Chitwan National Park Nepal – A Guide to Visiting the Best Wildlife in Asia

One of the most ecologically rich areas in the whole world, Chitwan National Park was established in 1973. Thereafter, the park was given the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. The park covers around 953 km area of forest, marshland, and grassland. Initially, this national park was used as the winter hunting ground for the ruling class of Nepal during the 19th century. The park is the last refuge of the Bengal Tiger and home to the last population of single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros. One of the best tourist places in Nepal, Chitwan National Park has the biggest concentration of birds, more than 350 species which makes it a definitive attraction for ornithologists. It is also home to sloth bears, tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, monkeys, and more. There are 113 species of fishes and crocodiles, 19 species of reptiles, and 68 mammals. Here is everything you should know about the royal Chitwan National Park in Nepal.

History

The park was a protected hunting ground for aristocrats of Nepal and their foreign associations. It is believed that luxurious camps were set up for the ruling powers, game hunters, and their entourage. They used to stay in camps for months, shooting and killing rare species of animals. A big part of the forest section was changed into farmland in 1954, causing habitat loss across a big expanse. However, the government noticed the endangerment of wildlife here, started the wildlife protection program, and banned the poaching of animals. By 2000, the wildlife inhabitants in the park increased to 80 tigers, 544 rhinos, 50 different mammals, and 450 species of birds flourishing in the region. At present, this is the oldest national park of Nepal has become the hub of wildlife attractions that include Bengal Foxes, Yellow-throated Martens, Clouded Leopard, Golden Jackals, Hispid Hares, One-horned Rhinoceros, Asian Palm Civets, Gharials, and more.

Things to do in Chitwan National Park

The first national park of Nepal, Chitwan National Park, is truly a heaven for adventure lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. There are many full, half, or multi-day adventure activities to select from. So, there are lots of things to do in Chitwan National Park, and most part is centred on wildlife viewing and activities.

Jeep Safari

Jeep Safari is one of the best things to do when visiting this national park of Nepal and enjoying the jungle safari in Nepal. The happiness and excitement of sitting with your family or friends in an open jeep and looking at different animals walking and running through the forest are unmatched. Enjoying a jeep safari means that you will enjoy a ride filled with magnificent sights of lush greenery and exotic flowers like Philodendron, Eupatorium, Orchids, etc. Remember, Nepal sightseeing is incomplete is without enjoying a jeep safari.

Bird Watching

Chitwan National Park in Nepal is known for providing an incredible bird-watching experience. The varied habitat of Chitwan is home to around 848 species of birds, including stonechats, Bengal pittas, squawking bulbuls, greater coucals, Oriental darters, goosanders, Wood Peckers, Grey Crown Prinia, Rocky Tail Drango, Giant Hornbills, Serpent Eagle, and more. Guided by a professional naturalist, a bird watching tour will allow you to recognize diverse varieties of birds, their whistles, and alarm calls. Also, you will gain an insight into how birds are a vital part of Nepal's abundant eco-systems.

Elephant back Safari

Elephant back Safari is one of the most memorable experiences where you can ride on the back of this giant yet lovely animal and enjoy the sights of the forest area more safely. It will be a great opportunity to see elephants closely and find out how they walk through the forests, how they interact with other animals, and what they eat. You will get to experience the thrill of standing near a rhino, knowing that there will be no harm when you are in the company of a mighty elephant.

River Safari

The next exciting thing to do in Chitwan National Park is the river safari by wooden canoe. The cannoning boats will allow you to experience the forests by floating down on Rapti and Narayani rivers. Here, you can spot many endangered fish-eating gharial, crocodiles, and colourful fishes. Also, you will get to see different types of birds flying by or hovering on the banks of the river. As morning is a very peaceful time, most animals are out for drinking water on the river banks, making it an amazing opportunity to get a glimpse of wild animals. So, enjoying an early morning river safari will be a mesmerizing experience.

Walking Safari

Going on a nature or jungle walk in this national park will be a great experience for those who want to have a more isolated and fun travelling experience. Chitwan National Park in Nepal is one of the few best places where tourists are allowed to walk and visit the park’s core area. The walking safari includes a 10 to 15 km walk into the park, allowing visitors to get close to wildlife and a variety of flora and fauna. However, it is one of the most unsafe routes as there is a high probability of coming across wild animals like elephants and rhinos. So, it is wise to travel with professional and experienced guides who can maintain caution and do not lose the way in the forests.

Visit Tharu Village

Tharu people are the ethnic group of south-western Nepal, local to the Terai region. They still have a convenient way of village life, growing corn, rice, lentil, and hunting fish, wild deer, etc. You can walk around the village and get a glimpse of Tharu culture and their lifestyle. These people live in houses made with clay or mud having thatched roofs. You can also choose to travel on the ox-cart or cycle across the village and visit Tharu culture and traditions.

Chitwan National Park - Safari Price

This national park is one of the most visited places in Nepal. The price of Jeep Safari in Chitwan National Park will be depending on various factors like full or half-day, shared or private, and your negotiation skills. You can make an instant booking for a safari in Chitwan National Park with options for elephant back safari and jeep safari. Also, many hotels offer exciting safari/hotel deals. So, you can do Chitwan National Park safari booking through your hotel too.

Time to Visit Chitwan National Park in Nepal

The best time to visit this beautiful park is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. While the mornings and nights are particularly cold during these months, the afternoon temperatures remain warm, making it the best time to visit Chitwan Park, Nepal. Months from May to mid-June are the hottest days with hot temperatures that may reach up to 40ᴼC. Thus, it is wise to visit this national park in winter.

Chitwan National Park is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Nepal, not just to see the wildlife but to experience the exclusive culture there, which you cannot find anywhere else. You can consider booking from a range of Nepal tour packages on offer to enjoy the trip properly. The right tour package will ensure that you get to engage in various adventure activities, including Elephant Back Safari, Jeep Safari, Canoeing, and more.