Chitwan
– The Heart of The Jungle
At the Himalayan foothills nestles one of the natural wonders of Nepal, i.e. Chitwan, a UNESCO world heritage site famous worldwide for its wonderful wildlife.
One of the premier drawcard destinations in Nepal, Chitwan realizes all the wildlife fantasies of the heart in its periphery. Famous among the tourist circuits as Royal Chitwan National Park, the destination hosts a definitive wildlife spotting experience for the enthusiasts.
Areawise, the park covers an impressive 932 sq km and has a flood plains and lakes, besides dense wooly forests. Around 70% of the area is covered with sal forests. Also, there are the large stretches of phanta (grassland) along the banks of the Rapti and Narayani Rivers. Growing up to 8m in height, this special grass provides excellent cover for rhinos and tigers, and food for elephants.
In terms of wildlife, the location is bestowed with numerous royal Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, elephants, deer, monkeys, leopards, sloth bears, etc. Apart from this, chances of spotting as many as 450 species of birds and butterflies can be enjoyed here greatly.
A trip to Chitwan includes the visit to the Elephant Breeding Centre, Jungle Walk Tour, Elephant Back Safari, Canoe Ride, Bird Watching, etc.
Elephant Breeding Centre
This gigantic elephants in all shapes and sizes can be seen at this special Elephant Breeding centre. Truly the center of all activities and happenings, the location boasts sights of elephant herds enjoying their commanding influence here. Located along the Bhunde Rapti River, the breeding center also offers a spectacular experience of spotting the lovely interactions between mother and baby elephants. Giving them wash is also one of the unique experiences of this wildlife park.
Elephant Safari
For many visitors, experiencing jungle and its wildlife on the back of a jumbo is the must-do act to enjoy Chitwan on the whole. Witnessing the wildlife on these elephants is a thrilling natural experience that is preferred by many travellers who feel they should not pollute the jungles with jeeps.
Jungle Walks
Jungle walks is yet another sustainable way of exploring Chitwan National Park on foot. Usually, such walks are accompanied by the guides who know the location to the core and take tourists to an enriching wildlife discovery.
Canoeing
If you wish to explore Chitwan Park in a relaxed way, then Canoeing is the best option. While exploring the waters on a canoe, you can also enjoy the good chance of spotting water birds and crocodiles.
How to Reach Chitwan
Air – Flights from Kathmandu and Pokhara connect Bharatpur Airport (10 km away)
Road – Chitwan can be reached from Kathmandu and Pokhara via drive as well.
Best Time to Reach Chitwan
October to March is the best time to visit Chitwan. The weather is generally clear and the temperature is affable. For a more rewarding wildlife safari, schedule your trip in
late January to March.
Festivals of Chitwan
Chitwan Elephant Festival is celebrated here with great excitement. The cultural festival centers on elephants where they can be spotted playing football, participating in races and pageants.