Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park, established in 1973 as Nepal's first national park, represents one of Asia's last remaining undisturbed habitats of the Inner Terai lowlands. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, the park protects 932 square kilometers of subtropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands that support an extraordinary diversity of wildlife.

The park lies in the subtropical Inner Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal, in the Chitwan District. The park's elevation ranges from 100 to 815 meters, creating a mosaic of habitats including sal forests, riverine forests, and tall elephant grass that can reach heights of 8 meters.

Chitwan is renowned as one of the best places in Asia to spot the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, with a population exceeding 700 individuals. The park also harbors one of the largest populations of Bengal tigers in Nepal, making it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts worldwide.

Wildlife

Remarkable Species of Chitwan

Home to some of Asia's most endangered species, Chitwan offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.

One-Horned Rhinoceros

700+ individuals Vulnerable

The greater one-horned rhinoceros is Chitwan's most iconic resident. These prehistoric-looking giants can weigh up to 2,500 kg and are best spotted near waterholes and grasslands.

Bengal Tiger

125+ individuals Endangered

Chitwan harbors one of Nepal's largest tiger populations. The 2022 census recorded over 125 tigers in the park, though sightings require patience and luck.

Asian Elephant

40+ wild individuals Endangered

Wild Asian elephants roam the park's forests, while trained elephants at the breeding center help with conservation efforts and educational programs.

Gharial Crocodile

Critically Endangered

The gharial, with its distinctive long snout, inhabits the Narayani and Rapti rivers. The park operates a breeding center to help recover this rare species.

Birdlife

600+ species

From the giant hornbill to the Bengal florican, Chitwan is a birder's paradise with over 600 recorded species including many endangered and migratory birds.

Other Mammals

68+ species

Sloth bears, leopards, wild boar, four species of deer, langurs, and the elusive fishing cat are among the 68+ mammal species recorded in the park.

Experience

Safari Activities

Multiple ways to explore Chitwan's wilderness, each offering unique perspectives on the jungle ecosystem.

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Jeep Safari

Morning and afternoon game drives in open-top 4x4 vehicles cover more ground, ideal for spotting rhinos, deer, and with luck, tigers in the grasslands.

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Canoe Trip

Drift silently down the Rapti River in dugout canoes, watching for gharials, marsh muggers, and diverse birdlife along the riverbanks.

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Jungle Walk

Guided walks through the buffer zone forests offer intimate encounters with nature, tracking wildlife and learning about medicinal plants.

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Elephant Breeding Center

Visit the government breeding center to learn about elephant conservation and see calves being raised for protection duties.

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Bird Watching

Early morning excursions with expert guides to spot hornbills, eagles, owls, and seasonal migrants across diverse habitats.

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Tharu Cultural Program

Evening performances of traditional stick dances and music by the indigenous Tharu people, who have lived in the Terai for generations.

Plan Your Visit

Practical Information

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Getting There

5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Flights available to Bharatpur Airport. Tourist buses run daily from major cities.

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Best Time to Visit

October to March offers cool, dry weather and excellent wildlife viewing. Avoid monsoon (June-September) when flooding closes trails.

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Entry Fees

Park entry: NPR 2,000 per day for foreigners. Guides are mandatory for jungle activities. Safari costs vary by operator.

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Recommended Stay

2-3 nights minimum for a proper safari experience with morning and afternoon activities. Longer stays increase wildlife sighting chances.

Gallery

Chitwan in Pictures