Chitwan National Park is the oldest National Park of Nepal, established in 1973 and was declared as a World Heritage Site in 1984. The Park covers the area of 952.63 sq km. in the subtropical low land of the inner Terai. It also contains the Ramsar site and located in south-central Nepal.
The Park consists of a diverse ecosystem.
Vegetation
The Park consists of Tropical and Subtropical forest. Sal forest covers about 70% part of the National park and grassland covers about 20% of the Park. You can find 50 different types of grass in the park, including an elephant grass whose height can be up to 8 meters.
Mammals
The Park is home for 68 species of mammals. The major attractions of the National Park are the Royal Bengal tiger and One-Horned Rhino. You can also encounter wild elephant, Four-horned Antilope, Leopard in the National Park. Other habitats of the park are sloth bear, smooth-coated otters, Bengal foxes, wild dog, leopard cat, fishing cat, golden jackals, jungle cat, Yellow-throated martens, crab-eating mongooses and so on.
Birds
Chitwan National Park is one of the best sites for a Bird watcher. A total of 544 species of birds have been recorded in the Park including 22 globally threatened species. Critically endangered species of birds like Bengal Florican, Slender-billed Vulture, White-rumped Vulture and Red-headed Vulture are recorded in the Chitwan National Park. The Park is also a shelter for birds like Grey-headed fish eagle, Siver eared Mesia, Woodpecker, Egrets, Storks, Kingfishers and more.
Reptiles and Amphibians
The National Park is home of 56 different species of reptiles and amphibians. Gharial and Mash Mugger crocodile are two species of crocodile found in Chitwan National Park. The Park is also home for different species of snakes like King cobra, Rock Python and so on.
Things to do in Chitwan National Park
There are many activities you can do in Chitwan National Park. Most of the activities are related to the jungle and local culture. Here is the list of activities you can do in Chitwan.
Jeep Safari
Riding on an open-top jeep into a deep dense forest can be a different experience for a visitor. You can closely observe wild flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
Jungle Walk
Jungle walk with a naturalist can be the best opportunity to experience wildlife. You can get a close view of the wild animals. It is the best option for a bird watcher.
Visit Elephant Breeding Centre
Elephant Breeding Centre was established to protect endangered elephant in the region. You can get various information about the nature and habits of an elephant. You will also get to see several cow elephants and their calves.
Canoe Ride
A canoe ride on a river is best for the view of crocodile and other aquatic creatures.
How to get Chitwan National Park
Chitwan is linked with both road and airlines. You can have 5-6 hours drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan or you can get there from a flight.
Entrance gates for Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park has 9 entrance gets. Shauraha is the most popular entrance for most of the visiter. Other entrance gates are:
-Kasara via Jagatpur
-Ghatgain via Patihani
-Bhimle via Megauli
-Khagandra mali via Bhandara
-Sunachari via Sunachari
-Laukhani via Pargatinagar
-Amaltari via Danda
-Kujauli via Rajahar