Chitwan National Park – The Heart of Nepal’s Wilderness
Chitwan, meaning “Heart of the Jungle,” is home to one of Asia’s largest and most biodiverse forests, Chitwan National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, established in 1973, covers 932 sq.km of subtropical lowlands in the southern-central part of Nepal. Known for its incredible biodiversity, it is a sanctuary for the great one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, sloth bears, leopards, wild boar, crocodiles, over 540 species of birds, and a variety of mammals.
The park offers a range of unforgettable experiences, from thrilling jungle safaris to immersive cultural encounters with the local Tharu community. Whether you’re visiting for a quick getaway or a longer stay, Chitwan promises a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
Getting There
- By road: A scenic 5-hour drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara, offering views of rivers, hills, and jungle.
- By flight: A quick 22-minute flight from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Bharatpur and short drive to Sauraha / Chitwan.
Major Attractions
- Great One-Horned Rhinoceros
- Royal Bengal Tiger
- Leopard, Sloth Bear, Wild Boar
- Crocodiles and More Than 540 Bird Species
- Tharu Village Culture
Activities
Visitors to Chitwan can enjoy a range of thrilling activities, including:
- Jeep Safaris and Jungle Trekking
- Canoe Trips and Nature Walks
- Bird Watching and Cultural Tours (including a visit to Tharu Village)
- Bicycle Tours
- Cultural Programs (Tharu dance performances)
Select itinerary that suits your taste
Chitwan (1 Night, 2 Days)
- Day 01:
- Meet and greet at Tandi, Sauraha, or Bharatpur airport.
- Transfer to Resort, enjoy refreshments, and get a program briefing.
- Visit Tharu Village and the National Park Visitor’s Center.
- Enjoy a sunset view from the riverbank.
- Dinner at the resort followed by a Tharu cultural program or wildlife slideshow.
- Day 02:
- Morning Jeep Safari inside the park.
- Transfer to Sauraha Tourist Bus Station or Bharatpur Airport for departure.
- Day 01:
- Similar to Day 01 of the 1-Night itinerary.
- Day 02:
- Dugout Canoe Trip followed by a Nature Walk.
- Optional ox-cart ride or jeep drive back to the resort.
- Afternoon Jeep Safari inside the national park.
- Day 03:
- Bird Watching Tour early in the morning, followed by breakfast.
- Transfer to Sauraha Tourist Bus Station or Bharatpur Airport.
Chitwan (2 Night, 3 Days)
Chitwan (3 Night, 4 Days)
- Days 01 & 02:
- As in the 2-Night, 3-Day itinerary.
- Day 03:
- Early morning Bird Watching Tour followed by breakfast.
- Bicycle ride to “Twenty Thousand Lakes” or additional Jeep Safari in Baghmara.
- Alternatively, enjoy a jungle trek in Chitwan National Park.
- Day 04:
- After a late breakfast, transfer to Sauraha Tourist Bus Station or Bharatpur Airport.