Chitwan National Park

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Chitwan National Park Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 1 - 2 Days

Best Time: October - March Read More

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"Where Wilderness Meets Culture in Nepal's Nature Haven"

Chitwan National Park Tourism


Chitwan National Park, nestled in the subtropical lowlands of southern Nepal, spans an impressive area of approximately 932 square kilometers. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sanctuary embodies Nepal's commitment to preserving its diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife. The park stands as a haven for an extraordinary range of species, including the revered one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and an array of avian inhabitants. The park's vibrant landscapes offer visitors immersive safari experiences, including jungle walks, jeep safaris, canoe trips along the Rapti River, and elephant-back excursions, allowing for enchanting wildlife encounters amidst lush greenery.

Apart from its biodiversity, Chitwan National Park provides a unique opportunity for cultural exploration. The indigenous Tharu community, residing harmoniously for centuries, shares their traditions and lifestyle through cultural performances, showcasing their music, dance, and art. The convergence of natural wonders and cultural richness makes Chitwan a captivating destination, offering an unparalleled glimpse into Nepal's heritage and wildlife conservation efforts.  Easily accessible via road from Kathmandu or Pokhara, Chitwan National Park remains a cherished destination, drawing global travelers with its captivating blend of nature, conservation, and cultural richness.

Chitwan National Park Permit Fees:
Cost of Entry for Foreigners - 2000 NPR
Price for Locals – 150 NPR
Entry For SAARC Citizens (Indians)– 1000 NPR
Children Below The Age Of 10 – Free

Jeep Safari Fee
Cost of Shared Jeep Safari – 2500 NPR per person
Cost of Full Day Safari – 4000 NPR per person

Elephant Safari Fee
Elephant Safari For Foreigners– 2500 NPR Per Elephant (2 People)
For Locals – 200 NPR
Cost for SAARC – 1000 NPR

Elephant Breeding Center (Timing – 6:00 AM To 6:00 PM)
Entry Cost For Foreigner – 100 NPR
For Locals – 25 NPR
For SAARC – 50 NPR
Cost For Bathing Elephant – 200 NPR

Canoe Ride
Half-Day Canoe Ride – 1400 NPR
Full-Day Canoe Ride – 1800 NPR

Entrance Gates to Chitwan National Park:
1. Sauraha Gate: Located near Sauraha, this gate offers entry to the eastern section of the park and is one of the primary entry points for visitors.
2. Meghauli Gate: Situated near the village of Meghauli, this gate provides access to the western part of the park and is ideal for visitors staying in nearby lodges or resorts.
3. Kasara Gate: Serving as the headquarters of the park, Kasara Gate offers entry to the central region and houses park administrative offices and visitor facilities.
4. Kalika Gate: Situated in the eastern section of the park, the Kalika Gate serves as another access point for visitors exploring this part of Chitwan.
5. Lothar Gate: Positioned in the northern section of the park, Lothar Gate allows entry to the northern areas and offers access to distinct wildlife habitats.
6. Khoria Gate: Located on the park's northeastern side, Khoria Gate provides access to areas close to the convergence of the Narayani and Rapti rivers.
7. Kumroj Gate: Positioned northeast of the park, Kumroj Gate offers entry to parts near the Kumroj Community Forest.

Things to do in Chitwan National Park

1. Jeep Safari

Jeep safaris in Chitwan National Park provide a thrilling opportunity to explore the wilderness and witness diverse wildlife. It is available twice a day, early morning and late afternoon. Early morni (Read More)ng safari is best time to spot Bengal Tigers and Rhinoceros. The most popular safari route is the Narayani River Route. Experienced guides lead the safari, offering insights into the park's flora and fauna. Visitors have the chance to spot rhinoceros, deer, monkeys, and various bird species.

2. Elephant Safari

Elephant-back rides offer a unique way to traverse the park's terrain and observe wildlife from a different perspective. It generally last for about 1-2 hours, guided by trained mahouts (elephant hand (Read More)lers). Riding atop elephants, visitors can explore deeper into the jungle, increasing the chances of spotting larger animals like rhinos, sloth bears, and even tigers if lucky.

3. River Safari (Canoe Ride)

Canoe trips along the Rapti or Narayani River allow visitors to witness aquatic wildlife and birds. Canoe rides usually span 1-2 hours, led by experienced guides. Traveling silently along the river, v (Read More)isitors can spot crocodiles, waterfowl, and other river-dwelling creatures, offering a serene and picturesque experience.

4. Walking Safari (Nature Walk)

Nature walks in Chitwan National Park are guided tours led by experienced naturalists or park guides. Typically last from 1 to 3 hours, allowing visitors to explore specific trails within the park. Le (Read More)d by knowledgeable guides, nature walks offer close encounters with smaller wildlife, insects, and diverse plant species. Guides share insights into the park's flora, fauna, medicinal plants, and their ecological significance. Visitors learn about animal tracks, bird calls, and the intricate balance of the park's ecosystems.

5. Bird Watching

Chitwan is a paradise for birdwatchers, home to over 550 bird species, both resident and migratory. The duration varies based on visitors' preferences, but birdwatching can span from early mornings to (Read More) late afternoons. Visitors can spot a diverse range of birds, including kingfishers, hornbills, woodpeckers, peafowl, and endangered species like Bengal florican and great hornbill.

6. Cultural Visits

Cultural visits involve engaging with the indigenous Tharu community, known for their distinct culture, traditions, and lifestyle. Guided tours to Tharu villages offer insights into their daily life, (Read More)agriculture, craftsmanship, and unique architectural styles. Explore local houses, learn about their customs, and interact with villagers to understand their traditions and practices.

Must Know Before You Travel to Chitwan National Park

  • Timings: 
    Shared Jeep Safari Timing –
    12:30 PM to 5:30 PM (Rest timing changes with season and availability of vehicle)
    Private Jeep Safari Timings – 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    Elephant Safari – Happens in the morning, mid-morning, and evening and is for 1.30 hours
    Canoeing – 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM
    Elephant Breeding Centre Visit Timings – 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • How to Book Safari: It can be booked from any local tour operator, the park's headquarters in Sauraha, or the hotel you are staying in.
  • Safari Pricing and Budgeting: The cost of the Safari varies depending on the duration and number of participants.
  • Seasonal Considerations: Safari is inaccessible in monsoon from June to September. You can only visit the buffer zone during this time.
  • Washroom inside the Park: Washroom facility is available at Gharial Breeding Conservation Centre

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Wildlife at Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park shares borders with Parsa National Park in the east and Valmiki National Park of India in the south, and together they represent a 3549 sq. km. wide Tiger Conservation Project over the alluvial grasslands. The wide range of vegetation in Chitwan is home to more than 700 species of wildlife, and there are more yet to be labelled.

From reptiles like a king cobra, rock python, monitor lizards and mugger crocodiles to rare mammals like the Royal Bengal Tiger, leopards and rhinos - Chitwan has a variety of species. The numbers of some animals like the rhino and the gharial crocodiles have fluctuated over the years, but the authorities have so far successfully maintained a healthy ratio.

Other common animals include lots of sloth bears, otters, Bengal foxes, badgers, jackals, fishing cats, civets, mongooses, martens, sambars, barking and hog deer, chital, langurs, wild boars, Indian pangolins, flying squirrels, common Indian monkeys and red muntjac. Occasionally, Gaurs from the Churia hills region and wild elephants crossing Indian borders get into Chitwan as well.

Bird Heaven

The population of avian creatures in Chitwan National Park makes it a heaven for the bird-enthusiasts. It is the home for many native, as well as rare and migratory species of birds. The grasslands of the national park are a breeding ground for birds like Bengal Florican, adjutants, grey-crowned prinia and several species of grass warbles, almost-threatened Oriental darter along with regulars like egrets, storks, kingfishers and bitterns. The globally threatened spotted eagle can be spotted here sometimes.

Among migrating species, the eastern imperial eagle and goosanders are common visitors. Parakeets, flycatchers and sunbirds are also widely spotted. Another species, which we don't usually consider while looking at birds - vultures - are protected here.

Tharus Village

It would be really unfair to come to Chitwan National Park and not visit the village of Tharus, the original residents of this place. The village can be explored on foot or on you can go traditional and take the famous ox-cart ride. You should take a guide along to explain to you all the nuances of everyday Tharu lives, their past and present and their culture.

After being relocated, they have settled up in this village. The usual jeep safaris include the cultural program that the local Tharu people perform for the visitors. The Tharu girls and boys, in their bright and colourful traditional costumes, dance to folk music and urge you to join in their lovely beats as well. At a distance, there is the Tharu Cultural Museum to serve the community. It houses the evolution of the Tharu people from the olden days to the present - a tale told through old and new photographs, documents, weapons, potteries and other things they have used over the years. There are handicraft shops outside, from where you can buy small souvenirs to remember the lovely trip by.

Best Time to Visit Chitwan National Park

How to Reach Chitwan National Park

How to Reach Overview

From Kathmandu, travelers can opt for a scenic drive of approximately 5-6 hours or take a 25-minute flight to Bharatpur Airport, situated close to the park. The journey from Pokhara to Chitwan usually takes around 4-5 hours by road. Additionally, regular bus services operate between major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. Tourists can also arrange private transportation or hire taxis for a more convenient travel experience.

Chitwan National Park Photos

Chitwan National Park
Crocodile at Chitwan National Park
An elephant bathing at Chitwan National Park
Chital or Spotted Deer at Chitwan National Park

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