Established in 1973 as Nepal’s first national park and granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1984, Chitwan National Park is a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Spanning 932 sq km (360 sq mi) in the subtropical Inner Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal, it offers one of the finest wildlife-viewing experiences in all of Asia.

The park’s ecosystem is a rich tapestry of nature, consisting of:

• Dense Sal Forests: Towering trees that provide cover for the park’s larger predators.
• Marshlands & Rivers: Prime habitats for crocodiles and water birds.
• Rippling Grasslands: Home to the iconic “elephant grass,” which can grow up to 8 meters tall, providing the perfect hideout for rhinos and tigers.

Chitwan is a sanctuary for some of the world’s most endangered species. A visit here offers a high probability of spotting:

• The Greater One-Horned Rhino: Chitwan is famous for its successful conservation of these prehistoric-looking giants.
• The Royal Bengal Tiger: A rare and majestic sight, these tigers are the “crown jewels” of the park.
• Diverse Mammals: Keep your eyes peeled for wild elephants, sloth bears, leopards, monkeys, and several species of deer.
• Birdwatcher’s Paradise: With over 450 species of birds, the park is a vibrant hub for ornithologists.

To fully immerse yourself in the “Heart of the Jungle,” we recommend a variety of ways to explore:

• Jeep Safaris: Go deep into the jungle to cover more ground and increase your chances of spotting a tiger or leopard.
• Canoe Rides: A peaceful drift down the Rapti or Narayani rivers to see mugger crocodiles, gharials, and aquatic birds.
• Guided Jungle Walks: Experience the jungle on foot with expert naturalists who track footprints and animal sounds.
• Tharu Cultural Experience: Learn about the indigenous Tharu people, their unique architecture, and their vibrant traditional stick dances.