Best Places to Visit in Chitwan National Park | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Chitwan National Park Travel Guide
Quick overview of Chitwan National Park with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Chitwan National Park Travel Videos
- Plan Chitwan National Park Trip
- Best Places To Visit In Chitwan National Park
- Hotels Map Of Chitwan National Park
- Tours And Activities In Chitwan National Park
- Food And Drinks To Try In Chitwan National Park
- Best Time To Visit Chitwan National Park
- Flight Calendar For Chitwan National Park
- Transportation To Chitwan National Park
Welcome to Chitwan National Park, Nepal's first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the subtropical lowlands of southern Nepal, this magnificent park spans over 932 square kilometers and is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. Chitwan National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 700 species of wildlife, such as the endangered Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and the elusive leopard. The park also boasts a vibrant bird population, with over 500 species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. In addition to its wildlife, Chitwan National Park offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy, including jungle safaris, elephant rides, canoeing, and cultural experiences with the indigenous Tharu community. So, whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Nepal, Chitwan National Park is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable experience.
Chitwan National Park Travel Videos
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Best Places To Visit in Chitwan National Park
1. Kathmandu, Nepal : The capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a unique blend of ancient and modern culture. The city is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famous Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Visitors can also explore the narrow streets of the old town, visit the colorful markets, and sample the delicious local cuisine.
2. Pokhara, Nepal : Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Pokhara is a picturesque town that offers stunning views of the mountains and the Phewa Lake. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including trekking, paragliding, and boating. The town is also home to several Buddhist and Hindu temples, including the famous World Peace Pagoda.
3. Bhaktapur, Nepal : Known as the City of Devotees, Bhaktapur is a well-preserved medieval town that offers a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural heritage. The town is home to several temples, palaces, and courtyards, including the famous Nyatapola Temple and the Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
4. Patan, Nepal : Also known as Lalitpur, Patan is another ancient town that is famous for its rich cultural heritage. The town is home to several temples, palaces, and courtyards, including the famous Patan Durbar Square. Visitors can also explore the narrow streets of the old town, visit the colorful markets, and sample the delicious local cuisine.
5. Chitwan National Park, Nepal : Located in the southern part of Nepal, Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for its rich biodiversity. The park is home to several endangered species, including the Bengal tiger, the one-horned rhinoceros, and the Asian elephant. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including jungle safaris, bird watching, and elephant rides.
6. Lumbini, Nepal : Known as the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is a sacred town that attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The town is home to several Buddhist temples and monasteries, including the famous Maya Devi Temple and the Ashoka Pillar.
7. Janakpur, Nepal : Located in the southern part of Nepal, Janakpur is a sacred town that is famous for its rich cultural heritage. The town is home to several Hindu temples, including the famous Janaki Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Sita.
8. Nagarkot, Nepal : Located on the outskirts of Kathmandu, Nagarkot is a scenic hill station that offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. The town is also famous for its beautiful sunrise and sunset views.
9. Bandipur, Nepal : Located in the central part of Nepal, Bandipur is a well-preserved medieval town that offers a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural heritage. The town is home to several temples, palaces, and courtyards, including the famous Bandipur Bazaar.
10. Gorkha, Nepal : Located in the western part of Nepal, Gorkha is a historic town that is famous for its rich cultural heritage. The town is home to several temples, palaces, and courtyards, including the famous Gorkha Durbar. Visitors can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including trekking and hiking.
Hotels Map Of Chitwan National Park
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Tours And Activities In Chitwan National Park
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Food & Drinks To Try In Chitwan National Park
1. Dal Bhat: This is the staple food of Nepal and a must-try dish in Chitwan National Park. It consists of lentil soup (dal) served with steamed rice (bhat) and a variety of side dishes such as vegetables, pickles, and curries. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is truly delightful.
2. Momos: These are dumplings filled with minced meat or vegetables and steamed or fried to perfection. Momos are a popular street food in Nepal and can be found in abundance in Chitwan National Park. They are usually served with a spicy tomato-based dipping sauce and make for a delicious and satisfying snack.
3. Gundruk: This is a traditional Nepali dish made from fermented leafy greens. The greens are first sun-dried and then stored for several months to develop a unique tangy flavor. Gundruk is often cooked with spices, garlic, and onions to create a flavorful and nutritious side dish that pairs well with rice or roti.
4. Yomari: Yomari is a sweet delicacy that is typically enjoyed during the festive season in Nepal. It is made by filling a rice flour dough with a mixture of molasses and sesame seeds, and then steaming or frying it. The end result is a soft and chewy dumpling with a sweet and savory filling that is simply irresistible.
5. Thakali Thali: Thakali cuisine is famous in Nepal, and a Thakali Thali is a complete meal that showcases the flavors and specialties of this region. It typically includes a variety of dishes such as rice, lentils, curries, pickles, and yogurt. The Thakali Thali is a wholesome and satisfying meal that will give you a taste of the local flavors.
6. Chyang: Chyang is a traditional Nepali alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice or millet. It is similar to beer and is often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations. Chyang has a distinct flavor and is a popular drink among locals in Chitwan National Park. It is best enjoyed with a plate of spicy snacks or traditional Nepali dishes.
7. Chiya: Chiya, also known as Nepali tea, is a popular beverage in Nepal. It is made by boiling tea leaves with milk, water, and spices such as cardamom and ginger. Chiya is often served with biscuits or snacks and is a great way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring Chitwan National Park.
8. Lassi: Lassi is a refreshing yogurt-based drink that is popular in Nepal. It is made by blending yogurt with water, sugar, and sometimes fruit or spices. Lassi is a great way to cool down on a hot day and is often enjoyed as a breakfast or mid-day snack in Chitwan National Park.
9. Raksi: Raksi is a traditional Nepali distilled liquor made from grains such as rice, millet, or barley. It is a strong alcoholic beverage that is often consumed during special occasions and celebrations. Raksi has a unique flavor and is best enjoyed in moderation.
10. Sukuti: Sukuti is a popular Nepali snack made from dried meat, usually buffalo or goat. The meat is marinated with spices and then sun-dried to preserve it. Sukuti is often eaten as a snack or used as an ingredient in various dishes such as stir-fries or curries. It is a flavorful and protein-rich food that is worth trying in Chitwan National Park.
Best Time To Visit Chitwan National Park
The best time to visit Chitwan National Park in Nepal is during the dry season, which runs from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for wildlife spotting and exploring the park. The temperature during the day ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, providing comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Additionally, the vegetation is less dense during the dry season, making it easier to spot animals such as rhinos, tigers, elephants, and various bird species. However, it is important to note that the peak tourist season in Chitwan National Park is from November to February, so it may be more crowded during this time. If you prefer quieter surroundings, you may consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of October and March, when the weather is still favorable but the number of tourists is lower.
Flight Calendar For Chitwan National Park
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Chitwan National Park.
Transportation To Chitwan National Park
There are several transportation options to reach Chitwan National Park in Nepal:
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Chitwan National Park is Bharatpur Airport, which is well-connected to Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, you can take a domestic flight to Bharatpur and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the park.
2. By Road: Chitwan National Park is easily accessible by road from major cities in Nepal. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Kathmandu, Pokhara, or other nearby cities to reach the park. The journey by road takes around 5-6 hours from Kathmandu and 4-5 hours from Pokhara.
3. By Train: There is no direct train service to Chitwan National Park. However, you can take a train from Kathmandu to Bharatpur and then continue the journey by taxi or bus to reach the park.
4. By River: Another unique way to reach Chitwan National Park is by taking a river rafting trip. You can start the rafting adventure from Trishuli River or other nearby rivers and reach the park through the river route. This option is recommended for adventure enthusiasts and those looking for a different experience.
Once you reach Chitwan National Park, you can explore the park on foot, by jeep safari, or by canoeing along the rivers.