Chitwan is a southern district of mid-Nepal. Chitwan represents Sauraha and Chitwan National Park in terms of tourism point of view.
Sauraha – Chitwan National Park
Sauraha is a small village located in the Chitwan district of Nepal, about 160 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu. It is situated on the edge of the Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is known for its wildlife and adventure activities. Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the southern part of Nepal. It covers an area of 952.63 sq. km and is known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Here are some of the things to see and do in Sauraha:
Jungle/wildlife safari: Sauraha is the gateway to the Chitwan National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, and crocodiles. You can take a jungle safari on an elephant or a jeep to explore the park and spot the wildlife.
Elephant breeding center: The elephant breeding center in Sauraha is a must-visit attraction. Here, you can see baby elephants and learn about the conservation efforts to protect this endangered species.
Bird watching: Sauraha is a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 500 species of birds found in the Chitwan National Park. You can take a guided tour to spot some of the rare and exotic birds.
Tharu cultural program: The Tharu people are the indigenous inhabitants of the Chitwan district, and Sauraha offers an opportunity to learn about their culture and lifestyle. You can attend a Tharu cultural program, which includes traditional music, dance, and food.
Canoe ride: You can take a canoe ride on the Rapti River, which flows through the Chitwan National Park. The ride offers a chance to see crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife along the riverbanks.
Jungle walk: You can take a guided jungle walk to explore the park on foot. This offers a more intimate experience of the park’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Biking: Rent a bicycle and explore the scenic countryside around Sauraha. You can cycle through the villages, paddy fields, and forests and get a glimpse of rural life in Nepal.
Sauraha is a popular tourist destination located in the Chitwan district of Nepal. It is known for its wildlife and adventure activities, including jungle safaris, elephant rides, and bird watching. Here’s how you can travel from Kathmandu to Sauraha:
By bus: The most common way to travel from Kathmandu to Sauraha is by bus. There are several tourist buses and local buses that operate on this route. The journey takes around 6-7 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. You can catch a bus from the New Bus Park in Kathmandu or book your ticket online or through a travel agent.
By private car/taxi: If you prefer a more comfortable and convenient option, you can hire a private car or taxi to travel from Kathmandu to Sauraha. The journey takes around 5-6 hours, and you can negotiate the price with the driver or book through a travel agency.
By flight: If you’re short on time, you can take a flight from Kathmandu to Bharatpur, which is the nearest airport to Sauraha. Several airlines operate daily flights between the two cities, and the flight takes around 25 minutes. From Bharatpur, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Sauraha.
By motorcycle: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a motorcycle and ride from Kathmandu to Sauraha. The journey takes around 5-6 hours, and you can rent a motorcycle from Kathmandu or Sauraha.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, make sure to plan ahead and book in advance, especially during peak travel season (October to November and March to April). Sauraha is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts.