 One of Asia's top wildlife sanctuaries, Chitwan National Park was once a hunting reserve, but has been protected since 1973 so that visitors can observe and enjoy its splendid array of animals and birds. Bordering the northern plains of India, Chitwan's 967km² of jungle-clad hills, plains and wetlands form part of the Terai, a region populated by the Tharu, one of Nepal's few indigenous tribal groups, who appear to have a natural immunity to malaria.
The park is drained by two major rivers, the Narayani and the Rapti, whose wetlands provide a habitat for many birds. Some are resident and breed in the park, while others stop off to feed and rest during their autumn and spring migrations. The marshes give way to grassland and luxuriant forests of sal trees, flame of the forest, pipal, strangler fig and beautiful scarlet-flowered kusum trees, home to different types of birds and many mammal species. The wildlife of the park includes 46 mammal species, 400 bird species, 60 different butterflies and many reptiles. Among them are:
| One-horned rhinoceros |
Gharial crocodile |
| Sambar, spotted, barking & hog deer |
Eagles |
| Gaur (bison) |
Kites |
| Jackal |
Osprey |
| Wild dog |
Hawks |
| Wild boar |
Storks |
| Royal Bengal tiger |
Cranes |
| Leopard |
Ibis |
| Civet |
Hornbills |
| Langur monkey |
Kingfishers |
| Rhesus monkey |
Orioles |
| Marsh mugger crocodile |
Flycatchers |
Woodpeckers
Parakeets |
Warblers |
The best time to visit Chitwan is from October to February, when temperatures average 25°C. March to May are hotter, and from April onwards thunderstorms can occur. Our two-night safari to Chitwan includes accommodation at a jungle lodge and a full programme of activities. During your stay you can experience a thrilling elephant back safari in search of the great one-horned rhino, jungle walks, canoe rides and a visit to a Tharu village. You may hope to see rhino, deer, monkeys and gharial and if you are very lucky, more elusive species including leopard and tiger. Bird watching can be rewarding at any time of year.
Note : Chitwan is a malarial area. Prophylaxis is advisable and you should cover up and use a good insect repellent containing DEET. |
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