Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Chitwan

Chitwan isn’t just about the jungle — it’s a place where wild nature, living history, and local culture meet. Nestled in southern Nepal, Chitwan is where the wild meets the human heart. Beyond the famous jungle safaris, you’ll find sacred temples, sunset rivers, village life, and bird-filled wetlands. This top 10 best places to visit in Chitwan list takes you through the must-see spots and hidden corners — perfect whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family.

Quick Chitwan Travel Facts

• Area: ~932 sq. km (Chitwan National Park)

• Altitude: 100–815 m above sea level

• Wildlife: Over 500 bird species, 68 mammals, 126 fish, and rare gharials

• Best travel season: October–March (cool & dry)

Today, Chitwan is a treasure for nature lovers, families, and anyone who wants to see Nepal’s wild side. Beyond the famous Chitwan National Park, it’s also home to hidden lakes, cultural museums, peaceful temples, and colorful towns.

Chitwan - Where the wild roam freely

Why Chitwan is Special: Chitwan Overview

Chitwan sits in southern Nepal, about 150 km from Kathmandu. It’s flat land, rich with rivers, wetlands, and forests. Long ago, it was a dense jungle known as the "Heart of the Jungle." Today, it’s famous for its wildlife, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and vibrant Tharu culture.

Chitwan was once a royal hunting ground. Kings and foreign guests came to hunt tigers and rhinos. In 1973, Nepal turned the forest into Chitwan National Park to protect endangered animals.

The area covers valleys, rivers like the Narayani and Rapti, and the Mahabharat foothills. Hot in summer, cool in winter, and alive with over 500 bird species and rare animals.

It’s the best place to see Nepal’s wild side, meet friendly locals, and explore temples and lakes — perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.

10 Best Places to Visit in Chitwan Nepal

1. Chitwan National Park

(best place to visit in Chitwan / places to visit in Chitwan National Park)

If you ask anyone about the best place to visit in Chitwan, this is it.

Chitwan National Park covers over 900 sq. km. It’s home to endangered one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, elephants, gharials, and more.

Did you know?
In the 1960s, Chitwan had fewer than 100 rhinos. Today, thanks to protection, numbers have bounced back.

Why it’s special:

Nepal’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chitwan National Park covers over 900 sq. km. Park is collection and merger of dense forests that meets open grassland and winding rivers.

Wildlife:

• One-horned rhinos
• Bengal tigers
• Asian elephants
• Sloth bears, leopards, wild boars
• Over 500 bird species, from kingfishers to giant hornbills

Things to do during your visit:

• Jeep safari: Fast, exciting way to cover more ground and spot rhinos, deer, or even tigers.

• Elephant safari: Traditionally popular, but choose ethical options that treat elephants well.

• Canoe ride: Quiet drift on the Rapti or Narayani River, spotting crocodiles and birds.

• Jungle walk: Best for seeing birds and smaller animals.

• Visit the Crocodile Breeding Center: Learn about gharials and marsh muggers.

When to visit:

• October to March: Cool and best wildlife viewing.

• April to June: Hot, but animals come out near rivers.

Perfect for: Families, wildlife photographers, couples, solo travelers.

Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to spot wildlife.

2. Tharu Cultural Museum and Research Center

(place to visit in chitwan nepal / best places to visit in chitwan)

Chitwan isn’t just about forests. It’s about people too — especially the Tharu community, an ethnic group with a rich history.

It’s small but full of life and color. You’ll understand how the Tharu people lived alongside wild animals for centuries.

Local story:
The Tharu community people believe that painting their homes with natural colors keeps away evil spirits.

What you’ll see:

• Traditional Tharu houses built from mud and grass

• Colorful dresses, jewelry, farming tools

• Old fishing nets and hunting traps

• Stories of Tharu festivals, dances, and daily life

Why it matters:

The Tharu lived alongside dangerous animals for generations, developing unique customs and beliefs.

Tip:
Go in the evening and stay for the Tharu cultural dance — dancers spin with fire, drums beat, and the whole village seems alive.

Perfect for: Culture lovers, students, anyone wanting to understand Chitwan’s human side.

3. Elephant Breeding Center

This is one of the unique places to visit in Chitwan Nepal.

It’s the only elephant breeding center in Nepal. Here, you’ll see baby elephants playing with their mothers.

One of only a few in the world, this center helps protect Asian elephants.

What to see:

• Baby elephants learning to walk and play

• How mahouts (elephant keepers) care for them

• Learn about elephant food, health, and conservation challenges

Why Visit:

It’s heartwarming, especially for kids, and shows how hard it is to protect these gentle giants.

Quick fact:
👉 Elephants eat up to 150 kg of grass every day!

Tip: Morning visits are quietest. Please don’t tease, feed, or ride elephants unless it’s an ethical program.

Perfect for: Families, kids, animal lovers.

4. Bishazari Tal (Twenty Thousand Lakes)

A hidden paradise close to Bharatpur.

What it really is:

 A large wetland area with many small lakes and ponds. In the buffer zone of Chitwan National Park, near Bharatpur.

Great for birdwatching and quiet walks. In winter, thousands of birds from Siberia stop here.

What you’ll see:

• Lotus flowers floating on still water

• Migratory birds like storks, ducks, and even eagles

• Deer and sometimes rhinos coming to drink

Why it’s special:

The calm water reflects trees and sky, making it feel magical at dawn or sunset.

Tip:
Bring binoculars. Best time: October to March when birds migrate.

Perfect for: Birdwatchers, photographers, couples looking for a quiet walk.

5. Sauraha

(places to visit in Chitwan at night / places to visit in Chitwan for couples)

Sauraha is the heart of Chitwan’s tourism. Sauraha is the main tourist town next to Chitwan National Park.

What to do:

• Sit in cafes along the Rapti River and watch elephants cross at sunset

• Join guided jungle walks or canoe rides

• Buy Tharu crafts and souvenirs

• Taste Nepali food or fresh river fish

At night, there’s live music, fire shows, and cultural performances — making it one of the best places to visit in chitwan at night.

At night:

• Live music shows
• Fire dance performances
• Chill under fairy lights at small bars

Local food to try:

• Fresh river fish grilled on charcoal

• Momos (Nepali dumplings)

Why you should go:

It’s the best place to relax after a day of exploring. You’ll meet other travelers and locals too.

Tip:
Stay overnight. Sunrise over the Rapti River is peaceful and beautiful.

Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, groups.

6. Devghat

This is one of Nepal’s most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites, where the Kali Gandaki and Trishuli rivers meet.

What you’ll see:

• Old temples dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva, and other deities

• Sadhu monks meditating along the riverbanks

• Holy men’s ashrams and meditation caves

• Pilgrims bathing in the holy confluence

It’s especially crowded during Makar Sankranti festival in January.

When to visit:
January (Makar Sankranti festival) — thousands gather to celebrate.

Why you should go:

Even if you’re not religious, it’s peaceful and full of history.

Tip: Dress modestly (normal Clothes) and remove shoes before entering temples.

Perfect for: Spiritual travellers, photographers, anyone curious about Nepali religion.

7. Jungle Walks and Bird Watching

For a real adventure, leave the jeep behind because Beyond safaris, walking in the jungle is a  unforgettable lifetime memory.

What makes jungle walks special:

• You’re closer to nature: hear every sound, see animal tracks, spot hidden birds

• Guides teach about plants used in medicine and old Tharu remedies

• Chance to see peacocks dancing, deer grazing, or rhinos resting

What to see:

• Rhinos, deer, wild boars

• Kingfishers, hornbills, peacocks

• Old trees and medicinal plants

Why it’s special:
You hear the jungle breathing — birds singing, leaves rustling.

Why it’s different:
Walking makes you slow down and really look.

Bird lovers will find:

• Kingfishers, egrets, hornbills, parakeets

• Rare birds like the giant adjutant stork or spotted eagle

Quick fact:
Chitwan is home to more than 500 bird species — about half of all in Nepal.

Tip:
Always go with a trained guide — safety first.

Perfect for: Nature lovers, students, photographers, families with older kids.

8. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

(places to visit in Bharatpur, Nepal)

Not as famous as Chitwan National Park — but a hidden gem for birdwatching. It is Close to Bharatpur city — one of the best places to visit in bharatpur nepal.

What you’ll see:

• Over 160 bird species, especially waterbirds and migratory guests

• Calm ponds surrounded by reeds and trees

• Local fishermen at work

What’s special:

• Over 160 bird species, including endangered ones

• Beautiful ponds and marshes

• Peaceful morning walks

Why you should go:

It’s quiet, less crowded, and full of life.

Best time:
October to March — migratory birds arrive.

Tip:
Early morning light makes the best photos.

Perfect for: Birdwatchers, photographers, couples who love peaceful places.

9. Taal Barahi Temple

A small but charming temple dedicated to Goddess Barahi, sitting on a tiny island.

Where:
In the middle of a pond in Bharatpur.

What to do:

• Short paddle boat ride to reach it

• Watch people offering flowers, candles, and prayers

At night:

The temple and water glow with lights, making it romantic.

Why it’s special:

Locals come for blessings; travelers come for peace and photos.

Tip:
Go at dusk for golden hour photos.

Perfect for: couples, photographers, and culture lovers.

10. Lami Tal

Hidden deep inside Chitwan National Park, Lami Tal is a peaceful lake surrounded by forest.

What to see:

• Rhinos, deer, or monkeys coming to drink

• Colorful birds resting on old logs

• Lotus flowers and dragonflies

Why it feels special:
Quiet, wild, and untouched — like stepping back in time.

Tip:
Need a park permit and guide to visit.

Perfect for: Adventure seekers, photographers, and couples wanting a quiet escape.

What to see:

• Calm green waters

• Rhinos and deer coming to drink

• Birds resting on fallen logs

Hidden Gems in Chitwan

(for readers who want more than just the top 10)

Beyond the famous national park and tourist spots, Chitwan hides places most travelers miss — places that show its raw, authentic side.

Meghauli Village

A peaceful Tharu village west of Sauraha, less commercial, more real.

• Walk dusty paths lined with painted Tharu houses

• Watch local women weave baskets and men fish in the Narayani River

• Join a family for a meal of dhido and spicy river fish

Tip: Try to visit during Maghi, the Tharu New Year festival, when the whole village comes alive with dance and music.

Gharial Breeding Center

Inside Chitwan National Park, near Kasara.

• Helps save the critically endangered gharial — the long-nosed, fish-eating crocodile unique to South Asia

• See gharials from tiny hatchlings to giant adults sunning on sandbanks

• Learn how conservationists raise and release them into the Rapti and Narayani Rivers

Quick fact: Less than 1,000 gharials remain in the wild today.

Rapti River Sunset Canoe Ride

Not just transport — an experience in itself.

• Drift silently as the jungle reflects in golden water

• Spot crocodiles gliding below, deer grazing, and birds flying home to roost

• End the day watching the sun sink behind Chitwan’s forests

Tip: Most rides last about 30–45 minutes and are affordable, even for solo travelers.

Food & Culture Tips During Your Visit in Chitwan

(add color and connect readers to real life in Chitwan)

Eat like a local:

• Tharu fish curry: Spicy, sour, and rich with local herbs

• Dhido: A traditional dough made from millet or buckwheat — eaten by hand, dipped in soup

• Gundruk soup: Fermented leafy greens, full of flavor and probiotics

Cultural respect:

• Greet with a warm “Namaste” and hands together

• Remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and even some shops.

• Always ask before taking photos of locals or religious ceremonies

Festivals worth seeing:

• Maghi (January): Tharu New Year, with colorful dances, feasts, and music

• Teej (August/September): Women in red saris dance and sing by rivers and temples

Plan Your Visit to Chitwan

(practical info to make the guide truly helpful)

Perfect 2–3 Day Chitwan Itinerary

Day 1:

• Arrive in Sauraha

• Sunset Rapti River canoe ride

• Evening Tharu cultural dance & dinner

Day 2:

• Morning jeep safari in Chitwan National Park

• Visit Elephant Breeding Center & Crocodile Breeding Center

• Afternoon walk through Sauraha market

• Dinner by the river

Day 3:

• Early jungle walk or birdwatching at Bishazari Tal

• Explore Taal Barahi Temple or Devghat

• Lunch & departure

How to get there:

• By air: Kathmandu → Bharatpur Airport (20–25 mins). Quick, but book early in high season.

• By bus: Daily tourist and local buses from Kathmandu and Pokhara (5–6 hours).

• Private car/jeep: More comfortable for groups.

Best time to visit Chitwan

• October–March: Cool, dry, best wildlife spotting.

• April–June: Hot (over 35°C) but fewer tourists.

• July–September: Monsoon — green and lush but muddy; fewer safaris run.

Where to stay during Chitwan visit:

• Eco-lodges in Sauraha: Near the park entrance, easy for tours.

• Luxury resorts in Meghauli: Riverside views and jungle luxury.

• Tharu homestays: Authentic food, real community life, and cultural stories.

For hotels visit our page HostelPilot.com 

What to pack for Chitwan Trip

• Lightweight, breathable clothes (it gets hot).

• Insect repellent cream and a sunblock

• Walking shoes or sandals.

• Binoculars and camera for wildlife.

• Raincoat if visiting in monsoon season.

Final Thoughts: Why Chitwan Should Be on Your List

Chitwan is more than a single park. It is a collaboration of wildlife, culture, and local life. Whether you’re watching rhinos, learning Tharu stories, or walking by a quiet lake, each spot tells a piece of Nepal’s story.

It’s perfect for a weekend trip, a family vacation, or a romantic escape.

So, when you think of places to visit in Chitwan, remember this given list to make your visit worthwhile:

• Chitwan National Park

• Tharu Cultural Museum

• Elephant Breeding Center

• Bishazari Tal

• Sauraha

• Devghat

• Jungle Walks and Bird Watching

• Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

• Taal Barahi Temple

• Lami Tal

All waiting for you to explore.

Explore or more articles on:

• 10 best places to visit in Pokhara

• 10 best places to visit in Kathmandu

• 10 best places to visit in Lumbini

FAQs About Visiting Chitwan, Nepal

Which month is best to visit Chitwan?

The best months to visit Chitwan are October to March. The weather is cooler, it’s dry, and it’s the ideal season for jungle safaris and wildlife viewing.

Is it safe to walk in Chitwan National Park?

Yes, but only with a licensed guide. Walking alone isn’t allowed because of wild animals like rhinos and tigers.

What is special about Sauraha?

Sauraha is Chitwan’s main tourist town. It’s famous for riverside cafes, cultural shows, craft shops, and easy access to jungle safaris.

Can families and kids visit Chitwan?

Absolutely. Chitwan is great for families with kids — jeep safaris, elephant breeding center, canoe rides, and bird watching are safe and fun with guides.

Do you need a permit to visit Chitwan National Park?

Yes. All visitors need a park permit, usually arranged by your lodge or tour operator. Extra permits may be needed for certain lakes and trails.

How do you get to Chitwan from Kathmandu?

• By air: Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport (about 20 minutes)

• By road: Tourist or local buses take 5–6 hours

• Private car or jeep: Most comfortable for groups

What food should you try in Chitwan?

You should try Tharu fish curry, dhido (traditional millet dough), and gundruk soup, which is made from fermented greens.