Chitwan National Park Jungle Safari
A wildlife safari experience in Chitwan National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) offering jeep safaris, elephant-back safaris, canoe trips, and guided walking safaris to see one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers (rare), Asian elephants, gharial crocodiles, various deer species, and rich birdlife in subtropical riverine and sal forest habitats.
Location
Sauraha (gateway town to Chitwan National Park), Chitwan (District Headquarters: Bharatpur nearby), Nepal
Duration
Options: half-day (3–4 hours), full-day (6–8 hours), multi-day (1–3 days typical) packages
Best Time to Visit
October to April (cool, dry season) for best wildlife viewing. March–May (spring) is good for birding; monsoon (June–September) has fewer visitors but lush scenery and some animal sightings.
Pricing
Typical packages range from USD 40–120 per person for half-day to full-day safaris; 1–3 day packages (including accommodation and meals) generally range USD 100–400 per person depending on lodge class and activities. Park entrance and conservation fees are additional (approx USD 20–40).
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Search for the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros in grasslands and riverbanks
Elephant-back safari (traditional method) and jeep safaris for closer wildlife encounters
Canoe trip on the Rapti or Narayani River to spot gharials, crocodiles, and waterbirds
Guided nature walks with Tharu naturalists to learn about local ecology and Tharu culture
Birdwatching hotspot with over 500 recorded bird species
Night safaris and cultural Tharu village visits available in some packages
Itinerary
Arrival at Sauraha; check-in to lodge; orientation briefing and safety talk.
Many lodges provide pickup from Bharatpur or Bharatpur Airport; arrive before the afternoon for activities.
Jeep safari or guided nature walk into the buffer zone and central parts of the park.
Afternoon safaris are good for seeing mammals moving; bring water and a light jacket in cooler months.
Canoe trip on the Rapti/Narayani River to watch gharials and river birds at sunset.
Canoe trips are quiet and excellent for birding and photography; wear quick-dry clothing.
Elephant-back safari or jeep safari at dawn to maximize chances of spotting rhinos and other large mammals.
Early morning is the best time for mammal activity; expect cool temperatures.
Visit Tharu village for cultural program and local market; check out local handicrafts.
Respect local customs; ask before photographing people.
Optional guided birdwatching walk, or departure to next destination.
Guided bird walks are often led by experienced local birders and are highly rewarding.
Safety Requirements
Always follow the guide's instructions — do not approach or provoke wildlife.
Keep noise to a minimum during safaris to avoid disturbing animals.
Avoid walking alone inside park boundaries; use guided walks only.
Carry insect repellent and anti-malarial advice if recommended; mosquito-borne illnesses occur in some seasons.
Bring basic first-aid and any personal medications; lodges have limited medical facilities.
Maintain safe distance from large animals (rhinos, elephants) even when on elephant-back safaris; abrupt movements can be dangerous.
Tips
Book safaris and accommodation in advance during peak season (Oct–Mar).
Bring binoculars, a telephoto lens for wildlife photography, and spare batteries/memory cards.
Wear neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors) and comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walks.
Carry refillable water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and light rain gear in shoulder seasons.
Respect local culture and park rules; tipping guides and lodge staff is customary for good service.
If tiger sightings are a priority, allow multiple early-morning safaris — sightings are rare and not guaranteed.
Consider staying at a conservation-oriented lodge that supports local communities and anti-poaching efforts.
