Chitwan National Park Safari: Nepal Beyond the Mountains

Swap the snow for the jungle — rhinos, tigers and birdlife in Nepal's steamy southern lowlands.

Nepal is not only mountains. In the steamy southern lowlands lies Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Asia's finest wildlife reserves. It's the perfect contrast to a trek — a few relaxed days of jungle, rivers and remarkable wildlife.

The wildlife

Chitwan is famous for the greater one-horned rhinoceros, which you have an excellent chance of seeing, along with wild elephants, deer, crocodiles and hundreds of bird species. It is also home to the elusive Bengal tiger, though sightings are rare and lucky.

What you'll do

• Jeep safaris through grassland and sal forest
• Guided nature and bird walks
• Canoe trips on the Rapti River
• Visits to local Tharu villages and cultural shows

Best time to visit

The cooler, drier months from October to March are ideal, with comfortable temperatures and good wildlife viewing as the grass is shorter. The pre-monsoon spring is hot but excellent for birdlife.

Combine it with your trek

Chitwan pairs beautifully with a trek or a cultural tour — many travellers add a couple of jungle days to unwind afterwards, or build it into a wider Nepal itinerary with Pokhara and Lumbini.