Introduction
The UNESCO World Heritage site, Chitwan National Park, is among the most thrilling wildlife destinations in Nepal. Situated in the Terai subtropical lowlands, the national park boasts an incredible biodiversity that attracts nature enthusiasts and adventure travelers to the area. It covers 952.63 square kilometers of land and is Nepal‘s first national park, founded in 1973 A.D. to conserve its unique ecosystem. The park boasts dense jungles, expansive grasslands, and a just plain mind-boggling variety of wildlife, some of the world‘s rarest species included.
If you’re planning a visit, here are the top things to do in Chitwan National Park to make your trip unforgettable.
Activities to do in Chitwan National Park
1. Embark on a Jungle Safari
The specialty of any trip to Chitwan National Park is a jungle safari. You move along the open grasslands and dense forests via jeep or perched on top of an elephant.
As you make your way deeper into the park, take a look at the exclusive one-horned rhinoceros, rare Bengal tiger, leopards, and sloth bears. The safari offers a unique opportunity to spot these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat and is an experience worth trying out for nature lovers.
2. Canoeing on the Rapti River
For a peaceful experience, take a canoeing excursion along the Rapti River. This peaceful ride allows you to see other water animals and exotic birds such as kingfishers, regrets, and storks. Other animals located inside the river are the gharial crocodile and marsh mugger crocodile, which are classified as endangered. For a scenic experience, take a canoe trip at sunrise or sunset and see the picturesque scenery of the landscape of the park, a perfect place for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts.
3. Bird Watching in the Middle of Nature
Chitwan National Park is a dream destination for an ornithologist with over 500 species in the area. Be an expert ornithologist, or if you simply love birds, go on a guided birdwatching tour to expose you to endangered and vibrant bird species like the Bengal florican, the giant hornbill, and the paradise flycatcher. Bird is best enjoyed early in the morning when the jungle comes alive with chirps and flying wings.
4. Visit the Tharu Cultural Village
A visit to the Tharu community will give you an insight into the indigenous culture of the region. The Tharus have lived alongside the jungle for centuries, and their songs, dances, and traditions are a reflection of their way of life. You can visit traditional mud houses, enjoy local food, and experience the world-famous Tharu stick dance, a lively performance narrating tales of courage and village life.
5. Taste and flavors of Chitwan
No visit to Chitwan is ever complete without experiencing its native cuisine. Try traditional Tharu food such as Bagiya (rice dumplings, steamed), Ghonghi (snail curry), and anadi rice roti. Fresh fish from the Rapti River is available from the homestays and native restaurants, either grilled or curried to order. A nice, refreshing drink includes sugarcane juice and rice wine native to the region. These foods offer a true taste of Chitwan‘s rich culture and cuisine.
Plan Your Trip Ahead
To make the most of your trip to Chitwan National Park, here are some tips:
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Chitwan is from October to March. This is when the weather is pleasant and the chances of spotting wildlife are higher.
Accommodation: Choose from a range of luxury resorts, eco-lodges, and cheap homestays.
Permits and Fees: Chitwan National Park entrance permits are required and can be bought at the gate.
Packing Essentials: Bring light clothes for the day, warm clothes for the evening, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and a camera to capture a shot of the wildlife.
Guided Tours: It is recommended to take a local guide to gain a better experience of the flora and fauna.
Conclusion
Chitwan National Park is a haven of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Something can be found here for everyone, whether an adventure seeker wishing to embark on an exciting safari or a nature enthusiast wishing to seek tranquility. Make sure to plan your trip well, be compassionate to the animals, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this incredible national park. Your visit to Chitwan will certainly be a trip to recall.
Read More: https://nlrfnepal.org/unveiling-the-hidden-cultural-sites-around-kathmandu/
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