Nepal is a geographically diverse country that elevates from the lower terai region to the top of the World, Mount Everest, in the Himalayas. From Himalayan expeditions and iconic trekking trails to cultural heritage destinations and rich wildlife of lush forests in the plain land, Nepal offers unique experiences to anyone.
And for one seeking to explore the dense jungle, spot and learn about wildlife, and explore the beautiful culture of the plain land, a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Bardiya National Park can be the best experience. Both Chitwan and Bardia National Parks give you an opportunity to spot endangered species like one-horned rhinoceroses, Royal Bengal Tigers, Gharials, and various other species, including colorful birds and reptiles. The environment, excitement, and experience that Chitwan and Bardia provide you during a safari ensure lifelong memories.
In this blog we explain what you can explore during a jungle safari at Chitwan and Bardia National Park in Nepal. The wildlife you can spot during the safari is the best time, and tips for an enjoyable jungle safari in Nepal are provided.
Why Choose a Jungle Safari in Nepal?
A jungle safari in Chitwan and Bardia National Parks of Nepal gives you a unique opportunity to explore rare and endangered wild animal species. Instead of climbing mountain trails or high-altitude adventures, you go much deeper into tropical forests, wide grasslands, and wetland areas where some of South Asia’s most fascinating animals live.
The effort of Nepal in wildlife conservation and sustainability has helped in increasing the count of endangered species like the One-horned rhino, the royal Bengal tiger, the gharial crocodile, and others. With expert guides who know the jungle, visitors can explore these protected places safely. At the same time you can also learn about how local ecosystems work and what conservation work looks like in reality.
A jungle safari is also an adventure where you enjoy the calm canoe rides, rare birdwatching moments, and explore the jungle.
Best Places for Jungle Safari in Nepal
Nepal is home to 13 national parks and 6 conservation areas covering around 23 % of total land. The purpose of national parks and conservation areas is to protect biodiversity while also promoting sustainable human coexistence. Among numerous national parks and conservation areas, Chitwan and Bardia National Parks are the best places for a jungle safari in Nepal.
Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s first national park, established in 1973 AD, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984 for exceptional biodiversity, a unique subtropical ecosystem, and the protection of endangered species. Chitwan is popular for its easy accessibility or connectivity from Kathmandu and Pokhara and is one of the most visited places for wildlife safaris in the country.
The park is home to numerous animals, including one-horned rhinoceroses, royal Bengal tigers, leopards, spotted deer, crocodiles, sloth bear, wild boars, and monkeys that live in grassland, wetlands, and dense forest.
Bardiya National Park
Bardiya National Park is one of the remote and untouched national parks in Nepal. Bardia National Park is Nepal’s largest national park, located in the western Terai. As the national park is less visited in comparison to Chitwan, the safari feels more peaceful.
Bardia is the best place to spot Royal Bengal Tigers, wild elephants, gharials, and more than 400 types of birds. As Bardiya National Park is peaceful and untouched, it is often chosen by wildlife photographers and those who prefer a safari that feels raw and genuine.
Popular Jungle Safari Activities
A jungle safari in Nepal is not just about exploring through the forest. Many visitors also gain adventurous moments through nature-based activities such as
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Jeep Safari: Explore the inner section of national parks to experience deeper wildlife and improve odds of spotting wildlife closely.
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Guided Jungle Walk: A guided walk with naturalists providing you an opportunity to learn about the plants, insects, animal tracks, and rules of the jungle.
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Canoe Ride: Row slowly along the river while observing crocodiles, aquatic birds, and the river ecosystem.
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Birdwatching: Chitwan and Bardia jungle safaris are a paradise for bird lovers, where they can witness hundreds of birds, including migratory birds.
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Elephant and Gharial breeding: Visit the Elephant breeding center and Gharial breeding center nearby the Chitwan National Park.
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Tharu Village Tour: Get to know the traditional everyday life, customs, and local architecture of the indigenous Tharu community.
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Cultural Dance Performance: Witness the cultural dance of Tharu communities and experience their warm hospitality.
Best Time for a Jungle Safari in Nepal
The best time for a jungle safari in Nepal is during the months of October to March, as these months offer dry and mild weather. As the grasses are short during the season, it improves visibility to spot wildlife. The months from October to November are best for comfortable jeep safaris, nature walks, and canoe rides. December to February provides the best opportunity to spot migratory bird species and animals like Tigers, Elephants, and Rhinos as the grass is short.
Tips for an Enjoyable Jungle Safari
If you are planning to visit for a jungle safari in Chitwan or Bardia National Park of Nepal, following the tips can help you to increase the chance of spotting wild animals while also ensuring safety:
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Follow the instructions of safari guide for safety
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Wear neutral-toned clothes that blends with environment
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Avoid disturbing, threatening, or provoking the wild animals
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Maintain peace and silence
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Carry sunglass, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars and camera
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Stay hydrated and focused on the nearby surrounding
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Wear comfortable shoes
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Be responsible and support environment and biodiversity conservation effort
Conclusion
A Jungle Safari in Nepal gives you an exciting opportunity to witness wildlife, biodiversity, and the peaceful environment of lush, dense forests. Whether you visit famous Chitwan National Park or choose to explore the quiet wilderness of Bardiya National Park, you get unforgettable wildlife moments, natural scenery, and an opportunity to learn about the Tharu people residing in the region.
If you are planning a trip to Nepal, it’s best to mix your Himalayan adventure with a jungle safari for a travel experience that feels truly diverse. Mountain Delights Treks & Expeditions have been providing carefully organized jungle safari tours in Chitwan and Bardiya along with a blend of trekking itineraries to give you an overall experience of the Himalayas to the lowlands of the Terai.
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