Chitwan National Park
Nepal
About
Since the days of King George V's hunting parties, things have changed tremendously in this lowland which was classified as a National Park in 1973. Animals that could then be hunted down without much thought are today endangered. However, a few of their species last representatives can still be found within the Royal Ccitwan National Park. It is expected that their numbers will slowly multiply over the years. Inside the 960 sq km park is found one of the greatest wildlife display of Asia. There are three dominant vegetation types, over 50 species of mammals, more 400 types of birds, and as many as 67 different types of butterflies. Nowadays, the Royal Chitwan National Park can be easily visited on all kinds of budgets, and does not require one to possess an adventure oriented mind. A typical day inside the park. Includes early morning jungle walks, elephant rides, dog-out canoe rides and sunset walks. The evening can be spent visiting a Tharu village, where you get a rare opportunity to witness a traditional Tharu dance. Accommodation ranges from basic to luxurious, with almost all the resorts built in traditional styles. They possess solar-heated showers, a well-stocked bar to relax in, and friendly staff willing to share their knowledge of the jungle with you. If spotting a tiger still remains a rare experience, other animals, such as the one-horned rhinoceros, sloth bears, different types dear, monkeys and even fresh-water dolphins, are often and easily seen. The river banks are home to different alligator species such as the 7 m long gharial. Turtles are also found here. Other than the monsoon months (July to September), a visit to the Chitwan National Park is possible at any time of the year. Access to the area is easy as it can be reached by plane or by bus from any one of Nepal's main cities. It's even possible to raft down the Trisuli or Kali Gandaki rivers. The Chitwan National Park provides an escape from the polluted atmosphere and the noise of the big cities, and is a great place to relax in and experience something different a strenuous trek.
