Chitwan, Nepal

About Chitwan City

If you wanted to see birds and animals in Nepal, this is where you would come. For animal lovers, Chitwan national park offers them an opportunity of a life time to see Royal Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, various species of birds and butterflies. Your choice of Resorts and lodges are located in the region. Most include elephant safaris, jungle walks, canoeing and cultural activities.

Quick Facts on Chitwan National Park

• Chitwan is known as Chitwan National Park, mainly because the city's main attraction is the national park itself!
• Chitwan National Park is included in the list of world heritage sites, this protected area has a forest with area of 360 square miles (about 932 square kilometers)
• 7 world class resorts run by park concessionaire are located inside the park alone! Other numerous resorts and hotels are located outside the park, all giving tourists with more options for price and services.
• One Horned Rhinos and Bengal Tigers are the main two animals that are famous in the park. Spotting them while on a safari will be the joy of a life-time. To spot bengal tiger, you might have to extend your stay in Chitwan a little longer!!
• Altitude of the park ranges from 492 feet (150m) to 2673 feet (815m)
• Over a 50 different mammals and 450 species of birds are located in the park
• The prefix "Royal" is being slowly removed from many names in Nepal such as from the name Royal Nepal Airlines which is now Nepal Airlines. Similarly Royal Chitwan National Park is now just called Chitwan National Park.

Chitwan Attractions

The Park, People and Places - These are the places to visit.

Chitwan is also a place to learn about the Tharu people. The traditional dance and songs are performed in resorts and lodge entertainment.

Chitwan's National Park is the main attraction in the region. This park is regarded as the best national park of Nepal, and is also the most developed one. Elephant Breeding Center, Crocodile Farm are two other must see locations in the park.

Main activities in Chitwan include Jungle Safari, Bird Watching and Boat Tour. Jungle Safari is the most popular one. You will journey into the deep forest riding on elephant back, you will witness the preserved natural assets of Nepal, birds, flora and fauna. World's one of the most endangered species, Bengal Tigers are found abundant in Nepal, many in Chitwan national park. If it's your day, you might see them too.

The other major animal you will see is the one-horned rhinos whose famous place to live on earth is none other than Nepal. The park is also famous for bird watching, and boat tours. A walk to nearby villages is also a recommended thing to do.

If you like trekking or visiting other nearby regions, these are some places to go in or around the area.

Chepang Hills

A newly developed tourism area providing an unique opportunity for travelers isn't so far away than you think. Witness some local culture, traditions and embrace Chepang culture. On clear days, view mountain range from Dhaulagiri to Kanchenjunga. Depending on how far you wish to go, there are trekking programs from 3 days to 5 days to all the way up to 8 days. In comparison to other trekking areas, this trekking is easy, fun, relaxing and memorable. Route has become popular - now, Nepali travel agents offer complete travel package specially made for this region. A typical package would include arrival to Kathmandu, sightseeing, departure to Chitwan, trekking and then back to Kathmandu for your onward journey - all in 3 days or more.

• Cost : a 5 days trekking shouldn't cost you more than $500 alone but traveling in a group of 7 or more is advised for bargain.
• Best Time for Trekking ? :February to May
• Elevation : The highest hill is Siraichuli - 6384 ft (1946m)
• What to look for in a travel package ? : Combine food, guide, porter and accommodation, and be sure to find Hattibang, Siraichuli, Jyandala, Chisapanitar, Gadi and Shaktikhor regions in the route of your trekking program.

What do other tourists do in Chitwan?

Knowing what others do can help you add some extra activities into your program. To learn more about these activities, see separate pages under "Activities" Menu.

1. As you have already learned Chitwan is visited by tourists for wildlife. Those who visit Chitwan for a day or two are missing a lot. For best, we recommend that you spend 5 to 7 days. Give a day or two for jungle tour, then rest of your program for trekking and nature/village walks.
2. Trekking
3. Bird Watching
4. Rafting
5. Elephant Polo - During polo season, this strange yet unique sport draws thousands of visitors to Chitwan
6. Paragliding - gliding from up above the Chitwan land, can be both adventurous and rewarding.

How much will it cost ?

This greatly depends on your choice of accommodation and activities. See Jungle Safari For its cost. A Maximum Budget around US$500 for a week stay should be good enough for Chitwan for Jungle tour, food and accommodation. Add a few more for trekking. But just don't go there with our words, yet! Please get hold of our Nepali Travel Companies get some quotes then compare them.

There are packages starting from 1 night / 2 days to up to 6 nights and 7 days. The 1 night / 2 days will be a fast ride; wake up, get up, go to the jungle, have a lunch, see some culture program then head back to Kathmandu or Pokhara. Chitwan was not developed over-night, it took years to bring what this park is today. We recommend at least 6 nights / 7 days travel program for Chitwan which includes some of the activities we listed above. Give Chitwan the time and it sure will amaze you. 

Best Time To Visit Chitwan

Chitwan National Park - October to May, Bird Watching - December to March. Maximum temperature can reach up to 95 Fahrenheit (35 C) in April through September. November through February are cooler months with average temperature around 67 Fahrenheit.

Chitwan and Rural Tourism

Most of Nepal lies in what could be described as the Nature's own land - untouched by modern civilization. Although Chitwan is a modern city, many parts of it are still in rural areas. Through tourism, Nepal tries to alleviate poverty and bring development to these rural areas. When you visit Chitwan, you are in Rural Tourism arena, for you have a direct affect on the lives of many villagers and rural folks. Rural tourism is thriving in Nepal, for its seen as the true way to explore and discover Nepal. It's not a wonder that many travel packages to Chitwan consist village tours, rural dance and cultural programs, home-stay type of accommodations and so on. Chitwan is part of the Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation, an ongoing push by the United Nations Development Program.

How to get there?

Chitwan is easy to reach by road or by air. There are daily flights from Kathmandu to a nearby city Bharatpur. Your travel or hotel agent will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your lodge / resort. Reservation for sightseeing and accommodation can be done from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Please note, most travel packages for Chitwan are designed for your hassle free travel. It may already include transportation, accommodation and cost of sight seeing and the National Park Fee. But be sure to check the details of your package. If you are in Kathmandu or Pokhara, you can easily get a travel deal for Chitwan. Just contact your hotel's travel desk or nearest travel company for a package to Chitwan. 

Bhaktapur, Nepal

Bhaktapur is the third largest city in the Kathmandu valley. The city was once the capital of Nepal during the great Malla Kingdom from the 12th to the 15th century.


Four square miles of land situated at an altitude of 1,401 meter from sea-level is a home to Traditional art and architecture, pottery and weaving industries, rich local customs and culture, and the every-day life of Bhaktapur people. All that and more will have you visit this untouched ancient city more than once! Nepal's Malla dynasty's achievements in arts and crafts are reflected throughout the Bhaktapur city. Bhaktapur is also known by woodcarving artists, for it's cap known as Bhadgaon Topi, and for it's curd known by Nepalese as the `Bhaktapur ko Dahe' (meaning Curd made in Bhaktapur). Tourists visiting the city also take the time to relax and observe other interesting happenings in the city such as children's playing outside their home and in temple yards, busy and color-full open markets, women's making clay-pots, weaving, and sun-drying crops and vegetable products. Bhaktapur is located at 14 km east of Kathmandu and can be reached by public transport. A day-trip to Bhaktapur is a popular tourist itinerary, so make it yours soon!.

Places to visit in Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur Durbar Square :  One of the world heritage sites in the country which reflects the city's rich culture, art and architectural design, it is also the central setting of the city for architectural monuments and arts. The golden gate is the entrance to the main countyard of the Palace of 55 windows, the gate is regarded as the world's most beautiful and richly carved specimens of its kind.

Bhaktapur Nyatapol Temple

This temple is 30 meter tall, and is the tallest temple in the Kathmandu valley. It was built by King Bhupatindra Malla in 1708 AD. Each of its five terrace holds a pair of figures, starting from bottom wrestlers, elephant, lion, griffins and goddesses. 

The Bhaktapur National Art Gallery

It is Located in the Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Rare paintings, and manuscripts with painted covers and illustrations can be found in this museum. Gallery contains brass, bronze, stone and wooden images, gallery is explored by tourists for medieval art tradition of Nepal. Gallery is closed on Thursday and public holidays.

Bhairavnath Temple of Bhaktapur

Built as a one-story pagoda during the reign of King Jagat Jyoti Malla, later changed into a three-storey temple in 1718 A.D. by King Bhupatindra Malla, this temple now stands for its artistic grandeur. Bhairavnath temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav - the god of Terror.

Dattatraya Temple:

Built in 1427 AD, the temple is said to have been built from a single tree. A Monastery having exquisitely carved peacock windows is located near the temple. 

Getting to Bhaktapur :

From Kathmandu, take a taxi or a bus or ride a bike. Ride should not cost more than Rs 300 for a taxi or Rs 10 for a public bus that leaves from Bagbazaar Bus Station. By taxi you will arrive in Bhaktapur in about 30 minutes, and about 45 minutes by public bus. You can also ride a bike to get to the city in about 45 to 50 minutes.

Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur, Nepal

The city lies about 5 km from the Kathmandu. It is a city of Budhist monuments, Hindu temples and fine wood carvings. Lalitpur is the another name of this city which 'means the city of beauty'. The city is known as the paradise of fine arts.


This durbar square located in Patan is a Patan Durbar has many famous sites and unique architectures. Krishna Mandi, Bhimsen temple, Hiranya Varna Mahabhihar are just a few among the temples offering you an ecstasy of  paintings, wood and metal carvings. The Sundari Chowk contains exquisite samples of woodcarvings, stone and metal sculpture. Patan Dubar Square and the Himalaya  that can be seen at a distance make an enchanting scene. A half-day sightseeing tour of the Patan city is highly recommended.

Patan Museum:

Offers an opportunity to view remainings of the ancient palace of Malla Kings, and some of the most beautiful wood and stone carving works in the world. Museum covers a long history and living traditions of Nepal and is a-must-see for tourists to learn more about Nepali craftsmanship and their traditions.

Krishna Mandir:

A king dreams of God Krishna and Goddess Radhan standing in front of a temple. Next day, turning dreams into a reality, a finest stone wrought monument is born! The Krishna temple located on the west side of the Patan Durbar Square, was built in 1637 by the King Siddhi Narsingha Malla. The temple holds a great position in the Patan palace, it is also the only temple in Nepal which as 21 shrines and is completely made of stone, and fine carvings. The temple has three floors, Krishna, Shiva, Lokeshwor are enshrined in first, second and third floor respectively. During the Krishnastami, the lord Krishna's birthday, the temple is the destination of thousands of worshippers from around the country. The temple is beautifully lighted by thousands of oil lamps during the festival.

Mahabouddha:

The temple is dedicated to Gautam Buddha. The temple was built by Pandit Abhaya Raj, a Buddhist architect, and more interesting thing about the temple is that every single brick has Buddha engraved in it. There are nearly one thousand bricks of Buddha in the temple!

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar:

This three storey gloden pagoda is located about 650 feet from the Patan Durbar Suare. It has the images of Lord Buddha and large prayer wheels. The pagoda is also knwon as Kwa Bahal or Suwarna Mahavihar or Golden temple. 

Kumbheshowr:

A good five storeyed temple in the valley portraying fine arts. An annual festival is held here once every year.

Jagat Narayan Temple

A temple of Lord Vishnu, made of red bricks. It has fine images of stone and an artistic metal statue of Garuda on a stone pillar.

Rudra Varna Mahavihar:

A Buddhist monastery containing a collection of images and statues in stone, wood and metal and also the treasures offered by king's devotees. In ancient times, Nepal's kings were crowned in this monastery.

Ashoka Stupas:

Stupas known to have been built in 250 BC by the Ashoka Emeror are located in Pulchowk, Lagankehl, Ebahil and in Teat all of which act as an evidence to this city's ancient religious importance.

Machhendra Nath:

Also known as Avalokiteshowr and Adinath Lokeshwor, is a pagoda that is housed here in Patan for every six months each year and plays an important role in keeping the ancient traditions alive.

Godavari:

Situated at the foothils of Phulchoki, this place is surrounded by gardens and flowers. It is an ideal place for picnic and hangouts for people of Kathmandu Valley.

Phulchowki:

10 KM away from Patan, this 2759 mters high spot is good for hiking. The Guranse flower (Ghododendrons) of white to dark red can be seen here.

Lumbini, Nepal

Lumbini is the place where Lord Buddha was born. It is also the place were he gained enlightenment and became famous. Lumbini gets more Pilgrimage tourits than any other city of Nepal.

Here one can see Maya Devi temple, the place where she gave birth to the lord,  and an Ashoka pillar which has inscriptions identifying the spot as the birthplace, ruins of ancient stupas and monasteries, and Pushkarni pond where Queen Mayadevi took bath before giving birth. The Lumbini region has been developed through Lumbini Trust, a none governmental organization. Newer temples and monuments are being developed by foreign pilgrimage here. All temples found in this region form this place a royal Buddhist pilgrimages destination. The China temple located in Lumbini is a complex of pagodas, prayer rooms and meditation cells developed by the Buddhist Association of China. There is also Myanmar Temple also known as Lokamani Cula Pagoda which soars into the sky. The International Gautami Nuns temple is also found here which is a replica of the Swayambhu stupa in Kathmandu. Many other temples are currently under construction, these include Japan temple, Sri Lanka temple, and Vietnam temple.

Lumbini Museum, Lumbini International Research Institute, and Kapilvastu Museum (situated 27km west of Lumbini in Tilaurakot) are other places see in this region. The Kapilvastu museum has ruins of ancient capital of Sakya kingdom where the Buddha spet his youth as Prince Siddhartha.

In the Buddha's time, Lumbini was a park situated between Kapilavastu and Devadaha in Nepal. It was there that the Buddha was born. A pillar now marks the spot of Asoka's visit to Lumbiní. According to an inscription on the pillar, it was placed there by the people then in charge of the park to commemorate Asoka's visit and gifts. The park was previously known as Rummindei, two miles north of Bhagavanpura.

In the Sutta Nipáta (vs. 683) it is stated that the Buddha was born in a village of the Sákyans, in the Lumbineyya Janapada. The Buddha stayed in Lumbinívana during his visit to Devadaha and there preached the Devadaha Sutta.

Pokhara, Nepal

Pokhara is situated at about 827 meter from sea level, and is located 124 miles (about 200 km) west of Kathmandu and can be reached by plane in 35 minutes or in 5 hours by bus. Pokhara is the next destination after Kathmandu for many adventure and pleasure trips in and around Pokhara. Pokhara is often called the enchanting Himalayan valley with a heart of major actions and adventures.

Surrounded by beautiful snow-caped mountains, with a magnificent lake of crystal-clear pure Himalayan water, all-year round pleasing weather, and friendly Pokhralis will greet you with a smile and leave you with the most unforgettable moments in your life. So pack up your bag, load your camera, and get ready for Pokhara experience!

Places to Visit

he Fewa (or Phewa) Lake 1.5 kilometer long, second largest lake in Nepal, offers an excellent view of the mountains and their reflections on the lake. Many tours and trekking operators and hotels are located on the lakeside. One can easily find a place to sit back, relax and enjoy great meal while enjoying scenery here. You will also enjoy boating on the lake. Most hotels and guest houses have traditional designs and layouts which match with the surrounding views. The photo on the right is of Rara Lake, another popular lake located in Pokhara.

Davis Fall, you sure will remember this snap in Pokhara!!

Witness a unique waterfall that lies 2 Km from central Pokhara City. The water fall directly goes into a deep and narrow canal with no ends. It is believed that this deadly waterfall took the life of a tourist named David, who fell down into the canel and was never found, and hence the name David waterfall, named in his memory by the people of Pokhara. This place has many nick names like Davy's Fall, David's Fall or Davis's Fall, all mean the same thing `The Davis Water Fall'

Annapurna Range Skyline

The most spectacular sight in Pokhara is the sight of Annapurna range. See the following image which shows eight important mountains of the Annapurna range.

This range stretching from west to east includes Dhaulagiri, South Annapurna, Annapurna 1, Hiunchuli, Fish-tail (Machapuchare), Annapurna 3, Annapurna 4, and Annapurna 2. In Pokhara, the holy unclimbed mountain Macchapucchre (or also known as Fishtail Mountain), located in the middle of the Annapurna range, can be seen standing right in front of our nose.
Everyone in Pokhara wakes up early to greet the mountains during sunrise. The reflection of sunlight from a mountain is always a breathtaking site. You will never forget the sight of the fishtail mountain standing right before your eyes saying "Good Morning!"

Begnas and Rupa Lake

The name Pokhara is derived from the word Pokhari, which in Nepali means pond or a lake. There are about eight lakes in Pokhara and besides the the fewa lake, the other two lakes known as Begnas Lake and Rupa lake located about 15 km from Pokhara are ideal places for relaxation, boating and fishing. Get to Begnas by bus, or by a taxi, or cycle from Pokhara. Visit Begnas Bazaar for a unique hillside market experience.

Seti Gandaki / Gorge

Seti Gandaki and Seti Gorge are other two important places to visit in Pokhara. The Seti gandaki flows right through the city, it runs completely underground at many places. There is a local myth that the entire land of Pokhara floats on the Seti river. Rivers in Nepal are known for their strength and the purity as entire source is from the Himalayan range.

Mahendra Cave (Gufa or Gupha in Nepali)

Mahindra cave is located about 10km north from central Pokhara. It is a natural site located across the Seti river pass the Batulechours village.

Other Places to Visit

Other places to visit in Pokhara are Barahi temple, situated in the middle of Phewa lake, Pokhara Museum, Annapurna Museum, Bindhyabasini temple, and World Peace Pagoda.

Europe

PARIS

Paris is the most romantic city in Europe and also called the city of love. Everyone will enjoy a boat trip on the River Seine where you can sightsee all the main buildings of Paris. Probably is the Eiffel Tower, which can be called "the symbol of Paris" the most famous sight on your boat trip. When I was in Paris; I made this boat trip during the evening and it was amazing to see the illuminating of this tower and the other buildings.

Paris offers a lot of attractions but I recommend you to visit the Notre Dame, the Louvre museum, Montmartre and Place de la Concorde. Paris is also "the place to be" for tasting some excellent French wine. And what is Paris without a visit to one of the most popular night clubs of the world: the Moulin Rouge? You can enjoy there a marvelous cabaret with a delicious dinner.

ROME

Rome is an ancient city in Italy which is famous for its culture and beautiful historical buildings. The Coliseum is probably the most ancient monument in Rome where the building started in 7.5 A.D and finished in 80 A.D.

Rome is especially popular because of Vatican City. You can find there the most valuable pieces of art in the world. The Sistine chapel can be called the artistic jewel of Vatican City. You can walk there for hours and admiring the beautiful frescoes of Michelangelo which are well known worldwide.

Some other beautiful places to visit in Rome are: the Trevo Fontain and the Catacombs of Rome. A visit to Rome is also enjoying of the delicious pastas, the Italian coffee and gelato (the Italian ice cream).

CARINTHIA

Carinthia is a beautiful place in Austria with many mountains, glaciers and lakes. It is wonderful place for walking and enjoying the beauty of the nature. You can see mountains covered with snow and during your walking you will find beautiful flowers.

VIENNA

Vienna is the city of the classical music. There is a lovely park with a statue of Johan Strauss, the composer of "The Blue Danube (Die schöne blaue Donau). A statue of Mozart and decorated with images from Don Giovanna can be found in Burggarten. Also the Staatsoper and the Volksoper are popular places for music lovers.

Have you seen the movies of Sissi? If you enjoyed these movies you certainly need to visit the Hofburg Imperial Palace where you can visit the Sissi Museum.

Some other important places to visit are: the palace of Shönbrunn with their beautiful gardens, the Wienerwald, the Donau park, the St. Stephans Cathedral, The Karlskirche and Prater.

I recommend you also to visit the Spanish Riding School where you can see the Lippizan horses which gave marvelous shows.
You can enjoy some delicious desserts in Vienna like the Apfelstrudel and the Sachertarte.

LONDON

London is a beautiful place in Europe with many historical buildings. Buckingham Palace is a beautiful building in London and is the official Residence of the British monarch. Everyone can visit this palace and there are different galleries with beautiful art works from painters like Rubens, Van Eyck and many others. There are different galleries and you can also make a walk in the gardens and admire the beautiful flowers.

The Palace of Westminster is also an important building in London and one of the greatest Parliaments in the world. The Bell Tower of this parliament and called "Big Ben" is well known worldwide. It is especially famous during the night when the clocks are illuminated. Also the Abbey of Westminster is worthwhile to visit.

Other places of interest are the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Marble Arch nearby Hyde Park Corner and Windsor Castle.
However, the English cuisine is not popular; everyone will enjoy a typical English breakfast.

THE BLACK FOREST

This region in Germany is popular for its highlands and woods. Everyone who likes walking will have a nice time there. This place is also popular for the famous cuckoo clock and also Germany's largest waterfall can be found there.

The Black Forest is the heart of the woodworking industry and you can buy some wonderful souvenirs in wood and it is the ideal place for buying a cuckoo clock.
Enjoy also the Black Forest Cake, a delicious dessert in this region!

AMERICA

Las Vegas:
Las Vegas is the largest city in the state of Nevada. This is commonly referred to as entertainment capital of the world. The city has great casino hotels and creates a fantasy like atmosphere. Las Vegas is a great travel destination for honeymooners and travel addicts.
A trip to Vegas is usually a trip to “the strip”, about 20 long blocks of neon lights, public drinking and casinos.



Niagara Falls:
Niagara Falls can be accessed from both the American and Canadian side, but the best view facing the falls is completely from the Canadian side. When you take a trip to Niagara Falls, don’t forget to take a ride on the famous maid-of-the-mist boats. You won’t get the entire experience of Niagara Falls until you ride one of these boats.
It is the foundation for many interesting places to see and things to do. If you love beautiful landscapes, romantic getaways, family adventures and vibrant nightlife then Niagara Falls is the best place to visit.


Hawaii:

Going for Hawaii vacation will make you feel very happy by the beauty and hospitality. They want to do the things that they would not do at home. The beautiful Hawaii islands offer you to see world famous beaches closely; offer you peace and calmness somewhere off the beaten path.
During winter season, Hawaii is fully packed with tourists. When you visit Hawaii, don’t forget to enjoy the activities like: Seeing Molten lava flow at Kilauea volcano, hiking through Waipio Valley, visiting the largest Hawaiian religious temple Puukohola Heiau and playing in the snow atop Mauna Kea.