Introduction
Chitwan is located around 170 km from Kathmandu and is a favorable wildlife destination. The famous Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Located in the Terai region of Nepal, this park is home to a wide range of animal and plant species. With over 500 different species of birds, it is one of the best birdwatching destinations in South Asia.
What Makes Chitwan A Favorable Destination?
1. Different Bird Species
Chitwan’s landscape of forests, grasslands, and wetlands creates a perfect habitat for various birds. From rare and endangered species to resident and migratory birds, it park offers a spectacular bird-watching experience for everyone to enjoy.
Some of the most unique birds in Chitwan are
- Bengal Florican—This critically endangered species thrives in the grasslands of Chitwan.
- Great Hornbill—This large, striking bird is frequently seen around the park.
- Lesser Adjutant Stork—They actively forage near wetlands and rivers.
- Grey-headed Fish Eagle—They frequently hunt near the Rapti River.
- Kingfishers—Several species, including the Pied and Stork-billed Kingfisher, brighten the waterways of Chitwan.
- Crested Serpent Eagle—This majestic bird of prey soars over the forests in search of food.
- Asian Openbill Stork—They wade through shallow waters, searching for food.
2. Best Time for Birdwatching in Chitwan
The best time for birdwatching in Chitwan is during the winter months, from October to March. This period sees an influx of migratory birds from Siberia, enhancing the birding experience. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for spotting a variety of birds when they are most active.
3. Experienced Guides and Tour Packages
Chitwan offers several well-organized bird-watching tours led by expert guides who have extensive knowledge of bird species and their habitats. These guided tours significantly enhance the experience by helping visitors identify and understand the behavior of various birds.
Best Bird-Watching Spots In Chitwan
1. Rapti and Narayani Rivers
These riverbanks provide an excellent location for spotting water birds, including storks, egrets, herons, and kingfishers. The lush surroundings also attract raptors like fish eagles and ospreys.
2. Bishazari Tal
Located on the outskirts of the national park, this wetland is a paradise for bird lovers. The rich ecosystem supports a variety of waterfowl, waders, and marsh birds.
3. Open Grasslands
The dense Sal forests provide shelter for woodpeckers, barbets, and flycatchers, while the open grasslands attract species like the Bengal Florican and partridges.
4. Jagatpur and Meghauli
These rural areas outside the main tourist zone offer tranquil birding spots, allowing for uninterrupted bird-watching experiences. Also, they are quieter in comparison to busy places. Additionally, Jagatpur and Meghauli are easily accessible too.
Few Tips for Birdwatching in Chitwan
- Make less noise around the national park: As the national park around Chitwan is filled with wild animals, it’s advised to stay quiet and wait patiently. Animals might get easily startled by noises, so it’s best to stay hidden and quiet.
- Photograph each moment: As birdwatching is a patient game, try to capture anything you see around the national park. Birds are harder to sight, so you might want to make the most of anything you see.
- Follow the guidelines: Hire a guide if needed, and try to follow each rule of the national park’s guidelines. A guide can give you insight into various bird species, which can be pretty interesting.
- Look out for wild animals: Stay notified of your surroundings, as there may be wild animals lurking around the area. The buffer zone of Chitwan National Park is reported to have sightings of tigers, rhinos, and even wild elephants, so be cautious.
- Dress Modestly: You are not allowed to wear any bright-colored clothes inside the national park, so be mindful of it.
You may also like: https://nlrfnepal.org/the-ultimate-guide-explore-chitwan-national-park/
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