Day 1 – Arrival in Chitwan National Park
Located in the Terai – the subtropical lowlands of Nepal – Chitwan is home to several deer species, mugger crocodiles, wild elephants and over 500 species of bird. It is also one of the best places to spot the elusive Asian rhino in the wild.
You’ll stay in a lodge on the edge of the park, run in collaboration with the local Tharu. When you arrive we’ll arrange an orientation walk through Tharu farmland and tall elephant grass. Meet a local family for tea, enjoy sunset views over the jungle, and return to the lodge for dinner. In the evening, there’s a Tharu cultural performance of traditional music and dance.
Days 2 & 3 – Explore Chitwan & departure
Chitwan National Park is incredible at dawn when the early morning light sweeps across the plains and shimmers on the rivers. You’ll head out early this morning on a wooden canoe trip along the Rapti River, drifting quietly past riverbanks where crocodiles often bask in the morning sun.
Afterwards, you’ll continue on foot with a guided jungle walk, following narrow forest trails and crossing open plains of tall elephant grass. Keep your eyes and ears open as you walk – this is prime rhino territory.
Later, we’ll arrange a jeep safari deeper into the park, giving you the chance to explore Chitwan’s lakes, forests and wide grasslands. Along the way, you may spot rhinos, sloth bears, deer and, if luck is on your side, even a tiger.
The next day you’ll pack things and move on to your next destination after breakfast
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Chitwan jungle & rhinos - In Style accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we have an alternative option available for your accommodation. In Chitwan, our In Style lodge sits on the edge of the national park, surrounded by forest and grassland, overlooking the Rapti River. The spacious thatched cottages blend modern comfort with natural materials. When you’re not out exploring you can relax in the open-air lounge, on the riverside deck or beside the infinity pool. If you would like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-size trip select our In Style option below.
Overnight in the jungle with the Tharu
Chitwan National Park is not only home to Nepal’s jungle with elephants, rhinos, crocodiles, colorful birds and monkeys, but also the habitat of the traditional Tharu Tribe. This population, with its own language and customs, knows the secrets of the Nepalese jungle like no other. We will arrange for you to spend some time connecting with the Tharu. You’ll learn more about their food and daily lives and explore the jungle at dawn. Accommodation for the night will be in a Tharu jungle tower high above the ground. It’s very basic however it’s all you’ll need for a good night’s rest.
Overnight in the jungle with the Tharu is a special extension that offers a unique, immersive insight into the life of the locals.