bird watching tours, and even take part in elephant bathing. It’s a unique experience that allows you to get up close and personal with Nepal’s natural beauty. There are four main options for seeing wildlife in Chitwan. In addition to paying the cost of the safari, you will be required to pay the 2,000 rupees per person per day National Park fee (children under 10 are free).
Jeep Safari
Jeep safari in Chitwan National Park is an amazing experience! It allows you to explore the park and spot wildlife from the comfort of a jeep. During the safari, you’ll have the chance to see animals like elephants, rhinos, deer, and maybe even tigers if you’re lucky! It’s a thrilling adventure that will give you a closer look at the park’s diverse ecosystem. The price for a jeep safari ride in Chitwan is 2,500 NPR per person for a Shared Jeep Safari and 4,000 NPR per person for a Full Day Safari.
Elephant Safari
Elephant safaris in Chitwan National Park are quite popular! They offer a unique and up-close experience with the wildlife. During an elephant safari, you’ll ride on the back of an elephant and explore the park while accompanied by a mahout, who is the elephant’s caretaker. The mahout will guide the elephant through the park, and you’ll have the opportunity to spot various animals and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Chitwan. It’s definitely an unforgettable adventure. Government elephant safari cost: It’s 2500NPR rupees for a foreigner. 1000NPR rupees SAARC. 200NPR rupees Nepali. Private elephant safari cost: Prices vary from 1850NPR rupees to 2,000+NPR rupees.
River Boat Safari
Chitwan National Park offers River boat safaris along the Rapti River. It’s a fantastic way to explore the park and observe wildlife from a different perspective. During the boat safari, you’ll glide along the river, surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of nature. You might spot various bird species, crocodiles, and other animals that come to the river for a drink. It’s a tranquil and scenic experience that allows you to appreciate the beauty of Chitwan from a different angle.
Don’t Miss:
Visit Bis Hajari Tal and Batuli Tal lakes for a scenic experience.
Bis Hajari Tal
Batuli Tal
Journey
Flight ✈️
Fly from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport, Chitwan 20 mins *Drive from Bharatpur airport to Sauraha 45min.
Bus 🚎
Buses from Kathmandu to Sauraha take 5-6 hours, from Pokhara 5-6 hours and to Lumbini 4 hours. You can choose between the local or tourist bus. Tickets cost 700NPR- 1,600NPR rupees.
Private taxi 🚖
You can hire a private vehicle to transport you to Pokhara or Kathmandu, which is quicker. Since we were a group of 10, we hired a van from Sauraha to Kathmandu and paid 12,000NPR rupees for the 5-hour journey.
Hotels
In Chitwan National Park, there are several hotels and resorts that offer comfortable accommodations and excellent services for visitors. Some popular options include Green Park Chitwan, Tiger Tops, Gaida Lodge, Meghauli Serai, Barahi Jungle Lodge, and Kasara Resort. These establishments provide a range of amenities and activities to enhance your experience while exploring the park and its surroundings. Whether you’re looking for luxury or a more budget-friendly option, these hotels can cater to various preferences.
Shopping In Sauraha
There are various shops and markets where you can enjoy shopping for local crafts, souvenirs, local honey, woodcarvers, clothing, and more. You’ll find a variety of items that reflect the culture and traditions of the region.
Our Verdict – Should You Visit?
You should visit Chitwan National Park because it’s a fantastic place to experience diverse wildlife, lush forests, and river ecosystems.
The park offers a unique opportunity to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat, including endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tigers. we saw an elusive tiger, so I think you should visit. if you have the time to fit it into your itinerary and you haven’t been to Africa, put Chitwan on your Nepal itinerary and enjoy a Nepal safari. It’s a great destination for nature lovers and those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Nepal’s wilderness.