Chitwan safari

Chitwan Jungle Safari

2 Nights and 3 Days Wildlife Package

Experience Nepal beyond the mountains with an exciting two-night, three-day journey to Chitwan National Park. This package is ideal for Gap Bridge Nepal volunteers who want to add a wildlife and cultural experience before or after their volunteer programme. It is also available as a standalone travel package.

Chitwan National Park is one of Nepal’s most important protected areas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its forests, grasslands, rivers, and wetlands provide a natural habitat for one-horned rhinoceroses, deer, crocodiles, monkeys, wild elephants, sloth bears, leopards, Bengal tigers, and many species of birds.

Wildlife sightings depend on nature, the season, weather, and luck, so sightings of particular animals cannot be guaranteed.

Package Highlights

  • Scenic overland journey from Kathmandu to Chitwan
  • Two nights’ accommodation near Chitwan National Park
  • Guided jeep safari inside the national park or buffer-zone forest
  • Traditional canoe trip on the Rapti River, subject to river conditions
  • Guided jungle and nature walk
  • Birdwatching with a local nature guide
  • Visit to a local Tharu community
  • Tharu cultural dance performance
  • Opportunity to observe rhinoceroses, deer, monkeys, crocodiles, and birds
  • All meals during the stay in Chitwan
  • Suitable for volunteers, students, families, and independent travellers

Package Overview

Duration: 3 days and 2 nights
Starting point: Kathmandu
Finishing point: Kathmandu
Destination: Sauraha, Chitwan
Accommodation: Tourist-class jungle resort or hotel
Meals: Two breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners
Transportation: Tourist bus or private vehicle
Activities: Jeep safari, canoeing, jungle walk, birdwatching, village tour, and cultural programme
Best time: October to May
Availability: Throughout the year, subject to weather, park regulations, and river condition

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Travel from Kathmandu to Chitwan

You will leave Kathmandu in the morning and travel towards Chitwan by tourist bus or private vehicle. The journey follows the Trishuli River and passes through hills, small towns, farmland, and rural communities.

Upon arrival in Sauraha, a representative from the hotel or jungle resort will welcome you and assist with check-in. Lunch will be served at the hotel.

During the afternoon, you will join a guided walk through a nearby Tharu village. The Tharu people are among the Indigenous communities of Nepal’s southern plains. The visit provides an opportunity to learn about their traditional houses, farming practices, customs, daily life, and relationship with the surrounding forests.

Later, you may walk to the Rapti River for sunset views. In the evening, you will attend a Tharu cultural programme featuring traditional music and dance.

Day 1 Schedule

  • Morning departure from Kathmandu
  • Scenic drive to Chitwan
  • Arrival and welcome refreshments
  • Hotel check-in and lunch
  • Tharu village and cultural orientation walk
  • Sunset visit near the Rapti River, time permitting
  • Tharu cultural dance performance
  • Dinner at the hotel

Driving time: Approximately 6–8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions
Accommodation: Tourist-class hotel or jungle resort
Meals included: Lunch and dinner

Day 2: Full-Day Jungle Safari Experience

After breakfast, you will begin a full day of nature and wildlife activities accompanied by trained local guides.

The programme may start with a canoe trip on the Rapti River. The traditional canoe journey offers opportunities to observe water birds and crocodiles from a safe distance. Canoeing depends on the water level, weather, and local safety conditions.

After the canoe trip, you may take a guided nature walk through designated forest or buffer-zone areas. Your guide will explain the local plants, animal tracks, birds, and conservation work.

Following lunch and a short rest, you will join a guided jeep safari. The safari travels through forest and grassland areas where wildlife may be observed in its natural environment. Possible sightings include one-horned rhinoceroses, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild boars, monkeys, crocodiles, and various birds. Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and wild elephants live in the region but are rarely seen.

The day’s activities and their order may be adjusted according to park regulations, seasonal conditions, weather, and wildlife movement.

Day 2 Activities

  • Early-morning birdwatching, depending on the schedule
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Traditional canoe trip
  • Guided jungle or nature walk
  • Visit to a wildlife or conservation information centre, if available
  • Lunch and rest at the hotel
  • Guided jeep safari
  • Evening leisure time
  • Dinner at the hotel

Accommodation: Tourist-class hotel or jungle resort
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 3: Birdwatching and Return to Kathmandu

You may begin the morning with a short guided birdwatching walk near the hotel or river. Chitwan is home to hundreds of bird species, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and photographers.

After breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and travel back to Kathmandu by tourist bus or private vehicle.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the package ends at the designated drop-off point. Transfer to Gap Bridge Nepal accommodation may be arranged in advance.

Day 3 Schedule

  • Early-morning birdwatching or nature walk
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Check-out and transfer to the bus station
  • Return journey to Kathmandu
  • Arrival in Kathmandu during the late afternoon or evening

Driving time: Approximately 6–8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions
Meals included: Breakfast

Services Included

The package normally includes:

  • Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Chitwan and return
  • Transfers between the Chitwan bus station and the hotel
  • Two nights’ accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
  • Two breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners
  • Welcome refreshments on arrival
  • Guided jeep safari
  • Canoe trip, subject to river and weather conditions
  • Guided jungle or nature walk
  • Birdwatching activity
  • Tharu village visit
  • Tharu cultural dance programme
  • National park or community forest entry fees for listed activities
  • Services of a trained local nature guide
  • Government taxes and service charges
  • Coordination and support from Gap Bridge Nepal

Services Not Included

The following are normally not included:

  • International flights
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Meals during the journeys between Kathmandu and Chitwan
  • Bottled drinks, snacks, and additional food
  • Personal travel and medical insurance
  • Medical treatment or emergency transportation
  • Single-room supplement
  • Private transportation unless specifically requested
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, shopping, and telephone calls
  • Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
  • Activities not mentioned in the confirmed itinerary
  • Additional expenses caused by road closures, weather, illness, strikes, natural events, or other circumstances beyond our control

Accommodation

Participants will stay in a comfortable tourist-class hotel or jungle resort in or near Sauraha. Standard accommodation is provided on a twin-sharing basis.

Rooms normally include:

  • Private bathroom
  • Comfortable beds
  • Fan or air conditioning, depending on the selected hotel and room category
  • Wi-Fi in the hotel’s main areas or rooms
  • Hot and cold water
  • Restaurant facilities

A private single room or upgraded resort can be arranged for an additional charge. Hotel facilities will be confirmed at the time of booking.

Meals

The package includes meals from lunch on the first day until breakfast on the third day. Hotels generally serve a combination of Nepali, Indian, and continental food.

Vegetarian meals are widely available. Participants should inform Gap Bridge Nepal in advance about allergies, dietary restrictions, or special requirements.

Wildlife and Nature Activities

Jeep Safari

The jeep safari provides an opportunity to explore forest, grassland, and wetland habitats. A trained guide accompanies the activity and explains the area’s plants, animals, birds, and conservation efforts.

Wild animals must be observed quietly and from a safe distance. Participants must follow the guide’s safety instructions throughout the safari.

Canoe Trip

The canoe journey generally takes place on the Rapti River. Participants may see crocodiles, kingfishers, herons, storks, and other water birds.

The activity may be cancelled or replaced when river conditions are unsuitable.

Jungle Walk

The guided jungle or nature walk introduces participants to the park’s smaller plants, insects, birds, animal tracks, and ecosystem. The route is selected according to local safety conditions.

Birdwatching

Chitwan is an excellent birdwatching destination. Early morning is usually the best time to observe local and migratory species.

Tharu Cultural Experience

The Tharu village walk and cultural performance provide an introduction to the history, lifestyle, architecture, music, and traditions of the local community.

Health and Safety

Participants must follow all instructions provided by the nature guide and park authorities.

For a safe and comfortable visit:

  • Remain with the guide during all activities
  • Do not approach, feed, or disturb wildlife
  • Keep noise to a minimum during wildlife observation
  • Do not leave the jeep without permission
  • Wear comfortable, neutral-coloured clothing
  • Use suitable walking shoes
  • Carry insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat
  • Drink sufficient safe water
  • Inform the guide about medical conditions or allergies
  • Keep a safe distance from rivers and wild animals
  • Avoid taking food into wildlife-viewing areas

Travel insurance covering illness, accidents, cancellations, and emergency transportation is strongly recommended.

Responsible Wildlife Tourism

Gap Bridge Nepal supports responsible and respectful wildlife tourism. This package prioritises observation of animals in their natural environment through jeep safaris, guided walks, canoe trips, and conservation-focused activities.

We encourage participants to:

  • Avoid activities that exploit or mistreat animals
  • Never feed, touch, chase, or disturb wildlife
  • Keep the park free from plastic and other waste
  • Follow designated trails and routes
  • Respect local communities and their traditions
  • Ask permission before photographing local people
  • Support locally operated accommodation and services
  • Follow national park regulations and the guide’s instructions

Elephant riding is not included in this package.

What to Bring

Participants are advised to bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Lightweight clothing in neutral colours
  • Light jacket or warm layer during the cooler months
  • Rain jacket during the monsoon season
  • Sun hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Small daypack
  • Binoculars, if available
  • Camera or mobile phone
  • Personal toiletries
  • Personal medication
  • Passport copy
  • Travel insurance information
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Power bank

Combining Chitwan with Volunteering

Gap Bridge Nepal can arrange this package before or after a volunteer placement.

Before Volunteering

Participants may visit Chitwan before beginning their volunteer programme. We recommend returning to Kathmandu at least one day before the placement orientation.

After Volunteering

A Chitwan safari is an enjoyable way to relax and experience another region of Nepal after completing a volunteer programme.

Standalone Package

Travellers who are not participating in a volunteer programme are also welcome to book this package.

Optional Upgrades and Add-On Activities

The following options may be arranged for an additional cost:

  • Private car or jeep between Kathmandu and Chitwan
  • Tourist-class flight between Kathmandu and Bharatpur
  • Upgraded jungle resort
  • Private single room
  • Longer jeep safari
  • Additional night in Chitwan
  • Cycling tour around local villages
  • Additional birdwatching tour
  • Visit to a conservation or wildlife information centre
  • Continue from Chitwan to Pokhara
  • Combine Chitwan with the Poon Hill Trek
  • Kathmandu sightseeing before or after the safari

All activities are subject to availability, season, safety conditions, and local regulations.

Booking Information

To arrange the Chitwan Jungle Safari, participants should provide:

  • Full name as shown on the passport
  • Nationality
  • Preferred travel dates
  • Number of participants
  • Preferred room arrangement
  • Dietary requirements
  • Relevant medical information
  • Emergency contact details
  • Preferred transportation option

The final price will depend on the group size, hotel category, room preference, transportation method, season, and optional activities.

Why Travel with Gap Bridge Nepal?

Gap Bridge Nepal provides flexible travel arrangements for volunteers, students, families, and independent visitors. Our local team coordinates transportation, accommodation, activities, guides, and ongoing support.

Whether you combine the Chitwan Jungle Safari with a volunteer programme or book it as a standalone experience, this short package offers an excellent opportunity to discover Nepal’s wildlife, cultural diversity, and subtropical landscapes.

Explore the Wild Side of Nepal

Add a Chitwan Jungle Safari to your volunteer experience or book it as a separate holiday.

Contact Gap Bridge Nepal with your preferred dates, number of travellers, and accommodation choice to receive a personalised itinerary and quotation.