Chitwan National Park | Bharatpur

Established in 1973 as Nepal's first national park, Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the subtropical Inner Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal. It spans 932 square kilometers across the districts of Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Parsa, and Makwanpur.

Visual Characteristics

The park consists of a dense mosaic of riverine forests, marshes, and sprawling grasslands (elephant grass). The landscape is bisected by the Narayani and Rapti river systems, creating a series of oxbow lakes and alluvial plains. The Churia Hills form a natural southern boundary.

Biodiversity & Wildlife

One-Horned Rhinoceros: One of the world's most successful habitats for the conservation of this species.

Bengal Tiger: Home to a significant population of the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Gharial Crocodile: The park's river systems are a critical breeding ground for these narrow-snouted, endangered crocodiles.

Avifauna: Over 540 bird species, including the Bengal Florican and Great Hornbill.

Mammals: Host to leopards, sloth bears, wild elephants, and rhesus macaques.

Infrastructure & Entry

Sauraha: The primary tourist gateway located at the northern edge of the park. It contains the majority of lodges, restaurants, and visitor services.

Kasara: The park's administrative headquarters, which houses a Gharial Breeding Centre.

Meghauly: A secondary entry point on the western edge, preferred for high-end eco-tourism and quieter safaris.

Key Activities

Jeep Safaris: The primary method for deep-penetration wildlife viewing.

Canoe Trips: Conducted in traditional dugout canoes on the Rapti River to observe aquatic life and birds.

Jungle Walks: Guided treks led by naturalists to track animals on foot.

Tharu Cultural Tours: Visits to indigenous Tharu villages to observe traditional architecture and dance.

Logistics

Access: Approximately a 5-hour drive or a 20-minute flight (to Bharatpur Airport) from Kathmandu.

Permits: A park entry permit is mandatory and typically valid for a single day.

Best Time to Visit: October to March (mild temperatures and clear skies) or April to May (optimal for big cat sightings, though very hot).

Nearby Landmarks

Bishazari Tal (20,000 Lakes)

Devghat Dham

Narayani River