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21 Things To Do in Chitwan, Nepal

By Suraj Katwal

Updated On Jul 28, 2023

Chitwan, one of Nepal’s most popular tourist destinations after Kathmandu and Pokhara, offers top things to do in Chitwan, Nepal , including wildlife safaris, jungle adventures, birdwatching, etc.

Located in the Terai region, this area is a haven for adventure seekers, who can fully engage themselves in various activities during their days or weeks here.

Whether you are looking for relaxation or an exciting adventure, Chitwan is the best place to visit in Nepal which is not far away from Kathmandu .

21 Best Things to Do in Chitwan

Elephant Ride and Safari

Take an exciting adventure in Chitwan by riding an elephant and exploring the jungle. You’ll get a special view of the wildlife in their natural home, and you might even see rare animals like tigers.

The elephant safari lets you get close to animals like rhinos, deer, monkeys, and more. It’s a fun and environmentally friendly way to discover the wilderness of Chitwan and make unforgettable memories of your wildlife experience.

Bathing with Elephant

If you’re interested in interacting with elephants and having a playful experience, then bathing with an elephant is one of the best things to do in Chitwan.

All you need to do is express your interest to the elephant rider, and they will arrange for you to have this unique opportunity.

It’s a special way to form a personal connection with these magnificent animals and make lasting memories of the special bond between humans and elephants.

Go Jeep Drive Safari

One of the top attractions in Chitwan is going on a Jeep Safari, which is a popular choice among tourists to explore the wildlife in the area.

During the safari, visitors have the opportunity to see Royal Bengal Tigers, One-horned Rhinoceros, deer, various bird species, and more.

If you’re visiting Chitwan and choose not to go on a safari ride, you may miss out on experiencing the best of Chitwan National Park and its diverse wildlife.

Bish Hajari Taal (20,000 Lakes)

Bish Hajari Taal is a vast wetland in Chitwan, Nepal. It’s called “20,000 Lakes” but it doesn’t have 20,000 individual lakes. It’s a network of many interconnected lakes, ponds, and marshes.

This unique ecosystem is rich in flora and fauna. You can see many different birds, such as herons, storks, ducks, and eagles. You can also take a boat ride and explore the lakes and marshes.

It’s a must-visit destination for those who love nature and wildlife. You can enjoy birdwatching, boat rides, and exploring the diverse biodiversity.

Jungle / Nature Walk (Short Hiking)

Going for a walk in the jungle or nature is a great way to see the beauty of Chitwan. You’ll walk through the forest and maybe see animals, birds, and plants in their natural homes.

It’s a good way to relax and learn about the environment. If you like nature or just want to calm down, this is a great option.

Visiting Elephant Breeding Center

If you are in Chitwan then visiting Elephant Breeding Center is a great place to learn about Elephant conservation in Nepal. Here, you can see baby elephants playing with their mothers and also how the local center is protecting these endangered animals.

Here you will learn valuable lessons about conservation and efforts being made for elephants it’s habitants. So, visiting this place is a must while visiting Chitwan.

Exploring Great One-Horned Rhinoceros

If you want to see the majestic one-horned rhinoceros, Chitwan is a great place to visit. You can go on guided safaris in the park to search for these incredible creatures and learn about their habits and habitat.

The one-horned rhinoceros is a magnificent animal, and seeing it up close is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

With a little luck, you may even catch a glimpse of one of these magnificent beasts in its natural setting. So, pack your binoculars and camera, and get ready for an exciting adventure in Chitwan!

Canoeing at Rapti River

Canoeing on the Rapti River is a popular activity in Chitwan National Park. The river is teeming with wildlife, including crocodiles, rhinos, and various bird species.

During the 45 minutes to one-hour-long canoe ride, a knowledgeable guide will help the way and point out different animals along the route.

If you are in Chitwan than Canoeing is a must thing to do and I am sure that you are going to love it.

Visting Devghat Dham

Devghat is a sacred place located on the banks of the Narayani River. It is believed to be one of the holiest places in Nepal , and it is a popular destination for pilgrims from all over the world.

There are many temples and shrines in Devghat, and it is also a popular place for meditation and spiritual practice.

Bird Watching

If you’re visiting Chitwan for birdwatching, it’s worth the trip. Chitwan National Park is home to an impressive variety of bird species, with over 544 recorded in their survey.

You can spot different birds throughout the year, including various seasonal species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Tharu Village Tour (Enjoy Tharu Cultural Programs)

If you are interested in learning about the Tharu culture and experiencing some traditional programs, consider taking a Tharu village tour in Chitwan.

During the tour, you will visit a Tharu village and learn about their customs and traditions.

You may even be able to participate in some of the cultural programs, such as traditional dances or music performances.

This is a great way to gain a deeper appreciation for the local culture and meet some of the friendly residents of the village.

Crocodile Hatching Farm

Visit a crocodile-hatching farm in Chitwan to learn about and see crocodiles up close. These farms breed and raise crocodiles, offering a unique opportunity to observe their development and behavior.

It’s an educational and fascinating experience to get a closer look at these remarkable creatures.

Ox Cart Riding

In Chitwan, you might have the chance to go for a ride on an ox cart. This is a special and unique activity that lets you see traditional rural life up close. It’s a peaceful and genuine way to explore the beautiful area around you.

It’s a lovely and unusual experience that adds a touch of old-fashioned charm and cultural heritage to your visit to Chitwan.

Pilgrimage Tours

During your visit to Chitwan, you can have a unique and meaningful experience by going on a pilgrimage tour.

These tours will take you to sacred sites and religious places that hold great importance for the local community, allowing you to learn about their faith and traditions.

Devghat Dham, Bikram Baba, and Maulkalika Mandir are just a few of the pilgrimage tours that are available in Chitwan.

Elephant Games (Hatti Polo)

Elephant polo is a fun and traditional activity held annually in Chitwan National Park, Nepal. Instead of horses, the game is played on the backs of elephants, making it a unique and thrilling experience.

The elephants, guided by their handlers called mahouts, move gracefully across the field. Each team consists of four players, aiming to score by hitting the ball into the opponent’s goal.

The elephant polo season in Chitwan National Park takes place from the last week of November to the first week of December. Though this game is halted for now but may re-open anytime soon.

Wildlife Photography

If you love taking pictures of wildlife, Chitwan is a great place to visit. There are many interesting animals like elephants, rhinos, tigers, and different types of birds living in their natural habitats.

Whether you’re a professional photographer or just someone who enjoys taking photos, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to capture amazing shots and remember your special experiences with wild animals.

The best time to go wildlife photography in Chitwan is during the dry season, from October to March. This is when the animals are more active and easier to spot.

There are a few different ways to do wildlife photography in Chitwan. You can go on a jeep safari, take a boat ride, or even go on foot.

No matter how you choose to go wildlife photography in Chitwan, you are sure to have an amazing experience.

Boat riding in the Narayani River

When you visit Chitwan, don’t miss out on the chance to go motorboating down the Narayani River. It’s a cool and scenic way to see the area, and you might even cool things!

Whether you’re looking for a chill ride or a fun adventure, motorboating on the Narayani River is a must-try activity that will make your trip to Chitwan even more amazing.

Cycling in Chitwan

Exploring Chitwan village is a great way to experience the local culture and way of life. This can be done using Cycling, a great alternative activity that allows you to explore the area at your own pace.

However, it is best to avoid doing this during the summer days, as the heat can be very uncomfortable.

Cooking Traditional Tharu Food

When visiting Tharu Village in Chitwan, you have the opportunity to savor traditional Tharu dishes such as Ghonghi, Dhikri, Bagiya, Bhakka, and Sidhara.

These unique and delicious foods may be unfamiliar to you, but you can try your hand at cooking them yourself and enjoy the authentic flavors.

It’s a special and enjoyable activity to engage in during your Chitwan visit, and you’ll undoubtedly appreciate the experience.

One of the least things to do in Chitwan is to go fishing, you can rent fishing rods from the local shops and go fishing including the Narayani River, and the Rapti River.

The best time to go fishing in Chitwan is during the dry season, from October to March. This is when the water levels are lower and the fish are more active.

Stay in Luxury Jungle Resorts

One of the activities that one can do in Chitwan is to experience the natural peace and calm of the jungle while staying at one of the many luxurious resorts in the area.

Visitors can book a resort for a day or a week and enjoy the peace of the jungle while also experiencing the wildlife that the park is home to.

Visitors can wake up to the sound of birds, and the call of monkeys, and they can go for a nature walk at their own pace, get a guided tour, etc.

Fun Facts about Chitwan

Here are some fun facts about Chitwan:

• Chitwan means “Heart of the Forest” in the local Tharu language.
• Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s first national park of Nepal and it’s also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The park is home to various wildlife like rhinos, tigers, elephants, and deer.
• It also houses endangered species like the Bengal tigers and one-horn rhinoceros.
• Chitwan is a famous tourist spot with activities like elephant safaris, jungle walks, and birdwatching.
• The villages near Chitwan National Park are famous for their rich history and cultural significance.
• It has a diverse ecosystem and it is located in Nepal’s Terai region.
• Chitwan spans over 2,238 square kilometers, featuring forests, grasslands, and riverine habitats.
• It boasts a diverse array of wildlife, including 525 bird species, 50 mammal species, and 55 reptile and amphibian species.
• Eco-tourism is popular in Chitwan, attracting visitors for various nature-based activities.

About Chitwan National Park

Out of 12 national parks, Chitwan National Park is the most popular and most visited national park in Nepal. Established in 1973, Chitwan national park is regarded as Nepal’s first national park.

Later, in 1984, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, which helped it become a renowned national park of Nepal. The Chitwan national park has been a major part of Nepal’s tourism ever since.

Located in the central Terai of Nepal, Chitwan national park is best known for the Chitwan jungle safari. Travelers from all around the world visit Chitwan national park to spy on one-horned rhinos and encounter fierce Bengal tigers.

It is said that the late King Mahendra, an avid hunter, used to go hunting in the jungle of Chitwan national park before it was declared a national park. Similarly, the late King Birendra is also said to have had his first hunt in the same forest.

Covering an area of 952.63 sq. km, it is divided by the Narayani-Rapti River from the human settlement. These  villages  have a thick settlement of Tharu communities.

During your trip to Chitwan national park, you can explore the Tharu culture and lifestyle with a closer glimpse. Tharu people are welcoming and kind in nature.

Homestay is also available where the local family allows you to have a first-hand experience of their culture.

Enjoy their traditional dance while savoring their distinct cuisines. You can even try their traditional dress, which is unique from any other culture.

While touring the Chitwan national park, you can have two options. You can either have an elephant ride or a jeep ride across the jungle.

The jungle safari elephant ride is popular among visitors who like to take a tour of the jungle with less noise and watch the animals from a height.

Likewise, the jeep ride is usually picked by those who want to cover more area in less time. Besides, riding the elephant, you can also bathe the elephant and have an elephant shower as a fun activity.

It is said that Chitwan national park is a natural habitat for around 50+ mammal species, over 55 amphibians and reptiles, and 544+ birds.

Rare animals like the Royal Bengal tiger, One-horned rhinos, crocodiles, alligators, deer, hippopotamus, Four-horned antelope, Pangolins, etc are sheltered at this national park.

Similarly, visiting Chitwan national park is suitable for bird-watching. October to March is considered not only the best time to visit Chitwan but also the best time for bird-watching.

The weather is neither too hot nor cold making it easy to travel in the Terai region. Travelers are also fond of the beautiful sunset view that is observable from Chitwan national park.

Things to do in Chitwan National Park

There are many things to do in Chitwan National Park and it offers exciting experiences like

• Elephant Safaris
• Birdwatching
• Watching Cultural Performances
• Jungle Hiking
• Explore Wildlife
• Visiting Local Tharu Villages
• Enjoying the stunning Rapti River
• Healing with Nature.

How to get to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu?

Here are three ways to get to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu.

• By Air: Daily flights from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport are the nearest airport to Chitwan National Park. The total flight time is nearly 20 minutes and you can check Buddha Airlines for the ticket and latest cost. After landing at Bharatpur Airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Sauraha.
• By Tourist Bus: You can find plenty of buses that travel from Kathmandu to Chitwan Sauraha. The journey usually takes 5 to 7 hours to reach. The buses have WiFi services with air-conditioned and comfortable large seats.
• By Car: You can hire a private car or jeep and drive to Chitwan. The journey usually takes about 4 to 5 hours.

If you have a short time to travel then the best mode of transportation to reach Chitwan National Park is by taking a flight from Tribhuvan International Airport .

If you are on a limited budget then taking a tourist bus is also a good option.

If you are traveling with friends and family then hiring a car can be the best option for a hassle-free ride.

Chitwan National Park Entrance Fee

Chitwan national park’s entry fee varies according to nationality. You need to purchase a national park permit for each person entering the national park.

For foreigners, the entry fee is NRs. 2000 per person. For SAARC countries, the entry cost is NRs. 1000 per head. Similarly, for Nepalese, the entry charge is NRs. 150 for each person. The cost of an elephant or jeep ride, and canyoning is an additional charge and not included in the entry fee.

The Chitwan National Park Entrance Fee for Child is free if the child is below 10 years old.

Best Time to Visit Chitwan National Park

Winter and spring, between October and March, are the ideal seasons to explore Chitwan National Park.

The weather is nice throughout this time, with temperatures between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius (50 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).

As they are more active, it’s the best time to witness a variety of species, including the endangered Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and leopards.

The park’s forests and grasslands are lush and vibrant during this time, adding to the overall experience.

However, it’s important to note that the summer months, from June to September, have heavy rainfall and increased humidity, which can make it more difficult to spot wildlife.

Therefore, visiting Chitwan National Park in the winter and spring ensures comfortable weather and better chances of encountering wildlife.

What two things are people keen to see at Chitwan?

The two main attractions that people are keen to see at Chitwan are the one-horned rhinoceros and the Royal Bengal tiger.

What is Chitwan National Park famous for?

Chitwan National Park is renowned for its one-horned rhinoceros, which is a significant attraction for visitors. While it is common to spot these rhinos on the road of Chitwan, it is important to note that touching them is strictly discouraged for safety reasons.

Are there tigers, elephants, and crocodiles in Chitwan?

Yes, Chitwan is home to tigers, elephants, and crocodiles, making it a prime wildlife destination in Nepal. Visitors have the opportunity to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat during safaris and jungle excursions.

How far is Chitwan from Kathmandu by the hour?

Chitwan is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) away from Kathmandu. The travel time between the two cities by road is usually around 4 to 6 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

How far is Chitwan from Pokhara?

Chitwan is approximately 146 kilometers (91 miles) away from Pokhara. The travel time between the two cities is usually around 4 to 5 hours by road.

How many days is enough for Chitwan?

A stay of 2 to 3 days is generally considered sufficient to explore and enjoy the highlights of Chitwan. Usually, 2 Nights and 3 Days are enough to explore Chitwan.

What food is Chitwan famous for?

Chitwan’s fame lies in its Tharu cuisine, especially when visiting Tharu Village. Signature dishes like Mutton Tass and refreshing Lassi are highly recommended.

Is it worth going to Chitwan?

Yes, it is worth going to Chitwan if you are a wildlife lover and enjoy seeing wild animals up close. Chitwan, located in Nepal, offers a fantastic opportunity to explore its rich biodiversity and experience thrilling wildlife encounters.

Whether you are driving from Pokhara or Kathmandu , Chitwan is conveniently located at a similar distance of around 160 to 180 kilometers.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this gem of a place while exploring Nepal. With its rich wildlife, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, Chitwan promises to be an unforgettable addition to your travel itinerary.

During my visit to Chitwan, I had a fantastic time exploring the dense jungles and going on safari experiences. The highlight of my trip was the Chitwan National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The park is home to various endangered species like the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and Asian elephants.

I had the chance to go on an exciting jungle safari, where I spotted these incredible animals in their natural habitats. The experience of seeing a majestic rhino grazing by the river or a tiger stealthily prowling through the dense foliage was genuinely unforgettable.

Apart from wildlife safaris, Chitwan also offers other activities like birdwatching, canoeing, and exploring the traditional Tharu culture.

Moreover, Chitwan provides comfortable accommodations and excellent hospitality. Several lodges and resorts offer guided tours and ensure your safety during wildlife encounters.

In conclusion, if you have a love for wildlife and want to witness the beauty of nature up close, visiting Chitwan is worth it. Based on my personal experience, I can assure you that it will be worth visiting and spending your quality time in Chitwan and Chitwan National Park.

Besides the above-listed things, there are many things to do in Chitwan, Nepal.

What do you plan to do while visiting Chitwan or Chitwan National Park?

Are you thinking of going on jungle safaris to see unique and fascinating wildlife up close?

Alternatively, you might be interested in taking a peaceful canoe ride along the calm Rapti River.

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please feel free to leave a comment or provide feedback in the comment section below.

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Suraj Katwal

Suraj is a travel enthusiast who believes in finding solace in the heart of nature. He enjoys exploring new destinations, different culture, and encouraging people to travel.

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Chitwan National Park: The Complete Guide

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Things to Do

Where to stay, how to get there, tips for your visit, chitwan national park.

Think of Nepal and you might immediately think of tall mountains and ancient temples. However, the Terai—the flat plains bordering North India—offers a totally different kind of experience. The Chitwan National Park is the most accessible of the national parks and wildlife reserves on the Terai. It's easy to reach from both Kathmandu and Pokhara , making it an ideal place to detour en route between the two cities. Chitwan is the stuff of jungle safari dreams; you can spot elephants, rhinos, gharial crocodiles, and even the Royal Bengal Tiger if you're lucky (although there's a higher chance of seeing them in the Bardia National Park, further west on the Terai).

The Indigenous people of the Chitwan area are the Tharu, whose culture, language, and cuisine is different from the Nepali cultures you'll find at higher altitudes. The Tharu have been marginalized by "mainstream" Nepal for centuries and many have been displaced from their ancestral land, but visitors today can find many opportunities to learn about Tharu life and culture from their villages near the national park.

Note that Chitwan refers to a whole district of Nepal that stretches way up into the hills. When making plans to visit the national park, make sure to specify that you want to visit the national park rather than just the district. Having said that, many of the activities discussed below happen outside the boundaries of the national park itself, and visiting Chitwan doesn't mean exclusively staying within the national park.

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Most activities in the Chitwan National Park revolve around wildlife and bird spotting, and there are many ways to do this.

Jeep or Ox Cart Safaris

The easiest way to take a tour of the park is to join a Jeep or bullock cart safari. The former can cover more distance but is noisier and more likely to disturb the animals. Bullock cart safaris are more atmospheric, although not as comfortable. Reputable tours use experienced, highly knowledgeable naturalist guides who know a lot about the animals and birds, and the best places to go to find them depending on the conditions of the day. Note that some operators offer elephant-back safaris, however, they are not recommended for ethical reasons .

Walking Safaris

A fun alternative to the aforementioned safaris is to go on foot. This is a more peaceful option than going in a vehicle, and it can give you the chance to get close to some animals that might run away at the sound of a Jeep. However, there is a not-insignificant element of risk. Hundreds of one-horned rhinoceros live in Chitwan; although they are one of the park's main attractions, encountering an enormous rhino when you're on foot is risky, even with the best guides. Be aware of these risks, and perhaps leave the kids behind.

Canoe Rides

Riding in a traditional dug-out canoe along the Rapti or Narayani Rivers is a great way to see a range of birds, to enjoy the landscape in peace, and to get a good look at thin-snouted gharial crocodiles. These crocodiles are highly endangered but surprisingly common in Chitwan.

Cycling Through Villages

The Terai is flat and the villages and towns are small, so cycling is a great way of getting around and catching a glimpse of local life. Many hotels and guesthouses will offer bicycle hire or even guided tours. Rice and other crops are grown outside the national park boundaries, and a sunset bike ride is a lovely way to end the day.

Tharu Cultural Performances

The local Tharu people are proud of their culture and are happy to share it with visitors. Like elsewhere in Nepal, there is a lack of opportunities for young Tharu people and many (particularly men) migrate to the cities or abroad for work. Some Tharu cultural initiatives have been formulated as a way to keep young Tharu at home in their villages and to keep their traditions alive. Many resorts offer Tharu cultural shows with singing, dancing, and traditional dress. While they may sometimes seem a bit "touristy," they do help showcase and maintain the culture of a marginalized group.

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You can't stay within the boundaries of the national park itself (and with the range of wildlife, you probably wouldn't want to anyway!) but there are a couple of ideal bases for day trips into the park. The small town of Sauraha, southeast of Bharatpur, is the main access point for the park and has the greatest concentration of accommodation and tour companies. Travelers seeking a less touristy experience sometimes head to Barauli, located west of the park. Although there are fewer amenities there, the lodges and homestays are of very good quality, and you'll have a more peaceful experience than in Sauraha.

Bharatpur, the main city in Chitwan, is 93 miles from Kathmandu and 80 miles from Pokhara. Given the condition of Nepal's roads and traffic , the overland journey to or from either of these cities can take anywhere from three-to-four hours to a whole day. If you're in no hurry to get there and subscribe to the philosophy that the journey is more important than the destination, then going overland is a good way to experience the change in landscape between Nepal's mid-hills and the Terai. However, be prepared for traffic jams, headache-inducing roads, and some terrifying driving.

Tourist buses are the most comfortable way to reach Chitwan from the capital, and they're much safer than "local" buses. They're also affordable by international standards, and you'll find that most passengers are Nepali anyway.

Alternatively, you can hire a car and driver to make the journey. It's a more comfortable option than the bus, but much more expensive; higher-end accommodation will often offer this for an additional fee.

If you don't have the time or the constitution to travel overland to Chitwan, there's a domestic airport at Bharatpur. The airport offers flights to and from Kathmandu multiple times per day, but on a more limited schedule compared to Pokhara. Although the flights take barely half an hour, they are much more expensive than the bus, and it's not uncommon to spend all day at the airport waiting to board a delayed flight.

• The Chitwan area has a totally different climate from other parts of Nepal that travelers generally visit. While winters are short, sharp, and often foggy, the rest of the year sees more humidity and temperatures several degrees higher than in Kathmandu or Pokharamuch. Pack accordingly with loose-fitting cotton clothes.
• With the higher temperatures comes an increase in mosquitoes. The Chitwan area itself doesn't have a problem with malaria (some other parts of the Terai do) but there are occasional dengue fever outbreaks. Protect yourself from being bitten by using insect repellant, covering your skin in long clothes, and sleeping under a mosquito net or a ceiling fan.
• If you're flying to or from Bharatpur, try to get on the first flight of the day. Flights in Nepal are often delayed due to the weather, and when they start up again, passengers are prioritized in the order of their flight departure time, from earliest to latest.

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7 Best Things to Do in Chitwan, Nepal (2024)

The jungle might not be what Nepal is most famous for but it ended up being one of my favourite destinations in this country. There are plenty of things to do in Chitwan – this is a wonderful place to relax, spot wildlife and learn more about the country’s natural history.

Some of the animals you can spot at Chitwan National Park are rhinos , elephants , sloth bears , leopards , deer and monkeys , and you might even spot a tiger if you’re very lucky!

Sauraha is the closest town to Chitwan National Park and I would recommend staying here for at least two to three nights . You will have to stay longer if you want to do a multiple-day trek in the jungle, though.

But without further ado, you will find everything you need to know if you’re heading to Chitwan National Park in Nepal in this comprehensive guide. From the best things to do and the most beautiful places to see in Chitwan to the best time to visit and where to stay.

Best Things to Do in Chitwan National Park, Nepal

1. go on a walking safari.

The main attraction in Chitwan is going on a safari. Chitwan National Park is pretty large, and this was my favourite part of my trip to this park. I loved it so much that I ended up regretting not going on a multiple-day jungle walk .

We were lucky, though, and spotted lots of wildlife during my 1-day trek. I had two amazing guides all to myself, and we spotted a wild elephant, lots of rhinos, deer, sloth bears, and even saw tiger footprints.

Jungle walks are not recommended for the faint-hearted, though. It’s quite an adventurous experience, and at one point, we had to run away and hide from a wild elephant (you can see him in the above picture)!

The guides, however, are there to keep you safe and they know how to react in dangerous situations.

2. Take a jeep safari

A 4WD safari is an animal-friendly alternative to the elephant safari. It will allow you to get further into the jungle of Chitwan and spot wildlife.

I went on a half-day jeep safari but didn’t spot as many animals as I did during the walking safari. Nature is quite unpredictable and you have to be lucky as there is no guarantee to spot any wildlife.

Note that a guide is mandatory if you want to go into the park, and tours can be booked online, through your hotel or at one of the numerous tour agencies in Sauraha. You will also have to pay an entrance fee to the Chitwan National Park. The price is 2.000 NPR for foreigners, 1.000 NPR for SAARC and 50 NPR for Nepali.

3. Go on a canoe ride on the Rapti River

A canoe ride on the Rapti River is the best way to spot crocodiles and go bird-watching . I went on a canoe ride before my walking safari and we spotted lots of crocodiles and some beautiful birds.

It was a relaxing introduction to the park with beautiful landscapes all around and I would do it again in a heartbeat!

Just like safaris, canoe trips can be booked through your hotel or at one of the travel agencies in Sauraha. As the Rapti River is part of the National Park, it’s not possible to hire a canoe yourself.

4. Learn about the Tharu culture

Chitwan is surrounded by small villages populated by the Tharu, the dominant ethnic group in the Terai region.

Their mud-walled houses can be seen in villages like Harnari and Amaltari and you can either visit them by renting a bicycle or by booking a tour. If you’re looking for a deeper experience, you can also stay at a Tharu homestay.

If you’re interested in the Tharu culture, places like the Tharu Cultural Museum or the Sauraha Tharu Culture House might also interest you.

The culture house offers shows with Tharu songs and cultural dances in the evening. It’s quite a touristic experience, but I thought it was fun nevertheless.

5. See the elephants

Elephant riding and bathing are popular tourist attractions in Chitwan, but I wouldn’t recommend doing any of these as it’s bad for the elephants and they’re not treated well.

It is also possible to see the elephants without hurting them . You can head to the river and simply watch them bathe or watch them as they leave their camp in the morning. Just ask your hotel where to head, and they will be happy to help you!

Although this is becoming less for Westerners, some tourists still want to interact with the elephants and watch them do tricks. However, in order to do this, these wild animals have to be tamed and broken. The process of taming them is brutal and baby elephants are tortured in the process.

This disturbing video of an elephant “training” camp in Nepal will open your eyes if you still want to interact with these animals.

❗ There’s an Elephant Breeding Centre in Chitwan, and this is the most horrible place I have ever visited. The elephants are chained for up to 18 hours a day here and you can tell how sad they are. So please don’t visit this place if you love animals.

6. Go bird watching

Chitwan National Park is the perfect place for bird watchers and bird watching is one of the top tourist attractions in this park. You will find plenty of exotic bird species here, both resident species as well as migrating birds.

So if you like birds, bird watching is one of these activities that cannot be missed during a visit to Chitwan!

Just like the safaris, bird-watching tours can be booked in Sauraha as it’s prohibited for tourists to enter the national park independently.

7. See the sunset by the river

One of the best things to do in Chitwan after a busy day of exploring is to watch the sunset by the Rapti River. You can either watch it from one of the riverside restaurants and bars or find a more remote place by the river.

Either place you choose, watching the sunset here is a magical experience that you cannot miss during a visit to Chitwan.

How to Get to Chitwan National Park

The closest town to Chitwan National Park is Sauraha , which is 150 km (93 mi) from Kathmandu or 140 km (87 mi) from Pokhara. This is where you will find most of the accommodation.

Be prepared for bumpy roads and lots of traffic, though.

• Tourist bus: This is the most common way to get to Chitwan. You can take the tourist bus from Kathmandu (6 hours*) or Pokhara (7 hours*). Tickets can be bought online via 12GoAsia or via a local travel agency. The bus will drop you off at the Bachauli Bus Park, which is a 15-minute walk from Sauraha.
• Local bus: The cheapest way to get to Chitwan is by taking the local bus but it will also take longer and it won’t be very comfortable.
• Taxi: Another way to get to Sauraha is by taking a taxi. This will be faster than the tourist bus, but it will be a lot more expensive too.
• Flight: You can fly from Kathmandu to Chitwan too, this takes just 30 minutes. The nearest airport to Sauraha is Bharatpur Airport, which is 10 km (6,2 mi) from this town. You can easily take a taxi from the airport to Sauraha.

*Note that the amount of time on the bus can vary. When I took the tourist bus from Chitwan back to Kathmandu, there was a lot of traffic, and it took us a whopping 11 hours to get there.

Best Time to Visit Chitwan National Park in Nepal

You can do a safari in Chitwan National Park from October to May. The best time to visit Chitwan is from October to early March , however, as this is when the temperatures are at their best (January can get a bit cold, though).

I visited Chitwan in April, and even though it was hot, I think it was manageable, especially compared to the scorching heat in the South of India at the same time of the year.

It’s good to know that the monsoon season falls between June and September and that this is not a very good time to visit Chitwan.

Where to Stay in Sauraha, Chitwan

There are a lot of accommodation options in Sauraha, from basic ones without air-conditioning to 5-star resorts, it all depends on your personal preferences and budget. You can find my top recommendations below.

• Green Mansions Jungle Resort ( ⭐ 8.9/10) : This resort offers stunning rooms, a beautiful garden, an outdoor swimming pool and an on-site restaurant. It’s one of the best resorts in Chitwan and the staff will make sure that you have a wonderful stay.
• Gaida Lodge ( ⭐ 8.5/10) : Gaida Lodge is a great option for budget travellers and this is the place I stayed when I was in Sauraha. They have a beautiful garden, nice rooms and the food is delicious!
• Hotel Earth Light ( ⭐ 8.0/10) : Located in Sauraha, Hotel Earth Light is a beautiful hotel with an outdoor swimming pool. It has all the amenities you need and it’s one of the best places to stay in Chitwan.

Top Tips for Visiting Chitwan National Park

• Although not so many, there are a few ATMs in Sauraha.
• At night, it’s common for rhinos to walk in the streets of Sauraha, so be careful.
• Bring clothes in camouflage colours if you want to go on a safari in Chitwan.
• Don’t forget to bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen .

Chitwan National Park: FAQs

Is chitwan national park worth visiting.

Yes, Chitwan National Park is worth visiting! This beautiful park is home to stunning nature and amazing wildlife. You can spot rhinos, elephants, sloth bears, leopards, deer and monkeys during a safari and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a tiger here.

How far is Chitwan from Kathmandu?

Chitwan is 150 km (93 mi) from Kathmandu. It takes 5 to 7 hours to get from one place to the other, depending on the traffic.

Are there tigers in Chitwan National Park?

Yes, there are 128 Royal Bengal Tigers in Chitwan National Park according to a national survey taken in 2022. As wildlife is unpredictable, this is not a guarantee that you will spot one during a wildlife safari, though.

Things to Do in Chitwan: Final Thoughts

Thanks to its amazing wildlife, beautiful nature and relaxed vibe, Chitwan is one of my favourite destinations in Nepal. This is a place you will love too if you’re a nature lover.

This being said, what I didn’t like about Chitwan is how the domesticated animals are treated. The Elephant Breeding Centre is a place to avoid at all costs.

Read more about Nepal:

• How to Trek to the Annapurna Base Camp
• Everest Base Camp Short Trek: Everything You Should Know

How Difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek?

• Fun Facts About Nepal that Might Surprise You
• A Solo Female Traveller’s Guide to Nepal
• Souvenirs from Nepal That Don’t Suck

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Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Chitwan literally means “heart of the jungle”. The popular Inner Terai valley gets its name from Chitrasen, the Tharu King, who once ruled here. In the southwest corner of Bagmati Province, Chitwan lies between foothills of the Himalaya, the Mahabharat and Siwalik ranges. The region called Chitra Ban in earlier references used to be dense forest abounding in wild animals and resorted by recluse sages meditating deep in the forests.

In recent years Chitwan National Park tops the list of things to do in Asia. It is an exciting jungle experience with - jungle safaris, birdwatching, canoe rides and numerous other nature and jungle activities. While the jungles are teeming with wild animals like tigers, leopards and rhinos, along the marshes and rivers are gharial and marsh mugger crocodiles basking in the sun. 

You can also spend some quality time visiting the elephant and gharial breeding centers, a perfect way to educate kids about these animals and their life cycle. Observe local indigenous life by visiting a Tharu village, where you will be welcomed inside their traditional mud houses and treated as valued guests. Unwind next to campfire at the end of the watching the Tharu stick dance and listening to their soothing folk songs.

The climate in Chitwan is sub-tropical with hot and humid summers and mild winters.

ACCESS/ ACCOMMODATION

The park headquarters at Kasara is 21 km from Bharatpur which is 20 minutes by air or 145 km by road from Kathmandu . There are resorts and lodges of varying standards outside the national park that cater to the needs of tourists. Reservations can be made at the Kathmandu offices of the various resorts and lodges.

Places to see in Chitwan

Chitwan national park, chepang hill trail, beeshazar and associated lakes, things to do, experience wildlife, birdwatching, local cuisine, tharu culture.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Chitwan, Nepal

• Updated on November 15, 2023

Chitwan, translating to “heart of the jungle” in English, is located in the southwest of Bagmati Province, Nepal. Nestled between the Mahabharat and Siwalik mountain ranges, near the foothills of the Himalayas, it lies in the famous Inner Terai valley. This region, the fifth-largest city in Nepal, is celebrated for its rich diversity of wildlife. Chitwan also holds historical significance, being named in honour of Chitrasen, a former Tharu King who once ruled this area.

The district is particularly well-known for its colorful celebrations, including the Bisket Jatra festival and the Tharu festival of Maghi. Chitwan National Park is the main attraction and the region’s treasure. Chitwan, however, has a vibrant culture and history in addition to its beautiful natural surroundings. Are you looking for the top tourist attractions in Chitwan?

Table of Contents

Here’s a list of must-visit attractions in Chitwan:

1. chitwan national park.

Chitwan National Park was founded in 1973. With a 932 sq/km size, the park is a recognized World Heritage site. The park features include a conservation area for vultures and gharials and an elephant breeding facility. Many visitors to the park also travel to Sauraha to take advantage of the resorts nearby.

Many other temples, including Lami Taal, Bikram Baba, and Tamor Taal, are also within the park’s boundaries. Other well-liked activities include going on an elephant ride and visiting the local forest. Finally, many seek to learn more about the way of life, culture, and dance of regional ethnic groups, including the Tharu, Bate, and Majhi.

2. Jalbire Waterfall (Lamo Jharana)

One of Nepal’s longest waterfalls, Jalbire Waterfall, is roughly 60 meters long. It is well-known as a top-notch and lovely tourist destination. Throughout the summer, more people come here. Locals and other tourists use this cool and mighty waterfall to cool off on a hot summer day. This breathtaking waterfall is a place where everybody can find oneself.

The hills, which are lush and green, the mountains, and the stones where the fall hits all add to the season’s beauty. So if you’re thinking about taking a holiday in Chitwan, don’t forget to stop by the Jalbire waterfall. It is also a well-liked location for visitors seeking canoeing opportunities or homestay experiences with the Gurung population.

3. Chitwan Tharu Village

Want you to become familiar with Tharu customs and culture? Thousands of tourists visit Chitwan Tharu Village each year, making it one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in the country. During the Tharu village visit, we can directly see their language, way of life, culture, festival, customs, marriage ceremonies, etc.

The entire village is comprised of traditional homes. Their primary activity is agriculture, and they also have intimate ties to the natural world and domestic animals. There is also a tour guide here. In the village of the Tharu, there is a tiny museum where the everyday tools and garb worn by the Tharu people are kept.

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4. Siraichuli

Visitors have a lot of opportunities to discover all of Chitwan’s hidden beauty in the surrounding locations. The place is essentially covered in wildlife adventures and vast flora. New surprises await to be found and enjoyed at every turn in this paradise. Siraichuli is a famous tourist site because it offers stunning sunrise and sunset views.

It also gives a great view of Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Chitwan National Park, the Narayani and Rapti rivers, etc. While touring the area around Chitwan, another location that can be added to the list is Chisapanitar. It is also a popular spot for bird watchers with scopes to observe more than a hundred kinds of numerous bird species.

A well-known religious and cultural destination in Chitwan is Devghat. It is a sacred location for Buddhists and Hindus, filled with temples, hermitages, and ashrams. Devghat, also connected to the Hindu god Vishnu, is thought to have been the location where the gods Rama and Laxman visited during their exile to pray and meditate.

It is also claimed that the Pandavas of the Hindu epic Mahabharata visited this location during their exile. Together with its spiritual value, Devghat is a well-liked holiday spot for those who enjoy the outdoors and the natural world. The location is surrounded by hills and trees and lies at the meeting point of two rivers.

6. Bishazari Tal

Bishazari Tal, located in the Chitwan province, is a well-liked tourist spot. It is not just one lake, but a collection of ponds and smaller lakes tucked away in a wooded environment. The Chitwan National Park Buffer Zone, which encompasses the area surrounding Bishazari Lake, is also home to a variety of flora and species.

The waters and surrounding woodlands at Bishazari Lake are home to over 250 species of birds, including numerous rare and endangered species, making bird viewing a popular pastime there. On the lakes, visitors can go hiking, fishing, and boating. The sounds of animals and birds chirping added to the excitement of the jungle excursion.

7. Elephant Breeding Center

Elephants are, without a doubt, the most graceful animal. During your visit to the Hattisar (Elephant Breeding Center), you will observe elephant meals being prepared and consumed and learn about the elephants’ nature and behaviors. The unique facility has been raising domesticated elephants in captivity since 1985.

The Elephant Breeding Center stands in Sauraha to protect the region’s imperiled elephants. Together with a little museum, there are typically lots of baby elephants here. Depending on the temperature and road conditions, walking from Sauraha to the city center will take around one hour.

8. Crocodile Breeding Center

The crocodile breeding center is one of the most exciting things to do in Chitwan National Park, either as part of the Jeep Safari or on its own. Chitwan National Park is monitoring the endangered program. It’s possible to view the dreadful Mugger Crocodile beside the Crocodile. It lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and is far from the crowd.

Your visit will be noteworthy due to the breathtaking view of crocodiles, which range in size from eggs to giants. The institution has significantly aided in the return of Gharials to the rivers of Nepal. A sizable amount of Gharials were released in the rivers Rapti, Kaligandanki, Narayani, Karnali, Koshi, and Babai between 1981 and 2022.

9. Ranipokhari

Ranipokhari is situated in Chitwan’s Saradanagar. It is the most recent location for tourists and is quickly becoming one of the top attractions in Chitwan. It is one of Chitwan’s newest tourist attractions, spread over four Bigahas in Bharatpur-19, Kirangunj. Beautiful statues, including a statue of Buddha, surround a lovely lake.

Various waterbirds are drawn to the freshwater lake Ranipokhari because of its green rim. It has been transformed into an outdoor sculpture gallery and is well known for picnics. Freshwater lake Ranipokhari is bordered by lush woodland and is home to various aquatic birds. Another draw of this lake is boating.

10. CG Temple Shashwat Dham

When you reside in a busy city like Chitwan, it can be difficult to find a place to relax and breathe fresh air in the peaceful country of Chitwan. Hence, a place like Chaudhary Shaswatdham (CG Temple) is a gift in and of itself. This resemblance of a temple is located in Dhamkaul, Nawalparasi, and is open for leisure and worship.

The lakes surrounding the Dham on all sides provide a stunning perspective of the temple, especially at night. Various colors illuminate the main temple to the extent that they practically outshine the sky during a full moon. On the grounds of the dam, an organic vegetarian cuisine house has been opened to serve all vegetarians.

What is the best time to Visit Chitwan National Park?

Experience the best of Chitwan National Park, ideally visited between late September and May. This timing helps you avoid the heavy monsoon rains that drench the region from mid-June to mid-September, a period accounting for 80% of Nepal’s annual rainfall.

For those seeking pleasant weather, the period from October to early March is perfect, with temperatures averaging a comfortable 25°C. This is the ideal time for those who prefer to avoid extreme weather conditions while exploring the park’s diverse landscapes.

However, if you’re a wildlife enthusiast and don’t mind the heat, consider visiting in April and May. These months mark the end of the dry season, when wildlife is most likely to be spotted around waterholes. Do be prepared for the heat, as temperatures can soar to the mid-40°Cs during this time.

January is noted as the coldest month in Chitwan, with nighttime temperatures sometimes skimming freezing. Despite the chill, this period offers its own unique charm.

From late November until the onset of the monsoon, the area experiences high humidity. However, the months of November, December, and January are known for their good visibility and clear views of the Himalayas. It’s important to note that outside of these months, views can be obscured by haze and pollution from various sources, including traffic, industry, and burning waste.

The Bottom Line

A wide range of things makes Chitwan notable, including the National Park, the Tharu tradition and dance, traditional foods, and religious places. Overall, the Chitwan region is a must-see for travellers visiting Nepal since it offers a unique and diverse choice of activities, ranging from cultural immersion to animal safaris.

Further Reading:

• Nepal’s Best Tourist Places to See in April 2023
• 10 Famous Destinations to Visit in Palpa
• Top 10 Places to See in Kirtipur
• Most Popular Umbrella Streets in Nepal
• Top 5 Places to Visit in Tansen
• 10 Most Famous Hotels in Kathmandu
• Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Dang
• 6 Best Places to See in Baitadi
• Best Time to Visit for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
• Pokhara, Nepal: Watching the Sunrise Over Sarangkot
• Top 13 Destinations to See in Nepal in June 2023
• 10 Most Popular Places to See in Lumbini

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel is dedicated to delivering precise, genuine, and reliable travel guides through a dynamic team of writers, editors, and destination experts. We aim to provide comprehensive information in its simplest form, sharing insights to influence perspectives nationwide.

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The Best Places To Visit In Chitwan National Park

The best places to visit in Chitwan National Park are among some of the best places to visit in all of Nepal.  This incredible jungle is home to some of Nepal’s most amazing wildlife and breathtaking scenery. It may not be the hilltop villages and snow capped mountains that imagine when you think of a holiday to Nepal, but it’s diversity is what makes Nepal such a special place to visit.  

Chitwan National Park is one of Nepal’s most famous backpacker destinations, and has been for many years.  Tourists are drawn here in their thousands for the beautiful views, the elephant breeding centre, the lazy flowing Narayani river and, of course, the chance to spot a Bengal tiger.  You really won’t want to leave before you have seen some of the best places to visit in Chitwan.

The Best Places To Visit In Chitwan

#1.  A Walk Through The Jungle

The Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site, and rightly so.  It contains sixty eight species of mammals, 56 species of herpetofauna, 126 species of fish and 544 species of birds. The reason most tourists visit Chitwan is to try and get a glimpse of the elephants, rhinos, bears and tigers that make this jungle their home.

There are several different ways to see this magical jungle area.  You can take an elephant ride, taking you to the village side of the jungle that is less dense.  We wouldn’t recommend this option, though you will find it readily available if it’s something you want to do.  There are many arguments for and against the use of elephants for tourism, and we have read recently that Nepal are now making efforts to be more mindful of animal cruelty.  But there is still a way to go here. We would recommend reading up on the issue extensively before you decide either way, then at least you are armed with all the facts before you go and you can make an informed decision.

We opted for the second option, a walking trek through Chitwan National Park, and it was definitely one of the best things to do in Chitwan.  It was an all day trek, starting at sunrise and ending at close to sunset, and it was one of the best things we have ever done.  Being on foot gives you a real sense of scale, and vulnerability. We were lucky enough to see a crocodile, a herd of elephants, a rhino and a bear only meters away from us.  We also feel extremely fortunate to have seen a tiger on the bank of the river as we were floating down in a canoe. You can read all about our trek through Chitwan National Park , including which tour operators we recommend and information about prices.

#2. Learn the local culture at Tharu Village, one of the best places to visit in Chitwan

The Tharu people are the indigenous inhabitants of the Terai region of Nepal and have been the caretakers of the tropical forests of Nepal for centuries. One of the best places to visit in Chitwan is the local village of Tharu.  It is a little touristy of course, but it’s a way to support a local community.  Here you can learn about the unique traditions and daily life of the indigenous Tharu people.  There is a cultural museum for you to visit, featuring cultural exhibits from the Tharu community.  and you can see the old traditional houses. It is one of the best places to visit in Chitwan if you like to immerse yourself in the local culture.

#3.  Float down Narayani River in a canoe

Taking an early morning canoe ride on the Narayani River is one of the most beautiful things to do in Chitwan National Park.  As the sun is just rising you will climb into a traditional wooden canoe (that feels like it might just capsize at any moment!) and be rowed down the river, spotting wildlife along the way.  There is tonnes of birdlife here, and you may well spot crocodiles. We were extremely lucky and saw Bengal tiger, who walked along the stretch of the river beside us as we floated along before he disappeared into the jungle.  Don’t go just for the tigers though, as sightings only happen a few times a year.

#4. Bird watching

On a bird-watching trip you will be guided by a native naturalist through the grassland of Chitwan National Park. It’s here that you will find most of the incredibly diverse and beautiful bird life in Chitwan. There are hundreds of migratory and native birds here to spot. Just don’t forget your long range lens and binoculars!

#5.  Buy some local artwork

Sauraha art gallery is run by a local artist Ram Krishna Bhatta. You can visit the gallery to view his unique artwork, and even make a purchase if you fall in love with a painting or two! If art work isn’t your thing then there are several different shops along the main street here. Why not spend a quite afternoon shopping (and sampling the local cafes!)

#6.  See a show

Sauraha Tharu Culture House puts on a show for the tourists and locals alike at 7pm every night (check when you arrive to be sure of opening times and ticket prices) The dancing on show is traditional Nepalese dancing and it well worth a watch. The peacock dance is a particular favourite! You can usually book tickets through your accommodation so ask when you arrive if you’re keen.

#7. Cycle To Bishazari Tal , One Of The Best Places To Visit In Chitwan

Rent a bike to get to local nature hot spot, Bis Hajari. You can go on your own, or book with a tour.

There is a big sign on the main East West Highway heading toward Bharatpur. As you enter there is a sign for Twenty Thousand Lake Farm Resort off to the right. Just after the sign next to the canal you can stop and buy a ticket. This is important since you need to show the ticket to the army stations at two points along the canal.

The area is full of wonderful birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and the occasional deer and rhino. It’s a great place for a picnic lunch, and don’t forget to pack lots of water!

#8. Lamo Falls

Lamo Jharana is a spectacular waterfall about an hours drive from Chitwan. It is sixty meters talls and surrounded by beautiful green vegetation, making it feel almost surreal. It’s worth a little half day trip there if you have the time

Should You Visit The Elephant Breeding Centre ?

A little controversial so it hasn’t made our list of the best things to do in Chitwan. When you arrive in Chitwan you will almost certainly be told all about the elephant breeding centre, so it’s good to know it exists before you go so you can decide whether or not to pay it a visit. We were bundled off there on a tour before we’d even seen our hotel room, and didn’t have time to give it a research.

We were lucky, and didn’t see any examples of bad practice. There were no chained elephants or cruel treatment that we could see. However, we have since read reports that state otherwise, so give it some thought before you go. The temptation of seeing lots of cute baby elephants may just be too much if you haven’t read up on it in advance!

Hopefully that’s given you lots of inspiration for all the things you can do in Chitwan National Park – it really isn’t all about the safari! If you’re wondering about where to stay or eat then check out our ultimate guide to Chitwan which should give you all the information you need!

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18 superb things to do in Chitwan, Nepal

Chitwan is a popular tourist destination in Nepal, known for its diverse wildlife and natural beauty. Here are some things you can do in Chitwan to make the most of your visit:

Table of Contents

1. go on a jungle safari:.

Chitwan National Park is famous for its rich biodiversity. Take a jeep or elephant safari to explore the park and spot various wildlife species such as tigers, rhinos, elephants, deer, and numerous bird species.

2. Elephant Bathing:

Experience the unique opportunity to participate in an elephant bathing session. You can help bathe and scrub the elephants in the Rapti River and observe their playful nature up close.

An unforgettable encounter with elephants at the riverbank. You can help bathe these gentle giants and even ride on their backs while they cool off in the water.

For the TLOW backpacking experience click on this link 

3. Canoe Ride:

Enjoy a peaceful canoe ride along the Rapti or Narayani River, where you can spot different bird species, crocodiles, and, if you’re lucky, even a glimpse of a tiger. This is a great way to appreciate the beauty of Chitwan’s natural surroundings.

Take a peaceful canoe ride in Rapti River, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and spot different species of birds and reptiles.

4. Visit the Tharu Village:

Take a cultural tour of a local Tharu village and interact with the indigenous Tharu community. Learn about their traditional lifestyle, customs, and unique art forms such as Tharu dance.

5. Bird Watching:

Chitwan is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 500 species of birds. Explore the park with a knowledgeable guide who can help you identify and observe various bird species in their natural habitat.

6. Elephant Breeding Center:

Visit the Elephant Breeding Center in Chitwan to see baby elephants and learn about the efforts being made to conserve and protect these magnificent creatures. Learn about the conservation efforts and get a chance to see adorable baby elephants.

7. Visit the Gharial Breeding Center:

Chitwan is home to the Gharial Breeding Center, where you can observe the rare and endangered Gharial crocodile. Learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect this unique species.

Learn about the conservation efforts for these critically endangered fish-eating crocodiles at the Gharial Breeding Center. You might even spot some tiny gharial hatchlings!

8. Explore the Bishazari Tal:

This beautiful lake within Chitwan National Park is a great spot for bird watching and appreciating the serene natural beauty. You can hire a boat to paddle around the lake and soak in the peaceful ambiance.

9. Visit the Chitwan Elephant Festival:

If you’re lucky enough to visit during the Chitwan Elephant Festival, you can witness exciting elephant-related activities such as elephant races, elephant football, and elephant polo. It’s a vibrant and dynamic display of the close relationship between elephants and the local community.

10. Enjoy Tharu Cuisine:

Don’t miss the opportunity to savor authentic Tharu food, known for its unique flavors and traditional cooking techniques. Try dishes like Dhikri (rice flour dumplings), Gundruk (fermented leafy greens), and Masu Bhat (meat and rice).

11. Visit Chitwan National Park:

One of the most popular activities in Chitwan is going on a jungle safari in the national park. You can see a variety of wildlife, including rhinos, elephants, tigers, and numerous bird species.

12. Explore Tharu Culture:

Chitwan is known for its Tharu community, and you can visit their villages to experience their unique lifestyle, traditions, and cultural dances.

13. Bird Watching:

Chitwan is a paradise for birdwatchers. With over 500 bird species, you can explore the many lakes, wetlands, and forests to spot various birds like kingfishers, herons, and rare migratory species.

14. Elephant Safari:

Embark on a thrilling elephant-back safari in the jungle to get a closer look at wildlife, such as one-horned rhinoceros, deer, and monkeys.

15. Visit Tharu Stick Dance Performance:

Watch the energetic and colorful Tharu stick dance performance that showcases their traditional culture and musical heritage.

16. Visit Bis Hajaar Tal (Twenty Thousand Lakes):

This wetland area is a haven for birdlife. Take a boat ride or hike around the lakes to spot a wide variety of bird species.

17. Jungle Walk:

Explore the natural wonders of Chitwan on a guided jungle walk. Your knowledgeable guide will help you spot various wildlife and teach you about the flora and fauna of the region.

18. Jeep Safari:

For a more adventurous wildlife experience, go on a jeep safari to cover a larger area of the national park and have a higher chance of spotting larger mammals like tigers and leopards.

Chitwan offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those interested in immersing themselves in the local culture. The best way to make the most of your visit is to plan your activities in advance and hire knowledgeable guides who can enhance your experience.

Remember to check the local regulations and follow the guidelines when visiting Chitwan.

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15 Things To Do During Visit to Chitwan

Chitwan is the fifth largest city in Nepal and is synonymous with wildlife and Tharu culture. Every time people hear the name Chitwan, they picture themselves amid the lush woodlands of the National park, either enjoying the safari or jungle walks. While some find themselves within the forest, others locate themselves in the Rapti/Narayani River bank sunbathing and canoeing. The main attraction of Chitwan is the Chitwan National park which is visited by thousands of visitors yearly to admire the beauty of nature and the indigenous Tharu community residing in the area. The perfect combination of these two factors makes Chitwan a popular tourist destination that offers different refreshing activities to visitors within its surrounding.

In this blog, 15 Things to do during Visit to Chitwan, we will not only give you an overview of Chitwan but also highlight things you cannot afford to miss during your Chitwan stay, so stay with us till the end to plan your next trip.

Chitwan: The heart of the Jungle

The name Chitwan comes from two Sanskrit words: Citta means heart, and vana means jungle/forest. Thus, Chitwan is also known as the heart of the jungle and is marked by dense forest that is home to wildlife like Leopards, Bengal Tiger, Rhino, elephants and many more.

Located in the southwestern part of the Bagmati province in the Terai region, Chitwan has its district headquarters in Bharatpur, which is one of the largest cities in Nepal. Bharatpur is the centre for businesses and services like education, health care and many more. The elevation of Chitwan ranges from about 100m in the river valley to around 815m in the Sivalik hills and experiences four seasons- Summer, Monsoon, Spring and Winter like other parts of the country.

✔ Best Season to visit Chitwan

There is no such thing as the best season to visit Chitwan, as each time of the year allows you to experience different temperatures and do varied activities. If you love the rain, the monsoon, June to August, can offer you a wild adventure into the woods of the national park. While summer, March to May, will give you plenty of opportunities to witness wild animals taking dips into the river to beat the heat. The temperature during this time can go as high as 35˚C but allow you to encounter more animals resting in the water or the shade.

December to February is the coldest month, with an average minimum temperature of 7˚C. During this, you can enjoy the clear views of the Himalayas and also spend some quality time by the riverside sunbathing. The time September to November is supposed to be ideal, as the temperature is pleasant and you can be part of different activities like canoeing, jungle walking, elephant bath, and many more.

✔ Distance from Kathmandu by Road and Plane

The road distance from Kathmandu to Chitwan is 180.4KM and takes around 7-8 hours drive from Kathmandu, while a plane takes about 20 minutes to arrive at Bharatpur. After landing in Bharatpur, you can take local or private transport to Chitwan, which is 16KM ahead.

✔ Distance from Lumbini by Road and Plane

The road distance from Lumbini to Chitwan is 88 km and takes around 5-6 hours drive, while there is a single flight from Bharatpur to Lumbini that takes about 20 minutes.

✔ Distance from Pokhara by Road and Plane

The road distance from Pokhara to Chitwan is 102 km, and takes around 4-5 hours drive, while the flight takes about 20 minutes.

15 Things to Do in Chitwan:

Let's unravel the 15 most exotic things to do during your Chitwan Trip

1. Jungle Safari: Elephant/Jeep

There's no way one will miss the Jungle Safari during their vacation in Chitwan National Park. The safari can be in an elephant or jeep, according to your preferences. During this activity, you will pass through the deeper side of the forest to encounter birds and other animals like deer, leopards, tigers, wild boar and many more. The birds in the national park often live in the canopies of the trees, so make sure to carry binoculars and identify a few birds.

2. Jungle Walks

Jungle walk in the dense tropical forest of the National park is another adventurous activity that allows visitors to witness animals in their natural habitat. The jungle walk is guided, and the guides provide all of the necessary safety tips. Although you might encounter some wild species during the walk, you are restricted from carrying any weapon. You may see rhinos, wild elephants, boar, gharial, and the Royal Bengal tiger if you are lucky.

With this jungle walk, you will get a better understanding of the natural habitat of different wild animals while they are engaged in mating, nursing or even fighting.

3. Canoeing

Canoeing in Rapti river is much more refreshing than boating in Phewa lake as you will pass through the dense forest of the National park area enjoying the sights of crocodiles and gharial soaking up in the riverside and water birds preying on fish. The most exciting part is that you can enjoy every bit of nature while your guide describes different species of water birds spotted during the journey. Also, sometimes you can encounter other wild species drinking water in the river. So, make sure you have a camera in your hand to capture your highlight of the day.

4. Elephant bathing

While it might sound notorious, people do love elephant bathing in Chitwan. During this activity, you can not only watch elephants bathe but also play with them and ride on their back to join their bathing time. It will be a pleasure to watch the human-elephant interaction, but overly fun to see them throwing splash of water from their trunk and in some instances playfully throwing the riders to the river as per the request.

Visitors can choose to watch this activity from the Rapti river bank or join them to get a different experience.

5. Visit the elephant breeding center

A visit to the elephant-breeding center is a great way to interact with the friendly elephants, especially if you are against the bath or safari. The elephant-breeding center in Chitwan was established in 1985 to protect elephants from being endangered.

In the breeding center, you can get various information like what they eat, how they eat, the food preparation method, and other habits of elephants. The breeding center often has baby elephants, so you can also get a chance to see the babies playing with their mamas and having a wonderful time. During this visit, you can get a close-up view of the elephant, and get information about their nature, so make sure to pay a visit since the breeding center is only 3KM from Sauraha, and you can catch a rickshaw or walk to the center.

Relatable Chitwan Tour Pakages:

✅ Kathmandu Cultural Hiking & Chitwan Pokhara Tour

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6. Try out Authentic Food like Ghongi, Patushni etc.

The authentic dishes of Chitwan are a must-try since it's different from what you get to eat in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Items like Ghongi (snail), TAAS (spicy-fired mutton), Patushni, and Dhikri with Sidra are famous local dishes that have won the hearts of millions.

Served with ground linseed soup, the fascinating part of Ghongi is not the dish but the way you eat it. If you are trying the Ghongi for the first time, you must know that you need to suck the snail from its shell, and yes it is totally safe. Another dish TAAS is available in different cities in Nepal, but the taste of Chitwan's TAAS is very different. The spicy fried goat meat is a perfect snack for drinks and can be lunch when served with Bhujiya or Chiura and pickle.

Patushni is another dish also known as Khariya, prepared by deep-frying the steamed colocasia leaves (Taro) with fillings of rice beans or legume (black lentils) paste mixed with spices. Dhikri with Sidra is a common dish of Tharus prepared by steaming the rice dough. It is served with lentil soup or curry, or even Sidra. Sidra chutney is a dried fish pickle prepared by mixing the dried fish with different rich spices that leaves an everlasting taste on your tongue.

7. Tharu Village Tour

Chitwan is an open museum to learn and understand the Tharu culture, practices, and lifestyle. The Tharu community resides very close to the protected area of the National park and hence exhibits a close relationship with the natural world that is different from other ethnic communities. Unlike other ethnic communities, they are actively involved in farming, cattle rearing, fishing, and hunting. They live in houses built with mud and a roof made up of reed. During your visit, a guide with enough knowledge about their lifestyle, culture, practices, and foods will accompany you. Hence, you can easily understand and relate to their daily activities when you visit the village. Even though they are busy with their work, they always make time to say Namaste and welcome you to their homes.

8. Tharu cultural Museum

Over the years, the community has been highly influenced by other lifestyles and cultures. Hence, you may not see individuals dressed up in traditional outfits and see equipment used by the community in the past during your village tour. Therefore, to give up an overview of Tharu of the past, they have established Tharu cultural museum and research center in Sauraha. The museum exhibits different dresses, daily used items, equipment, utensils, guidebooks, historical photos, murals, statues and many more and is a great place to widen your knowledge about the community.

9. Tharu Cultural Dance

Apart from enjoying the Tharu delicacy, visiting the cultural museum, and touring Tharu village, another way to connect with the community is by being a part of the cultural dance show organized in Sauraha. The community offer full entertainment to the visitors by performing varieties of dances like Danda Nach (stick dance), Mayur Nach (peacock dance), and Ago Nach (fire dance). The performance lasts 45 minutes, and both male and female participants are dressed in their beautiful traditional attire and dance to show harmony in the community. This cultural show has allowed the community to spread awareness about their cultural practices and uniqueness to its visitors.

10. Chitwan Chepang Hill Trail

The Chitwan Chepang hill trek is a unique experience in the hills of Terai that allows visitors to get an insight into the indigenous Chepang community of Chitwan. Although Chepang were nomadic in the past, they have now embraced semi-nomadic life and are engaged in hunting, agriculture, fishing, or work as manual workers in some cities. The Chitwan Chepang Hill trek can be completed within 3-4 days, during which you will be staying in a homestay in the region. Although the major highlight of the trek is the cultural exploration of the indigenous community, the sunrise view from SiraiChuli and the panoramic sights of the Himalayas will also excite you for the journey. During your visit, don’t forget to capture the essence of their customs and lifestyle.

11. Bird watching

Chitwan National park alone homes 576 bird species, which is about 65% of the total bird species of Nepal. Every year hundreds of migratory birds visit the national park area. Some are winter visitors, while some are summer and spring visitors. Different bird species can be found in varied locations of the national park area. Birds like Large Warblers, Bengal floricans, and Grass owls are found along the grassland, while Pheasant, Woodpeckers, Great hornbill, peafowl, and others can be seen in the forest, which you can spot them during the jungle walk or safari. Chitwan also has a wide variety of wetland birds like the Black-necked Stork, Bar-headed goose, Wooly-necked stork, and Kingfisher that can be seen around the lake and riverbank during the canoe ride. Apart from these, the national park also has rare and endangered species like the Slender-billed vulture, Oriental darter, Kashmir flycatcher, Grey-crowned Prinia and many more.

12. Watch the sunset and chill in riverside restaurants

Imagine a vacation away in nature, resting in one of the restaurants on the riverside, enjoying the sight of elephant baths, canoeing, or rhinos resting in the water. Although it might sound dreamy, it is all possible in Chitwan as you relax in the riverside restaurants. In the evening, people gather in restaurants to capture the sunset and enjoy drinks with their loved ones. There is a whole different vibe, with people dancing, singing and admiring the beauty of nature.

13. Visit Bishazari Tal

The Bishazari Tal covers an area of 3200 ha and elevates at an altitude of 286m in the southern corner of Bharatpur, inside the Chitwan National park. The lake was designated as a Ramsar site in 2003 and is a perfect place for bird lover to spot some common to rare bird species. The wetlands have been providing habitat not only for birds like Indian peafowl, lesser adjutant, and vulture but also for mammals and reptiles like sloth bears, rhinos, crocodiles, pythons and cobras.

14. Explore Devghat Dham

Located 20 km far from Sauraha is the Devghat Dham, the holiest location in Nepal according to Hindu mythology. The Devghat Dham covers an area of 54.34 sq. Km and is filled with shrines, temples, ashrams and an old age home. The constant ringing of bells in the temple and holy chants of bhajans in the ashrams echoes in the forests, giving a heavenly feeling. Many Hindus believe that if they die in Devghat, they will get a place in heaven. Hence, many elderly devotees stay in the area during their last days.

15. Cycling in Chitwan

Cycling is another best way to explore places around Chitwan. There are different cycling routes in the area that will allow you to get a better understanding of the people and their lifestyles. You can rent a cycle from a hotel or travel company and pedal your way to Tharu village, Narayani River, Bishazari tal or stroll down the main road.

Cycling on the outskirts of Chitwan is mesmerizing, as you will ride through agricultural fields and small villages, learning new things about the place and locals.

Relatable Blogs:

✅ top 10 sightseeing places in kathmandu, ✅ best foods in kathmandu you absolutely have to try, popular hotels in chitwan:.

Since Chitwan is one of the popular tourist destinations in Nepal, it has several lavish hotels providing varied activities and services to its visitors. Below are some of the popular hotel in Chitwan that has been providing first-class services and making our guests feel cared for and welcomed.

✔ Hotel Earth Light ✔ Green Park Chitwan ✔ Hotel Seven Star ✔ Rhino lodge and hotel ✔ Hotel Westwood ✔ Hotel Wildlife Camp ✔ Landmark Forest Park ✔ Jagatpur lodge ✔ Kasara Resort ✔ Hotel Parkland

Best things to Buy as a souvenir from Chitwan:

Chitwan offers a variety of handicrafts that are perfect for souvenirs. You can buy Mithila art, painting, wooden crafts of rhinos, elephants or other animals, and jewellery. Places like happy house gift shops and women's art and handicraft shop to select from an array of options.

  Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the temperature normally of Chitwan?

✔ Since Chitwan lies in the Terai region, it is comparatively warmer than other places in Nepal. The normal temperature during the day is around 33˚C and about 25˚C at night.

2. What is Chitwan famous for?

✔ Chitwan is famous for a wide variety of things including the National park, Tharu culture and dance, authentic dishes and religious sites. However, the Chitwan National park is the major highlight of the city.

3. What are the Places to visit in Chitwan?

✔ Apart from the National park, Chitwan also has other places to visit like Devghat Dham, Maulakalika temple, Siraichuli hill, Bishazari tal and Jalbire waterfall.

4. What food is famous in Chitwan?

✔ Chitwan is famous mainly for unique Tharu dishes like Ghongi (snail), Patushni, Dhikri with Sidra, and other items like Newari Khaja set and TAAS (spicy fired mutton).

5. What are the best things to Buy as a souvenir from Chitwan?

✔ Handicrafts can be one of the best things to buy as a souvenir from Chitwan. The Mithila art and painting, wooden crafts and jewelry can also be ideal according to your likelihood.

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Chitwan National Park

There is more to Nepal than you have ever heard of.

We picture it with the snowy mountaintops, fluttering prayer flags, and the triangular temple tops. But while the Himalayas are the star attraction of Nepal, Nature is its Jackpot. From the valleys of Kathmandu and Pokhara to the tropical lowlands of Chitwan National Park, there is so much more to see in Nepal.

Chitwan is the country’s National Treasure. It’s the first national park in Nepal. A former hunting ground for the royals, today Chitwan National Park is widely known for the protection of rhinos, tigers, and the gharials.

Frankly, Chitwan is no Africa. If you go expecting a herd of animals chasing across the fields, you might be disappointed. But if you travel for the scenery and the wildlife diversity, Nepal is tough to beat.

Best Time To Visit

Chitwan National Park is humid all year round, but the best time to visit for the weather would be the winter months and more specifically Feb & March. But better sightings are in April and May when the weather starts to get hot, and the animals head for the waterholes.

How To Reach

Chitwan is very well connected to the capital, Kathmandu. You can either take a 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Bharatpur which is the closest airport to the Chitwan National Park. Tickets cost around INR 1500-3000 Indian rupees. Or you can drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park, which about 175 km and takes approx. 4 hours.

Also if you are in Pokhara, you can still combine it with a trip to Chitwan. it takes about the same time. And believe me, the drive between Chitwan and Pokhara is stunning.

Best Place To Stay

There are many hotels around Chitwan National Park for different budgets and styles. We stayed in Meghauli Serai, a Taj Safari Property. It is located on the banks of the Rapti river, just at the edge of the national park.

Beautiful property with multiple room categories. We stayed in the villa. Each Villa comes with a private pool and a spectacular view of the river and the national park.

Also Read: Most Luxurious Resorts .

Most good resorts in Chitwan arrange a safari for their guests. You have options of boat safari, jeep safari and a jungle walk. There are also elephant safaris, but we do not encourage that. From Meghauli Serai, we took a small wooden oar boat across the river and then onto our jeeps to start the safari. The adventure had already begun.

Chitwan National Park is wedged between 2 rivers and hides a wealth of wildlife. It has more than 700 species of wildlife and about 550 species of birds. So you are in for a treasure on your visit to Chitwan.

You will get a chance to watch the elephants at play, grazing with their family and taking a good splash under the sun. It’s easy to spot the spotted deer and lots of them and they are such a joy to watch.

Chitwan National Park, Nepal has the second-highest population of the endangered one-horned rhino. This Rhinoceros is the star of Park. The Rhinos were poached for their horns, which now is of course illegal. But they do shed their horns naturally and can grow it back over the period.

If you are lucky, you may spot the famous leopards of this region, and if you are very very lucky, you may spot the king of the jungle, The Royal Bengal Tiger. But you may need quite a bit of scouting for that.

A drive through the jungle, with the reams of sunlight breaking through the towering trees is an enchanting experience. The gorgeous water sites, the dense forest, the rich grassland and the Himalayas as the backdrop makes the park an area of exceptional natural beauty.

Also Read: Best Adventure Activities.

So on your next trip to Nepal, do put Chitwan National Park on your itinerary and wake up right in the middle of this indescribable view.

Nepal hides startling beauty and lots still to be explored. The country greatly depends on tourism and you as a tourist, so next time you plan a trip to Nepal, you can be happy that you are doing a little bit good for a lot of people there.

We are going to give you tons of travel goals and have lots of fun together!! Till then, stay tuned, keep saving, keep exploring, and Happy Travel!!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Chitwan for Splendid Vacations

Chitwan which means “ jungle heart ” in English is located in the southwest of Bagmati Province, between the Mahabharat and Siwalik ranges and the foothills of the Himalayas. Chitwan is the fifth-largest city in Nepal and is popular for having diverse range of wildlife.

The district of Chitwan is particularly popular for its colorful celebrations, including the Bisket Jatra festival and the Tharu festival of Maghi. The main attraction to see in Chitwan is Chitwan National Park beside the region’s treasure. Also, the place is famous for its vibrant culture, history, and natural surroundings.

For a typical Nepal itinerary , Chitwan is always included in this route. So if you plan to visit the district of Chitwan, Nepal, then read this blog to check out the 10 best places to visit in Chitwan.  

Top 10 Places to Visit in Chitwan for a Memorable Vacation

1. chitwan national park.

Chitwan National Park which was founded in 1973 is a recognized World Heritage site. The park consists of a conservation area for vultures and gharials and an elephant breeding facility. Many temples such as Lami Taal, Bikram Baba, and Tamor Taal, are also nearby attractions located within the park’s boundaries. Other key attractions to see here include elephant rides and local forests.

Many students visit this park for educational purposes and to explore the endangered wild animals and birds.

2. Jalbire Waterfall (Lamo Jharana)

Jalbire Waterfall is one of Nepal’s longest waterfalls which is almost 60 meters long. The waterfall is known as a topmost and lovely tourist destination. This place is visited more during the summer season. The lush and green hills and the mountains enhance the season’s beauty. So, if you plan to take a holiday in Chitwan, and look for the Best Places to Visit in Chitwan, don’t forget to stop at the Jalbire waterfall for a while.

Also, many visitors here explore canoeing opportunities and homestay experiences with the Gurung population.

This beautiful waterfall is heaven for all, so don’t forget to visit this Jalbire waterfall on your trip to Chitwan, Nepal.

3. Chitwan Tharu Village

If you want to know about Tharu customs and culture, then visit Chitwan’ Tharu Village. By visiting the place, one can know the language of the people, their way of life, culture, festival, customs, etc. Throughout the village, you can see many traditional homes and people involved in agriculture. Also here, there is a tiny museum that consists of previous tools used by the Tharu people.

Suggested Itineraries for Nepal:

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4. Siraichuli

While visiting Chitwan, there are many opportunities to discover Chitwan’s hidden beauty in the surrounding locations. The place has an abundance of wildlife adventures to do and see vast flora. from here, one can also get a great view of Mt. Annapurna , Chitwan National Park, Dhaulagiri, Narayani & Rapti rivers, to name a few. While touring the area around Chitwan, another place to see is Chisapanitar which is an ideal destination for bird watchers with scopes to observe more than a hundred kinds of bird species.

Devghat is a well-known religious and cultural hub in Chitwan is Devghat which is quite popular among Buddhists and Hindus. The place is home to many temples, hermitages, and ashrams. Devghat also has a connection to the Hindu god Vishnu and is believed to be the same place where the gods Rama and Laxman visited during their exile to pray and meditate.

Also, it is believed the Pandavas of the Hindu epic Mahabharata visited this place during their exile. Along with being a spiritually important place, Devghat is a well-liked holiday spot for the ones who love the outdoors and the natural world.

6. Bishazari Tal

Bishazari Tal, located in the Chitwan, is a popular tourist hub. This tal is much more than just a lake, rather a collection of ponds and smaller lakes located away in a wooded environment. The Chitwan National Park Buffer Zone, which is located near Bishazari Lake, is also home to a variety of flora and species.

The waters and surrounding woodland at Bishazari Lake are home to more than 250 species of birds, including rare and endangered species. Bird watching is a popular attraction to do. The key activities to do at the lake include hiking, fishing, and boating.

7. Elephant Breeding Center

In the Elephant Breeding Center, one can observe elephant meals being prepared and consumed by them. Also, get a closer insight into the elephants’ nature and behaviors at this unique facility which has been raising domesticated elephants since 1985. The Elephant Breeding Center, located protects the region’s imperiled elephants. Also at the museum located here, one can see different kinds of elephants here. 

8. Crocodile Breeding Center

Visiting the crocodile breeding center is one of the most exciting things to do in Chitwan National Park. You can explore the place either by Jeep or by foot. Here one can also see the dreadful Mugger Crocodile along with Crocodile. The size of crocodiles here varies from egg size to giants. A sizable amount of Gharials were released in the rivers Karnali, Rapti, Kaligandanki, Narayani, Koshi, and Babai between 1981 and 2022.

9. Ranipokhari

Located in Chitwan’s Saradanagar, Ranipokhari is the most recent location for tourists and has become one of the best places to visit in Chitwan . It is one of Chitwan’s latest tourist attractions, spread over four Bigahas in Bharatpur-19, Kirangunj. Beautiful statues, consisting of a Buddha statue surrounded by this lovely lake.

If you are a bird watcher, then you must visit this place in other top 10 Best Places to Visit in Chitwan as many water birds are drawn to the freshwater lake Ranipokhari due to the greenery. The place has been transformed into an outdoor sculpture gallery and an ideal destination for picnics, which is bordered by lush woodland.

10. CG Temple Shashwat Dham

Even in a busy city like Chitwan, finding a place to relax and breathe fresh air is not an easy task.  The place named – Chaudhary Shaswatdham (CG Temple) is a true blessing. This resemblance of a temple is located in Dhamkaul, Nawalparasi, and is an ideal destination for leisure and worship.

Also, the lakes surrounding the Dham from all sides offer a stunning perspective of the temple, especially during the night.

Take A Safari Walk

The main attraction in Chitwan is taking a safari ride to Chitwan National Safari Park where you can see many animals including leopards, elephants, etc. The travelers can trek in the park and can take short or 2-3 days trekking. There are many walks outside this park, but while taking a walk inside the park, a guide is essential.

➜ INR 2000 for a foreigner

➜ INR 1000 for SAARC

➜ INR 50 for Nepali

Wash An Elephant

Elephant bathing is quite a popular activity in Chitwan and is enjoyed by many people coming here. Make sure to reach the place anywhere between 9 and 11 am on a Wednesday and wash elephants.

Rent Bikes and Ride to the 20,000 Lake

Bike hire is also an adventurous activity in Chitwan and a fun activity to get involved in. Take a cycle to ride to the 20,000 lakes. Also, there are 1-2 restaurants near the place, where you can stop for lunch as well.

Best time to visit Chitwan

The most preferred time to visit Chitwan is from October to March as the skies are clear, and the temperature is warm and comfortable for outings. Also, the months from January to March, are the best months to see animals on a safari in Chitwan national park.

Conclusion                               

A wide range of things makes Chitwan one of the most popular destinations in Nepal . With key places like the National Park, Jalbire Waterfall, Ranipokhari, etc. visiting Chitwan will make your trip fun-filled and memorable. Overall, the Chitwan region is a must-see for travelers visiting Nepal due to the unique and different choices of activities to get involved in.

So, book the best tour package to Nepal with Honeymoon Bug and include these top 10 Best Places to Visit in Chitwan, Nepal.

Nepal Tours are available from major Indian cities such as Ahmedabad , Kolkata , Hyderabad, Bangalore , Chennai , Kochi , and Delhi you don’t have to worry about your Nepal honeymoon trip when you’re with Honeymoon Bug .

FAQs About Places to Visit in Chitwan

Which is the most popular dish in chitwan.

Chitwan has a very popular and tasty dish- Taas which is a spicy fried goat meat dish served with bhuja or cheura available in many restaurants.

What is Chitwan famous for?

Chitwan in Nepal is famous for mustard growing and the production of mustard oil. The popularity of the mustard in Chitwan is mainly due to the predominant soil type silt, which is due to flooding of the Narayani River and its tributaries.

What is special about Chitwan National Park?

Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s first National Park which is spread over 932 sq/km and is listed as a World Heritage site. The main attractions in the park include an elephant breeding center and a vulture and gharial conservation area.

Which month is best to visit Chitwan?

The months from October to early March are the best months to visit Chitwan due to the pleasant temperatures. Among all these months, January is the coldest month with freezing nights.

What is the major city of Chitwan?

Some of the main cities of Chitwan include Hetauda and Ratnanagar located in the easternmost part of the valley, while Narayangarh and Bharatpur are popular cities in their central part.

What are the top attractions to visit in Chitwan District?

The top attractions to visit in Chitwan District include:

• Narayani River
• Chitwan National Park
• Bishazari Tal
• Tiger Residency Resort
• Tharu Cultural Museum and Research Center

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5 top things to do in chitwan (nepal): complete 2024 guide.

Chitwan is located in West Nepal and it’s well known for it’s warm weather (we are talking about 30 degrees!), it’s safaris and it’s cool atmosphere.

For a typical Nepal backpacking itinerary , Chitwan is always included in the route. So if you find yourself visiting, then keep reading to find out the top things to do in Chitwan in this little Chitwan travel guide.

Travellerspoint

Best time to visit Chitwan

The best time to visit Chitwan is October to March. This is because the skies are clear, the temperatures are warm and comfortable and prices are good. The best time to see animals on a safari in Chitwan national park would be around January to March.

But you’ve still got a chance to see animals at other months too!

How to get to Chitwan

You can get to Chitwan in three main ways.

Tourist Bus : This is the most common way to get to Chitwan and you can get the bus straight from Kathmandu, or you can head from Pokhara to Chitwan.

I recommend the bus company Mountain Overlander who are cheap, comfortable and safe. The journey is around 7 hours from Pokhara via bus, and around 6 hours from Kathmandu.

There are lots of buses that go from Kathmandu, and these leave from Thamel end of Kantipath and cost around Rs 500-700.

You can book with an agent when there, or you could turn up and buy on the day. The buses aren’t normally full to Chitwan!

If you are going from Pokhara, I only knew of two tourist buses that went to Chitwan and one of them was Mountain overlander. You can book via your hotel or a tourist agency in town.

Local bus: I don’t recommend local buses as they are over crowded, less safe and manic. But, they are even cheaper. Probably around $2 for a journey.

Ask the locals where the bus goes from etc.

Taxi: You can also get a taxi to Chitwan if you wish. I would bargain with drivers and actually it's always cheaper to speak with the taxi men on the street to get a price, rather than letting your hotel organise it.

It will probably be around $70-80 dollars and will be around 1-2 hours quicker than the bus, because you can drive a little quicker and you won’t have stop breaks for as long (or at all if you wish!)

The buses leave from the Pokhara bus station.

How long should I stay in Chitwan?

Chitwan is a quaint area with a few things to do, but there isn’t enough to do here for a weeks worth. I’d say the perfect amount of time is about 3 nights.

You could stretch to 4 nights if you wanted to relax, and you could do everything in 2 nights if you are in a rush.

Okay, now that the technical aspects are sorted, let’s get into what to do in Chitwan. Below I take you through my top 5 things to do in Chitwan Nepal.

Read Also: Where To Stay In Chitwan

Top things to do in Chitwan

1.take a safari walk.

The main attraction in Chitwan and the reason everyone goes is for Chitwan National Safari Park. It’s very large and provides opportunities for seeing animals including leopards, elephants etc.

One of the activities you can undertake in the park are walks. These walks can be as short as half a day, to a couple of days “trekking”.

In order to do these walks you need to take a guide with you. There is no way around this.

There are walks outside the national park which are possible, but if you want to go into the park, a guide is essential.

There are numerous shops selling tours, so I think it’s a good idea to head to a few and bargain down.

Current park entrance prices, which need to be factored into your overall cost are

• 2000 rupees for a foreigner
• 1000 rupees for SAARC
• 50 rupees for Nepali

If you want to do your safari walk with a group of people, then ask your hotel/hostel to organise one for everyone.

Be aware that you are walking in sheer heat, so you will need to wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water.

Book a 3 day safaritrip here (looks EPIC!)

2. Take a jeep safari

If you don’t fancy walking in the heat, then you can opt for a traditional jeep safari.

These are available in half day and full day options.

Prices range from around $40 per person, including fees and rise depending on whether you do a full day safari, or you opt for a “private car” safari, which basically means you have the keep to yourself.

Again, book a safari through your hotel or hostel, or one of the many agents around the town.

A lot of the hotels you book into will have safari/hotel deals. So you may find that’s a better deal.

I recommend booking.com for the best prices and availability in hotels.

3. [Don't] Wash an elephant

Elephant bathing is a popular activity in Chitwan and lots of people do it. You just head to the river between 9 and 11 am on a Wednesday and there will be elephants getting washed.

I headed to watch, not wash. I would have washed if I thought the elephants were cared for.

If you want to wash them too, you pay the guys in the river and wash.

What pissed me off is the people riding the elephants. I don’t care what the justification is, there is no excuse to be riding elephants. The annoying thing was it was all adults who should know bloody better.

I think this takes away from the whole washing experience as the elephants still have to be ridden on, in the god damn water.

DON’T RIDE ELEPHANTS.

I'd avoid it altogether and go to the "Friends Cafe" where they hold a elephant day that is ethical and you can meet elephants without hurting them.

4. Kayak down the river

Another fun activity to do is rent a kayak or canoe and head down the river. These are also organised tours and it’s quite cheap for an hour on the river.

The best thing to do in organise a trip with some friends with your hotel, or one of the various places in the town.

5. Rent bikes and ride to the 20,000 lake

Bike hire is also super cheap in Chitwan and a fun activity is to pack a picnic and cycle to the 20,000 lake. It’s probably about 30-40 minute ride and I would head off early morning to beat the afternoon heat.

This is definitely one of the best things to do in Chitwan, and it’s quite romantic if you wish!

There is one or two restaurants in the form of a hotel up in that direction, so you could stop for lunch if you wish!

You might even come across some temples in Chitwan to discover too.

Where should I eat in Chitwan?

Chitwan has lots of great little restaurants. If you’re a digital nomad like Brad and I and need wifi and plug sockets, then I recommend the “Friends Cafe”. It’s super cheap, the coffee is AMAZING and the food is delicious. Plus the staff are so friendly.

It’s also a good place to head in the evening for cheap drinks and a nice sunset view.

Other good places to eat include the Greasy Spoon which serves up both local and nonlocal dishes for a reasonable price.

It’s very modern and I recommend the burger!

Where should I stay in Chitwan?

There are a variety of great hotels in Chitwan . Some are basic, no aircon rooms, and some are 5 star resorts.

We went something in the middle. I highly recommend you get aircon, it’s REALLY warm!

Also, power cuts are quite common, so don’t be alarmed if the power goes for a couple of hours. Most places have backup generators to help.

We stayed in Wild Horizons Guest House .

This is a wonderful place and they offer free pick up from the bus station (although every hotel does). When you arrive you get a little welcome drink and they have a very cheap on-site restaurant.

The staff are friendly, the breakfast is brilliant, and the owner will help you organise any tours and give you lots of information.

I fell down a single step in Chitwan after working and I couldn’t walk. Long story short I had to get a taxi to Kathmandu to go to hospital etc, and the owners of this place were beyond helpful.

They managed to get me a super cheap taxi, and didn’t take any commission, they helped in any way they could and they were extremely hospital. I can’t thank them enough.

This is also a brilliant place to meet other travellers. We met lots of solo travellers and in the evening everyone enjoyed drinks and dinner together.

Other things to note

• There are only a few ATMs in Chitwan and you will be charged to withdraw from them all
• Mosquitos are present so cover up and wear deet. Also wear sunscreen.
• Cider is cheap in Nepal, and if you want cocktails, wait for a happy hour for the best price.
• Local wine is cheap but SUPER sweet. Imported wine is basically in the forms of Jacobs Creek, which isn’t worth what they charge. Up to you! Beer is cheap.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post on the top things to do in Chitwan. You could spend a whole day doing safari things, and another day seeing the lake and doing a river trip. So that’s why I suggest more than 2 nights in Chitwan.

You will definitely need longer if you decide to do a 2-3 days walking trek in the safari.

Don’t forget your camera to catch shots of awesome animals!

If you think I should add anything to this list of the top things to do in Chitwan, then please comment below.

After Chitwan head to Pokhara for stunning mountain ranges and fantastic hikes, or Kathmandu for culture, cuisine and shopping.

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Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Chitwan, Nepal

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Chitwan , Nepal. In English, Chitwan means “jungle heart.” Chitrasen, the Tharu King who ruled here previously, is commemorated in the famed Inner Terai valley.

Chitwan is located in Bagmati Province’s southwest section, between the Himalayan foothills and the Mahabharat and Siwalik ranges. Chitra Ban was once a majestic forest teeming with wild animals, frequented by lone sages meditating deep in the woods.

• 1 List of Best Places to Visit in Chitwan
• 2 Chitwan National Park
• 3 Jalbire Waterfall(Lamo Jharana)
• 5 Bishazari Tal
• 6 Chitwan Tharu Village
• 7 Sauraha Art Gallery
• 8 Elephant Breeding Center
• 9 Ranipokhari
• 10 Shiraichuli Hill
• 11 CG Temple Shashwat Dham
• 12 FAQ’s Best Places to Visit in Chitwan
• 13 What is the famous thing of Chitwan?
• 14 Which is the best time to visit Chitwan?
• 15 Why do people visit Chitwan?

List of Best Places to Visit in Chitwan

Chitwan national park.

The first national park in the country was Chitwan national park. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist destination in Chitwan. Among the wild animals and species that make this national park home are Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, and Asiatic elephants.

This national park offers elephant back safaris, Jeep safaris, nature hikes, and bird watching. Chitwan National Park is located in the Terai region of Nepal.

Visitors will also get the opportunity to learn about Tharu culture and way of life. Students frequently use this park for educational purposes. The majority of the world’s endangered wild animals and birds can be found there. This amazing spot must be visited at least once by everybody who enjoys nature.

Jalbire Waterfall(Lamo Jharana)

The best Place to Visit in Chitwan is Jalbire Waterfall, one of Nepal’s longest waterfalls (about 60 meters). It is well-known as a spectacular and lovely tourist destination. During the summer, this location attracts a larger number of people. On hot summer days, locals and visitors alike enjoy swimming and bathing in this refreshing and powerful waterfall.

In Nepal, Devghat is a sacred site. Hindus can meditate and worship God in a variety of temples and tunnels. Each one has historical, cultural, and religious significance.

It’s close to where the Seti and Krishna Gandaki rivers meet. The geological and ecological characteristics of Devghat add to its allure. If you want to grasp the true gravity of the situation, come here at least once.

Bishazari Tal

Bishazari Tal (Bishazari Lake) is a well-known tourist attraction in Chitwan. The country’s inner Terai, it’s a protected area with a mind-blowing lake. Various birds and aquatic species, including crocodiles and rhinoceros, call this lake home. A lush green forest surrounds the lake, offering guests the opportunity to go on a jungle safari.

The calmest spot is Bishazari Lake. The jungle expedition’s enthusiasm is heightened by the enormous chirping of birds and animal sounds.

Pokhara Chitwan and Lumbini Tour

Chitwan Tharu Village

Chitwan Tharu Village is a popular tourist destination in Chitwan, with thousands of visitors every year. We can watch their language, way of life, culture, festival, customs, and marriage ceremony up close during the Tharu village visit.

The entire village is made up of traditional dwellings. Agriculture is their primary occupation, and they are also in intimate contact with nature and domestic animals.

The tour guide can also be found here. The equipment and traditional clothing used by Tharu people in their daily activities are housed in a tiny museum in the Tharu village.

Sauraha Art Gallery

The Sauraha Art Gallery is worth a visit if you appreciate art. We will find dedicated working artists among the huge array of traditional and creative arts. Art is a way of expressing pleasant feelings and ideas. The artwork will only be complete after the creator has infused the emotions into it.

This art collection has beautiful paintings of landscapes, wild animals, and villages. Sauraha Art Gallery is the place to go if you’re seeking a painting.

Elephant Breeding Center

Chitwan’s most prominent tourist attraction is the Elephant Breeding Center, which protects around 20 elephants. It’s a fantastic tool for learning about elephants and their habits. Breastfeeding, eating, and going about their daily activities will be visible to the small elephants. There, we’ll be up close and personal with elephants.

There is also a small museum at the elephant breeding center. A few elephant bones, posters, and riding equipment are on display in the museum.

Ranipokhari

Ranipokhari is a freshwater lake with a green rim that attracts a variety of aquatic birds. Another popular pastime on this lake is boating. A lovely lake is encircled by lovely statues, including one of Buddha.

There is a well-known picnic area there. Ranipokhari is a Chitwan resident who lives in Saradanagar. It is Chitwan’s newest tourist destination, and its popularity is rapidly expanding.

Shiraichuli Hill

Local and international tourists go to Siraichuli Hill as a final destination for trekking because it is the highest peak in the Chitwan district.

The beautiful sunrise and sunset views from Kaule village’s Siraichuli Hill complement the magnificent Himalayan peaks of Gaurishankhar, Dhaulagiri, Langtang, Rolwaling, and Manaslu. The Siraichuli walking trail features lush, verdant hills that are covered in Rhododendrons during certain seasons, energizing walkers to reach the summit. Siraichuli Hill is a hill that rises to a height of 1945 meters above sea level.

You can start your journey in Chitwan from either the Hugdi (midway between Mugling and Krishna Veer) or Shaktikhor. You will have an endless amount of time to spend with numerous ethnic groups of people, particularly the Chepang community, on this trekking journey, in addition to the alluring hills and Himalayas and natural beauty.

The Spiny Babbler can also be observed on occasion. The Siraichuli Hill walking trail in Chitwan is home to a rich diversity of vegetation and species.

CG Temple Shashwat Dham

It’s tough to locate a place to rest and breathe fresh air in the tranquil country of Chitwan when you live in a hectic metropolis like Chitwan. As a result, a location like Chaudhary Shaswatdham (or simply CG Temple) is a gift in itself.

This temple-like place in Dhamkaul, Nawalparasi, is open for relaxation and religious purposes. Here’s all you need to know about taking the bus to CG Temple, as well as what to see in CG Shaswat Dham and how much a ticket to CG Temple costs.

Shaswatdham is 25 kilometers west of Chitwan’s city center, on the Mahendra Highway. Take a bus to CG from Pokhara Buspark. The Chaudhary Foundation Nepal constructed the property, which spans seven bighas of land, as a tourist destination for Nepalese and international visitors.

The Chaudhary Foundation, Nepal’s largest corporate empire, is owned by Binod Chaudhary, Nepal’s richest man. The primary aspects of CG Shaswat Dham are a gurukul, yoga sessions, a religious museum, a digital religious library, and a Shiva temple with the special feature of vegetarian food.

In reality, the Dham would become a source of pride for both Nawalparasi and the rest of the country. The temple was constructed by the Shaswat Dham.

On all sides, lakes surround the Dham, affording a breathtaking view of the temple, especially at night. The many-colored lights brighten and beautify the main temple to the point where they almost outshine the full moon sky.

Using the lightning temple, the eyes can conjure demonic storms. Drinking cold water from a regular faucet is like to inhaling a natural pain reliever for your heart that is moving. On the dam’s grounds, an organic vegetarian food house has been established to cater to all vegetarians.

FAQ’s Best Places to Visit in Chitwan

What is the famous thing of chitwan.

The Chitwan national park is probably the most famous place in Chitwan.

Which is the best time to visit Chitwan?

Mid-Autumn is always the best time to visit Chitwan as in summer it can be very damp and rain will affect the place very much.

Why do people visit Chitwan?

People visit Chitwan to see the biodiversity and take a very good glace at it while learning about it.

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Best Places To Visit in Chitwan, Nepal

Chitwan District is located in Bagmati Province’s southwestern part and is one of Nepal’s 77 districts. Bharatpur, Nepal’s administrative capital, is the country’s second-largest city after Kathmandu. In 2011, it had a population of 579,984 people (279,087 men and 300,897 women) and a land area of 2,238.39 km2 (864.25 sq mi).

Bharatpur is South Central Nepal’s economic and service capital and a key regional centre for higher education, health services, and transportation. Chitwan is in the Terai district of Nepal.

It is situated in the drainage basin of the Gandaki River. It has a roughly triangular form, with the river running through it on the northwestern side and a minor watershed border with India on the south.

History of Chitwan

The district was named after the Chitwan Valley, one of Nepal’s Inner Terai valleys between the Mahabharat and Siwalik ranges, known as the Himalayan foothills.

Chitwan is one of the last unspoiled areas of Nepal’s Terai district, which historically encompassed most of the country. It used to be a dense jungle abounding with exotic animals, including Bengal tigers and leopards. Chitrsen Baba controlled it, and Rishis meditated in the forest.

Ayodhyapuri, in Southern Chitwan, is considered the birthplace of the Hindu god Ram by Nepalese Hindus.

Etymology of Chitwan District

There are many different theories leading to the origin of the name Chitwan:

• The name Chitwan is derived from the Sanskrit words “citta” (meaning “heart”) and “vana” (meaning “jungle” or “forest”). Chitwan, as a result, means “Heart of the Jungle.”
• Chitwan was a lush jungle controlled by Tharu God-King Chitrasen Baba, who was supposed to be Vishnu in human form. The Tharu still worship his idol on HariBodhini Ekadashi at Chitrasari, on their way to Sauraha village. A forest is referred to as a ban in the local language. According to this version, the region was formerly known as Chitra Ban (Chitrasen’s forests) and was later renamed Chitwan.
• Chitwan arose from the “Chitra ban,” which is a Tharu name for religious murals.
• Leopards and Bengal tigers roamed the Chitwan woods, and the region was named Chitwan after the Tharu word for leopard, Chitri.

Places To Visit In Chitwan

There are several tourist sites that you can visit while you’re on vacation in Chitwan. They are:

Chitwan National Park

Bishazari taal, ranipokhari, jalbire waterfall, devghat dham, chiraichuli hill, elephant breeding centre.

The first national park in Nepal is Chitwan. It was founded in the year 2030 BC. The conservation area covers 932 square kilometres and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An elephant breeding centre and a vulture and gharial conservation area are among the park’s features. There are also other temples inside the park’s limits, including Lami Taal, Bikram Baba, and Tamor Taal.

Furthermore, many visitors who return to the park will also visit Sauraha to enjoy the resorts there. Popular activities include elephant riding and exploring the community forest. Finally, many people travel to learn more about the lifestyles, cultures, and dances of indigenous ethnic groups such as the Bate, Tharu, and Majhi.

The Bishazari Taal is an extensive oxbow lake system located within the Chitwan National Park buffer zone, a protected area and a designated world wetland area. This location is ideal for bird watching because it may serve as a winter habitat for several birds migrating south from Siberia.

In addition, tigers, deer, and rhinos live in this area. Bishazari Taal is adjacent to Bharatpur’s district headquarters, convenient for individuals who don’t have much time to pay in Chitwan.

This is one of Chitwan’s newest locations, and it’s sprawled across four Bigahas in Bharatpur-19, Kirangunj. It’s been turned into an open-air sculpture museum and is a popular spot for picnics. There are additional boating opportunities.

The waterfall in Chandibhanjyan VDC-nine is a twenty-minute walk from the Jalbire temple, located on the Narayangadh-Muglin road portion. With a drop of 100 meters, this waterfall is a major tourist attraction in the Bharatpur area, and locals and visitors alike love swimming there. This is also a popular destination for tourists interested in canoeing or participating in homestays with the Gurung, the locals.

For all Hindus in Nepal, Devghat Dham is sacred. During festivals or auspicious days, this location is overrun by devotees. Devotees frequently bathe or dip in the Holy waters, which are claimed to cure all diseases and problems.

The Devghat Dham is a fantastic site to go to if you want to learn about Nepal’s spiritual culture and rituals. If you’re lucky enough, you can even get to witness the morning and evening prayers, which are also massive events.

Chiraichulis, a new traveller attraction with a height of 946 meters, is a particularly fashionable site to see the sunrise. The location is accessible via routes branching from the Prithvi, Hattibang, or Shaktikhor highways.

Those who want to see the sunrise should spend an evening in Hattibang 1st. It’s roughly an hour’s walk from there to a favourite viewpoint spot, where one may gaze out over a gorgeous, blossoming range of mountains.

The Chitwan National Park is home to one of the world’s two elephant-rearing centres. In Nepal, the elephant quickly became one of the most endangered animals, and a centre was constructed to increase its numbers.

You might have the chance to visit the reproduction centre. Make a decision about how to bring the pachyderm to the public’s attention and get a chance to see some bovine elephants and their calves.

Cuisines of Chitwan

In Chitwan, taas is a spicy fried goat meat dish served with bhuja or cheura. Momos, Bhuteko Bhat (fried rice), and sukuti are also popular foods. Dal bhat (steamed rice and lentils) is the area’s main dish, but meat and dairy products are also consumed.

Cuisines such as Newari, Tharu, and Thakali are also popular. For millennia, fermented foods and beverages have made up around 20% of the native diet. Depending on height, crops such as finger millet, maize, buckwheat, barley, vegetable, rice, potato, and soybeans are produced.

How To Reach Chitwan?

The region’s lone airport, offering flights to and from Kathmandu, is Bharatpur Airport. The Mahendra Route, Nepal’s most important east-west highway, and the Prithvi Highway, which runs north-south from the Indian border to Kathmandu, run through the district.

Narayangarh is a hub for vehicles travelling east-west on the Mahendra Highway and people travelling from Kathmandu, Gorkha, and Pokhara via Mugling.

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8 Best Place to Travel in Chitwan Nepal

Bharatpur is a city in southern focal Nepal with the second-biggest city in Nepal and the region central station is Chitwan. Many individuals visit Nepal for the fascination of the wild, specifically Chitwan National Park. Bharatpur is the city that falls directly in the entryway of the forested region. Despite the fact that there are relatively few spots of fascination but there is Best Place to Travel in Chitwan Nepal.

The closeness of the town to Chitwan forest from one perspective and the significant vehicle conduit of Mahendra Highway on the opposite side. Dusk and dawn from the banks of Narayani River is an alternate fascination here. Bharatpur for the cultural vacationer, Devghat is a significant fascination it is an old spot with the Bharatpur city. This article shows you some Best Place to Travel in Chitwan Nepal.

1. Chitwan National Park

The national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Best Place to Travel in Chitwan Nepal. It contains a Ramsar Site that obliges all the various types of vertebrates, birds, reptiles, and aquatic animals. The focal fascination close to Bharatpur is Chitwan National Park. Flanking the Narayani River, the tremendous territory of green wild offers hours of the endeavor for the vacationers.

Among the more uncommon species, there are Royal Bengal Tiger, one-horned rhino, and Gharial crocodile. The spot can be investigated either by a jeep safari or take the much energizing elephant-back ride. Visiting the elephant reproducing center and the crocodile inside the wilderness is likewise very useful yet engaging an outing. For the individuals who love to see the wild from very close, in its most regular structure with no facade in the middle. There are hiking and bird watching trips organized from the cabins and resorts of Bharatpur.

2. Bishazari Taal

Bishazari Tal is a broad oxbow lake framework in the cradle zone of the Chitwan National Park. It is located in a secure zone of Inner Terai in central Nepal. This wetland covers a zone of 3,200 ha. at a height of 286 m. Bishhazari lake lies only 5 km south from the downtown area (Chaubishkothi) of Bharatpur. 

The lake is extremely appealing for the bird lover and fills in as a significant bird watching. The lake territory houses heaps of crocodiles and subsequently is similarly appealing for the crocodiles. Some wild creatures uniquely crocodiles and rhinos are found regularly close to Bish Hajari Taal. Various winged creatures move to Bish Hajar Taal from the Northern Pole of the earth looking for a Suitable climate during the winter season.

3. Jalbire Waterfall

Jalbire Waterfall is at Muglin-Narayangarh Highway as we arrive at Chandi Vhanjhyang ward no-9. Dropping around 80 meters, this cascade is a famous objective for those in the Bharatpur region, while travelers frequently appreciate swimming there also. For those hoping to kayak or take an interest in homestays with the Gurung, the neighborhood individuals, this is additionally a well-known spot. There are many stone slides, bouncing bluffs and pools, and numerous cascades. Canyoning Day Tour is best in the long stretch of April, May, June, September, October, and November.

4. Shashwat Dham

The temple and ashram complex is situated in the wonderful environmental factors of the Devchuli area of Nawalprasi locale in south-focal Nepal, on the east-west Mahendra Highway just 23 kilometers from the twin city of Bharatpur-Narayangarh. this is also the must-visit and Best Place to Travel in Chitwan Nepal

Normally known for its complicated engineering structures and amazing shading showings, Shashwat Dham is a mainstream spot to visit in Bharatpur Nepal. Shashwat Dham is an adored Hindu divine place that is exclusively committed to Lord Shiva-one of the three significant gods inside Hinduism.

5. Siraichuli Hill

Siraichuli is the most noteworthy slope pinnacle of Chitwan District, situated in Kaule VDC in Narayani Zone of Nepal. The height of Siraichuli is 1945 m and it gives perspectives on mountains, for example, Gausankhar, Dhaulagiri, Langtang, Rolwaling, and Manaslu and the Terai belt of the southern area of Nepal. Siraichuli Trekking trail is recently related to glorious dawn and nightfall sees from the peak. 

Courses expanding from the Prithivi, Hattibang, or Shaktikhor thruways all give admittance to the region. Those wishing to observe dawn should go through a night at Hattibang first. From that point, it goes for about an hour stroll to a mainstream area where one can watch out upon an excellent, unfurling mountain run.

6. Maula Kalika

Worship to Goddess Kalika, Maula Kalika is a great significance of Hindu temple at a height of 561 meters above ocean level. Following the East-West Highway of Nepal, explorers can reach Maula Kalika Temple inside 30 minutes by a vehicle from Bharatpur city. You would not be right to list Maula Kalika Temple as a top spot to visit in Bharatpur Nepal as its fame has been developing remarkably since the time it’s establishing.

Devghat is one of the renowned religious and social focuses in central Nepal. Lying 7 kilometers from the city of Narayangarh, 20 kilometers from Sauraha, and 150 kilometers southwest of the capital Kathmandu. The region displays numerous regular highlights because of its geology and atmosphere including tropical timberlands, wild creatures, and winged animals. Devghat is the place where Holy stream Gandaki from Muktinath meets Holy waterway Trishuli from Gosaikunda. Devghat is also the Best Place to Travel in Chitwan Nepal

8. Tharus – The cultural enlightenment

Tharus are a local ethnic community of the zone near the woodland. An excursion through the Tharu town by walking or bull cartridge will open up their everyday lifestyle to you. The town landscape is much the same as an artistic creation with old customary houses and plentiful greenery. For a superior understanding of the way of life, you can visit the Tharu Museum, where numerous weapons, apparatus, and other way of life things of the Tharus over the years are shown. There are pictures and models too.

Related Topic: Places to Travel in Panchthar District

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Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Chitwan, Nepal

Do you want to know top10 best places to visit in Chitwan, Nepal?

Chitawan is the fifth largest city in Nepal. It is located in the Terai region of Nepal. Since it is rich in natural and religious resources it is a popular destination for tourists.

In this article, we will share with you the top 10 best places to visit in Chitwan.

1. Chitwan National Park

Chitawan National Park is the first established national park in Nepal. It belongs to a World Heritage Site and is one of the most visited places in Chitwan.

This national park conserves different species of wild animals and birds including Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, and Asiatic elephant.

In this national park, visitors can experience Elephant back safari, Jeep Safari, wilderness walk, and bird watching.

Chitwan national park is located in the Terai region of the country. Visitors will also get the chance to be close to Tharu people, culture, and lifestyle.

Students visit this park for educational purposes also. It includes most of the endangered wild animals and birds.

If you love nature, then don’t forget to experience this heavenly place once.

2. Jalbire Waterfall(Lamo Jharana)

Jalbire Waterfall is one of the longest waterfalls (about 60 meters) in Nepal. It is being popular as a best and beautiful tourism place.

This place gets more visitors during the summer. Local and other visitors enjoy a hot day of summer with swimming and bathe on this cool and forceful waterfall.

The beautiful green hills, panoramic view of mountains and stones where fall strike make the fall more beautiful.

This beautiful waterfall is not less than heaven where everybody can lose themselves. So, don’t forget to visit this Jalbire waterfall, if you are planning for a holiday treat in Chitwan.

Devghat is one of the holiest places in Nepal. There are some various temples and caves where mostly Hindu people come for meditation and worshiping of God.

It has its own historical, cultural, and religious value. It is located at the junction point where the Seti Gandaki and Krishna Gandaki two famous rivers meet.

Devghat looks more attractive by its geographical and wildlife features.

Please visit this place at least once if you like to feel the real holiness of this place.

4. Bishazari Tal

Bishazari Tal (Bishazari Lake) is one of the best places to visit in Chitwan. It is a protected area with a mind-blowing lake in the inner Terai of the country.

This lake is a good home for various birds and aquatic animals including crocodiles and rhinos. There is a greenish forest where visitors can experience the Jungle safari also around this lake.

Bishazari Lake is the most peaceful place. The huge chirping of birds and animal sounds makes the jungle tour more interesting.  

5. Chitwan Tharu Village

Want you to learn about Tharu culture and tradition?

Chitwan Tharu Village is one of the most popular places for visit in Chitawan which gets thousands of visitors every year.

In the Tharu village tour, we can directly observe their language, lifestyle, culture, festival, custom, Marriage ceremony, etc.

There are all traditional houses in entire village. They take agriculture as their main occupation and also in close relation with nature and domestic animals. The tour guide is also available here.

There is a small museum in the Tharu village where the tools and traditional clothes are stored used by Tharu people in their daily activities.

6. Sauraha Art Gallery

If you are an art lover then don’t miss visiting Sauraha Art Gallery. It is a big collection of traditional and creative arts where we will find working artists with their full dedication.

Art is a way to express positive feelings and thoughts. The art will be complete only after the artist includes the emotions on it.

In this art gallery, you will find the beautiful painting of a landscape, wild animals, and villages. Sauraha Art Gallery can be the best place if you are seeking for your painting.

7. Elephant Breeding Center

Elephant Breeding Center is the best place to visit in Chitawan which protects more than 20 elephants. It is the best place to learn about elephants and their activities.

We will get the opportunity to directly observe the small elephant breastfeeding, eating, and spending their days. We will be very close to Elephants there.

The elephant breeding center consists of a small museum also. The museum stores a few elephant bones, posters, and riding pieces of equipment.

8. Ranipokhari

Ranipokhari is located at Saradanagar, Chitwan. It is the newest place for visitors and getting one of the best places to visit in Chitwan.

There is a beautiful lake surrounded by gorgeous statue including a Buddha statue. It is famous for the picnic spot.

Ranipokhari is a freshwater lake with various aquatic birds surrounded by green forest. Boating is another attraction of this lake. 

If you are a nature lover, then visit this place at least once.

9. Shiraichuli Hill

It is one of the highest hill peaks in Chitwan.

The top of Shiraichuli hill provides a stunning sunrise and sunset views.

The hill offers small trekking with challenging steep boulders and streams.

10. Sauraha Tharu Culture House

Sauraha Tharu Culture House is the collection of Tharu culture and instruments used in their daily lives.

The house provides the nightly show to their guests which offer traditional Tharu songs and dances.

At the end of the night show, you will also get the opportunity to dance and take photographs with them.

The amazing Peacock dance is another attraction of this house. Please, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy Tharu dance if you are in Chitwan.

We hope this article helped you find the best places to visit in Chitwan.    

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I got a place fir this weekend. Thank You.

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