Royal Chitwan National Park

Fast Facts

Location: In Chitwan District in South Central Nepal
Attraction type: National Park
Significance: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Best time to Visit: October to April
How to Reach: By road from Jagatpur, Meghauli, Bhandara, Danda, Tandi, Patihani, and Pragatinagar
Nearest International Airport: Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport

Royal Chitwan National Park is a natural treasure of Nepal at the foothills of the Himalayas. Situated in the subtropical reaches of inner Terai of the Himalayan range it is a popular destination among naturalists, research scholars, and travelers. Being one of the remaining habitats for the rare Indian species of one horned rhinoceros, Royal Chitwan National Park in Nepal has been adjudged a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984.

Spread over an area of over 930 square kilometers, this park houses over 40 varieties of mammals, nearly 45 species of amphibians and reptiles, and more than 540 species of birds. Nepal Chitwan National Park is broadly divided into the Tikalu Forest extending from Mahabharat foothills to Rapti River basin, and the Rhino sanctuary to the south of Rapti.

Flora and Fauna of Royal Chitwan National Park

Being at the foothills of the world’s greatest mountain range the vegetation is predominantly of the moist deciduous type. Khair, Sisau, and Simal are the main trees of this region, while elephant grass is dominantly found in the river basin. Among the pachyderms, elephants and rhinos are the largest ones. Among the other herbivores, chital, hog deer, chousingha, gaur, and Indian sambar are common. Among the flesh eating animals, tigers, leopard, dholes and striped hyenas are seen. Sloth bear, smooth coated otter, mongoose, leopard cat, fishing cat, golden jackal, and civets also thrive in this forest. In the trees langurs, rhesus monkeys, and red giant flying squirrels are to be seen.

In the marshy areas ‘gharials’, pythons, and crocodiles are observed.

Royal Chitwan National Park Activities

This rich forested area is best discover5ed on elephant backs. Jungle treks are also very thrilling for which you must take the assistance of a guide. Canoeing down River Rapti, Narayani, and Reu are exciting adventures. The adjacent Parsa Wildlife Reserve and Bara Hunting Reserve are also engrossing excursions. The Valmiki Tiger Reserve to the south of Chitwan National Park is an additional attraction.

Staying in Chitwan National Park

You might select among seven resorts inside the park for spending your vacation in this national park of Nepal. These provide accommodation and dining facilities and also arrange jungle tours.