Chitwan National park: UNESCO World Heritage Site

UNESCO has designated Chitwan National Park as a World Heritage Site located in the south-central part of Nepal. It was established in 1973 and covered an area of 932 square kilometres. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and the Asian elephant, as well as a wide variety of bird species.

The park is also home to the indigenous Tharu people, who have lived there for centuries. The Tharu people have unique culture, customs, and way of life and have played an integral role in conserving the park’s wildlife and ecosystem.

Chitwan National Park offers a wide range of activities, including jungle safaris, elephant rides, canoeing, and bird watching. The park is also a popular destination for trekking and hiking and offers the opportunity to experience the unique culture and way of life of the Tharu people. The park is also important for research and conservation efforts, with many scientists and conservationists studying the park’s wildlife and ecosystem.

Overview of Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is a well-known popular tourist destination in Nepal and is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. The park is situated in the Terai region of Nepal, in the south-central part of the country, and covers an area of 932 square kilometres.

The national park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephant, leopard, sloth bear, crocodile, and over 500 species of birds. The park also has a diverse range of vegetation, including tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands.

Chitwan National Park is also home to the indigenous Tharu people, who have lived there for centuries. The Tharu people have unique culture, customs, and way of life and have played an integral role in conserving the park’s wildlife and ecosystem.

The national park offers visitors a wide range of activities, including jungle safaris, elephant rides, canoeing, and bird watching. Visitors can also go on guided nature walks and learn about the park’s plants and animals. The park also offers opportunities to experience the culture and tradition of the life of the Tharu people, such as visiting their traditional villages and participating in cultural activities. Chitwan National Park is also a popular destination for research and conservation efforts, with many scientists and conservationists studying the park’s wildlife and ecosystem.

History of Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park has a long and rich history dating back centuries. The indigenous Tharu people have inhabited the area that is now the park for centuries, and they have played an important role in the conservation of the park’s wildlife and ecosystem. The Tharu people have unique culture, customs, and way of life, closely tied to the park’s natural resources.

The national park was established in 1973 and was declared the country’s first national park. Before this, the area was used primarily for hunting and logging. The park was established to protect the area’s unique wildlife and natural resources and provide a space for research and conservation efforts.

In 1984, Chitwan National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing the park’s significant ecological, cultural and recreational values. The park is also part of the Chitwan-Annapurna Landscape, an important area for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

In recent years, the park has faced several challenges, such as the expansion of human settlements, poaching, and habitat destruction. Despite these challenges, the park has managed to maintain a relatively healthy population of Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, and Asian elephants and continues to be an important destination for conservation and research.

Activities of Chitwan’s National Park

The Chitwan National Park in Nepal offers a variety of activities for visitors, including:

1. Jungle safari on elephant back or jeep
2. Bird watching
3. Canoeing and rafting on the Rapti River
4. Elephant breeding centre visit
5. Cultural tours to nearby villages
6. Nature walks and hiking
7. Tharu village tour
8. Visit the crocodile breeding centre
9. Jungle camping and jungle lodges stay
10. Photography
11. Jungle survival training
12. Elephant safari and wildlife observation
13. Traditional Tharu stick dance and cultural show
14. Jeep safari, and many more activities related to nature, culture and adventure.

Here are some popular things to do in Chitwan National Park:

Jungle Safari: Take an elephant or jeep safari to explore the park’s rich wildlife and diverse ecosystems.

Bird Watching: Chitwan is home to over 500 species of birds, which makes it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Canoeing and Rafting: Explore the Rapti River by canoe or raft and spot crocodiles and other aquatic animals.

Cultural Tours: Visit nearby villages to learn about the local Tharu culture and traditional way of life.

Elephant Breeding Center Visit: Learn about the conservation of elephants and see baby elephants up close.

Nature Walks and Hiking: Take a guided nature walk or hike to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

Jungle Camping: Experience camping in the heart of the jungle and spend a night in a traditional thatched roof hut.

Photography: Capture Chitwan’s beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and culture on camera.

Elephant Bath: Take a dip in the Rapti River with the elephants and get up close and personal with these gentle giants.

Cultural Show: Witness the traditional Tharu stick dance and cultural show performed by the local community.

Jeep safari: Explore the park in a jeep; this will give you a different perspective.

Wildlife Observation: Observe the park’s diverse wildlife, including tigers, rhinos, crocodiles, and many birds and mammals.

Where to Stay at The National Park

There are several options for accommodations in the National Park, Nepal. These include:

1. Jungle lodges and resorts: These are located inside the national park and offer a true jungle experience. These lodges offer elephant safaris, jungle walks, and bird watching.
2. Guesthouses and hotels: These are located outside the national park and offer more budget-friendly options. They may also offer activities such as jungle safaris and cultural tours.
3. Camping: For more adventurous travellers, camping is also an option in Chitwan National Park. Campsites are available inside the national park, and camping equipment can be rented or purchased in nearby towns.

Ultimately the best option depends on your preferences, budget and what activities you are looking to do.

UNESCO Chitwan National Park From Kathmandu: How to Get There

There are several ways to get to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu, Nepal:

1. Bus: You can take a bus from Kathmandu to the city of Sauraha, the main entrance to Chitwan National Park. The bus ride takes around 5-6 hours, and buses leave from Kathmandu’s Ratna Park Bus Station.
2. Private car or taxi: You can also hire a personal car or taxi to take you to the National Park. This is a faster and more comfortable option, but it will be more expensive than taking a bus.
3. Flight: There are several flights from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport near the park. From the airport, you can book a taxi or bus to Sauraha.
4. Combination of flight and bus or car: This is another way to reach the National Park, a combination of a flight to Bharatpur airport and then a bus or car ride to the park.

It’s also worth noting that once you are in Chitwan, you will need to take a local bus or hire a jeep to reach the park entrance.

Tips for Your Visit at The National Park

Here are some important tips to help you make the most of your visit:

1. Plan ahead: Research the park’s activities and facilities to ensure you’re prepared for your trip.
2. Bring appropriate clothing: Chitwan National Park has a tropical climate, so bring light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for walking.
3. Respect the wildlife: Chitwan National Park is home to many endangered species, so keep a safe distance from any animals you encounter. Do not try to feed or approach wild animals, and be mindful of the rules and regulations of the park.
4. Take a guided tour: Guided tours are a great way to learn about the park’s wildlife and ecology, and they can also help you spot animals you might miss on your own.
5. Be mindful of your impact: Remember to leave no trace and avoid littering in the park.
6. Do not forget your sunscreen, insect repellent and a hat.
7. Carry your camera and binoculars; you don’t want to miss capturing the beautiful moments.
8. Book your stay in advance, as the park is quite popular and can be crowded.
9. Travel with a local guide; they can give you a better insight into the culture and the people living nearby the park.
10. Get your vaccines done, if required, to avoid any health issues.

Overall, this National Park offers a unique and diverse wildlife experience. By following these tips, you can enjoy the most of your visit and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

FAQ on UNESCO Chitwan National Park

Q: What animals can be found in Chitwan National Park?
A: Chitwan National Park is home to various wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, Asian elephant, sloth bear, gaur, and several species of deer and monkey. The park is a popular destination for birdwatching, with over 450 species of birds found within its boundaries.

Q: How can I visit Chitwan National Park?
A: Visitors can reach Chitwan National Park by bus or jeep from Kathmandu, Pokhara, or other nearby cities. The park can also be reached by air, with regular flights from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport. Once in the park, visitors can participate in various activities such as jungle safari, elephant rides, bird watching, and canoeing.

Q: When is the best season to visit Chitwan National Park?
A: The best time to visit Chitwan National Park is between September and November when the weather is dry and mild, and the animals are more active. However, the park can also be visited during other times of the year, depending on the visitor’s interests.

Q: Is it safe to visit UNESCO Chitwan National Park?
A: Chitwan National Park is considered safe for visitors. The park has well-trained staff and guides who are experienced in leading visitors on safari tours and have a good safety record. However, visitors should be aware that they are entering a wild area and should take the necessary precautions to stay safe, such as not wandering off on their own and following the instructions of the park staff.