With a staggeringly mammoth, 932 sq kms expanse of the wilds in the lowland of south central Nepal, the Chitwan National Park is undoubtedly one of the most premier drawcards of Nepal. This “World Heritage”–listed reserve constitutes vast stretches of forests, marshland and rippling grassland, and is an abode to sizeable wildlife populations. It is a little wonder why this place is so popular.

(TRAVPR.COM) NEPAL - September 27th, 2015 - With a staggeringly mammoth, 932 sq kms expanse of the wilds in the lowland of south central Nepal, the Chitwan National Park is undoubtedly one of the most premier drawcards of Nepal.  This “World Heritage”–listed reserve constitutes vast stretches of forests, marshland and rippling grassland, and is an abode to sizeable wildlife populations. It is a little wonder why this place is so popular.

Literally connoting the ‘heart of the jungle’, Chitwan is famous as one of the best wildlife-viewing national parks in Asia. Enjoy the excellent opportunity to witness array wildlife like One Horned Rhino, Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopards, Sloth Bear, Deer etc. including some 544 species of birds. It is worth mentioning that some of these animals and birds are at the verge of extinction.

Sadly, Chitwan lost many animals during the decade-long insurgency in Nepal when the army had to be deployed to contain the conflict, subsequently leaving the national park unprotected from the poachers. However, the good news for the animal enthusiasts is that the recent census figures show a significant surge in the population of one horned rhinos and tigers.

The best option for experiencing Chitwan National Park is to stay in one of the luxury lodges located on the edge of the park away from the crowds at Sauraha. The government stopped the luxury lodges from operating inside the park in 2012. Most of these lodges have developed alternative lodges just outside the national park boundaries. Though this experience come at a fairly hefty cost, the sense of adventure, less crowding and access to more remote parts of the park make it very worthwhile.

With that said, most budget travelers opt for the more affordable lodging in Sauraha, a tourist village on the northern bank of the Rapti River bordering the park. Sauraha has a lively backpacker scene; it is absolutely relaxing to sip your favorite drink while you witness the fascinating milieu of the park, especially the sunset!

One should be modest about spending at least 3 days in order to make the most of the stay. Besides spotting the wildlife, getting acquainted to the very unique, “Tharu culture” is actually going to be an extra perk. After a sizzling adventure in the jungle during the day, witnessing an enticing “Tharu cultural show” in the evening would be a welcome diversion. It would not be an overstatement to say that the Chitwan National Park is indeed a Mecca for jungle adventure.

http://marrontreks.com/itinerary/148/chitwan-wild-life-safari-06-days.html

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