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Packing for Chitwan is easier than it looks. You won't need technical kit or a special safari wardrobe, just a few practical things in the right colours. Here's the list we give our own guests, with a note on why each item earns its place.
The essentials
- Binoculars. The single most useful thing you can bring, for birds and for wildlife across the grassland. - A torch, for paths and early starts. - Insect repellent, especially for mornings and evenings near the river. - A sun hat and sunscreen. - Swimwear, for a swim on free afternoons in the warmer months. - A small daypack for water, a camera and a spare layer. - A reusable water bottle.
Clothes
Choose casual, comfortable clothes in light, muted colours. Bright colours stand out in the forest, and light fabrics keep you cooler. Long, loose trousers and long sleeves are useful on jungle walks, where they help with insects and scratchy grass. Pack things you don't mind getting muddy or dusty, because you will.
From November to February, sweaters and a warm jacket are a must. Winter mornings in Chitwan can be cold and damp, with temperatures in January falling close to freezing, and an early canoe ride or bird-watching outing feels a lot colder than you'd expect. By the afternoon it's often warm again, so layers are the answer.
Shoes
You'll want closed, comfortable shoes for jungle walks, ideally ones that are already worn in. Sandals are handy for the lodge and the riverbank, but not for walking in the forest.
For the hot season
From March to June, temperatures can climb as high as 43°C, and May is usually the hottest month. Bring quick-drying clothes, a wide-brimmed hat, plenty of sunscreen and a water bottle you'll actually use. Rehydration sachets are worth packing too.
For the monsoon
If you're travelling between late June and September, add a light rain jacket, a dry bag for your phone and camera, and shoes that cope with mud.
Cameras and photography
A zoom lens makes a real difference for wildlife photos, and a dust cover is useful on jeep safaris. Bring spare batteries and memory cards, and use a strap on the canoe ride.
What you can leave at home
You don't need special safari clothing, expensive boots or anything formal. Our packages include your accommodation, all meals during the safari and park permits, so there's not much else to think about. Do bring some cash for drinks, tips and personal shopping, as these aren't included.
A final tip
Pack light. A soft bag is easier to manage on the bus and in a jeep, and you'll probably wear the same comfortable clothes most days anyway.
Still deciding when to go? Our month-by-month guide will help. For more answers before you book, see our Chitwan safari FAQs, or compare our safari packages.