3-Day Chitwan National Park Tour Packages

Insider tips: Recommended 3-day Chitwan National Park tour itineraries

Compiled by

MelissaChitwan National Park travel expert at TourRadar

• 3 Day Nepal Safari Itinerary, incl. Kathmandu and Chitwan National Park

  UNESCO World Heritage wildlife roams throughout Chitwan's 932 square kilometers during this three-day adventure. Jeep safaris, canoe rides, and cultural visits fill the days at comfortable resorts. Natural habitats house 50+ mammal species.

  

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  • Day 1

    Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park

    Leave Kathmandu early for the bus ride to Chitwan (5-7 hours). One traveler advises: "The bus journey can be bumpy and twisty - if you get motion sickness take medication and try to sit near the front." You'll reach your resort by early afternoon. Pack light since you'll need to quickly prepare for afternoon activities. Wear long pants and proper walking shoes for the Tharu village visit. Your evening includes traditional Tharu stick dance shows.

    
  • Day 2

    Full Day Safari Activities

    Start early for a full day of wildlife viewing. Begin with a peaceful canoe ride on the Rapti River where you can spot gharial crocodiles and birds. Next stop is the elephant breeding center before lunch. A visitor shares: "The canoe trip was a highlight but be prepared for a challenging 2-hour jungle trek afterward in hot weather - wear proper hiking shoes and long pants to protect from scratches." Your afternoon includes a jeep safari deep in the park looking for rhinos tigers and sloth bears. Stay alert with your camera but listen to your guide - some visitors mention feeling rushed when vehicles gather around wildlife.

    
  • Day 3

    Morning Nature Walk and Departure

    Get up before sunrise for bird watching. Chitwan hosts over 500 bird species including kingfishers hornbills and possibly the rare Bengal florican. Have breakfast by 8:30 AM before leaving. The trip back to Kathmandu takes 7-9 hours so plan your travel accordingly. Consider asking your hotel to pack lunch for the long ride since food stops are limited.

    

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• 3 Days in Nepal Safari, incl. Kathmandu and Chitwan National Park

  Wildlife and culture merge over three days: arrival with village tours, full day of jungle experiences, and morning bird watching before departure. Maximum wildlife viewing opportunities.

  

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  • Day 1

    Kathmandu to Chitwan (5-6 hours)

    Leave Kathmandu by 7 AM to avoid traffic. The tourist bus takes about 5-6 hours on mountain roads before reaching the Terai lowlands. If you get motion sickness bring medication. You'll arrive at your lodge around 2 PM and visit a traditional Tharu village. One traveler shared: "The evening cultural dance was a highlight - the local villagers really get you involved in the performance!" Remember to pack mosquito repellent for evening activities.

    
  • Day 2

    Full Day Safari Activities

    Start with a peaceful morning canoe ride on the Rapti River to spot rare gharial crocodiles and birds. Quick-dry clothing is best for the morning dew. Your afternoon jeep safari gives you the best chance to see one-horned rhinoceros and possibly Bengal tigers. Stay quiet and keep your camera ready. Visit the elephant breeding center later when baby elephants are most active. Long sleeves and pants will protect you from sun and insects.

    
  • Day 3

    Morning Activities and Return to Kathmandu

    Go bird watching at 6:30 AM when over 500 species are most active. After breakfast head back to Kathmandu. A helpful tip from a traveler: "It was very hot during mid-day travel, try to time your return journey for later in the day when temperatures are more comfortable."

    

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• 3 Day Nepal Itinerary, incl. Kathmandu and Chitwan National Park

  Wildlife thrives throughout this 3-day Chitwan sanctuary visit spanning 932 sq km. Elephant safaris, canoe rides, and jungle walks reveal natural wonders. The Elephant Breeding Centre and cultural performances enhance the experience. Includes 2 nights' accommodation and all meals.

  

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  • Day 1

    Kathmandu to Chitwan

    Leave early for your 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park. Pick a seat on the right side of the bus to catch stunning mountain views along the Trishuli Valley. "The transfer was smooth and hassle-free, though the roads can be bumpy in sections. Bring motion sickness pills if you're sensitive." Once you arrive in the afternoon take a guided walk through a local Tharu village to learn about indigenous life. Head to the Rapti River near the park's visitor center for sunset where you can spot gharial crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks. In the evening you can watch traditional Tharu dance shows. Remember to bring insect repellent since mosquitoes come out at dusk.

    
  • Day 2

    Full Day Safari Experience

    Start your day at 6:00 AM when wildlife is most active. Begin with a peaceful canoe ride on the Rapti River in the morning mist - perfect for photos. A recent visitor noted: "We saw rhinos, deer, and even caught glimpses of tigers during our morning safari. Having an experienced naturalist guide made all the difference in spotting wildlife." Take some time to rest after lunch before going on a 2-3 hour elephant safari through the grasslands. Riding on elephant-back gives you a great view to spot one-horned rhinoceros, especially in areas where jeeps can't go through the tall grass. Stick to neutral colored clothing and skip the perfume to avoid disturbing the animals.

    
  • Day 3

    Morning Activities and Return to Kathmandu

    Get to the Elephant Breeding Center by 7:00 AM to see the baby elephants at their most playful. You can walk there in about 30 minutes from most lodges or ask your hotel to arrange a ride. After breakfast start your journey back to Kathmandu where you'll arrive in late afternoon.

    

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