Chitwan National Park
- DestinationNepal
- Duration3 days
- Trip DifficultyRelaxing
- ActivitiesWildlife Safari
- AccommodationHotels
- MealsFull Bord Meals
- Group SizeMin. 1 Pax
- BEST TIMEJan - May and Sept - Dec
Trip Overview
Prepare to be enthralled by the undiscovered adventures and wonders of the Terai region with our Chitwan Jungle Safari tour. This great adventure will be leading you through the dense forest and would help you in realizing and fulfilling dreams of seeing beautiful and marvelous animals in the natural environment. In the jungle, with the fresh air around you, there is sure to be a personal connection with nature and oneself.
The Chitwan Jungle safari tour is the best place to explore adventure-related activities and enjoy culture in Chitwan. You will visit a region that is already on the UNESCO list of world heritage sites and is endowed with many mammals, birds, and reptiles. It may include viewing giant elephants, one horned rhinoceros, or even the royal Bengal tiger in its natural abode. This sanctuary also prides itself in being home to a variety of birds and therefore bird watching enthusiasts will be in for a treat.
The adventure doesn’t end there. You will go for spectacular jeep tours that will give you a look at the inside of the wilderness. Cruise through the various terrains, experiencing the thrill of looking out for the various wildlife species that are found there. Our professional tour guides will guarantee you have a safe and, most importantly, knowledgeable tour around the area’s vegetation and wildlife.
Another attraction to observe during the tour is the elephant breeding farm, through which guests can get acquainted with the work of conservation programs for these incredible animals. You will also be able to go for elephant riding and this only serves to offer another perspective of the jungle from this amazing animals.
Canoeing in on the quiet Rapti River helps spice up the vacation with a bow in water activities. A slow boat ride on the river is also recommended for the view and, with luck, can see crocodiles lying on the shore. These waters are very calm and this could be a perfect environment to meditate and appreciate what nature has to offer.
The element of culture is another important aspect of the tour. A cultural tour of the Tharu Village will give you a feel of the culture and customs of Tharu community. You will be able to see their dancing, singing, and listen to their music, speak with them to know them better and to see how they live nowadays. The Tharu cultural experience makes the overall tour interesting and intellectually stimulating because it opens you to a completely new perspective.
The last thing for your eyes to behold is the mesmerizing sight of the setting sun over the Rapti River as your day culminates with stunning elegance. This Chitwan Jungle Safari tour will not only provide you with a thrilling animal sighting experience but also the amount of passion and spirit of Tharu's inhabitants of Chitwan. It is a product which is exciting in its ability to offer clients an appreciation of the beauty of a destination as well as some of the cultures of the globe. Among the distinct highlights of our tour, we embrace cultural interaction as one of the most vital aspects.
One of the attractions of being taken round the Tharu village is that you get to learn and witness first hand the cultural and traditional way of life of the Tharu people. Here, you also get to observe their cultures as they are practiced and also get a firsthand experience of the lifestyle of the people of the society. Over all the Tharu cultural experience is full of knowledge and charm that enhances your tour.
You will end your days with the splendid view of the sunset over the Rapti River, one of those wonderful memories of the tour. This Chitwan Jungle Safari tour will not only take you close to wildlife excitement but also make you get a closer look of local people’s life and culture. It is an exciting traveling experience that involves getting to see the beauty of nature and the contribution of humans toward shaping its physical landscape.
Highlights
- Kickstart this tour by commencing a drive to Chitwan National Park from the capital city of Kathmandu.
- You will be able to see Terai's life and engage with the people to get a better understanding of their lifestyle.
- Visit the Tharu Village and explore more about their ways of living, their customs, and their traditions.
- Enjoy a cultural dance performance by the cultural dancers of the Tharu community in the Tharu village.
- Take a breathtaking view of the beautiful sunset from the bank of River Rapti.
- Savor the local Nepalese dishes, including Dhal Bhat, which is rice and lentils, among other local dishes.
- Go on a jungle safari and see animals like tigers, rhinos, and an elephant in their natural habitat.
- Go for the exciting Canoeing down the Rapti River.
About The Tour
Tours start with a road trip from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park. This journey provides a great and interesting chance to see the activity of the Terai region, famous for its beautiful nature and homelike rural villages. The drive is enjoyable as one can capture various scenic views and feel energized throughout the journey.
On arrival at Chitwan National Park, you will be greeted and orientated on the exciting things to expect on the jungle Safari. An orientation session is usually a comprehensive session that provides the necessary information regarding the park, the rules of conduct and safety measures during the stay, and the things that can be seen or done in the park.
After that, you will head to witness the culture of the locals in the Tharu Village. This visit is cultural, which is a beautiful opportunity to meet the Tharu ethnic group, famous for their customs and lifestyle. When you walk in the village, you will be able to discover how the people there live their lives and what they do. In the evening, an exciting Tharu cultural dance is more vibrant and interactive, indicating the Tharu people’s glowing culture.
On the following day after your village visit, you will take a fascinating and stimulating jungle tour. This trip will bring you closer to the central part of Chitwan National Park, and here you are able to see wildlife of all kinds. Be prepared for beautiful and powerful animals like rhinos, tigers, elephants, various bird kinds, and other animals.
After the tour of the intriguing jungle, you are in for an exciting canoeing experience, which will naturally be along the calm Rapti River. This relaxing ride helps to witness the park and animals from a unique angle, thus making the trip even more thrilling.
After such an exciting tour, it is now time to go back to Kathmandu. You will have another wonderful journey back to the capital. This time, you will be able to sightsee and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Nepal.
On the last day of your tour, after having a comfortable night's stay in Kathmandu, our representative will help you reach Tribhuvan International Airport for the departing journey. As you prepare to leave Nepal, you will carry the memories of an unforgettable adventure filled with cultural insights, natural beauty, and exciting wildlife encounters.
Best Time To Explore
Now you may be wondering when is the best time to explore the jungle in Nepal? Let’s discuss that in the following section.
Spring (March-May), Autumn (September-November) and winter (December-February) marks the best time for exploring the wildlife in Chitwan National Park. During spring and autumn, you can enjoy your tour with clear weather and mild temperature. And although exploring the jungle in winter can be chilly, you can still enjoy the tour in clear weather.
Choosing the months of Monsoon (June-August) for this tour is not recommended. The heavy rainfall will make this tour unworthy.
So, didn’t this adventure excite you? Let’s explore the jungle of Chitwan National Park together and witness the wildlife.
Are your tours suitable for families with kids or elderly travelers?
Yes, our Chitwan tours are well-suited for families with children and elderly travelers. We’ve thoughtfully designed this trip to accommodate a wide range of ages and fitness levels, making it ideal for multi-generational travel. Whether you're traveling with young kids, seniors, students, or first-time visitors, our itinerary offers comfort, safety, and flexibility.
- Chitwan National Park provides a variety of gentle and engaging activities that are both safe and educational for children. From wildlife safaris and canoe rides to nature walks and cultural village visits, the experiences are enriching without being physically demanding.
- Transportation is arranged with comfort in mind, and our accommodations are family-friendly and easily accessible. Our experienced guides are trained to work with diverse age groups and are attentive to each traveler’s needs throughout the trip.
- Safety is always a top priority for Nepal Hiking Team. Chitwan is known for its well-managed park environment, making it a safe destination for wildlife viewing and outdoor exploration. We've successfully hosted many families on this tour, and their feedback reinforces how well it suits travelers of all ages.
- If you have specific preferences or would like to make modifications, such as adding extra days in Kathmandu or Chitwan, upgrading transportation, or adjusting hotel options, we are happy to customize the tour.
Alternative Tours
Do you want to look for more option for your wildlife tour? Well, we got you!
You can delve into our Bardia National Park tour package. Previously known as the Royal Bardiya Wildlife Reserve, the tour to this national park will not only take you to explore the wilderness but also takes you to learn the cultures of the Tharu Community. You’ll visit the museum of this community along with witnessing the wildlife in their natural habitat. The interesting fact about this park is that before it was set aside as the royal hunting reserve. Hence, there’s a high chance of encountering the Bengal tiger in this national park.
Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park
We begin our journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park by a tourist bus. The drive takes approximately 5–6 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Upon arrival at the Chitwan bus station, a hotel representative will welcome you with a placard displaying your hotel name. After check-in, enjoy a welcome drink and receive a short orientation about your stay and activities.
In the afternoon, explore a nearby ethnic Tharu village and visit the National Park Visitor Center. End the day with a peaceful sunset view from the banks of the Rapti River.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tharu cultural dance performance or a documentary presentation highlighting Chitwan’s wildlife and conservation efforts.
Overnight at the hotel.
Accommodation includes all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Note: The hotel/resort representative and nature guide will provide the daily schedule and briefing upon arrival.




Day 02: Chitwan Jungle Tour
Today is dedicated to exploring the rich biodiversity of Chitwan National Park. Guided activities may include:
Canoe ride along the Rapti River to spot gharials, crocodiles, and water birds
Jungle walk through the forest in search of deer, wild boar, monkeys, and exotic birdlife
Jeep safari to explore deeper into the park, where you may encounter the rare one-horned rhinoceros and other wildlife
Bird watching and nature interpretation walk with an experienced guide
All meals are served at your hotel, and the evening is free to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Note: Elephant safari is not included. We support responsible tourism and do not promote any activity involving wildlife touching or captivity.




Day 03: Chitwan to Kathmandu
After breakfast, the hotel will arrange your drop-off at the Chitwan bus station for your return journey to Kathmandu by tourist bus. The ride takes approximately 5–6 hours.
Cost Includes
- All ground transportation by tourist bus
- Meal on full board basis in Chitwan
- Accommodation Hotel in Chitwan.
- All jungle and tour activities
- All entry permits, Jungle guide, etc
Cost Excludes
- Foods and accommodation in Kathmandu
- Ground transportation by private car cost USD 200 extra.
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Items of a personal nature
- Tips for jungle guide
Trip FAQS
General
What types of accommodation can I expect during the Chitwan tour package?
For the 2-night, 3-day Chitwan National Park tour with us, accommodations are arranged in comfortable 3-star hotels located in or near the park. These establishments are selected to provide a balance of comfort and convenience, making sure our guests have a pleasant stay while exploring park's natural beauty.
During your stay, the package includes full board meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—served at the hotel's restaurant. These meals typically feature a variety of local and international cuisines, catering to diverse dietary preferences. On the return journey to Kathmandu, only breakfast is included, allowing for flexibility in travel plans.
The 3-star accommodations offer essential amenities such as electricity, hot showers, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning or fans, en-suite bathrooms, a swimming pool and comfortable bedding to ensure a restful night's sleep. Additional facilities may include on-site restaurants, bars, and common areas for relaxation.
What kind of meals are included in Chitwan tour package?
During your Chitwan National Park 3-day package tour, meals are provided at the hotel’s in-house restaurant. You can probably choose from the menu or buffet, which typically includes a mix of Nepali and Western-style dishes.
Expect fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Breakfasts often feature options like toast, eggs, and fresh fruit. Lunch and dinner commonly include Nepali staples such as dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), momos (dumplings), and Tharu specialties like ghongi (snail curry) and patushni (a type of chutney). Vegetarian options are readily available. A variety of drinks, including local beers and juices, are offered; however, please note that these beverages are not included in the package and will incur additional charges.
How will transportation be arranged during the Chitwan National Park Tour?
For the 2-night, 3-day Chitwan National Park tour with us, transportation from Kathmandu to Chitwan is arranged via a comfortable tourist bus. These buses typically depart around 7:00 AM, and the journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The buses are equipped with air conditioning and offer amenities such as mineral water, making the trip pleasant and convenient.
Can I upgrade my transportation option for the Chitwan tour?
Prefer to save time? If you prefer a faster mode of transportation, daily flights are available from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport, which is the nearest airport to Chitwan National Park. The flight duration is about 25 minutes. Upon arrival at Bharatpur.
For added privacy and door-to-door convenience, we can arrange a private vehicle at your request. This option offers flexible departure times, personalized comfort, and a smooth, hassle-free ride directly from your hotel in Kathmandu to Chitwan Hotel.
What is special about Chitwan National Park? What to Expect From the 2-Night 3-Day Chitwan National Park Tour?
A 2-night, 3-day Chitwan National Park tour offers a mix of wildlife viewing, cultural experiences, and thrilling jungle adventures. You can expect jeep safaris to spot rhinos and other wildlife, canoe rides on the Rapti River, visits to Tharu villages, and cultural performances. The tour also includes guided jungle walks, bird watching, and stays in comfortable lodges or resorts.
- Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for jungle and wildlife lovers. Home to rare species like the one-horned rhinoceros and royal Bengal tiger, the park offers a unique glimpse into Nepal’s rich biodiversity.
- Jungle Activities include jeep safari deep into the forest in search of rhinos, deer, monkeys, and possibly the royal Bengal tiger. During the Chitwan National Park package, witness a diversity of exotic creatures, various bird species, and reptiles while on safari. Learn about plants, animal tracks, and insects with trained naturalists.
- Experience the culture of the Tharu people, including their traditional music and dances.
- This 2-night, 3-day safari package is a popular choice for families, student groups, seniors, and nature lovers looking for a well-rounded and accessible jungle experience.
- All activities are conducted under the guidance of experienced naturalists who ensure both your safety and a deeper understanding of the park's ecosystem.
- Following their instructions is essential, especially during wildlife encounters and forest walks.
Is Chitwan National Park Tour Package Suitable for me?
Chitwan National Park tour package is best suited for everyone from family and friends to nature lovers and travelers. Chitwan offers a variety of activities and experiences that appeal to all ages, including wildlife safaris, bird watching, canoeing, and cultural tours. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros, making it a great destination for nature lovers and families looking for a memorable vacation.
- This tour package is perfect for families looking for a safe, fun getaway with wildlife, nature, and culture all in one place.
- Ideal for travelers with limited time who want to unwind in a peaceful environment surrounded by greenery and jungle life.
- A great choice for wildlife photographers hoping to capture rare animals like one-horned rhinos, crocodiles, and Bengal tigers.
- Best suited for bird watchers—Chitwan is home to over 500 bird species, including colorful migratory and local birds.
- If you're interested in learning about endangered species and their natural habitat, this tour offers close encounters in the wild.
- Great for students or educational groups wanting to explore Nepal’s biodiversity and take part in guided jungle activities.
- Seniors will appreciate the slow-paced, guided tours like canoeing, birdwatching, and cultural shows with minimal physical strain.
- Excellent for groups looking to combine adventure and cultural experiences—explore jungle trails, Tharu villages, and river safaris.
- If you're a nature lover who enjoys the sound of birds, open forest trails, and riverside views, this package delivers a full experience.
- With easy access from Kathmandu (by road or flight), it’s a hassle-free trip suitable for all ages and interests.
Is visiting the local Tharu village part of the tour? What can I expect there?
Yes, visiting Tharu village is part of the Chitwan trip. As per our plan, we will take you to ethnic Tharu village on the first day of our trip in the afternoon.
Tharu people lived here a long time, before this area even became a national park. They have their own culture, different dress, language, and food, which are very fascinating to witness. You’ll see their houses, made from mud and grass, very cool inside, no fan needed. Still traditional style.
We go slowly, walk through the village, say hello to people; they are friendly, always smiling. In the evening, there will be a cultural show or a documentary presentation highlighting Chitwan’s wildlife and conservation efforts. They perform Tharu dance — Lathi Nach, the stick dance, very famous. Boys and girls dance with sticks and drums, all in rhythm — you’ll enjoy it, for sure. Sometimes you can join in, just for fun.
If you’re lucky, the local family may offer tea or even a simple meal — roti, curry, things like that. Good chance to sit with them, talk, even with a few words. Don’t worry about language — smile and Namaste work everywhere!
Tharu people live close to the jungle, they know the animals, plants, and weather — they live a very natural life. Simple but strong. You’ll feel good energy from them while interacting with these locals and learning about their history and traditions.
Do your tours support conservation or local community projects in Chitwan?
Yes, our Chitwan tours do support conservation and local community projects — it’s very important for us. We have prepared this tour package apart from showing you the jungle; we’re also trying to protect it and support the people who live here.
First of all, we don’t promote elephant riding — we’re fully against it. We believe in responsible tourism, so we only support places that treat animals right. Instead, we focus on natural activities like jeep safaris, jungle walks, and canoeing — better for both animals and people.
We follow eco-friendly and sustainable practices. That means we work with local and professional tour guides, use lodges/hotels that care about waste and water use, and make sure tourism helps the area, not harms it.
We also support Tharu community projects. For example, we include cultural programs that help preserve their traditional dances, music, and way of life. Many of our guides and staff in Chitwan are from the Tharu community, so your visit directly supports their jobs and families.
We always encourage our guests to try local food — dal bhat, dhido, gundruk — and to buy handmade Tharu crafts like baskets, paintings, and jewelry. It helps small local businesses and keeps their culture alive.
Do you offer responsible elephant interaction activities? Are they ethical and cruelty-free?
Yes, we understand many travelers care deeply about animal welfare — and we do too. That’s why we don’t support elephant riding or any activities that involve cruelty or stress to elephants. Instead, we promote responsible elephant experiences — ones that focus on observation, education, and respect.
Some centers in Chitwan offer elephant walks, where you can walk beside elephants, not on them, and watch how they move, eat, and interact in a natural setting. You might also get to feed them fruits — just simple, respectful interaction — and learn how they’re cared for by their mahouts (keepers). These elephants are not made to perform or carry people. They just live in peace, and you get to observe their natural behavior.
We also encourage visits to the Elephant Breeding Center, which is more about education than tourism. Here, you’ll learn how elephants are raised and trained — not for shows, but for jungle patrol and anti-poaching work. These elephants help protect the forest and reduce human-elephant conflict in nearby villages.
At the same time, we advise our guests to avoid bathing or swimming with elephants. It might look fun, but many times it requires stressful training for the animal. We only support places that put the elephants’ well-being first, with enough space, food, rest, and no forced interaction.
Can I combine the Chitwan tour with other experiences like Pokhara or Lumbini?
Yes, absolutely — you can combine the Chitwan tour with other destinations like Pokhara, Lumbini, or even trekking routes. We offer full customization options based on your travel plans, interests, and schedule.
Whether you want to include a day tour in Pokhara, sightseeing in Kathmandu, or add trekking before or after Chitwan, we can design the itinerary for you. If you already have a plan, just share it — or if you're not sure, we're happy to help create one that fits your needs.
When was Chitwan National Park established?
Chitwan National Park was established in 1973 as Nepal’s first national park. At first, it was called Royal Chitwan National Park and covered 932 sq. km. The park was created to protect animals like the one-horned rhino and Bengal tiger. In 1977, it was expanded to 952.63 sq. km.
It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. A buffer zone was added in 1996 to help local communities. In 2006, the name changed to just Chitwan National Park after Nepal ended its monarchy. It’s now one of the best places in Nepal to see wildlife and learn about nature.
How far is Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu?
Chitwan National Park is approximately 150 km (93 miles) from both Balaju and Thamel in Kathmandu. The journey typically takes around 5-6 hours by bus or a slightly shorter 35 minutes by flight. The road distance from Balaju or Thamel to Chitwan is roughly 150 km.
Good to Know
Cost and Date
Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.
The Chitwan National Park set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the 3 days Chitwan National Park departure dates don’t fit your schedule, we can include alternative dates that better suit your needs.
Media Gallery
Chitwan National Park Photos






Travellers‘ Reviews
Read our genuine feedback from past travelers with Nepal Hiking Team sourced from TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trustpilot.
Great experience on Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek + Chitwan Jungle Safari
- Ganga provided quick and clear answers to all my questions before booking, making the process easy and reassuring.
- The organization by Ganga and his team was excellent—every transfer, from the airport to the hotel, the trek starting point, and onward to Chitwan, went smoothly. Ganga always responded quickly, often within minutes, whenever we had questions.
- The accommodation in Kathmandu (Woodapple Hotel and Spa) was great, with the rooftop restaurant being a real highlight.
- During the trek, our guide Paban and assistant guide Gobinda were fantastic. They went above and beyond to make the trek enjoyable, even helping when one of our group members experienced altitude sickness.
- The tea houses were well-selected, offering comfortable rooms and good food.
- The ACT was accurately described as "moderate to strenuous," and the length and difficulty were just as mentioned on the website.
- The jungle safari was a great addition—our guides did a great job, and I was lucky to see rhinos, crocodiles, and more.
- A minor downside to the trek (not Nepal Hiking Team’s fault) is that parts of the route follow a road, which can be dusty and noisy due to traffic. While it was only 6–8 hours of the total trek, it was still a bit annoying.