Chitwan National Park: Multi-day Trips and Tours from Kathmandu

Step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a few days embracing the incredible flora and fauna of Nepal when you join a multi-day Chitwan National Park trip from Kathmandu.

The national park sprawls over 930 square kilometers of grasslands, marshes and forests and is home to a wide number of plant and animal species, including crocodiles, leopards, owls, sloth bears and even Bengal Tigers.

Here's all you need to know about Chitwan National Park, one of the most exciting multi-day trips from Kathmandu.

How to get to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu?

Chitwan National Park is a natural heritage site located in Nepal’s Terai Lowlands, around 180 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu.

From Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park by car

Although the road distance between Kathmandu and Chitwan National Park is only around 180 kilometers, the drive usually takes between 5 and 6 hours because of traffic and the condition of the road. The most popular, and usually fastest, route to take is along the Prithvi Highway.

From Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park by bus

Tourist buses leave from Kathmandu, near Thamel, every morning at around 7 AM and arrive in Sauraha seven to eight hours later. From Sauraha, which acts as a tourist hub for the region, you can easily take a taxi to the national park.

From Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park by plane

If you are short on time, consider flying from Kathmandu to Bharatpur, which is a town just 16 kilometers away from Sauraha. Several flights leave for Bharatpur Airport each day and the flight time is only around 25 minutes. Once in Bharatpur, you can take a taxi to the park.

Guided tour to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu

Make your way to Chitwan National Park in a comfortable vehicle with a local guide who will handle all your travel arrangements for you. The drive takes roughly 5 hours and you can choose between a variety of different excursions.

How much does the entrance ticket to Chitwan National Park cost?

The entry fees for Chitwan National Park are as follows:

• Foreigners: NPR2,000 (US$15)
• SAARC nationals: NPR1,000 (US$7.5)
• Nepalis: NPR150 (US$1)

The entry fee can be paid at the entrance gate of the park upon arrival.

What is the typical itinerary?

Most guided trips to Chitwan National Park begin with an early-morning pickup from your hotel in Kathmandu. Once you have met your guide and other tour participants, if you’ve opted for a group tour, you’ll make your way out of the city in an air-conditioned vehicle.

After roughly a 5 or 6-hour drive, you’ll arrive at the national park and enjoy a safari where you’ll get to see some of the animals that live here. Canoeing is a popular outdoor activity that is often included in itineraries as are Chitwan village tours.

When you choose a multi-day excursion, you’ll stay at a comfortable nearby hotel where everything will be taken care of for you and all meals will be provided. Once your Chitwan National Park experience has come to an end, you’ll be taken back to Kathmandu.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Chitwan National Park?

Whether you’re looking for an overnight experience exploring the national park or you’re interested in a comprehensive week-long Chitwan National Park tour from Kathmandu, there is an excursion available that is well-suited to your schedule and preferences.

Guided multi-day trips to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu

Guided multi-day trips to Chitwan National Park are perfect for those looking to meet new people as you’ll make your way to the national park from Kathmandu with other travelers. A professional tour guide will lead the excursion and be with you every step of the way.

Depending on which tour operator you choose, you could enjoy a nature walk, jeep safari or canoeing adventure during your time at the national park.

Private multi-day trips to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu

Private multi-day trips are better suited for those looking for a more personalized experience as you and your travel companions will be the only tour participants. Enjoy a customized itinerary as you make the most of your time at Chitwan National Park.

Jungle safaris are a popular inclusion of this type of tour and you can look forward to seeing an array of the park’s most fascinating creatures up close and personal.

Two-day tour to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu

As the drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park is around 5 hours, it only makes sense to choose an overnight tour if you have the time! See more of what the park has to offer and spend the night in a comfortable nearby hotel.

Two-day trips are typically shared group experiences, led by an experienced local guide.

Three-day tour to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu

Three-day tours to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu are the most popular option as they allow you to make the most of your time at the park. You’ll get to experience multiple activities, such as safaris and canoeing, and have more time to relax.

Choose between a private tour or a shared group experience and spend two nights at a comfortable hotel within close proximity to the national park.

Eight-day tour to Chitwan National Park plus Pokhara

See more of central Nepal when you book an 8-day trip that also visits the lakeside city of Pokhara and the major sites of Kathmandu in addition to Chitwan National Park. You’ll stay in comfortable accommodation along the way and gain valuable insight into Nepalese life.

Your experienced guide will ensure that you don’t miss a thing and that you see the best of what the ‘Golden Triangle’ has to offer.

How much does a day trip to Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu cost?

Chitwan National Park tours range in cost depending on the number of days and if they are group or private tours.

Two-day Chitwan National Park tours generally cost around US$130 per person for a group trip that’s inclusive of accommodation and transport. Three-day tours cost roughly US$190 for a group experience and around US$900 for a luxury, private excursion.

Fully comprehensive 8-day tours that visit Pokhara in addition to Chitwan National Park usually cost US$600 per person for a standard excursion and around US$1,000 per person for a luxury experience, which is inclusive of all activities, accommodation and meals.

What will you see and do?

Sprawling over 900 square kilometers, Chitwan National Park is the ideal destination to spend some time immersing yourself in Nepal’s natural landscapes. You’ll see indigenous plants and fascinating creatures and get the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities.

The park is also home to some amazing restaurants if you’re interested in getting a bite to eat.

Wildlife

Chitwan National Park is known for the many animals that call the heritage site home. Some of the animals you can look forward to seeing are toads, frogs, snakes, birds, crocodiles, bears, leopards, tigers and so many more!

Flora

The flora on offer at Chitwan National Park is almost just as incredible as its fauna. Plant lovers will be blown away by the number of species on show, which is estimated to be around 420. This is thanks to the variety of landscapes, including forests, grasslands and marshes.

Outdoor activities

It’s almost impossible to be bored at Chitwan National Park as there is a range of exciting activities on offer, including nature walks, canoeing adventures, jungle safaris, animal encounters and village tours.

What are the opening times?

Chitwan National Park is typically open daily between 6 AM and 6 PM, although these times may fluctuate based on season and demand. Walking within the park is strictly prohibited between sunset and sunrise.

When is the best time to visit Chitwan National Park?

The best time to visit Chitwan National Park is between October and March. During these periods, you'll experience cool and dry weather with temperatures ranging between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. It's also an excellent time for wildlife watching.

Travel tips

• It’s always good to book your trip well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the peak season (October to March).
• Wear neutral-colored clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and pack binoculars, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
• Maintain a safe and respectful distance from animals; do not disturb them or their natural behavior.