Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour

Chitwan National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984 for its rich biodiversity and ecosystem. Located in the subtropical lowlands of Nepal, the park covers an area of 932 sq km. This park was inscribed on the World Heritage List under three natural criteria:

• Criterion (vii)-Exceptional natural beauty: The landscapes of Chitwan consist of dense forests, lush grasslands, and big river systems. The backdrop of the Himalayas, like Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and scenic views along the Narayani and Rapti rivers, contributes to its exceptional beauty.
• Criterion (ix)-Biological and ecological evolution: The park represents one of the largest and last remaining natural areas in the Terai region. It is home to a wide variety of plants and animals from the Siwalik Hills and the inner Terai plains.
• Criterion (x): Massive natural habitat: Chitwan provides habitat for numerous rare and endangered species. It is known for hosting a population of the one-horned rhinoceros and serving as one of the last refuges for the Bengal tiger.

While this is certainly one of the 10 UNESCO Sites in Nepal,  you can tour 7  UNESCO Heritages in Kathmandu alone.

Chitwan National Park is home to diverse plant species, mammals, birds, and reptiles. Here are some lists of species that you can encounter during the Jungle Safari:

Note: Most of these endangered animals may not be seen during the safari because they are rare and prefer to stay hidden deep inside the forest.

During your stay in Chitwan, local food becomes an important part of the experience. The region is home to the Tharu community, whose cuisine includes local ingredients and simple cooking methods. Tharu dishes rice, lentils, fish, and seasonal vegetables grown in fields. One common dish is Dhikri, a steamed rice flour dumpling served with spicy lentil soup or curry. Ghonghi, a freshwater snail cooked with local spices, is another traditional food cooked in Tharu households.

You can also try Bhakka, a soft rice cake steamed in clay pots, and Bgiya, a rice flour dumpling filled with lentil paste. Both are served during local festivals and cultural programs. The Tharu people also prepare Sidra, a dried fish dish that is rich in protein and cooked with mustard oil and chili. Alongside traditional foods, local restaurants in Sauraha and Bharatpur serve Nepali staples such as Dal Bhat Tarkari. Many lodges offer both local and continental dishes, but trying Tharu food gives a taste of Chitwan’s local culture.

In the evenings, some cultural shows include a traditional Tharu dinner experience. You can eat while watching the dance performance of the Tharu. These meals are served on leaf plates and accompanied by local drinks like Tharu rice beer or Aila. Eating local food in Chitwan is more than a meal-It’s a way to connect with the local community that lives there.

When exploring Chitwan National Park, following certain guidelines confirms your safety and helps to protect wildlife. Observing these do’s and don’ts makes your jungle safari enjoyable and responsible:

Do’s:

• Follow your guide’s instructions: Your safari guide is an expert on animal behavior and safety.
• Stay silent and alert: Maintain a quiet, low profile to spot wildlife and avoid startling the animals.
• Dress appropriately: Wear neutral-colored, lightweight clothing like khaki, beige, or olive green to blend in with the environment.
• Bring binoculars and a camera: Wildlife can be at a far distance, and a good pair of binoculars is essential for a great view.
• Stay hydrated: The Terai climate can be hot and humid, so bring plenty of water in a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the safari.
• Use insect repellent: Apply insect repellent during jungle walks and canoe trips to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.

Don’ts:

• Do not get too close to animals: Maintain a safe (50 m) distance from all wildlife.
• Do not feed or touch the animals: Feeding wildlife can disrupt their natural foraging behaviors, harm their health, and make them dependent on humans.
• Do not litter: Chitwan National Park is a protected ecosystem. Carry a bag to collect all your trash and dispose of it properly.
• Do not walk alone between sunset and sunrise: Walking inside the park after dark is strictly prohibited unless you have permission from the warden.
• Do not purchase illegal products: Do not buy any animal or plant products while on the safari. The wildlife and flora of the park are fully protected by law.