Wildlife & Biodiversity
Chitwan National Park is one of Nepal's premier protected areas, hosting over 68 species of mammals, including iconic and endangered species such as the one-horned Indian rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, wild Asian elephant, gaur, sloth bear, leopard, and dhole.
The park is also home to over 600 recorded bird species and 55–56 reptile and amphibian species. You can observe bird species like floricans, giant hornbills, and storks with amphibians like crocodiles, gharials, pythons, golden monitor lizards, king cobras, and rock pythons.
Talking about the flora species, the landscapes are dominated by the dense tropical and subtropical forests, primarily sal (Shorea robusta) forest. The forest covers around 70% of the park. While the 20% area is covered by elephant grass and other grass species.
Besides these plant species, you can also find other herbs and species like wild ginger, wild turmeric, and medicinal herbs.
The conservation of the species of the plant and animal is monitored by the authority. The facilities, like the Gharial Breeding Center and Elephant Breeding Center, are established to preserve the special species and visitor education.
Jungle Safari Experiences
Jungle safari in the Chitwan National Park is a popular and exciting way to explore the park’s rich wildlife and natural beauty. The experiences are a mix of thrill, awe, and pure nature vibes. Spotted rhinos, deer, exotic birds, and even glimpsed crocodiles up close are what the jungle safaris offer.
There are several types of jungle safaris, like Jeep Safari, Jungle Walks, Boat/Canoe Rides, and Bird Watching, that offer extraordinary experiences.
There are elephant rides also included in most of the jungle safari packages. However, for ethical reasons, the attraction to the elephant ride is decreasing among tourists. Several reputed tour operators have stopped offering rides and now promote alternative, humane elephant encounters and wildlife safari methods.
Cultural Experiences in Chitwan
Besides the wildlife, like Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinoceroses, the park also offers cultural experiences. Within the premises of the park, the indigenous Tharu people reside. The Tharu people are those people popular for their rich traditions and simple lifestyles.
The Tharu people are also known as the guardians of the forest. They wear vibrant traditional dresses and live in colorful mud houses. Some of them are engaged in the handicraft business, while others are engaged in the traditional farming practices.
Their unique folk music and dances are a part of their cultural storytelling and celebrations. The tourists can also experience the Tharu rituals, festivals, Maaghi, and spiritual beliefs. Cultural evenings featuring Tharu dance and music, henna art, and wall painting workshops are also popular.
The Tharu people also run the homestays where you can stay and experience their authentic culture. In this way, you can also experience their hospitality too.
Things to Do in Chitwan National Park
The popular jungle safari option is jeep safaris. Most of the tourists choose this option, as it is easier and covers the larger area of the park. Through the jeep safaris, there is a high chance that you may discover major mammals like one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, elephants, sloth bears, and wild boars.
- Canoeing on the Rapti River.
Canoe rides on the Rapti River are also a form of jungle safari in which you will have a peaceful ride on the Rapti River while witnessing the closeup views of the wildlife near the water, including crocodiles, birds, and animals coming to drink.
- Jungle walks with birdwatching tours.
Jungle walks are an underrated activity but a very beneficial activity that can be done in the park. Basically, it is a guided trek through the dense forest for observing the smaller animals, birds, and plants up close. You also get the chance to witness the elephants bathing or swimming.
- Visit the Elephant Breeding Center.
It is also an underrated activity in Nepal's first national park. Visiting the elephant breeding center gives you information about conservation efforts for Asian elephants.
As the center is dedicated to breeding, you can also see the baby elephants cuddling with their mothers. During the day, the elephants are set free in the jungle under supervision of the caretaker.
Best Time to Visit Chitwan National Park
The best time to visit Chitwan National Park is generally from October to March. It is because during these days and the cool winter season, the temperature ranges from about 7°C to 25°C with pleasant weather, clear skies, and low humidity.
In this weather condition, the outdoor activities are jeep safaris, elephant rides, and jungle walks. In this atmosphere, the wildlife becomes more active and is easier to spot as animals like Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, and other species come out to waterholes.
This period is also considered the best time for the photographers, as the views are clear and the photos of the wildlife are easier to capture. The monsoon months, June, July, and September, are considered less ideal due to the frequent rainfall, hotter temperatures, and challenging travel conditions.
Entry Fees, Permits & Accommodation
There are several entry points to the Chitwan National Park. However, the entry and permit cost remains the same. You can pay the fees at the park entrance or tourist service center in Kathmandu. Below are the park entry fees for 2025.
- For foreigners: NPR 2000 per person per entry
- For SAARC nationals: NPR 1000 per person per entry
- For Nepali citizens: NPR 150 per person per entry
- For children below 10 years: free
Regarding the accommodation options in the Chitwan National Park area, there are several options available, ranging from budget lodges and midrange hotels to luxury jungle resorts, mostly around Sauraha.
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Choose the time according to your preferences and reason to visit.
- Avoid the elephant rides, as they are controversial. Choose the jeep safaris instead.
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothes covering arms and legs.
- Have travel insurance due to the remote and wild nature of the park.
- Visit the Tharu village to have insights into the local indigenous culture and lifestyles.
- Bring insect repellent, a hat, and a rain jacket or poncho if you are traveling during the monsoon.
- Respect the local cultures and customs.
- Ask permission to take photos of people.
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