Jungle Safari Tours in Nepal

Nepal has made its place in the list of the most adventurous destinations around the world. Apart from its famous trekking trails, there are also many outdoor adventure activities. Among such activities, the jungle and wildlife safari has a distinct importance.

Geographically, Nepal is a land of contrasts. It is divided into three distinct regions: the towering Himalayan ranges, the rolling green hills, and the subtropical plains of the Terai. Spread across these regions, there are nine national parks, four wildlife reserves, and three conservation areas. Nepal provides support for an incredibly varied landscape of Flora and Fauna. With almost 19% of its territory protected as protected land, it is an acknowledged leader in ecotourism in the global list.

From the comfort of a luxury jungle lodge to the ultimate adventure deep in the wilderness, Nepal’s jungle safari experiences never fail to inspire. Listening to birdsong echo around the dense forests, observing rare wildlife in its natural habitat, and breathing in the untouched fresh beauty of nature create a safari adventure unlike anywhere else.

Why Nepal is a Jungle Safari Paradise?

With vast protected national parks, rare animals, and lush ecosystems, Nepal offers safari experiences that rival some of the best in Asia. Jungle safari tours are great adventure activities in Terai, Nepal, that let you explore various species of flora and fauna within conserved areas. Here are some of the reasons to do safari tours in Nepal:

1. Witness the rare and endangered animals

Jungle safari tours in Nepal provide an excellent opportunity for travelers to witness some of the rarest and endangered species of wild animals and birds. You can spot animals like the one-horn rhinoceros, the royal Bengal tiger, the snow leopard, the red panda, the blue bull, and the gharial crocodile.

2. An adventurous walk through the jungle

The wildlife reserves and national parks are built to protect the forests and animals in their natural habitat. You will be walking through the tropical and subtropical jungles of Terai, which have provided shelter to many species of plants, animals, and birds. The trails at just the safari tour will take you to the wilderness of Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park.

3. Vast Protected Wildlife Areas

With 9 national parks, 4 wildlife reserves, and 3 conservation areas, nearly 19% of Nepal’s land is protected. This ensures safe habitats for wildlife and rich safari experiences for travelers.

4. UNESCO World Heritage National Parks

Parks like Chitwan National Park are internationally recognized for their conservation efforts and provide world-class safari experiences.

5. Unique Safari Experiences

You can experience the unique safari as each provides a different perspective of the jungle. Nepal offers multiple styles of safaris:

• Open jeep safari
• Guided walking safari
• Peaceful canoe safari
• Exclusive birdwatching tours

6. Diverse Landscapes in One Country

From dense sal forests and riverine jungles to grasslands and wetlands, Nepal’s diverse terrain makes every safari feel fresh, dynamic, and visually stunning.

7. Affordable Yet High-Quality Safaris

Nepal offers budget-friendly, high-quality wildlife tours with professional naturalists, which makes it accessible for all types of travelers.

8. Rich Local Culture & Community Experiences

You will get the chance to enjoy the Tharu culture and traditions, as well as a chance to taste the local Tharu Thuuuines. You will get full enjoyment and entertainment around the Tharu community by seeing their dance and listening to the music. You will get to know more about the Tharu ethnic groups of Nepal.

9. Best for all age groups

Most Jungle safari tours in Nepal take at the lowland of Nepal, the Terai. It is plain land with lots of national parks and wildlife reserves. Nepal jungle safari does not require any special physical fitness and can be enjoyed by people of all ages with the support of a group.

Most Popular Jungle Safari Tours in Nepal

Chitwan National Park Safari

The first national park of Nepal and boasting a beautiful setting and abundant wildlife, Chitwan National Park is home to a variety of endangered animals as well. Chitwan National Park was established in 1973, and it was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1984. It is located in the lowland of the Terai region, about 150 km southwest of Kathmandu. It covers 952.63 sq. km of protected land, including dense sal forests, grasslands, riverine habitats, and wetlands.

The national park is a paradise for bird lovers as it has a record of 634 species of birds, including the most endangered Bengal florican, great pied hornbill, and many reptiles, amphibians, one-horned rhinoceros, royal Bengal tiger, gharial crocodile, and freshwater genetic dolphin. 126 species of fish, 590 species of butterflies, and 47 species of reptiles are found, which makes this one of the best jungle safari tours in Nepal.

Nepal Jungle Safari adventures in Chitwan National Park offer a variety of unforgettable experiences, from exciting jeep safaris to peaceful canoe rides along the Rapti River. But for those travelers looking for ethical wildlife experiences, there are options such as bird watching, the elephant breeding center, exploring the Tharu villages, and watching their colorful cultural show in the evening. Walking into the dense forests of Chitwan, during safari tours in Nepal, will allow one to get up close to the various varieties of plants and animals and to experience the wonders of nature in the lap of Nepal.

Bardia National Park Safari

Bardia National Park is the largest national park in the Terai region of Nepal, located in the western Terai region of Nepal, between the Siwalik hill and the Nepalgunj-Surkhet highway. Most of the area of Bardia National Park is covered by 968 sq.km of subtropical forests, including grassland and riverine. This national park was established in 1988. The park represents one of Nepal’s finest conservation areas, located in the western Terai region of Nepal.

Bardia National Park is heaven for rare wildlife, untouched wilderness, and authentic Tharu culture. This National Park is home to several endangered species, including the Royal Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Asiatic elephant, Gangetic dolphin, and 839 species of plants. Its rich biodiversity and peaceful environment make it one of the best destinations in Nepal for wildlife safaris.

It is a wonderful place for bird watching as the park contains 400 species of birds that include Bengal florican, white-rumped vulture, peafowl, and bar-headed goose.

Bardia National Park safari offers adventurous and exotic activities in the dense forest and wilderness of Bardia. The cultural programs, safari activities, bird-watching, and adventurous activities such as tent camping and rafting in Karnali and Bheri rivers are amazing and enjoyable during your safari tours in Nepal at Bardia National Park.

You will be experiencing the Tharu culture, enjoying the exploration of natural wilderness, and being accommodated in the forest resort of the Bardia National Park.

Koshi Tappu wildlife reserve safari

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a paradise in the Terai region of eastern Nepal, situated in the Sunsari, Saptari, and Udayapur districts. The wildlife reserve was established for the conservation of flora and fauna and nature in 1976. The wildlife reserve is covered with grassland, 6 percent is forest, and the remaining is wetlands.

It is rich in biodiversity that provides a habitat for 200 species of fish, 2 species of toad, 6 species of lizard, 5 species of snakes, 11 species of turtle, and some gharial crocodiles. Besides this, 31 species of mammals like the Asian elephant, hog deer, spotted deer, wild boar, golden jackal, wild water buffalo, Gaur, blue bull, and 485 species of birds that include weathercocks, Indian nightjar, white-tailed stonechat, and many more beautiful birds can be found on this wildlife reserve.

The Koshi Tappu wildlife reserve is especially for nature lovers who want to explore different types of vegetation, flora, and fauna. It is famous for bird watching, as many migratory birds come from Serbia to this region.

You will get a chance to explore amazing regions of Nepal, wildlife rafting in the Sapta Koshi river, as well as a jeep safari to explore the whole area of the Koshi Tappu wildlife reserve.

Shuklaphanta National Park

Shuklaphanta National Park is located in the far-western Terai of Nepal, in Kanchanpur District. It is known for its expansive subtropical grasslands, dense sal forests, and rich wetlands, which cover an area of 305 km². The park was originally established as a hunting reserve in 1969 and later declared a national park to protect its unique wildlife and fragile grassland ecosystem.

Shuklaphanta is famous for having Nepal’s largest herd of swamp deer (barasingha). These deer roam in and through the large Shuklaphanta Grassland, which is the park’s signature feature. The park is also home to Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, one-horned rhinos, spotted deer, hog deer, wild boar, jackals, and several smaller mammals.

With over 400 bird species, Shuklaphanta is especially famous for the Bengal florican, one of the rarest birds in the world. Visitors can also spot storks, eagles, owls, flycatchers, warblers, and numerous migratory species during winter.

Visitors can explore the park through jeep safaris, birdwatching tours, nature walks, and wetland excursions.

Major Activities of the Jungle Safari Tours in Nepal

Many activities can be done while doing safari tours in Nepal. Some of them are:

1. Jungle walk and bird watching 

National parks and protected areas offer jungle walks, which are great opportunities to experience nature closely. You will get the chance to see some of the rarest birds while walking through the forest.

This is the safest way to observe the birds within protected areas. The trails will allow you to climb up for an aerial view of the jungle as well. The experience will be much sweeter if you get the chance to observe Himalayan migratory birds sheltering at the national parks and wildlife reserves of southern Nepal.

2. Elephant Safari

The Elephant Safari is the major thing to do on safari tours in Nepal. It is the most common activity that Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park offer to their visitors. It is also the most famous and exciting way to score any wild animal encounter. You will get a pleasant experience during your elephant safari. It is a great way to experience the flora and fauna closely, even where a jeep can't go.

Note: However, it is worth noting that elephant riding is no longer considered ethical or sustainable. Riding on an elephant's back can cause long-term physical harm to the elephant. Nowadays, many conservation organizations advise against elephant riding. Instead, tourists are encouraged to choose more responsible wildlife tourism options, such as jeep safaris, walking safaris, canoeing, or elephant-watching tours, but not elephant riding.

3. Jeep Safari

Jeep Safari is the best way to see the wildlife in Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park. You will see an array of rare flora and fauna during the ride.

While on a jeep safari, you are bound to experience one kind of wildlife experience. One rhinoceros, the royal Bengal tiger, the sloth bear, and the giant hornbills can be spotted, and you will find yourselves indulging in an adventure like never before.

4. Canoe rides in Rapti at Chitwan National Park

One of the most pleasant in Chitwan National Park is the canoe ride in the slow current Rapti River, which gives life to many water creatures. You will get a chance to spot the different species of birds as well as the gharial species of crocodiles. The Rapti River slow canoe ride on the gentle river is a rare opportunity to see the waterfront scenery.

5. Visit the Crocodile Breeding center and the Elephant breeding center

Several programs inside the national parks allow visitors to explore the crocodile breeding center and the elephant breeding center. Endangered species such as fish-eating gharials, mugger crocodiles, and Asian elephants are protected and raised in these centers. Visitors can learn more about these rare animals, their conservation status, and the breeding processes that help support their survival in the wild.

6. Rafting in Bardia 

While doing a jungle safari tour in Bardia, rafting in the Karnali River is the most popular tour activity to experience dolphins, fish, and wild animals.

7. Explore the Local Community's village

While doing safari tours in Nepal, various local communities living around the national park have their customs, traditions, and lifestyles. Experiencing and understanding community-like things while doing a safari is a great activity in itself.

Best Time for the Jungle Safari Tours in Nepal

Nepal has several national parks and wildlife reserves for jungle safari tours in Nepal. Chitwan National Park Safari, Bardia National Park Safari, and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Safari are the most popular wildlife adventure destinations in Nepal.

Nepal Jungle Safari tour touches areas that can be done at any time, as safari tours are always open in these areas. The forests remain green, and the same variety of flora and fauna can be viewed throughout the year.

However, October to March are considered the best months for jungle safari tours in Nepal. The climate is very dry, and there is less humidity in the air. The visibility is clear, and there is a chance of spotting the Bengal tiger, elephants, rhinoceros, and birds can be enjoyed to the fullest.

Summer (June, July, and August) is quite avoidable for safari tours in Nepal as the southern Terai summer receives constant rainfall. The forests will surely be greener because of the rain, but the animals will also be staying at their respective shelter bushes, so there is less chance to spot the many wild animals and Bengal floricans.

Tips for a safari tours in Nepal

Safari tours in Nepal will be dramatic and an exploration of dense forests and wildlife within the protected areas of Nepal. Before booking a safari trip, we would like to give you some tips regarding safari tours in Nepal.

1. Go for a safari tour in Nepal with the local company

The huge benefit of booking a trip with a local company is that you will be safe and will be directly contributing to the national economy. Local companies use local resources, materials, and manpower, which is good for the country as well, and they are highly skilled. They will organize your tour package according to your interests, budget-friendly.

2. Plan properly

As you know, there are many national parks and wildlife reserves in Nepal that offer the best safari tours in Nepal. All the national parks and wildlife reserves allow exploring the dense jungle and a variety of species of wildlife and birds. Choose any one protected area for your safari tour according to your interest and plan thoroughly.

3. Pack first aid kits and medicines

Jungle safari means you will be walking through the dense jungle of the national parks and wildlife reserves of Nepal. Any sudden incident might happen in the deep forest. There is a saying: Prevention is better than cure, so it is better to carry first aid kits and medicine that includes bandages, painkillers, headache and fever medicines, and Antibiotics.

4. Don’t forget binoculars and cameras

The national parks and wildlife reserves offer awesome scenic beauty in the deep forests of Nepal. You will get a naturalistic view of different wild animals and birds on your safari trip. Some of the animals might get spotted only from far distances.

Therefore, you should carry binoculars to watch the animals at a far distance as well as to watch the Royal Bengal tiger, because it is dangerous to go near the tigers. The camera is the most essential thing to capture pictures, as well as the motion of wildlife animals and birds within the national parks and wildlife reserves.

5. Respect the local cultures

As a traveler, you must respect the local cultures, traditions, values, and customs. Respect the local values and enjoy communicating with the local people on the subject you are interested in.

You can also ask questions about the local people if you are interested in knowing about the local traditions and customs. Nepali people are ready to share their opinions and ideas with you.

Cost for Jungle Safari Tours in Nepal

The cost of jungle safari tours in Nepal varies largely based on your choice of accommodation and the duration of your stay. Standard hotels and lodges offer affordable options with all the necessary comforts, while luxury resorts provide a more premium experience at a higher price.

Overall, the total cost increases depending on how many days you plan to spend on your safari and the type of services you choose during your trip.

For Chitwan National Park:

• US$190 to US$240 per person for a 2-night 3-day package, and
• US$300 to US$400 for a 3-night 4-day package (depending on inclusions)

For Bardia National Park:

• US$460 to US$750 per person for a 3-night 4-day package (depending on inclusions)

For Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve:

• US$250 to US$600 per person (depending on inclusions)

Accommodation for safari tours in Nepal

The accommodation for a safari tours in Nepal differs according to the place you choose for the safari tour. The protected areas that conduct safari tours offer a good option for Jungle safari resorts. In the resort, you will not be treated as a guest but as a part of the jungle safari family.

Besides, there are plenty of hotels, lodges, and restaurants near the safari areas where you can enjoy a friendly atmosphere and reliable service. Accommodation options range from simple and comfortable lodges to high-end luxury resorts, allowing you to choose based on your budget and preferred level of comfort.

Accommodation is available in clean and well-furnished rooms, which come with amenities such as Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms. Many rooms also provide scenic window views, letting you enjoy the peaceful beauty of the jungle, especially at night. The lodges and hotels serve delicious Nepalese meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients, offering a diverse and authentic culinary experience during your stay.

FAQs of the Jungle Safari Tours in Nepal

Which National Park is best for Safari tours in Nepal?

The Chitwan National Park is the best safari tours in Nepal, which is an easily accessible jungle park. The guides in the park are very knowledgeable, and there are plenty of activities in the area, including a canoe ride in the park.

Endangered animals like gharial crocodiles, one-horned rhinoceros, and the Royal Bengal tiger can be seen during your safari at Chitwan National Park.

How many days of safari are enough for Nepal?

Generally, 2 to 5 days are enough for a safari in Nepal. You can visit any interesting safari parks and get the best of the parks within 2 to 5 days. Setting your night at luxury jungle lodges, canoeing, rafting on the rivers, exploring, and viewing the dense jungles and endangered animals, all these activities can be done within the given timeframe.

What can you see on a safari tours in Nepal?

Nepal is rich in biodiversity. During your safari tours at the national park, you will see the subtropical forest, and various species of endangered flora and fauna can be seen.

You will observe endangered animals like the one-horned rhinoceros, royal Bengal tiger, gharial tiger, elephant, genetic dolphins, and endangered birds like the Bengal florican, white-rumped vulture, peafowl, and great pied hornbill, as well as see the local Tharu culture and traditions of Nepal.

What animals can you see on the Nepal Jungle Safari?

There are lots of national parks and protected areas in Nepal that provide habitat for wildlife. During the jungle safari tours in Nepal, you will be able to spot the animals like the Himalayan Thar, goral, musk deer, serow, one-horned rhinoceros, blackbuck, swamp deer, gharial crocodile, Ganges river dolphin, sloth bear, leopard, snakes like a king cobra and common, and royal Bengal tiger.

Are jungle safaris safe for tourists?

Yes. Tours are conducted with experienced guides, park rangers, and proper vehicles. 

What should I wear or carry for a Nepal Jungle Safari?

You can wear lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, comfortable walking shoes, hats, sunglasses, and binoculars or a camera.

Can families with children or elderly people go on Jungle Safari Tours in Nepal?

Yes, many safaris are family-friendly. Some activities, like walking safaris, may be challenging for elderly visitors, but jeep and elephant safaris are suitable for all ages.