Chitwan
Chitwan is home to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity, Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, and jungle safari experiences.
History
Chitwan was a hunting reserve for Nepali royalty and British aristocrats in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It was established as a national park in 1973, the first in Nepal, and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
Famous for
How to reach
By air: 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport. By road: 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Nearby attractions
Emergency contacts
About
Chitwan National Park covers 952 square kilometers of subtropical lowland forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The park is home to over 700 species of wildlife including the endangered Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephant, sloth bear, and gharial crocodile.
Safari options include jeep drives, elephant-back rides, walking safaris, and canoe trips along the Rapti River. The park is a birdwatcher's paradise with over 500 species. The local Tharu community offers cultural experiences with traditional dance performances and village walks.
The best time for wildlife viewing is from October to March when the weather is dry and animals gather near water sources. The park closes during the monsoon (July-September).