Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour

Covering 952 square kilometers of pristine subtropical lowland sal forests, elephant grass marshes, and riverine floodplains, Chitwan National Park is recognized as one of the best-managed wildlife conservation sanctuaries in all of Asia. Established in 1973 as Nepal's first national park and designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984, Chitwan is a sanctuary for some of the world's rarest species.

The Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour offers an unforgettable 3-day encounter with raw nature. Climb aboard an open 4WD safari jeep venturing deep into the core jungle zones where Greater One-horned Rhinoceros graze freely, wild boars forage, spotted deer leap across trails, and with patience and luck, the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger may be sighted patrolling its territory.

Glid gently down the tranquil Rapti River in a traditional wooden dugout canoe, watching marsh mugger crocodiles sunning themselves on sandbanks and slender fish-eating Gharial crocodiles gliding through the water. Meet resident naturalists for guided birdwatching, visit the Elephant Breeding Center, and immerse yourself in the rich ethnic heritage of the indigenous Tharu community through village walks and cultural fire performances.

Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros on the Rapti Riverbank

Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

Deep open-top 4WD jeep safari through Chitwan National Park tracking Greater One-horned Rhinoceros and tigers.

Serene dugout canoe journey along the Rapti River observing Marsh Mugger and critically endangered Gharial crocodiles.

Educational visit to the Government Elephant Breeding Center and learn about conservation initiatives.

Guided walking nature safari accompanied by experienced resident wildlife naturalists and trackers.

Early morning birdwatching tour in an avian paradise boasting over 540 species of residential and migratory birds.

Cultural tour of an indigenous Tharu village and evening performance of traditional Tharu stick and drum dance.

Full-board resort stay with all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) included right on the jungle periphery.

Trail Logs & Itinerary

Trekking Day Max Elev: 415 m / 1,362 ft

Morning pickup from your hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara in a private vehicle. Enjoy a 5-hour scenic drive descending into the tropical Terai lowlands to Chitwan. Arrive at your luxury safari resort, receive a refreshing welcome drink, and attend a briefing by the senior naturalist. In the afternoon, enjoy an ox-cart ride or walking tour through an authentic Tharu village. Gather along the banks of the Rapti River for sunset drinks, followed by an energetic Tharu cultural stick dance and dinner.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 415 m / 1,362 ft

After breakfast, embark on a peaceful dugout canoe ride on the Rapti River, spotting swimming gharials, marsh muggers, and exotic water birds (kingfishers, egrets, storks). Step ashore for a guided nature walk through the jungle with armed naturalists. Visit the Elephant Breeding Center. After lunch, head out for the premier 4-hour open 4WD jeep safari deep into the park to track rhinos, deer, sloth bears, and wild boars.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 415 m / 1,362 ft

Begin the day early with a specialist birdwatching walk through the riverine forest and grasslands as the jungle awakens. Return to the resort for a hearty breakfast. Pack your bags and board your private vehicle for the return journey back to Kathmandu or onward to Pokhara.

Peaceful Dugout Canoe Safari and Gharial Crocodile on Rapti River

Inclusions

Private air-conditioned vehicle for roundtrip transportation from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Chitwan
2 nights accommodation at a deluxe wildlife safari resort on twin-sharing
All meals included: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, and 2 Dinners (Full Board)
4WD open-top jeep safari in Chitwan National Park
Traditional dugout canoe ride along the Rapti River
Chitwan National Park entrance permits and community forest fees
Licensed professional English-speaking wildlife naturalist guide and tracker
Tharu cultural village tour and evening cultural dance performance ticket
All government taxes, VAT, and official service charges

Exclusions

Personal bar bills, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks
Personal travel, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance
Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, souvenirs)
Tips and gratuities for safari naturalist, drivers, and resort staff

Frequently Asked Questions

How likely are we to see a One-horned Rhinoceros in Chitwan?

Extremely high. Chitwan is home to over 690 One-horned Rhinos, and sightings on our jeep safaris and river trips are virtually guaranteed throughout the year.

Is it safe to walk in the jungle during the nature walk?

Yes. All jungle walks are led by two highly trained, experienced national park naturalists who know animal behaviors, alarm calls, and territory boundaries intimately.

What colors should I wear on safari?

We recommend wearing neutral, earthy colors such as khaki, beige, olive green, or brown. Bright colors (such as red, yellow, or white) can startle wild animals and make sightings more difficult.