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Chitwan National Park
By arrna Published: 07/31/2010
Wild roars of tigers, chirping of jungle birds, soothing breeze and the splashing ripples of the river Rapti... a visit to the Chitwan National Park may sound like a dream and you have to visit the park to believe it.
Fast Facts
Location - 120 km South West Of Kathmandu, Nepal
Area Coverage - 932 sq km
Major Wildlife - One-Horned Rhino, Royal Bengal Tiger
Temperature - Max- 34°C & Min- 1°C
Best Time to Visit - From October to February
Nearest Access - Bharatpur
Striking Features
There are more than 43 species of mammals, over 450 species of birds, and more than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles in the park.
One of the most important sub-tropical parks in Indian sub-continent.
More than 43 mammal species, 450 bird species, and more than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles.
Known for diversity of eco-systems. Within the park are Churia hills, ox-bow lakes, and the flood plains of Rapti, Reu and Narayani rivers.
Fauna and Flora
Mammals
There are more than 50 species of mammals in the park. The park is famous for conservation of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, tiger, gharial, gaur, wild elephant, four horned antelope, striped hyena, pangolin, Gangetic dolphin, monitor lizard, and python. Some other animals found in the park are sambar, chital (deer), hog deer, barking deer, sloth deer, common leopard, ratel, palm civet, wild dog, langur and rhesus monkeys.
Amphibians
More than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles live in the park, more famous of which are the marsh crocodile, cobra, green pit viper and various species of frogs and tortoises.
Birds
There are more than species of birds in the park. Counted among the endangered birds are the Bengal florican, giant hornbill, lesser florican, black stork and white stork. Few common birds are peafowl, red jungle fowl, and different species of egrets, herons, kingfishers, flycatchers and woodpeckers. The best time for watching birds is in March and December.
Flora
One fifth of the park is comprises the floodplain of the Narayani, Rapti and the Reu Rivers. It is covered by dense Elephant grass interspersed with forests of silk cotton (Kapok), Acacia and Sisam trees.
Adventure Activities
Watching the wonders of Nature
Watching unique birds and animals from atop an elephant can be quite exciting. Here is a list of activities that can make your trip to the Royal Chitwan National Park more memorable.
Canoeing
Canoeing on Chitwan rivers is an excellent way of seeing waterfalls. The park's dolphins and crocodiles, however, are seldom seen. The high temperatures experienced in the park make bathing in the river an attractive pastime. Water-holes are also lure for a swim. Watching the elephants showering is very interesting.
Elephant Tracking
Elephant rides is a major Chitwan attractions. Wild boar, red deer and other creatures of the jungle can be seen, in the morning and evening especially, from from atop the tall pachyderms. One more advantage is that rhinos can be approached without danger. Apart from the animals, luxuriant vegetation and jungle chorus - different sounds in different parts of the day - make the ride a memorable experience.
Jeep Safari
Jungle safaris make it possible to explore the length and breadth of the National Park.
White- Water Rafting
White-water rafting expedition and jungle safari together represent the ultimate adventure. The river trip itself takes two to three days, commencing at or upstream of Mugling and ending in Narayanghat.
Animal Watching from Hides
Apart from safaris on foot and elephant back, hides offer animal watchers another way of getting what they want. Called machans in local language, these wooden towers are usually erected in clearings crossed by game paths. Best time to watch red deer and rhinos is early morning and evening.
Travel Tips
Try to be well informed about the routes of the park
Consult the doctor before you leave for the trip
Do not disturb the animals and birds in the park
Remain in a group
Try to take a guide along with you while exploring the park
What To Bring With You
Binoculars
Sun Hat and Sun Cream
Swim Wear
Light Clothes; Color should blend with natural surroundings
Light sweater or jacket for mornings and evenings during the winter season (Dec to Feb)
Shoes for easy movement
Flashlight
Swiss knife
How To Reach Royal Chitwan National Park
By Road
Move on the Kathmandu-Narayanghat Highway. Then drive on the Pokhara - Narayanghat Highway which takes you to the park.
By Raft
You can raft down the Trisuli River (from Kathmandu) or Seti River (from Pokhara) ro reach the park.
By Air
Regular charter flights are available from Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar (Koshi Tappu), Bhairawa (Lumbini), Nepalgunj (Bardia).
Other National Parks and Conservation Areas of Nepal
· Langtang National Park
· Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park
· Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve
· Mustang Conservation Area
· Royal Chitwan National Park
· Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
· Shey-Phoksundo National Park
· Parsa Wildlife Reserve
· Rara National Park
· Royal Bardia National Park
· Khaptad (Baba) National Park
· Royal Suklaphant Wildlife Reserve
· Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area
· The Annapurna Conservation Area
· Manasalu Conservation Area
· Kanchanjunga Conservation AreaRhinos in Chitwan National Park
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