Chitwan National Park is one of the most renowned and beloved national parks in Nepal. Located in the subtropical lowlands of the Terai region, it spans over an area of 952.63 square kilometers and offers a diverse range of wildlife and natural beauty. Established in 1973, this park has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984.
The park is known for its rich biodiversity, housing more than 700 species of wildlife and birds. Among the most prominent animals found here are the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, leopard, sloth bear, Indian elephant, and gharial crocodile. The park also serves as a safe haven for various species of deer, including the spotted deer, barking deer, and sambar deer.
Chitwan National Park boasts a wide variety of vegetation, ranging from moist deciduous forests to riverine forests and grasslands. The park’s unique ecosystem is home to more than 600 species of flowering plants, including valuable herbs and medicinal plants. The Sal trees dominate the forests, providing a beautiful green canopy that shelters a plethora of wildlife.
One of the main attractions of Chitwan National Park is the opportunity to embark on a jungle safari. Visitors can choose from various modes of transportation, such as elephant back rides, jeep safaris, or canoeing along the Rapti River. These safari experiences allow tourists to immerse themselves in the park’s vibrant atmosphere while spotting exotic animals in their natural habitats.
For those seeking a different kind of adventure, Chitwan National Park offers the chance to explore the wilderness on foot. Guided nature walks provide a deeper understanding of the park’s flora and fauna, allowing visitors to observe wildlife up-close and learn about their behavior patterns.
In addition to wildlife watching, Chitwan National Park offers cultural experiences that showcase the local Tharu community’s traditions and way of life. Tharu cultural programs and village visits provide insight into the ethnic diversity and rich cultural heritage of the region.
Conservation efforts are a significant aspect of Chitwan National Park. The park plays a critical role in the conservation of endangered species, particularly the one-horned rhinoceros. Through various initiatives, such as anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration programs, the park strives to protect and preserve its precious wildlife and ecosystems.
For accommodation, Chitwan National Park offers a range of options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Visitors can choose to stay within the park premises or in nearby towns, depending on their preferences and budget.
Chitwan National Park is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Its incredible biodiversity, picturesque landscapes, and unique cultural experiences make it a must-visit destination in Nepal. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper understanding of nature, Chitwan National Park has something to offer for everyone.
My partner and I met KV Rai (owner and operator of Mountain Planner) in April of 2017 when he guided us on a 7 day trek in the Langtang Valley of the Himalayas. KV did everything to ensure that our trek was memorable. He was professional, knowledgeable, fun, and full of energy. My partner and I are highly athletic and he ensured that our pace and activities were consistent with our abilities and interests. KV also went out of his way to make our experience authentic, allowing us to interact with the villagers and owners of the teahouses in ways that we did not see others doing. We had an opportunity to cook with a family and share a meal and spent time with the villagers when other trekkers stayed with their groups. These were precious moments that left lasting impressions. Further, KV’s knowledge of geography, culture, politics, etc. made our trip a tremendous learning experience. We absolutely adored KV and trek. By the end of the trip, we had developed such a strong bond with KV and were so enamored with the Nepal he had shown us that we were determined to return the following year to do the Everest Base Camp trek.
We stayed in touch with KV via Facebook messenger and email throughout the next break we had from our work as international teachers and began to plan our next trip to Nepal. As we got closer to the trip we said that we would not go with another guide other than KV. We made this a reality, returning to do the Everest Base Camp trek in December of 2017.
Our trip completing the Everest Base Camp trek was spectacular. On this trip, KV was managing two additional clients. The first trek we were his only clients. Despite this, and the fact that the clients were not equip in many ways for such an undertaking, KV did a miraculous job of balancing all of our needs and varying physical capabilities. Again, he was professional, thoughtful, and knowledge. We watched him navigate some difficult choices to accommodate the limitations of his other clients, and balance giving us the time and attention as if we were family. Everest Base Camp was the single most amazing trekking experience I have ever had and may have in my life. An essential part of that was KV and the relationship that we had developed. KV ensures that you are informed, safe, comfortable (or as comfortable as you can be at 17,000 ft in December), and happy. His energy is infectious; his smile is joyous; his attention to detail fantastic.
The Everest Base Camp trek was a year and a half ago. I communicate with KV at least once a month. I am as close to him as many family members. He even offered to host our wedding at his family home. I cannot speak more highly of him and his business. If you want an authentic, memorable, once in a lifetime experience, trek with KV and Mountain Planner.
I highly recommend Mountain Planner. Kevin is a wonderful human.
It was so much fun to spend the week exploring Nepal with him. He did a great job customizing our vacation to fit our needs. We got to experience trekking in the mountains near Pokhara and the Annapurna range; explore the jungle in Chitwan National Park; explore the sights of Kathmandu; and see Mt Everest from a Himalayan mountain flight. Kevin arranged all of this and made great recommendations on all of it.
Thanks to my friend Ray, enjoy the Until now, better experience in trekking, we spent 2 unforgettable weeks in the EBC plus Gokyo, He knows all the places he manages permits and always accompanies with good humor, I will go back to this wonderful country and I will do the trekking of the annapurna as not with my great friend, 5 stars could not be enough.
Gracias a mi amigo Ray , disfrute del Hasta ahora, mejor experiencia en trekking , pasamos 2 semanas inolvidables en el EBC mas Gokyo , El conoce todos los lugares gestiona permisos billetes y siempre acompaña con buen humor , volvere a este maravilloso pais y hare el trekking del annapurna como no con mi gran amigo , 5 stars no pudo ser mejor .
In April 2019 I had the possibility to visit for a first time Nepal , and I would like recommend Mountain Planner. Kevin prepared a wonderful trip to me , kevin did and excellent job organizing my short vacation fitting it into my special request .Indeed exploring sight of kathmandu , exploring the Mt Everest having a wonderful mountain flight ,
between others important places , I know that in 6 days I can’t do too much, but it was a great experience to me and I will be back for others new experiences
Kevin arranged all of this short adventure, and Sandip Rai was my private tourist guide during this awesome short trip.thanks a lot to Both of you guys.
Highly recommended to Mountain Planner. Very professional and attentive. Beautiful landscapes, Everest base camp and Gokyo lakes. An incredible experience. I’ll repeat with other trek!
Again in Nepal, On October 06 – 16 / 10 / 2018 to Annapurna Base Camp Trek with same guide Mr. Kevin through the very responsible trekking company ”Mountain Planner Treks & Expedition”. Mountain Planner help me to enjoy the travel with funny moments.
It’s really great hike. I would like to recommend ”Mountain Planner” who looking forward trek to Nepal for vacation with very responsible trekking guide and trekking company. Thank you very much Mountain Planner for great support and effort to complete successful trip to Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
