Over 68 species of mammals, 544 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, and 126 species of fish thrive in Chitwan's warm, humid region. Local communities blend into this untamed forest while preserving their traditional way of life. And now, these unique and exciting places are open to experience in their raw form for both domestic and foreign travelers with the exotic Chitwan Tour and Jungle Safari.
Highlights of Chitwan Tour
1. Enthralling Canoe Ride
One of the captivating activities during the Chitwan Tour is the canoe ride along the Rapti River. As travelers glide on this smooth ride, they witness the aquatic life in the gentle river as the birds continue chittering in the surrounding hills.
2. Soothing Bird Watching
As you reach the trails bordering Chitwan National Park, the chirping of the birds is no longer distant. From this point onward, you can enjoy the charming sights of over 500 colorful bird species flying aloft and painting the sky with their wings as they pass.
3. Elephant Breeding Center Visit
Khorsor Elephant Breeding Centre, set up in 1985 with 20 elephants, has become a popular tourist attraction in Chitwan. Among only 2 of its kind, this dedicated area has nourished young elephants and provided them with a suitable environment, resulting in over 50 elephants being born and raised to date. Visitors can watch these young and mature elephants and feed them fruits while listening to the guide about the stories of these giants.
4. Crocodile Breeding Center Visit
Similar to the endeavors to reinstate the elephants, the Crocodile Breeding Center of Chitwan aims to protect the endangered species of Gharials. Due to the rapid decline of Gharials in the 1970s, the Government of Nepal established the Gharial Breeding Center in 1978 in Kasara, Chitwan National Park. By visiting this center during the Chitwan Tour, travelers can safely get closer to observing these fearsome creatures and have thrilling experiences like never before.
5. Traditional Village Tour
Not just a diverse nature, Chitwan also presents the centuries-old culture and traditions passed down and preserved throughout generations. With the Chitwan Tour, visitors can gain an insight into the lives of the indigenous Tharu community, their cultural practices, and their unfiltered lifestyles as they coexist with the open wildlife.
6. Tharu Cultural Show
In the evening, some Tharu villages offer cultural performances for visitors. The performances include dances like Lathi Nach and Sakhiya dance, which are prominent during the festivals of Dashain and Tihar and hold great significance for the community. The pacing and rhythmic use of sticks and the movement using peacock customs create a unique dance style that attracts a significant audience to the Chitwan Tour.
Jungle Safari: A Day with the Wild
1. Jungle Walking
The Jungle Walk is the perfect activity for complete immersion in the lush tropical forest of Chitwan National Park. As you explore the designated trails, you can encounter a variety of rare animals, including the greater one-horned rhinoceros, royal Bengal tiger, white-rumped vulture, smooth-coated otter, sloth bear, and many more.
2. Jeep Safari
Chitwan National Park offers two types of Jeep safaris: reserve and sharing. Both rides provide a tour deep into the park that usually lasts 4 hours, during which travelers can get glimpses of various species of animals. Drivers stop jeeps at different layovers or stopovers where travelers can spot animals and take photographs as the guide gives information about them.
3. Elephant Safari
An elephant safari or ride is a great way to get closer to wildlife during the Jungle Safari. Chitwan National Park has many places that a Jeep Safari cannot reach and are too dangerous for a simple jungle walk. The solution to this problem is an elephant safari, which has become a popular choice for observing rhinos and Bengal tigers from as close as a single meter.
4. Tower Night Stay
Tower Night Stay is among the most thrilling activities on Jungle Safari. Watching the mesmerizing view of the sunset from the tower, all carved from the woods, and sleeping in the forest listening to the birds gives a different sense of satisfaction and brings one closer to nature.
Tips for a Safe Adventure
1. Clothing
The tropical region of Chitwan has a humid climate, so travelers should bring breathable clothing with long sleeves to protect from sunburn and avoid insects.
2. Accessories
Since observing wildlife up close is not always feasible, visitors should bring binoculars with a telephoto camera or a good smartphone to take photographs.
3. Personal Care
Sunscreen, insect repellent, and basic first-aid kits are essential items for the Jungle Safari and spending time in the forest.
4. Food and Drinks
Tour guides suggest travelers carry a small backpack with a refillable water bottle for refreshment and dry or pre-packaged snacks in resealable containers to avoid attracting the animals.
5. Cost inclusion and exclusion
Travel agencies include varying items in their packages, making it essential to check the things included and excluded from the package beforehand.
6. Rules and Safety Measures
Travelers must abide by the rules set by officials and respect local customs during their time at Jungle Safari and Chitwan Tour. Additionally, they must strictly follow safety measures that include:
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Stay silent during elephant rides
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Avoid feeding wild animals
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Return to base after sunset
Conclusion
Chitwan, with a wide range of species and dedicated areas for the protection and conservation of wildlife, offers the Chitwan Tour with adventures to encounter exciting landscapes and cultural insights, and the Jungle Safari with a thrilling venture through the wilds of Chitwan National Park to connect to your natural self.
Have you decided to go on a tour of Chitwan and enjoy the alluring jungle safari? Then check out our travel packages for Chitwan that cover all your travel necessities.