At 176 sq. km, Koshi Tappu is smaller than other wildlife reserves in Nepal, but has a reputation for being one of the world’s best bird watching locations. The recognised wetland is a habitat for an estimated 439 species of bird. Many of these are aquatic varieties such as ducks, herons, storks, egrets and ibis. During the winter its resident population of birds is joined by migratory species which fly in from Siberia.

Gharial crocodile and freshwater dolphins are population attractions in the area. Koshi also has patches of scrub and deciduous forest where buffalos, boars, hogs, deer and jackal can be seen

Located in the south-central Terai, Parsa is the country’s biggest wildlife reserve and boasts 499 sq. km of undisturbed subtropical and tropical jungle. This former holiday destination of the Rana dynasty gained official protection in 1984 to preserve its population of Asian elephants and lush vegetation.

Parsa’s selection of flora is very diverse. Although it is comprised of 90% Sal forest, pine forests can also be found in the Siwalik Hills. The Churia Hills run from east to west, dominate the landscape and are covered with wild grasses. Khair and Silk cotton trees can be found on river banks.

The reserve has a machan (viewing tower) near its headquarters. This is ideal for watching elephants, leopards, deer and many species of birds and mammals in their natural habitat; it’ is also a good place to view expanses of jungle. In addition, an elephant camp is located in the Bara district.

This peaceful and remote wilderness is the largest park in the Terai lowland. It is one of the last explored places in Nepal, is largely untouched by human civilisation and offers challenging adventure.

Bardia has a thick cover of jungle and grasslands. It is the best place to see Royal Bengal tigers in the wild and provides  habitat for many other animals including leopards, rhino and hyenas. Many people enjoy visiting the Elephant Breeding Centre. The rivers Karnali and Babai flow through the park and provide a habitat for freshwater dolphins and gharial crocodiles. Some people choose to go fishing in the rivers. There are also 250 species of bird.

Walking through villages is a chance to see the indigenous, Tharus people living their everyday lives, and buying their handicrafts is a good way to support their community.

Day 1: arrive and relax in garden or bar in the morning, Tharus village tour in afternoon.

Day 2: safari on elephant back in morning, jungle walking in afternoon.

Day 3: bird watching followed by relaxation and village exploration in morning, departure in afternoon.

Day 1: arrive and relax in garden or bar in the morning, Tharus village tour in afternoon.

Day 2: walking safari to view fresh water dolphins with swimming opportunities.

Day 3: explore tiger territory by foot in morning, elephant back and jeep safari in afternoon.

Day 4: bird watching followed by relaxation and village exploration in morning, lunch and departure in afternoon.

Day 1: arrive and relax in garden or bar in the morning, Tharus village tour in afternoon.

Day 2: walking safari of Baghauraphanta and Karnali riverbanks.

Day 3: explore tiger territory by foot in morning, elephant back and jeep safari in afternoon.

Day 4: rafting and on the Karnali while viewing dolphins, crocodiles and birds.

Day 5: bird watching followed by relaxation and village exploration in morning, lunch and departure in afternoon.

Boasting one of the most rich and diverse ecosystems in the world, this UNESCO World Heritage site is easily accessible by bus and river. Chitwan’s huge area of 932 sq. km is home to tropical and subtropical vegetation, oxbow lakes, swamps and watering holes. It is a great place to see rhinos and elephants and is also home to tigers, leopards, turtles, monitor lizards, crocodiles and numerous other animals. It has over 500 species of birds including parakeets and stalks and many varieties of moths and butterflies.

The Tharus are the main indigenous ethnic group in the area and visiting Chitwan is a chance to see their distinct, tribal life. Near the park, the tourist centre of Sauraha is situated in countryside scattered with rice fields. It offers hotels, shops, restaurants and a convenient base to see the park from.