Published
If Chitwan had a slow lane, this would be it. The canoe ride on the Rapti River is the gentlest activity in the park and, for many guests, the one they enjoy most. It's included in every one of our packages, and you can read the activity details on our canoe trip page.
What happens
You'll set off in the morning in a dugout canoe with your guide on board. No experience is needed: your job is to sit still and look. On most of our itineraries, the canoe ride is followed by a guided jungle walk, so it's a lovely way to ease into a full day.
Mugger or gharial?
The Rapti is home to two rare species of crocodile, and telling them apart is half the fun. - The gharial has a very long, thin snout, built for catching fish. - The marsh mugger has a broader, heavier snout and is the more typical-looking crocodile of the two.
Scan the sandbanks and the edges of the river as you drift, though your guide will almost certainly spot them first. If you'd like to learn how gharials are raised and released back into the rivers, the jeep safari route stops at the gharial breeding centre near Kasara.
Birds from the boat
The river is one of the best places in Chitwan for birdwatching, because the canoe moves slowly and quietly. Look out for cormorants and kingfishers along the banks, and see our birdwatching guide for more ideas.
Photography tips
- Morning light on the river is soft and lovely, so have your camera ready from the start. - Use a fast shutter speed. The canoe moves, even when it feels still. - Keep your camera on a strap, with a dry bag at your feet. - Shoot low and level with the water for crocodile photos with real atmosphere.
Comfort and safety
Sit where you're asked to, keep still and keep your hands inside the canoe. Winter mornings on the water can be chilly and misty, so wear a warm layer; in the hot months, a hat and sunscreen are essential. Water levels change with the seasons, especially during the monsoon, so the route and timing depend on the conditions on the day.
Which package?
The canoe ride is included in all our packages, from the 1-day safari to the 4 nights / 5 days stay, so you won't need to book it separately. If it's the activity you're most looking forward to, a stay of two nights or more gives you a more relaxed morning on the river.