Chitwan Jungle Safari
based on 205 reviews
Itinerary of Chitwan Jungle Safari
Your exciting Chitwan Jungle Safari adventure begins with your arrival from Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini.
Enjoy a scenic drive or flight as you make your way to Chitwan National Park, where the safari experience awaits. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Sauraha, the main tourist hub near the park.
After settling in, you’ll have some time to relax or explore the surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a fascinating Tharu cultural program, where you’ll witness traditional dances, music, and customs of the indigenous Tharu people.
This cultural experience provides a wonderful introduction to the region’s rich heritage and sets the tone for your Chitwan Jungle Safari experience.
Today is the highlight of your Chitwan Jungle Safari tour, packed with thrilling wildlife adventures. Start your day with a peaceful canoe ride along the Rapti River, where you can observe crocodiles, water birds, and other wildlife up close.
Next, visit the elephant breeding centre to learn about the conservation efforts and get a chance to see baby elephants. Afterwards, enjoy a guided jungle walk, offering opportunities to spot various animals and birds in their natural habitat.
The day continues with an exciting jeep safari, where you may encounter one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, deer, and more. Visit the Gharial Breeding Center to observe these unique crocodiles and conclude with a tour of a traditional Tharu village.
On the final day of your Chitwan Jungle Safari, enjoy a relaxed morning breakfast at your hotel. After breakfast, you’ll prepare for your journey back to Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini.
Depending on your schedule, you might have some free time to explore the local area or enjoy a last walk around Sauraha before your departure. The transfer back will be arranged according to your preferred mode of travel, whether by tourist bus or private vehicle.
This day marks the end of your incredible Chitwan Jungle Safari experience, filled with unforgettable wildlife sightings, cultural immersion, and thrilling activities. As you head back, you’ll carry with you memories of an amazing adventure in one of Nepal’s most diverse and beautiful national parks.
Essential Information - Chitwan Jungle Safari
Highlights of the Chitwan Jungle Safari
Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters on Chitwan Jungle Safari: Witness the one-horned rhinoceroses, majestic elephants, elusive Bengal tigers, and other wildlife thriving in their natural environment during your Chitwan Jungle Safari experience.
Thrilling Jungle Safari Adventures: Explore the depths of Chitwan National Park by jeep or on elephant back, guided by experts who provide insights into the park’s rich biodiversity.
Serene River Safaris: Enjoy a tranquil journey along the Rapti River, where you’ll observe crocodiles, gharials, and numerous water birds in their peaceful surroundings.
Guided Jungle Walks: Walk through the dense forest, experiencing the sights, sounds, and scents of the jungle up close, all part of your Chitwan Jungle Safari adventure.
Cultural Experiences with the Tharu Community: Learn about the unique traditions of the Tharu people through their captivating dances and music, enriching your Chitwan Jungle Safari experience.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Discover an array of birdlife, from vibrant kingfishers to majestic eagles, making your Chitwan Jungle Safari a haven for bird enthusiasts.
Breathtaking Scenery: Marvel at Chitwan’s lush grasslands, dense forests, and meandering rivers, which form the backdrop of your Chitwan Jungle Safari.
Sustainable Tourism Practices: Participate in responsible tourism that supports Chitwan’s ecosystem and the local communities, contributing to a more sustainable Chitwan Jungle Safari.
Best Season for Chitwan Jungle Safari
The best time to experience a Chitwan Jungle Safari varies throughout the year, with each season offering unique opportunities to explore the diverse wildlife of Chitwan National Park.
Autumn (October – November)
Autumn is one of the most favourable times for the Chitwan Jungle Safari. The weather is pleasant and dry, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
During this season, you’ll encounter lush green landscapes and clear skies, perfect for wildlife photography.
Animals are more active after the monsoon, making it an ideal time for spotting wildlife. Safari activities such as jungle drives, elephant rides, bird watching, and canoeing are at their best during this period.
Winter (December – February)
Winter offers cooler and drier weather, with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. Although mornings and evenings can be chilly, this season provides excellent visibility for wildlife viewing.
The Chitwan Jungle Safari is especially rewarding during winter, as animals are frequently seen basking in the sun.
You can enjoy all safari activities, including guided jungle walks, but pack warm clothing for the early mornings and evenings.
Spring (March-May)
Spring is another fantastic season for a Chitwan Jungle Safari. The weather becomes warmer, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C.
Wildlife sightings are exceptional during this time, as animals gather around water sources, increasing your chances of spotting tigers and rhinos.
All safari activities, such as elephant rides, bird watching, and jungle walks, are highly enjoyable during spring.
Summer/Monsoon (June – September)
The summer/monsoon season is characterized by hot and humid weather, with heavy rainfall, especially from late June to late September.
While the core areas of Chitwan National Park may be closed during this time, the buffer zone remains open for the Chitwan Jungle Safari.
The lush vegetation can make wildlife spotting more challenging, but you may encounter unique species like the Indian python and monitor lizards.
Activities such as Jeep safaris in the buffer zone, jungle walks, cultural tours, and bird watching are still possible.
What Will You See on a Chitwan Jungle Safari?
A Chitwan Jungle Safari offers the chance to explore Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity.
This incredible destination is home to a wide variety of animals, birds, and plant life, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Mammals
During your Chitwan Jungle Safari, you can spot over 68 mammal species, including the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, the majestic Royal Bengal tiger, and the elusive leopard.
You’ll also encounter playful sloth bears, herds of elephants, various deer species, and monkeys swinging through the trees.
The park’s rivers and oxbow lakes are habitats for the endangered gharial crocodile and the mugger crocodile, while the grasslands support the world’s largest wild cattle species, the gaur.
Birds
Chitwan National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 540 recorded bird species.
On your Chitwan Jungle Safari, you can observe vibrant kingfishers, majestic eagles, graceful storks, and many migratory waterfowl.
The park’s diverse habitats provide perfect nesting and feeding grounds for this rich array of avian life.
Reptiles & Amphibians
A Chitwan Jungle Safari allows you to explore ecosystems that support a variety of reptiles and amphibians, including the Indian python, monitor lizard, and numerous snake species.
The park’s waterways are filled with fish, while the forests harbour colourful frogs and toads.
Flora
Sal Forests
The Sal forests are a prominent feature of Chitwan National Park, providing dense canopy cover that offers shade and shelter for wildlife.
These forests are essential in maintaining the park’s ecological balance, making them a highlight of the Chitwan Jungle Safari.
Grasslands
Chitwan’s expansive grasslands offer grazing grounds for herbivores and create an open landscape for wildlife viewing.
The tall elephant grass, which can reach up to 8 meters in height, is one of the notable features you’ll encounter during the Chitwan Jungle Safari.
Riverine Forests
Along the banks of the Rapti and Narayani Rivers, the lush riverine forests add to the park’s scenic beauty.
These forests provide habitats for various wildlife species, enriching the overall Chitwan Jungle Safari experience.
Points of Attraction in Chitwan: Beyond the Chitwan Jungle Safari
While the Chitwan Jungle Safari is undoubtedly the main highlight, Chitwan National Park offers several other captivating experiences that allow visitors to explore its natural and cultural richness.
Elephant Breeding Center
Witness the heartwarming sight of elephant calves frolicking alongside their mothers at the Elephant Breeding Center.
Learn about the conservation efforts dedicated to protecting these gentle giants and gain insights into their daily care and training.
You can also observe the unique process of elephant bathing in the nearby river, which is a truly memorable experience.
Gharial Breeding Center
Discover the crucial role of the Gharial Breeding Center in preserving the endangered gharial crocodile.
Observe these fascinating creatures with their distinctive long, thin snouts and understand the challenges they face in the wild.
Witnessing these conservation efforts firsthand is both educational and inspiring.
Tharu Village Walk
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Tharu people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Terai region.
Take a stroll through their traditional villages, admire their unique mud-and-thatch houses, and learn about their customs, art, and way of life.
Experience the warmth of their hospitality, and if you’re lucky, enjoy a traditional Tharu meal.
Guided Jungle Walk
For an up-close encounter with Chitwan’s natural wonders, a guided jungle walk is a must.
Traverse the lush forests, listening to the symphony of birdsong and the rustling leaves.
Your knowledgeable guide will point out hidden wildlife, medicinal plants, and fascinating ecological interactions, providing a deeper perspective on the park’s ecosystem.
Tower Night Stay: An Unforgettable Addition to Your Chitwan Jungle Safari
A tower night stay inside Chitwan National Park offers a unique extension to your Chitwan Jungle Safari experience.
These elevated platforms provide an opportunity to observe wildlife at night, with the chance to hear tigers roaring, elephants trumpeting, and nocturnal birds calling.
Basic accommodations with a bed and mosquito net are provided, focusing on an authentic wildlife experience.
Floodlights illuminate the surroundings, allowing glimpses of animals near waterholes. Safety is a priority, so it’s essential to follow the guide’s instructions.
Due to limited availability, booking in advance is recommended for this unforgettable adventure.
Chitwan Jungle Safari: Monthly Temperature Guide
Chitwan National Park experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, making it important to know the best time for a Chitwan Jungle Safari.
January: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), cool and dry. Nighttime drops to 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), so mornings and evenings can be chilly.
February: During the day, expect 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), with dry, pleasant weather. Nights are milder, ranging from 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F).
March: Warm daytime temperatures from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) make it a great time for a Chitwan Jungle Safari. Evenings are comfortable, around 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F).
April: Hot and dry, with daytime temperatures between 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). Nights are warm, ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
May: The hottest month, with daytime highs of 33°C to 38°C (91°F to 100°F). Nights are hot and humid, between 18°C to 23°C (64°F to 73°F).
June: The monsoon season begins, with temperatures from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F) during the day. Nights are warm and muggy, around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
July & August: These months are warm and humid, with daytime temperatures from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F) and frequent rain. Nighttime stays warm, between 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F).
September: Temperatures range from 28°C to 33°C (82°F to 91°F) with decreasing rainfall. Nights remain warm, around 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F).
October: A popular time for a Chitwan Jungle Safari, with pleasant daytime temperatures of 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Evenings are cooler, from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
November & December: Mild and dry during the day, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Nights are cooler, especially in December, ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
Chitwan Jungle Safari: Essential Packing List
Clothing:
Lightweight, breathable clothing: Neutral colours like khaki, green, and brown are ideal for blending into the environment.
Long-sleeved shirts and pants: For protection against insects and sun exposure.
Warm layers: A jacket or fleece for cooler mornings and evenings, especially from November to February.
Rain gear: A lightweight rain jacket or poncho for the monsoon season (June to September).
Footwear:
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots: Essential for jungle walks and safaris.
Sandals or flip-flops: Handy for relaxing at your accommodation.
Accessories:
Hat or cap: For sun protection.
Sunglasses: To shield your eyes from the sun’s glare.
Scarf or bandana: Useful for dust protection during safaris.
Personal Items:
Insect repellent: Essential for warding off mosquitoes and other insects.
Sunscreen: High SPF to protect your skin from sunburn.
First aid kit: Include basic medicines, band-aids, and any personal medications.
Water bottle: Refillable and eco-friendly.
Binoculars and Camera: For capturing wildlife sightings during your Chitwan Jungle Safari. Ensure you have extra batteries and memory cards.
Backpack: A small daypack to carry your essentials during jungle walks and safaris.
Torch/Flashlight: Handy for night activities and moving around after dark.
Snacks: Energy bars or light snacks for long safari drives or jungle walks.
Dressing Respectfully for Your Chitwan Jungle Safari
During your Chitwan Jungle Safari, it’s essential to dress in a way that respects the natural habitat and avoids disturbing the wildlife.
Opt for neutral, earthy colours like khaki, brown, green, or beige to blend into the surroundings.
Bright or flashy colours can startle animals or draw unnecessary attention, disrupting their natural behaviour.
By dressing in muted tones, you minimize your impact, allowing the animals to remain undisturbed in their environment.
Wearing long sleeves and pants not only offers protection against insects but also helps you move quietly, ensuring a respectful and non-intrusive safari experience.
Travelling to and from Chitwan National Park: Your Transport Options
When planning your Chitwan Jungle Safari, you have several convenient transportation options to reach Chitwan National Park from major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini.
Arriving in Chitwan:
From Kathmandu
Tourist Bus
Several tourist bus companies operate daily services between Kathmandu and Chitwan, mainly to Sauraha, the main tourist hub near the park.
The journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. These buses typically offer comfortable seating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi.
Flight
For a quicker option, take a short domestic flight from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport, located near Chitwan.
The flight duration is approximately 25 minutes, and from the airport, we will arrange a pick-up to your hotel.
From Pokhara
Tourist Bus: Direct tourist buses connect Pokhara to Chitwan (Sauraha) with a journey time of around 6-7 hours.
Flight: There are no direct flights between Pokhara and Chitwan. You would need to fly to Kathmandu first and then take another flight or bus to reach Chitwan.
From Lumbini
Tourist Bus: Direct tourist buses are available from Lumbini to Chitwan (Sauraha), taking approximately 4-5 hours. Local buses can also be an option, but the journey may be longer.
Flight: There are no direct flights from Lumbini to Chitwan. You would need to travel to Kathmandu or Pokhara first and then take a flight or bus to Chitwan.
Leaving Chitwan:
For your return journey after enjoying your Chitwan Jungle Safari, you can choose the same transportation options to travel back to Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini.
Tourist buses and flights are available, depending on your budget and time constraints.
Reviews on Chitwan Jungle Safari
Based on 2
Reviews
Peter M
UK
An Unforgettable Wildlife Experience in Chitwan!
I had an absolutely amazing time on the Chitwan Jungle Safari! The entire experience was beyond my expectations, from the thrilling jeep safari to the serene canoe ride along the Rapti River.
Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and ensured we spotted various wildlife, including rhinos, crocodiles, and countless bird species. The Tharu cultural program was a fantastic bonus, offering insight into the local traditions.
The accommodation was comfortable, and the food was delicious. I highly recommend this safari to anyone looking to explore Nepal’s wildlife and culture. It was the highlight of my trip, and I would love to return!
David Williams
Australia
Best Safari Adventure in Nepal
The Chitwan Jungle Safari was an extraordinary adventure! I enjoyed every moment, especially the jeep safari where we were lucky enough to spot a Bengal tiger in the wild!
The canoe ride was peaceful, and seeing the crocodiles up close was thrilling. The visit to the elephant breeding centre and the Tharu village added so much to the experience. Our guide was friendly, and informative, and made sure we had an unforgettable time.
The arrangements were seamless, from the comfortable hotel stay to the delicious meals. This safari offers an incredible chance to connect with nature and experience Nepal’s rich culture. Highly recommend it to any wildlife enthusiast!
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