Dense jungles, wetlands, a serene river and open grasslands make Chitwan National Park a treasure trove of exotic wildlife. Housing some of Asia’s most beautiful and endangered species, this national park offers a range of safari experiences that lets you connect with nature and its residents in unique ways. Whether you are looking for an exciting jungle adventure or a leisurely, fully serviced glamping-style experience in the wild, there are safaris in Chitwan National Park for everyone.
Here’s a guide to the different types of safaris in Chitwan.
1. Jeep Safari
The most popular way to explore the jungle, a jeep safari is a fast and efficient way to cover more area in a short span of time. You can explore the vast wilderness in an open top jeep that lets you get a 360-degree view. Sightings of rhinoceros, deer, monkeys, and water birds are common during a jeep safar. You can take a full day or a half day safari tour.
Suitable for: All types of travelers, especially families, couples, and adventure seekers.
Average Duration: Half-day (3–4 hours) or full-day (6–7 hours).
2. Breakfast and Lunch Safari
For those looking to spend a full day in the jungle, a breakfast, lunch and safari experiences combine wildlife exploration with a gourmet twist. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the jungle within the grasslands surrounded by nature while you dine along your jeep route. A great way to immerse yourself into the jungle. Meals are often served in scenic areas like the riverbank settings or forest clearings that are safe to stop at.
Suitable for: Luxury travelers and nature lovers seeking comfort and adventure.
Average Duration: 5–7 hours (half-day with meals included).
3. Canoe Safari
A great way to get closer to the river’s wildlife is with a serene trip across the Rapti river or the Narayani river. Step into a traditional dugout canoe and witness Chitwan’s aquatic and bird life on the banks. This safari is best for photographers and those who prefer a slow-paced adventure.
Suitable for: Birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
Average Duration: 1–2 hours.
4. Bird Safari
The perfect way to capture the aviary population of Chitwan is with a Chitwan Bird Safari package. With over 500 species of birds found in the national park, Chitwan is a haven for bird watchers and bird photographers alike. Take a guided experience focusing on species such as hornbills, kingfishers, egrets, and the endangered Bengal florican.
Our resort in Chitwan included a special guided tour for birdwatchers in our Special Birdwatchers Tour Package, curated especially for bird enthusiasts.
Suitable for: Birdwatchers and wildlife photographers.
Average Duration: 2–3 hours (usually early morning).
5. Walking Safari
Take an intimate walk through the jungle as you step foot into the grass accompanied by a trained naturalist. Walking safaris are a great way to understand the jungle ecosystem and get a deeper insight into the animal behavior and plant life. It is also a raw and exciting experience as you get a closer look at the jungle without extra services or vehicles. You can spot rhinos, deer, wild boars and birds, all at eye level.
Suitable for: Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts comfortable with physical activity.
Average Duration: 2–6 hours (short or full-day options available).
6. Horse Safari
Not as popular as the rest of the safaris on this list, however, still a fun and unique twist is to explore the buffer zone of the Chitwan National Park on horseback. Horse safaris are rare but an interesting way to explore the nearby villages as well as it is eco-friendly and a quiet approach during jungle exploration.
Suitable for: Adventure lovers and eco-travelers seeking something different.
Average Duration: 1–3 hours.
7. Oxcart & Village Safari
Enjoy a different type of safari on an ox-cart safari. Ride through the Tharu villages surrounding Chitwan National Park and learn about the Tharu people’s culture, lifestyle, and connection to the land. Watch the daily activities of the villages unfold and occasional captive elephants led by their mahouts passing through. Pass by farmlands, traditional homes and temples of the Tharu community.
Suitable for: Families, cultural travelers, and those interested in local heritage.
Average Duration: 1–2 hours.
Are Elephant Safaris in Chitwan National Park Available?
Elephant safaris were once a popular way to tread through Chitwan’s dense jungles, however, concerns over the elephants’ physical and psychological impact of carrying heavy loads of tourists on their backs has largely eradicated this practice.
While elephant safaris in Chitwan National Park haven’t been banned officially, many organizations and institutions condone this practice and discourage tourists from riding elephants. Instead, tourists are encouraged for more observation-based experiences such as elephant walks.
Choosing not to ride elephants helps to promote responsible tourism and supports a more compassionate relationship with the wildlife in Chitwan.
Conclusion
Chitwan National Park offers far more than just wildlife sightings — it’s a complete nature and culture experience. Whether you’re gliding down the river, cruising through the jungle in a jeep, or connecting with the Tharu community, each safari reveals a new side of Nepal’s rich biodiversity and traditions.
So, on your next trip to Chitwan, choose one (or more!) of these safaris and let the wild heart of Nepal surprise you.
