Things to Do in Chitwan

Chitwan, previously a hunting grounds of Maharajas and royalties of British East India Company in the distant past, is now a popular animal sanctuary and UNESCO World Heritage Site. An amazing mix of  jungle safari tourism with magnificent animals, river activities, elephant conservation, local Tharu culture, you are sure to experience a different side of Nepal far from the Himalayas.

Flights Nepal has especially prepared the blog for nature loving thrill seekers planning a get away to green terai lowlands of Nepal. The current Chitwan travel guide include list of all and most adventurous things to do in Chitwan during your stay. 

Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park

The Chitwan jungle safari is the highlight of your trip to Chitwan. The safari in Chitwan is an exploration of the dense forests and grasslands where you get a rare chance to see and click pictures of wildlife in its natural habitat.

Some experiences of the safari include:

• Jeep safaris deep inside the national park.
• Chance to see the one-horned rhinoceros, deer, wild boar, monkeys, and exotic birds.
• Occasional sightings of the elusive Bengal tiger

It is one of the most popular wildlife activities in Chitwan, especially for international tourists. Early morning and late afternoon safaris offer the best chances for wildlife sightings. Additionally the knowledgeable naturalist tour guides here in Chitwan make the experience both safe and educational for first time and repeating visitors.

Canoeing in the Rapti River

For a change of pace which is equal parts serene and fun adventure, Flights Nepal team recommends  you to try canoeing in the Rapti River. Canoe rides in chitwan are made up of traditional hollowed tree barks which glide you silently downstream for views of birds and animals.

• The experience here is vivid because the water is calm, but the banks are alive. Canoe ride offers the best vantage point to see the two types of crocodiles found in rivers here. First one is the fish-eating Gharial with its long, narrow snout, and second is the larger Marsh Mugger crocodile.
• In addition to sunbathing crocodiles on the sandy banks, you will see colourful Kingfishers, deers, and thirsty Rhinos coming for a drink at the water’s edge.

Bird Watching in Chitwan

With over 540 bird species, bird watching in Chitwan is a dreamland for nature lovers and visitors who love birds. From the vibrant kingfisher to the majestic hornbill, the park’s wetlands and forests house the wonderful migratory and local birds. The best spots for viewing birds include Bishazari Tal (20,000 Lakes) and the riverbanks at dawn in the early sunlight of the day. If you are unaware of how to start bird viewing or best spots then  Guided birdwatching tours are also available in chitwan. These guided viewing tours provide high quality binoculars and expert insights. 

• Key Species to look out for while bird watching in Chitwan are the Giant Hornbill, the threatened Bengal Florican, and the Paradise Flycatcher. 
• For a calmer viewing experience the wetland areas near the river are perfect with Storks, Herons, and Ducks fishing or rearing their young.

Tharu Cultural Program: Experience the local tribal lifestyle

Adventure in Chitwan isn’t restricted to viewing animals and indulging with nature. The true experience of Chitwan lies in immersing yourself in the lives of the indigenous Tharu people. These tribal people also known as the “People of the Forest,” in the local languages have called chitwan home for centuries and lived in harmony with the wild life. It is their harmonious living style which has blessed us with such a beautiful tourist destination. 

• Choose to stay in the local village for an experience of authentic sea food cuisine and join them in the evenings bon fire of Tharu Cultural Program. The highlight is the Stick Dance (Danda Nach), a rhythmic and high-energy performance where men strike sticks together in a complex pattern to ward off wild animals and evil spirits. If you live in the village, it’s a bon fire event but if you choose to see it in a theatre of Sauraha, it’s a pay to watch event performed on the stage.
• Try the Nepali escargot called “Ghongi”, a thoroughly cleaned and prepped Snail dish for added thrill and adventure.

Tour of Elephant Breeding Center

We recommend the best for the last to you, probably the key highlight of things to do in Chitwan is visiting the Elephant Breeding Center. It’s one of the few locations in the world where you get to see elephant calves and their mothers living their lives among humans. Best for kids and family tour, the trip with your family here to the educational centre on Asian Elephant  here is best for making memories with your family 

• Choose to watch the elephant kids playing with their mother. For added fun, request the animal carer mahout or your travel company to offer a buffet of fruits to the elephants and their mothers.

Conclusion

Adventurous things to do in Chitwan should definitely be on your travel list as it offers a different picture of Nepal. Enjoy the sightings of wildlife, peace of nature, and indulge in fun activities in Chitwan. For those short on vacation, including this trip on itinerary can be easy with Kathmandu to Bharatpur Flight booking with Flights Nepal