Chitwan National Park - Discovering Nepal

Travelling to Chitwan National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Chitwan National Park, a pretty good destination in Nepal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Chitwan National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Chitwan National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Nepal, here's everything to know about Chitwan National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is a protected area located in the southern part of Nepal. It covers an area of 932 km² and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephant, sloth bear, and several species of deer and primates. It also boasts of more than 500 bird species. Visitors can participate in jungle safaris, bird watching tours, canoeing trips, and cultural excursions to nearby Tharu villages. The best time to visit is between October and March, which is the dry season.

What to visit in Chitwan National Park

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions of Chitwan National Park in Nepal along with some info about each of them: 1. Jungle Safari: One of the most popular activities among tourists visiting Chitwan National Park is going on a jungle safari. Visitors can choose between jeep, canoe or elephant-back safaris. These safaris offer great opportunities to spot Royal Bengal Tigers, one-horned Rhinoceros, leopards, gharials and various species of deer, birds and reptiles.
2. Tharu Cultural Museum: This museum located inside the park provides insights into the life and traditions of the Tharu community, an ethnic group native to the region. Visitors can see and learn about their customs, costumes, crafts, arts, and musical instruments.
3. Elephant Breeding Center: This center established for the reproduction and protection of elephants is another popular attraction in the park. Visitors can learn about the daily life and routine training of elephants here. They can also see the cute baby elephants here.
4. Birdwatching: Chitwan National Park is home to over 500 species of birds, making it a paradise for bird-watchers. Visitors can take a guided tour to spot different kinds of birds, including several rare and endangered species.
5. Tharu Village Tour: As mentioned earlier, the Tharu community is native to the region and visitors can take a guided tour of their village, which is located near the park. This tour provides an opportunity to learn more about the Tharu culture and lifestyle from the locals.
6. Canoe Ride: A canoe ride on the Rapti River, one of the major rivers flowing through the park, is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the park. During the ride visitors can spot various species of birds, crocodiles, and other aquatic animals.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Chitwan National Park, Nepal!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Nepal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Chitwan National Park.

When to go on holiday to Chitwan National Park

The best time to go to Chitwan National Park in Nepal is from late September to early December when the weather is dry and cool. This is the peak tourist season and the best time to spot wildlife as the vegetation is less dense and animals gather around water sources. Additionally, the months of February to April are also a good time to visit as the weather is dry and the temperatures are pleasant, but there may be some haze in the air. It is important to note that monsoon season from June to September can result in heavy rainfall which can affect visibility and wildlife sightings.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is located in the southern part of Nepal and there are several ways to reach the park: 1. By Domestic Flight: You can take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Bharatpur, which is the nearest airport to Chitwan National Park. From there you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the park.
2. By Bus: There are regular buses from Kathmandu to Narayangarh, which is the nearest town to the park. From Narayangarh, you can take a taxi or local bus to the park.
3. By Private Car: You can also hire a private car or jeep from Kathmandu or other major cities in Nepal to reach the park. It's a scenic drive through the countryside of Nepal.
Once you reach the park, there are plenty of guided tours and activities such as jungle walks, elephant safaris, canoe rides, and bird watching tours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Chitwan National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Chitwan National Park

Sure, Chitwan National Park in Nepal offers a unique and flavorful cuisine, heavily influenced by the Tharu culture. Here are some of the typical foods of the region: 1. Daal Bhaat Tarkari - A staple meal in Nepal, daal bhaat tarkari consists of steamed rice, lentil soup (daal), and a variety of vegetable curries (tarkari). It is often served with pickles and papadum.
2. Tharu Khaja Set - Tharu Khaja Set is a popular breakfast option in Chitwan. It includes crispy fried dough (sel-roti), flattened rice (chiura), and spicy potato curry.
3. Gundruk ko Achar - Gundruk ko Achar is a traditional Nepali pickle made from fermented leafy vegetables. It has a tangy and spicy flavor and is often served as a side dish.
4. Bara - Bara is a popular street food in Nepal made from lentils, which are soaked overnight, ground into a paste, and deep-fried into small pancakes. It is often served with a spicy tomato sauce.
5. Dhau - Dhau is a sweet yogurt made from buffalo milk. It has a thick and creamy texture and is often served as a dessert or snack.
6. Sekuwa - Sekuwa is a Nepali-style barbecue. It is made by marinating meat (usually chicken or mutton) in a mixture of spices and grilling it over charcoal until it is tender and juicy.
7. Chiura and Aloo Tama - Chiura and Aloo Tama is a popular snack in Chitwan made from flattened rice and bamboo shoots (tama) cooked with potatoes and spices. It is often served with roasted peanuts.
8. Chatamari - Chatamari is a traditional Newari dish consisting of a flat, rice pastry topped with eggs, minced meat, or vegetables. It is often served with a tomato and onion chutney. These are some of the popular and delicious dishes that you can find in Chitwan National Park, Nepal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Nepal here.

Is Chitwan National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Chitwan National Park in Nepal can be a bit expensive for some tourists, especially those on a tight budget. The cost of entry fees, accommodation, and activities such as jungle safaris, elephant rides, canoe trips, and more can add up quickly. However, there are options for budget travelers such as staying in guesthouses or homestays outside of the park and finding cheaper local tour operators. It's also possible to negotiate prices with tour operators or lodge owners. Overall, the cost of visiting Chitwan National Park will depend on your preferences and travel style.

Where to find accomodation in Chitwan National Park

There are several areas where you can find accommodation to visit Chitwan National Park in Nepal. Some of the popular areas to stay are: 1. Sauraha: Sauraha is the most popular destination for tourists visiting Chitwan National Park. It is located on the eastern edge of the park and offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury.
2. Meghauli: Meghauli is located on the western edge of the park and is a quieter alternative to Sauraha. It offers a more peaceful and serene environment for visitors.
3. Kasara: Kasara is the administrative center of Chitwan National Park and is located roughly in the center of the park. It offers a more remote experience than Sauraha and Meghauli.
4. Bharatpur: Bharatpur is the closest city to Chitwan National Park and offers a range of accommodation options. However, it is not as peaceful as the other areas and may not offer a true jungle experience.
You can check hotel prices at Chitwan National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Chitwan National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Chitwan National Park is generally a safe place for tourists. The park is a popular tourist destination in Nepal, and the local authorities take measures to ensure the safety and security of visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to remain aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. It is also advisable to follow the rules and guidelines set by the park authorities during your visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Nepal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Chitwan National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Chitwan National Park the most?

Chitwan National Park in Nepal is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. It is a great place for families, couples, and young people alike. Families will enjoy the various activities available such as the elephant ride, jungle walk, canoe ride, and bird watching. There are also cultural tours to nearby villages where visitors can see the local people's lifestyle.
Couples can indulge in a romantic stay in one of the luxury resorts in the park, taking part in various adventure activities like elephant rides, canoeing, and jungle walks to catch a glimpse of the park's wildlife.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy the thrill of exploring the park's wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and other wild animals. They can also participate in rafting, kayaking, or other adventure sports outside of the national park.
Overall, Chitwan National Park caters to all types of travelers and offers various activities suitable for each age group.

How to get around Chitwan National Park

The most common mode of transportation within Chitwan National Park in Nepal is a Jeep or a Safari vehicle. Many lodges and hotels offer this service for their guests and it's an effective way to explore the park. However, walking and cycling are also possible within some areas of the park.

What to see around Chitwan National Park

There are many beautiful places to visit in a day trip from Chitwan National Park, some of which include: 1. Lumbini: Known as the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Nepal.
2. Nawalparasi: This region is known for its beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, rivers, and waterfalls.
3. Devghat: A spiritual and cultural site located at the confluence of two rivers, Devghat is famous for its religious significance.
4. Damauli: A small town located on the banks of the Seti River, Damauli is known for its breathtaking natural beauty.
5. Narayangarh: A bustling city located near Chitwan National Park, Narayangarh is known for its vibrant markets, food stalls and shopping.
6. Tansen: A beautiful hill station, Tansen is known for its lovely scenery, ancient temples, and traditional culture.
7. Bandipur: A historic town located on a hilltop, Bandipur is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and panoramic mountain views.
8. Pokhara: A popular tourist destination located about 4 hours from Chitwan National Park, Pokhara is known for its beautiful lakes, mountain views, and outdoor activities.
For every travel information about Nepal you can click here.

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