Nepal is one of the few destinations in the world that’s suitable to host a variety of wildlife species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Some are even on the endangered list and are protected across 12 national parks, 6 conservation areas, 1 wildlife reserve, and 1 hunting reserve.
The packages provided by Altitude Himalaya take you to the two most famous national parks in the country:
- Chitwan National Park: Closer to Kathmandu, comprised mostly of Sal forest, with higher chances of spotting one-horned rhinos, deer, gharials, and sloth bears
- Bardiya National Park: More remote and less crowded, with higher chances of spotting tigers and Gangetic dolphins
Each of these places is unique and has served as a wildlife hub for international tourists for decades. Whether you’re a photographer or simply someone who loves to immerse yourself in the jungle activities, our packages are perfectly suited for every group.
Wildlife Activities Overview
Activity |
Best Time |
Recommended Duration |
Locations |
Jungle Jeep Safari |
February to May |
Two times, 3-4 hours |
Chitwan, Bardiya |
Walking Safari |
February to May |
5-6 hours |
Chitwan, Bardiya |
Canoeing, River/Boat Safari |
February to May |
Two times, 2-3 hours |
Rapti & Narayani River, Karnali River |
Birdwatching |
September to May |
1-2 hours |
Bis Hazari Lake, Bardiya |
Tiger Tracking |
February to mid-April |
2-3 days |
Bardiya, Chitwan |
Elephant Breeding Centre Visit |
September to May |
1 hour |
Chitwan, Bardiya |
Crocodile Breeding Centre Visit |
September to May |
1 hour |
Chitwan, Bardiya |
Elephant Safari |
February to May |
3-4 hours |
Chitwan |
Get to Witness Diverse Flora and Fauna
Nepal is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Its protected areas shelter over 208 species of mammals, 142 species of reptiles, around 900 bird species, and more than 5,175 species of insects, alongside many other endangered animals. In addition, the country boasts over 1,950 species of medicinal plants.
Chitwan National Park, alone hosts over 50 types of grasses, 50 mammals, 525 birds, and 55 species of reptiles and amphibians. Some of the most iconic wildlife found here include sal forests, the one-horned rhinoceros, gaur, Royal Bengal tiger, wild elephant, golden monitor lizard, pangolin, four-horned antelope, python, and others. Birdwatchers have the opportunity to spot the Bengal florican, lesser florican, giant hornbill, black stork, and white stork.
Bardiya National Park, in contrast, is known for its dense sal forests and less-crowded setting. It is home to Royal Bengal tigers, wild elephants, swamp deer, the greater one-horned rhinoceros, black bucks, gharials and marsh mugger crocodiles, as well as the rare Gangetic dolphin. Bird species here include the Bengal florican, lesser florican, and sarus crane, along with various species of snakes, lizards, and freshwater fish.
Wildlife Photography Opportunities
With a wide variety of flora and fauna surrounding you, it’s the perfect opportunity to take out your lenses and capture stunning shots of Nepal’s wildlife. Many of our guests love spending days here, patiently waiting to photograph some of the country’s rare and endangered species.
And it’s not just the wildlife. The natural scenery around you is equally photogenic. Along with filming the creatures in their natural habitat, you’ll also get the chance to observe and understand their behavior up close.
You might like our category: Photograph tours in Nepal
Cultural Insights into Indigenous Communities
The Chitwan and Bardiya wildlife packages offered by Altitude Himalaya also include enriching cultural tours of the indigenous Tharu and Kumal communities. You’ll get a chance to step inside their traditional homes, visit local museums, and enjoy guided cultural village walks.
Your accommodations also feature an evening cultural program that offers deeper insight into the traditions and heritage of the Tharu people. You’ll not only witness their vibrant cultural dances but also have the chance to join in and try out some unique dance moves yourself.
While our packages don’t include local Tharu cuisine, you’re more than welcome to explore and try it on your own.
Optional Add-On: Luxury Experiences
Lastly, you’ll find that our packages are available in both budget-friendly and luxury options, depending on your preferences. You can upgrade your accommodations from deluxe to premium, complete with personalized amenities.
The luxury upgrade also offers the option to privatize your entire experience. This means that even if it’s just the two of you on the tour, your jungle jeep safari and river safari will be fully private. This surely elevates your adventure with personal guides and expert naturalists leading the way.
Now that you’ve got the insights into Chitwan and Bardiya National Parks in Nepal, along with why Altitude Himalaya is the right travel partner for your journey, you may scroll through the different wildlife packages we offer. Carefully check the descriptions to find the one that best suits your preferences. And for booking, we’re just a call or text away!