Chitwan, Nepal

Chitwan, located in southern Nepal, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, vibrant local culture, and the famous Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region is ideal for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those seeking to immerse themselves in the traditions of Nepal’s Tharu community.

 

Key Tourist Attractions in Chitwan

1. Chitwan National Park

    • Highlights: Home to diverse wildlife, including one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, elephants, and over 500 bird species.
    • Activities: Jungle safari, canoe rides, bird watching, and guided nature walks.
    • Entrance Fee: NPR 200 (locals), NPR 1,500 (SAARC nationals), NPR 2,000 (foreigners).
    • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
    • How to Get There: The park’s main entry point is Sauraha, 5 km from Bharatpur; accessible by local buses or taxis.

2. Elephant Breeding Center

    • Highlights: A conservation center for Asian elephants where visitors can learn about elephant care and breeding.
    • Entrance Fee: NPR 50 (locals), NPR 100 (foreigners).
    • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
    • How to Get There: Located 3 km from Sauraha; accessible by taxi or bicycle.

3. Tharu Cultural Museum and Research Center

    • Highlights: Displays artifacts, tools, and information about the indigenous Tharu community.
    • Entrance Fee: NPR 100.
    • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
    • How to Get There: Located in Sauraha, within walking or cycling distance from most hotels.

4. Rapti River

    • Highlights: Known for stunning sunset views, canoe rides, and crocodile spotting.
    • Activities: Canoeing and riverside relaxation.
    • Entrance Fee: Free (canoe rides: NPR 700–1,500).
    • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
    • How to Get There: Accessible from Sauraha.

5. Bishazari Tal (Twenty Thousand Lakes)

    • Highlights: A serene wetland area within the buffer zone of Chitwan National Park, popular for birdwatching.
    • Entrance Fee: Included in the Chitwan National Park fee.
    • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
    • How to Get There: Located near Bharatpur, reachable by taxi or bicycle.

6. Jalbire Waterfall

    • Highlights: A scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a day trip.
    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
    • How to Get There: About 50 km from Chitwan; accessible by taxi or motorbike.

How to Get to Chitwan

By Air:

    • From Kathmandu: Flights to Bharatpur Airport (25 minutes), followed by a 30-minute drive to Sauraha.
    • Cost: NPR 4,000–6,000.

By Road:

    • Tourist Buses: Regular buses from Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini to Sauraha (5–7 hours). Cost: NPR 1,000–2,000.
    • Private Vehicles: A more comfortable and faster option.

By Train:

Currently unavailable.

 

Getting Around in Chitwan

  • Taxis: Widely available for local transportation.
  • Bicycles: Ideal for exploring Sauraha and nearby attractions; rental costs NPR 200–500/day.
  • Ox Carts: Traditional rides offered in Tharu villages.
  • Walking: Suitable for short distances within Sauraha.

Popular Local Foods

  1. Tharu Cuisine: Includes dhikri (rice flour dumplings), gundruk (fermented leafy greens), and fried fish.
  2. Dal Bhat: A staple Nepali meal with rice, lentils, and curry.
  3. Chatamari: Nepali-style rice crepes.
  4. Sekuwa: Grilled meat skewers marinated with local spices.

Where to Try:

    • Jungle Pub and Restaurant
    • KC’s Restaurant and Bar
    • Tharu Kitchen

Top Nightlife Spots in Chitwan

1. Jungle Pub

    • Highlights: A cozy riverside spot with live music, cocktails, and Nepali snacks.
    • How to Get There: Located in Sauraha, near the Rapti River.
    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • Happy Hours: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

2. KC’s Restaurant and Bar

    • Highlights: A relaxed ambiance offering Nepali and international cuisine with drinks.
    • How to Get There: In Sauraha town center.
    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • Happy Hours: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

3. Sunset View Bar

    • Highlights: Ideal for watching sunsets over the Rapti River with a cold drink.
    • How to Get There: Located along the riverbank in Sauraha.
    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • Happy Hours: 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM.

Recommended Itineraries for Chitwan

Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Experience

    • Morning: Arrive in Sauraha and check into your hotel.
    • Afternoon: Visit the Tharu Cultural Museum and take a village tour.
    • Evening: Watch a traditional Tharu dance performance.

Day 2: Wildlife Adventure

    • Early Morning: Jungle safari in Chitwan National Park (jeep or elephant-back).
    • Midday: Visit the Elephant Breeding Center.
    • Afternoon: Canoe ride on the Rapti River and crocodile spotting.
    • Evening: Relax at a riverside bar.

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

    • Morning: Birdwatching at Bishazari Tal.
    • Midday: Explore Jalbire Waterfall or relax by the Rapti River.
    • Afternoon: Shop for local handicrafts in Sauraha.
    • Evening: Enjoy a sunset view with drinks at Sunset View Bar.

Optional Activities:

    • Cycling Tours: Explore nearby villages and the park buffer zone.
    • Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Several eco-lodges offer serene settings.
    • Photography Tours: Ideal for capturing wildlife and landscapes.

Chitwan offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, making it a must-visit destination in Nepal.