Chitwan
National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the southern part of
Nepal. The park covers an area of 932 square kilometers and is home to a
diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is known for its dense forests,
grasslands, and rivers and is one of the best places in Nepal to experience
wildlife.
Chitwan National Park, the first national of Nepal offers a wilderness of rich ecosystem that
includes mammals, birds, reptiles, and water animals of several kinds. It is a little surprise therefore that this is one of the most popular and most frequented
parts of the country.
The park was declared
UNESCO Natural Heritage Site in 1979. The park which includes in its area a part
of the Shivlalik Hills, is covered with deciduous forests overlooking the
floodplains of Narayani, Rapti, and Reu rivers. There are around 600 plant
species, 50 mammals, 526 birds, and 49 amphibians, and reptiles found in the park.
The highlights, of course, are the 500 Asian one-horned rhinoceros and some
hundred nocturnal Royal Bengal Tigers that live in the dense forests of the
park. Sharing home with these are other animals like Rhesus Monkeys, Grey Langur, Deer, Leopards Wild Cats, etc.
The vibrant Tharu Culture is another element that gives Chitwan a unique flavor. There are also sites of religious and historical
importance at Devghat, Pandavnagar, Balmiki Ashram, and Kabilaspur. Chitwan is
easy to reach from Kathmandu and other parts of the country. Daily flights to
Meghauli and Bharatpur are available from Kathmandu. It is also connected
by road to the capital and other major cities in the country.
Elephant Breeding Center, Elephant Safari, Tharu Cultural Dance, Nature Walk,
Bird watching, Canoe Ride, Tharu Village Tour, Jungle Drive and Excursion, Visit
to the Gharial Hatchery Farm, Twenty Thousand Lakes, Sunset Viewing, Churia Hills
Trek, and More.
Some of the
popular activities to do in Chitwan National Park include:
Jungle
Safari - A jungle safari is the best way to explore the park and see its
wildlife. Jeep safaris, elephant safaris, and canoe trips along the rivers are
all popular ways to explore the park.
Bird
Watching - Chitwan National Park is a bird watcher's paradise, and there are
several bird-watching tours available. Some of the popular bird species found
in the park include the Great Hornbill, Bengal Florican, and the Lesser
Adjutant.
Tharu
Village Tour - The Tharu people are the indigenous people of the area and have
a unique culture and lifestyle. A Tharu village tour is an excellent
opportunity to learn about their customs and traditions.
Elephant
Breeding Center - The elephant breeding center in Chitwan National Park is home
to several elephants, and visitors can see the baby elephants up close and even
feed them.
Canoeing -
Canoeing along the Rapti River is a peaceful and relaxing way to enjoy the
park's scenery and spot some wildlife along the river banks.
Chitwan
National Park is an excellent destination for those who want to experience
Nepal's wildlife and nature. The park's diverse range of flora and fauna, along
with its beautiful landscapes, make it a must-visit destination for nature
lovers.
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