Chitwan National Park is a protected area in southern Nepal, covering an area of 952 square kilometers. It was established in 1973 and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal.
The terrain in Chitwan National Park is varied, with tropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The park is home to more than 700 species of wildlife, including 68 species of mammals, 544 species of birds, and 56 species of reptiles and amphibians.
One of the main attractions of the park is the Bengal tiger, which is one of the most endangered big cats in the world. The park is also home to the greater one-horned rhinoceros, which is another endangered species. Other wildlife found in the park includes elephants, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, and several species of deer.
The park also has a diverse range of birdlife, including several species of kingfishers, herons, storks, and raptors. Visitors to the park can take a birdwatching tour to observe the colorful and varied birdlife.
The park offers a range of activities for visitors, including jungle safaris, birdwatching tours, and cultural tours of the local Tharu villages. Jungle safaris are the most popular activity, and visitors can choose from jeep safaris, elephant safaris, or canoe safaris along the Rapti River. The river is also a great place to spot crocodiles and several species of freshwater turtles.
The Tharu people are the indigenous people of the region and have a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can take a cultural tour of the local Tharu villages to learn about their traditional lifestyle and customs. The Tharu people are also known for their unique music and dance, which is a highlight of any cultural tour.
The park has several lodges and resorts that offer accommodation for visitors. Most of the lodges are located on the outskirts of the park, and visitors can choose from luxury resorts to budget lodges.
Overall, Chitwan National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife and nature. The park offers a unique opportunity to observe a diverse range of wildlife in their natural habitat, and visitors can also learn about the local culture and way of life. The park is easily accessible from Kathmandu or Pokhara, and a visit to the park can be combined with a tour of other popular destinations in Nepal.
Upon arrival in Chitwan, you will be met by your tour guide who will transfer you to your hotel. You will have some time to rest and explore the local area. In the evening, you will attend a cultural show featuring traditional dance and music performances by the local Tharu community.
Today, you will embark on a full-day jungle safari in Chitwan National Park. You will have the opportunity to explore the park’s rich biodiversity, including its rare and endangered wildlife species. You will go on a guided nature walk, a jeep safari, and a canoe ride along the Rapti River. You may also spot animals such as the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and several species of deer and birds.
In the evening, you will return to your hotel for dinner and relaxation. You may also have the option to participate in a traditional Tharu cultural dance performance.
Today, you will visit a Tharu village and learn about the culture and way of life of the Tharu community. You will have the opportunity to interact with the locals and try traditional Tharu cuisine. In the afternoon, you will go birdwatching in the park, where you can spot several species of birds such as the Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Great Hornbill, and Red Junglefowl.
Today, you will go on an early morning elephant safari, where you will explore the park on the back of an elephant. You will have the opportunity to spot wildlife up close and observe their behavior. In the afternoon, you will go on a guided nature walk in the park, where you can observe the flora and fauna of the park up close.
Today, you will participate in a community service project in a local village. You will work with the locals on a project such as building a school or planting trees. In the afternoon, you will go on a canoe ride along the Rapti River, where you can spot several species of birds and animals.
After breakfast, you will visit the Elephant Breeding Center, which is located inside the park. Here, you will learn about the center’s conservation efforts and have the opportunity to interact with baby elephants. You will then return to your hotel to check out and be transferred to your next destination.