Royal Chitwan National Park

The Royal Chitwan National Park is a World Heritage Site and Nepal’s best known wildlife reserve. It lies in the lowland jungles - the "terai" - of Nepal, and comprises 976 square kilometres of sal and riverine forest and grassland. It is a magnificent and unspoilt "jungle" environment with a greater variety of wildlife than any other area in Nepal. Over 480 species of birds have been recorded in the park and you can expect to see nearly half of these, as well as many mammals and reptiles which may include Indian Rhinoceros (pictured), Wild Boar, Sambar, Muntjac, Chital and Hog Deer, Rhesus and Hanuman Monkeys, and the Marsh Mugger and fish-eating Gharial Crocodiles. Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear and Gaur also occur, but are seldom seen. You may choose to make your wildlife excursions on foot, by elephant back (below), by dugout canoe or by jeep.