Hold on to your safari hats, folks, because we are about to unveil a wildlife extravaganza that will leave you excited. While everyone’s busy swooning over Masai Mara and its wildlife, Nepal has its very own show-stopping lineup of mesmerizing wildlife. As much as the majestic mountains call you, you should definitely not be missing out on the national parks and wildlife reserves in the plains. And trust us, wildlife safari in Nepal is a pleasant reason to not miss out on them.
From rhinoceros and elephants to tigers, gharial crocodiles, deer, and a vibrant bird-life, the national parks and reserves of Nepal offer a captivating experience. Jungle safari in Nepal provides the perfect escape amidst nature’s embrace. Whether on foot, an elephant ride, or a thrilling jeep ride, the visuals of rich biodiversity in the sublime woodlands and tranquil wetlands is an adventure in the wilderness.
Mother nature is throwing a party herself and you are invited, how cool is that! Let’s explore some of Nepal’s natural wonders and untamed wilderness in between the floras and faunas.
Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is not just any old protected area—it holds the impressive title of being the very first in the entire country. But wait, there’s more! The history of nature conservation here spans a whopping three decades, which is awesome.
Chitwan National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the iconic One-horn Rhino and the endangered Bengal Tiger. You’ll come across a diverse cast of mammals such as elephants, sloth bears, wild dogs, golden jackals, and deer, as well as a parade of colorful bird species like peacocks, kingfishers, and woodpeckers. Let’s not forget the reptilian ensemble that graces the park, comprising pythons, crocodiles, and gharials.
Jungle safari in the park allows you to immerse yourself in the myriad of fascinating creatures. With more than 50 different mammal species, over 525 birds, and a whopping 55 amphibians and reptiles, you’re in for a wild treat.
Now, here’s some really amazing news—the park has been rocking it with their Rhinoceros conservation project. They have even celebrated a “zero-poaching year” and have managed to double the population of the endangered one-horned rhinos over the past decade. Can you believe it? Your eyes will be just as thrilled if you pay this place a visit.
In addition, you don’t need to worry about food and accommodations here. Chitwan National Park has got you covered with plenty of peaceful lodges, restaurants, and hotels to choose from. Oh, and here’s a little bonus for you, culture enthusiasts—some of these places even arrange visits to the Tharu village. These are the original inhabitants of Chitwan, with their own rich culture, language, and customs. Talk about a cultural exploration like no other!
Now, for the ultimate chill experience, picture yourself gliding along the serene Rapti or Narayani rivers in a canoe. It’s like floating on a cloud, while you spot all kinds of aquatic birds and even catch a glimpse of those sneaky crocodiles. It is the perfect way to unwind and soak in the natural wonders around you.
Shuklaphanta National Park
Get ready for a wild ride as we dive into the incredible world of Shuklaphanta National Park, Nepal’s very own animal kingdom.
Shuklaphanta National Park, formerly known as Royal Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, is a remarkable destination in Nepal that offers an unforgettable wildlife experience. With its diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species and stunning wetland ecosystems, this national park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Hold onto your binoculars, folks!
Shuklaphanta National Park is home to a vast array of wildlife species. With a total of 46 mammal species, 28 fish species, and 12 reptiles and amphibians, the park’s biodiversity is truly impressive. From the Bengal tiger and Indian leopard to the graceful swamp deer and captivating owls, the park is a bustling sanctuary for these amazing creatures. Oh, and keep an eye out for reptiles like the slithering Indian cobra, python, and mugger crocodile.
Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve is home to 423 species of birds. Among the highlights are the rare Bengal Florican and the graceful Sarus crane. With its diverse wetland habitats, the park attracts numerous migratory birds, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. Keep your cameras ready!
The park isn’t just about the animals; it’s also a floral wonderland. The park is a habitat to 700 species of flora, with grasslands comprising nearly half of the vegetation. The expansive floodplain grasslands, interspersed with towering Sal, Sisso, and Khair trees, create a unique ecosystem. The grassland vegetation includes Themeda, Siru, Kans, Munj, and more, forming a picturesque landscape worth exploring.
Whether you fancy a thrilling jeep ride or prefer to channel your inner Tarzan and explore on foot, the park has you covered. Along with the rich biodiversity, you can immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle of the indigenous communities. Engaging with the Tharu people, who have a deep connection to the land, provides a unique glimpse into their traditional customs and hospitality.
The winter season, from November to February, is the best time to visit Shuklaphanta National Park. During this period, the weather is moderate, and the clear views enhance the overall experience. It’s an excellent time to embark on a wildlife safari in Nepal and witness the vibrant wildlife thriving in their natural habitat.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Shuklaphanta National Park should definitely be on your bucket list. Explore this hidden gem and create memories that will last a lifetime.
This doesn’t end the list of places to explore the wildlife and biodiversity of Nepal. In the second part of the blog, we will delve deeper to wildlife reserves , Nepal’s wilderness and extraordinary encounters. Stay tuned for more tales of wildlife safari in Nepal. Contact Wild Yak Expeditions, the best trekking company in Nepal, for more such thrilling adventures.
