Chitwan National Park Wildlife Safari Tour
- 3 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
We guide you through the dense Terai forests and Rapti River banks to encounter rhinos, birds, and Tharu culture.
At a glance
Trip overview
Our three-day Chitwan National Park tour takes you into the subtropical lowlands of the Terai region in southern Nepal. This protected wildlife sanctuary preserves some of the last remaining populations of single-horned rhinoceroses, Royal Bengal tigers, and marsh muggers in their natural habitat. We designed this itinerary to balance active wildlife tracking with local cultural immersion.
We lead our journeys with experienced naturalist guides who share deep knowledge of the park's complex ecosystem. Beyond the flora and fauna, we spend time within local Tharu villages to understand their agrarian traditions and community heritage. We strictly adhere to ethical wildlife tourism practices, excluding all forms of captive animal entertainment from our operations.
This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed yet immersive nature experience without the physical demands of high-altitude trekking. Days involve gentle walking, river canoeing, and open-vehicle safaris under the guidance of our local experts. Comfortable hotel accommodation and full board meals are provided throughout your stay in the park.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Rapti River Sunsets
We watch the sun sink below the horizon from the grassy banks of the Rapti River.
Terai Wildlife
Our naturalist guides help you spot one-horned rhinos, deer, and diverse bird species.
Tharu Village Culture
We visit indigenous Tharu settlements and attend traditional evening dance performances.
River Canoeing
We paddle wooden dugout canoes down the Rapti River to observe aquatic reptiles and water birds.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park
Meals: B
Day 1
Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park
Meals: B
We depart Kathmandu in the morning aboard a comfortable tourist bus, following the highway south through the middle hills before descending into the flat plains of the Terai. Upon arrival at Chitwan, our team settles you into your hotel and provides a comprehensive briefing on our upcoming wildlife activities.
In the late afternoon, we walk through a nearby Tharu village to observe daily rural life and visit the National Park Visitor Centre. We end our first day by watching the sunset over the Rapti River, followed by an evening cultural performance and dinner.
Day 2
Chitwan Jungle Safari and River Canoeing
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Chitwan Jungle Safari and River Canoeing
Meals: B / L / D
Today is dedicated entirely to exploring the park's diverse habitats on foot, by boat, and by jeep. We embark on a morning canoe trip along the Rapti River to search for marsh mugger crocodiles and gharials basking on the mudbanks.
Our afternoon features a shared jeep safari into the deeper sections of the forest, accompanied by a specialized naturalist guide. We traverse tall elephant grass and Sal tree woodlands to track large mammals and observe resident birdlife.
Day 3
Chitwan to Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 3
Chitwan to Kathmandu
Meals: B
We enjoy a final breakfast at our hotel before heading to the Chitwan bus station. We board the return tourist bus to Kathmandu, arriving back in the capital after a journey of approximately five to six hours.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Two nights of hotel accommodation in Chitwan
- Full board meals during your stay in Chitwan
- Round-trip tourist bus transport between Kathmandu and Chitwan
- Experienced English-speaking naturalist guide
- Chitwan National Park entry permit and activity fees
- Shared jeep safari and canoe ride
Not included
- Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Personal expenses and tips for guides
- Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation
Before you go
Good to know
Ethical wildlife policy
We strictly prohibit elephant riding, elephant bathing, and any interaction with captive wild animals. We believe in observing wildlife strictly in their natural habitats without human interference.
What to pack
Bring lightweight, neutral-colored clothing for daytime safaris, along with a fleece or light jacket for cooler evenings. Insect repellent, binoculars, and a sun hat are essential items for the Terai climate.
Fitness expectations
This is a relaxing tour requiring no strenuous physical exertion. Activities involve short nature walks and sitting comfortably in vehicles and boats.
Best season
We operate this tour throughout the autumn, winter, and spring months when weather conditions remain stable and dry.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Lightweight hiking trousersEssential
Clothing
Comfortable for walking and jeep rides.
Long-sleeve cotton shirtsEssential
Clothing
Protects against sun and mosquitoes in neutral tones.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Footwear
Suitable for nature walks.
Sun hat and sunglassesEssential
Clothing
For protection against the Terai sun.
Insect repellentEssential
Safety
Necessary for evening and jungle activities.
Binoculars
Safety
Recommended for bird and wildlife viewing.
PassportEssential
Documents
Required for hotel check-in and park permits.
Light jacket or fleeceEssential
Clothing
Needed for chilly mornings and evenings.
Paperwork
Permits & paperwork
We arrange
Handled in Kathmandu — nothing for you to do.Chitwan National Park Entry Permit
PermitMandatory park conservation entry fee collected for all visitors.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is elephant riding included in the tour?
No. We maintain a strict ethical policy against elephant riding, bathing, and any captive animal entertainment.
What wildlife can we expect to see?
Common sightings include one-horned rhinoceroses, spotted deer, wild boars, marsh crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Tigers are present but rarely seen.
How long is the bus journey from Kathmandu?
The tourist bus ride between Kathmandu and Chitwan takes approximately five to six hours each way, depending on road conditions.
What kind of clothing should we bring?
Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a sun hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent for the jungle environment.
Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided during your stay in Chitwan.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the relaxed pace and low physical demands make this an excellent trip for families and travelers of all ages.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 3 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
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