Activities
Plenty of ways to spend your days in Chitwan, from canoe rides and jungle walks to Tharu culture. Here's how they fit together.
How to choose your Chitwan activities
Nobody needs to do everything on this page. Most of our guests mix something on the water, something on foot, something by vehicle and an evening of Tharu culture, and our packages do exactly that for you. If you're booking a 2, 3 or 4-night stay, the main activities are already arranged. This overview shows how they fit together, and each activity below has its own page with the full details.
Included in every package
The canoe ride on the Rapti River and sunset viewing are part of every package. Most of our itineraries also begin with a village visit and an evening cultural programme on the day you arrive.
On the water
The canoe ride is the quietest way to look for the park's two crocodiles, the mugger and the gharial, as well as river birds.
On foot
Guided jungle walks bring you closer to the details of the forest: tracks, plants and smaller wildlife. Bird watching is best early in the morning, and from December to March. If you'd like a longer day on foot, a special-request trek to the Churia hills can be arranged.
By jeep or on elephant back
The jeep safari covers the most ground, through grassland and sal forest towards Kasara. It's included in our 3 and 4-night packages and can be added on request. The elephant back safari lasts 2 to 3 hours; please ask about the current arrangements before you book.
Learning about elephants
The elephant breeding centre and the elephant briefing with a naturalist explain how domesticated elephants are bred and cared for, and how they differ from wild ones. Elephant bathing was a seasonal activity in the warmer months, and current access needs to be confirmed.
Tharu culture
A village visit shows you everyday Tharu life, and the cultural show and stick dance fill an evening with music and dance.
Evenings
After a busy day, there's nothing better than watching the sun go down over the river with a cold drink.
How much can you fit in?
On the 1-day trip, you'll fit in a canoe ride, a jungle walk, a jeep or elephant safari and a village visit. A 2-night stay gives you a gentler pace and a bird-watching morning. With 3 or 4 nights, you'll have time for the whole programme and perhaps a special-request day too. Compare the options on our safari packages page, or read our blog for honest tips on each activity.
Elephant Safari: Visitor Information
An activity listed on the historical site; ask about current arrangements and alternatives.
Special-Interest Chitwan Tours
Discuss a tailored trip focused on wildlife, walking or culture.
Bird Watching in Chitwan
Observe birds along forest edges, grasslands and river habitats.
Canoeing and River Trips
Experience the river landscape and look for wildlife with your guide.
Elephant Bathing: Visitor Information
A seasonal activity described on the original site; current access is still to be confirmed.
Guided Jungle and Nature Walks
Explore on foot with time to notice tracks, plants and smaller wildlife.
Elephant Breeding Centre Visit
Learn about elephants and their care during an educational visit.
Jeep Safari in Chitwan
Explore forest tracks and grassland habitats on a guided jeep outing.
Sunset Viewing in Chitwan
Enjoy an unhurried evening and changing light near the river.
Tharu Cultural Show and Stick Dance
Include local music and dance in your Chitwan itinerary.
