essay about tiger in nepali

Nepal’s Tigers: A Conservation Success Story

Nepal celebrated Global Tiger Day in 2022 with news that its tiger numbers have climbed from 121 tigers in 2009 to 355 tigers in 2022. That makes Nepal the only country so far out of the then-13 tiger nations to achieve a 2010 goal by the range countries to double their numbers by 2022. In fact, Nepal has more than doubled their tiger population since 2010. What can we learn from their methods?

Nepal is home to a vast diversity of iconic species, including tigers, rhinoceroses, snow leopards, Asian elephants, red pandas, hundreds of bird species, reptiles, amphibians, and more. Many of these species are endangered, and conservationists and government authorities are working tirelessly to ensure their survival. Nepal’s wildlife conservation efforts include not only protecting the species and their habitat, but also working with local communities to minimize harm from conflicts between people and wildlife and promote coexistence.

Nepal’s conservation strategy is an exemplary model. Conservationists, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), work very closely with each other and with communities.

Conservation activities include working to enhance mitigation efforts to minimize human-tiger conflict, improve habitats, and assist with population monitoring and patrolling efforts. In addition, Nepal provides a percentage of tourism dollars to communities living near wildlife areas, thereby enabling local communities to see a return on their investment in wildlife conservation.

Government ministries also closely collaborate and cooperate to protect their wildlife populations. Similar to the United States, wildlife conservation authorities are split between several ministries. Nepal’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation manages the national parks. The Department of Forests manages wildlife outside protected areas. The Nepal Army and Nepal Police also play a major role in the reduction of poaching.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, through our International Affairs Program , partners with key stakeholders in Nepal, both government ministries  and NGOs, on tiger conservation. Through the Rhinoceros and Tiger Conservation Fund, we provide support and financial resources to these key stakeholders for conservation programs that directly conserve tiger populations.

In 2010, the world’s tiger population was estimated to be around 3,200. Tiger numbers have increased to an estimated 4,500 today, but tigers are now extinct in Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. Currently, wild tigers can be found in 10 range countries in Asia: Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Russia, and Thailand.

In the early 1900s, there were an estimated 100,000 tigers on the Indian subcontinent, but by the early 2000s, tiger numbers and their habitats were devastated. Nearly 95% of their habitats were destroyed, and tiger numbers were decimated by poaching. Today, tigers are also impacted by declining populations of prey due to a number of factors and possibly exacerbated by climate change climate change Climate change includes both global warming driven by human-induced emissions of greenhouse gases and the resulting large-scale shifts in weather patterns. Though there have been previous periods of climatic change, since the mid-20th century humans have had an unprecedented impact on Earth's climate system and caused change on a global scale. Learn more about climate change .

Rural communities adjacent to protected areas that harbor tigers have always faced a degree of conflict with these predators. This conflict has steadily increased with shrinking habitats and growing human populations.

The poaching of tigers continues to feed the illegal trade in tiger pelts, bones, claws, teeth, and other body parts. Poaching and wildlife trafficking of tigers has been and continues to be a major threat to wild tigers across their entire range, including in Nepal.

While the pressures faced by tigers and their prey base continue, the announcement that Nepal’s tiger population has increased is still a celebratory moment. It is even more impressive that a small nation such as Nepal is the front runner in the pledge to double its tiger numbers in 12 years. Nepal’s commitment to conservation is laudable and a true conservation success story!

Want to Help?

One way to support these majestic big cats and other wildlife is by purchasing a Tiger Stamp .

Tiger Stamps are sold at a rate slightly higher than normal first-class stamps. USPS transfers the extra to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on a quarterly basis. From there, our International Affairs Program divides the funds among the congressionally mandated Multinational Species Conservation Funds to support elephants, rhinos, tigers , great apes and lesser apes, marine turtles, and tortoises and freshwater turtles.

By Meenakshi Nagendran/USFWS

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• WILDLIFE WATCH

Tigers have nearly tripled in Nepal, but at what cost?

The country now has 355 tigers, but critics say the conservation focus has put human neighbors at risk.

Nepal has become the world’s front-runner for tiger conservation.  

The country today announced that it has 355 of the endangered cats within its borders, almost tripling its known population since its estimate of 121 tigers in 2009.

At the Global Tiger Summit in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 2010, all 13 countries that have tigers in the wild pledged to double their tiger numbers. Only Nepal has met this goal.

The country's successes are largely the result of “strong government buy-in” for tiger conservation and the enforcement of strict anti-poaching policies, says Abishek Harihar, the deputy director of the tiger program at the wildcat conservation group Panthera , which supported Nepal’s recent efforts to survey its population of Bengal tigers .

At the start of the 20th century, more than 100,000 tigers roamed the planet, but loss of habitat wiped out more than 90 percent of their range, according to Panthera. Trophy hunting and poaching for their skins and bones—used in China and elsewhere in Asia to make products including tiger bone "wine," a traditional brew some believe will impart the drinker with the animal's strength, also substantially reduced tiger populations. Today, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and southern China have no tigers in the wild. ( Read about how Siberian tigers are being poached for their body parts .)

In Nepal, punishment for poaching a tiger includes 15 years in prison and a fine of $10,000, Harihar says.

Since the 1970s, Nepal has established five national parks where most of its tigers live. They’re   heavily patrolled by park staff and army personnel. Tiger protections also have helped other threatened animals—rhinos, elephants, and pangolins, among others.

Better sampling methods—such as camera traps—account for some of the improvements in Nepal’s tiger numbers. But there has also been a real population increase, with more tigers born, Harihar says. “Certainly, Nepal has gotten much closer to [its tiger goals] than other countries,” he says, though India, Bhutan, and Thailand have made gains in recent years too.

Nepal’s tiger announcement comes after the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the global authority on the status of endangered animals, announced earlier this month that tiger numbers worldwide are “stable or increasing.” Its latest tally indicates that there are between 3,726 and 5,578 wild tigers—a 40 percent increase from the 2015 estimate. Much of the improvement came from better monitoring, not growing numbers of the endangered animals, IUCN noted.

Yet Nepal’s tiger progress has come at a cost:   Some critics say that the focus on increasing tigers is at odds with community safety. In recent years, tiger attacks against local people living around tiger habitat have increased, as has predation on livestock, threatening livelihoods. Government agencies and conservationists “haven’t thought enough about how to keep people safe in those communities,” says Kumar Paudel, the director of Greenhood Nepal, a Kathmandu-based conservation nonprofit.

“I’m excited to see the tiger numbers," he says, "but the cost of this conservation feels really sad."

Tiger attacks on the rise

Between July 2021 and July 2022, tigers killed 16 people in Chitwan National Park, the big cat’s main habitat, according to Babu Ram Lamichhane, a biologist at the National Trust of Nature Conservation, Nepal. In contrast, he says, in the previous five years combined there were 10 attacks (and resulting deaths) in the park.  

Last month, a tiger attacked and injured a 41-year-old woman in Bardiya district, close to one of the largest areas of tiger habitat, while she was collecting firewood. The incident, according to The Kathmandu Post, incensed the community, and people blocked the main road, demanding better protection from wildlife. To disperse the protesters, security forces deployed tear gas shells and opened fire, leading to multiple injuries and one death.

Lamichhane’s group has found that tigers that injure or kill people are typically physically impaired or without territory —they’re stressed animals looking for easy prey. Increased tiger densities, he says, forces some cats to search for territory in fringe areas, where they’re more likely to encounter people.

Better monitoring of these animals and timely control, such as euthanizing the tiger, can help reduce attacks, he says, adding that relocating felines that have previously attacked people isn’t a good solution because they may harm people elsewhere.  

Most people that live around the parks still depend on the forest for their daily needs, for example, wood for fuel, says Kanchan Thapa, the head of wildlife programs for World Wildlife Fund-Nepal. So the government and other conservation partners should focus on providing alternative livelihood options for these people, he says.  

With the release of the new global population numbers, the IUCN urged countries to continue expanding and connecting protected areas and called for further collaboration with communities living in and around tiger habitats.

“The major problem is the human-tiger interaction,” Paudel says, adding that governments need to “think about the social cost of conservation and how we can truly all share that.”

Related Topics

• BENGAL TIGER
• ANIMAL WELFARE
• WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
• ANIMAL ATTACKS
• HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT

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WHY WILDLIFE

Nepal’s wildlife is threatened by a multitude of factors, the most direct threats being loss and degradation of habitat, over-exploitation, poaching, illegal wildlife trade, and negative human-wildlife interactions. These threats are triggered by development of large infrastructure, climate change, poverty, and other factors. Meanwhile, climatic factors that trigger the vulnerabilities include forest fires, droughts, and extreme flooding.

At WWF Nepal, we seek to increase and manage populations of priority species and their habitats, restore lost wildlife populations in their former ranges, and reduce negative human-wildlife interactions.

SPECIES MANAGEMENT

WWF Nepal has identified six threatened species as focal species which include the tiger, greater one-horned rhinoceros, elephant, pangolin, red panda, and snow leopard. WWF Nepal supports the Government of Nepal in the conservation and management of these focal species within Nepal's Protected Areas, and outside protected areas in WWF's priority landscapes.  Priority initiatives include monitoring of focal species to ascertain their status and performance in their habitats based on robust monitoring protocols, alongside reintroduction of species in their former ranges, ecological monitoring of species, wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, wildlife disease management, and identification and adaptation of technologies that support the management of species.   

CURBING WILDLIFE CRIMES

WWF Nepal works with government agencies, local communities as well as non-conventional partners to coordinate with global, regional, and bilateral fora and mechanisms to curb poaching and control illegal wildlife trade of focal species.  With the new federal structure in place, WWF Nepal has also been collaborating with local and provincial government to enhance local capacities. WWF Nepal also supports the exploration and application of tested technologies in wildlife crime monitoring, provides technical assistance in formulating and revising applicable policies and laws at all three tiers of the government, and in enhancing transboundary collaboration with India to minimize wildlife trade across its borders. WWF Nepal has also supported the development and mobilization of the country's largest network of community based anti-poaching units spread across its priority working sites.   

HABITAT MANAGEMENT

Destruction and degradation of natural ecosystems is the most dreaded threats impacting the survival of focal species and flow of ecosystem services. WWF Nepal has been supporting management of critical forested areas, grasslands, wetlands and rangelands within national parks, corridor areas and outside protected areas identified as critical habitats. WWF Nepal provides both technical and financial assistance to government entities including communities to improve productivity of critical habitats while promoting nature based and nature positive solutions that deliver equitable benefits to local communities.   

• NEGATIVE HUMAN-WILDLIFE INTERACTIONS
• HABITAT LOSS AND DEGRADATION
• ILLEGAL WILDLIFE TRADE

Common name: Bengal Tiger

Scientific Name: Panthera tigris tigris

Length: 250-390 cm (Male), 200-275 cm (Female)

Weight: 90-306 kg

Population:  355

Status: Categorized Endangered in IUCN Red List throughout its range countries and listed in Appendix I of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) agreement. Tiger is a protected species according to the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1973 A.D. (2029 B.S.)

Habitat: Tiger habitat ranges from wet, evergreen, semi evergreen, swampy mangroves of the Ganges delta, to deciduous forests, thorny forests and open grasslands. Geographically, they are found at sea level from the Sundar Bans in Bangladesh, to the base of the Himalayas, and up to 4000m asl in Bhutan. 

Distribution: In Nepal, the Bengal Tiger is found across five protected areas - Chitwan National Park, Parsa National Park, Banke National Park, Bardia National Park and Shuklaphanta National Park. Tiger dispersal is also frequently recorded in the corridors of the transboundaryTerai Arc Landscape. Besides Nepal, the Bengal Tiger is distributed in India, Bangladesh and Bhutan. 

Challenges: The tiger is an umbrella species of the ecosystem. It's survival represents a healthy ecosystem with plenty of prey base and sufficient forest cover. However h abitat destruction, habitat fragmentation, decrease in prey-base, poaching for fur and body parts, retaliatory killing, illegal hunting and diseases continue to reamin major threats to the animal.

Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros

Common name: Greater One Horned Rhinoceros Scientific Name: Rhinoceros unicornis Length: 3.1-3.8 m Weight: 2450 kg Population: 752 Status: Categorized as Vulnerable inIUCN Red list and listed in the Appendix-I in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). It is a protected species according to the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1973 A.D (2029 B.S.) Habitat: Rhinos inhabit the riparian grasslands of Terai and Brahmaputra Basins. They prefer alluvial floodplain grasslands, riverine forest and nearby wetlands. Currently, populations are restricted to habitats surrounded by human-dominated landscapes due to which they can be seen in adjacent cultivated areas, pastures and secondary forests. Distribution:  In Nepal, the greater one horned rhinoceros is primarily found in Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park, Shuklaphanta National Park, with a few also located in Parsa National Park. Besides Nepal, they are also found in India, and are regionally extinct from Bangladesh and Bhutan. Challenges: Poaching is a major threat for the species, primarily for its horns, known to be used in traditional Chinese medicines. Retaliatory killings due to crop damage and human attack are also occasionally reported. Agricultural expansion and encroachment upon their habitats outside protected areas are another major issue. Meanwhile, invasive alien plant species such as Mikenia micrantha also has serious impacts on their native food plant species.

Common name: Red Panda Scientific Name: Ailurus fulgens Length: 93-110 cm Weight: 3-7-6.2 kg Population: 237-1061 Status: Categorized as Endangered species in IUCN Red List, and listed in Appendix I in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973 A.D. (2029 B.S.) has also enlisted Red Panda as a protected species. Habitat: The Red Panda inhabits high altitude temperate forests with an abundance of bamboo in the understories. They are distributed within a narrow altitude range; between 2000-4500m asl, with small isolated populations also found in warm climates; below 1500m asl, in Meghalaya of India. A large portion of the Red Panda habitat lies outside the mountainous protected areas networks throughout its range. Distribution: The Red Panda is distributed within the five Asian countries of Nepal, India, Bhutan, Myanmar and China. A majority of its habitat in Nepal falls outside protected areas, extending from Taplejung in the east to Kalikot in the west. Its presence has been recorded in nine different protected areas of Nepal - Rara National Park, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Annapurna Conservation Area, Manaslu Conservation Area, Langtang National Park, Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Sagarmatha National Park, Makalu Barun National Park and Kangchenjunga Conservation Area. Outside protected areas, it has also been recorded in Ilam, Panchathar, Sindhupalchok, Ramechhap, Rolpa, Kalikot, Jajarkot and Jumla districts. Challenges: Major threats to Red Panda conservation are loss, degradation, and fragmentation of its habitat, poaching especially for the trade of its hide, high dependency of local community on forest resources for grazing, fuel wood, timber and non-timber forest products. Development activities such as construction of roads, hydropower dams in high altitudes, natural disasters such as landslides, floods, heavy snowfall and rainfall, climate change, bamboo flowering, forest fires, poor regeneration of shelter plants in cold climate and high infant mortality constitute major challenges in its conservation.

Snow Leopard

Scientific Name: Panthera uncia

Length: 163-196 cm (male), 165-173 cm (female)

Weight: 22-55 kg

Population: 300-400

Status:  Categorized as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and listed in Appendix I in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) agreement. It is a protected species according to the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1973 A.D. (2029 B.S.)

Habitat: The habitat of the snow Leopard includes cold arid and semi-arid shrublands, alpine and sub-alpine areas, grasslands and open forests, steep terrain well broken by cliffs, ridges, gullies and rocky outcrops at elevations of 3000-5500m asl. Besides Nepal, it is distributed from Afghanistan to Kazakhstan and Russia in the north, and to India and China in the east. China contains about 60% of the total global snow leopard habitat.

Distribution: Globally, the snow leopard is distributed among 12 countries of central Asia including Altai, Himalayas, Hindu Kush, Pamirs and Tien Shan across Nepal, India, China, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Russia, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Bhutan and Uzbekistan. Within Nepal, snow leopards are recorded in Sagarmatha National Park, Shey Phoksundo National Park, Langtang National Park, Makalu Barun National Park, Manaslu Conservation Area, Annapurna Conservation Area, Api Nampa Conservation Area, Gauri Shankar Conservation Area and Kangchenjunga Conservation Area. The stronghold of snow leopard populations in Nepal include the districts of Dolpa, Humla, Mugu, Mustang and Manang.

Challenges: Human activity poses serious threats to the survival of the snow leopard. Poaching for hide and body parts for Chinese medicines, human-snow leopard conflict in the form of retaliatory killings for livestock depredation, decrease in natural prey base due to competition with domestic cattle and hunting by humans, habitat destruction due to human settlements, mining, urbanization, deforestation, livestock grazing, shrinking habitat due to human population growth, destruction of fragile mountain ecosystems by climate change and weak transboundary cooperation are major threats for the species.

Asian Elephant

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Chitwan National Park, Nepal – Elusive Tigers and Iconic Rhinos

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Nestled in the fertile lowlands of the Terai region, Chitwan National Park is a true jewel in the crown of Nepal’s stunning natural landscapes. Covering an area of 932 sq. km, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, including an impressive array of wildlife, from the Bengal Tiger to the One-horned Rhinoceros.

The park is also home to a lush mosaic of Sal forests, grasslands, and riverine forests, providing visitors with a diverse spectacle of nature’s brilliance. Established in 1973, Chitwan National Park was Nepal’s first national park, and its conservation success stories are a testament to the country’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

Getting There

Located in south-central Nepal, Chitwan National Park can be reached through several means:

By Road: From Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, you can reach the park by first getting to the town of Sauraha by bus or car. The journey usually takes about 5-6 hours and offers beautiful views of the Nepalese countryside.

By Air: If you prefer a faster route, daily flights from Kathmandu to Bharatpur Airport are available. The flight takes around 25 minutes, followed by a short 30-minute drive to the park.

By Raft: For the adventurous traveler, you can opt for a combination of driving and rafting. This allows you to experience the thrilling white waters of the Trishuli River on your way to Chitwan.

When to Visit Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park has a tropical monsoon climate with three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter.

Summer (March to June): The weather can get quite hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C. However, this is a great time for wildlife sightings as animals come out to the water sources to quench their thirst. I visited the park in mid-May and I had good weather.

Monsoon (July to September): The park receives heavy rainfall during these months, which can make some areas inaccessible. However, the lush greenery during this time is truly beautiful.

Winter (October to February): With mild temperatures and lower humidity, this is the most comfortable time to visit the park. Visibility is also at its best, increasing your chances of spotting wildlife.

For the best wildlife viewing opportunities and comfortable weather, the months between October and March are highly recommended.

Where to Stay near Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park has a range of accommodations to cater to different budgets and preferences, from luxury jungle resorts to budget guesthouses.

One of the recommended places to stay is Hotel Parkland (this is where I stayed), known for its comfortable rooms and peaceful garden setting. Located near the park’s entrance, the hotel offers cozy accommodation with excellent wildlife-themed décor, clean and spacious rooms, and an inviting outdoor area where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.

They also organize various activities like jungle safaris and cultural shows, which can be very convenient for guests.

If you’re looking for luxury, the Barahi Jungle Lodge or Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge might be a good fit. These resorts offer high-end accommodation and services, including guided jungle safaris, spa services, and gourmet dining experiences with a focus on local and organic ingredients.

For budget travelers, there are numerous guesthouses and homestays in the nearby Sauraha village, offering basic but clean accommodations, a chance to experience local life, and easy access to the park.

Remember to book your stay well in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during the peak season (October to March).

Park Regulations and Permits

Entering Chitwan National Park requires a permit that can be purchased at the park entrance. The price for foreigners is 2,000 Nepalese Rupees (about 15 USD) per day, but it’s best to check for updated fees. In any case, if you go with a tour package, this will most likely be included so you won’t have to worry about it.

Respect for wildlife and the environment is paramount in Chitwan. Here are a few key regulations:

• Off-road driving is strictly prohibited to protect wildlife habitats.
• Maintain a safe and respectful distance from all animals.
• Feeding and disturbing wildlife is not allowed.
• Littering is prohibited. Carry out what you carry in.
• Fires and camping are not allowed in the park.

Guided tours are compulsory for safety reasons and to minimize the impact on wildlife. Guides are well-trained and knowledgeable about the flora, fauna, and cultural significance of Chitwan.

What to Do in Chitwan National Park

Nature & wildlife experiences.

Chitwan National Park offers an array of activities that allow visitors to experience the park’s natural richness:

Jungle Safaris: Jeep and elephant-back safaris are popular ways to explore deeper into the jungle. I definitely recommend the jeep safaris, to avoid supporting the exploitation of elephants. Both morning and afternoon safaris are available. The safari routes are determined by the guides based on recent wildlife sightings.

Walking Safaris: Accompanied by trained naturalists, these tours offer a unique, up-close perspective of the park’s flora and fauna.

Canoe Rides: Drift down the Rapti or Narayani River in a traditional dugout canoe. This is a fantastic way to spot crocodiles basking on the river banks and a variety of water birds.

Bird Watching: With over 550 bird species, Chitwan is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Early morning is the best time for bird-watching.

Elephant Breeding Centre: Commonly included in visits to the park, this center provides a unique opportunity to learn about the park’s elephant population. It plays a crucial role in the conservation of Asian elephants, providing care for injured animals and raising young elephants. And, should I mention, it’s a great opportunity to pet some adorable baby elephants!

Gharial Conservation Breeding Center: Open in 1978, the place is great to see these beautiful crocodilians up close, including lots and lots of babies. The center is an important piece of the puzzle for the conservation of this endangered species.

Each activity offers a unique perspective of the park and a chance to witness its diverse wildlife. Whether it’s the thrill of a jungle safari or the serenity of a canoe ride, Chitwan promises an unforgettable adventure.

Cultural Experiences

Chitwan isn’t just about wildlife; it’s also a place where visitors can engage with the rich local culture.

Tharu Village Tour: Chitwan is home to the Tharu people, an indigenous group known for their unique culture. Many tour packages include a visit to a Tharu village where you can learn about their traditional lifestyle, view their distinct architecture, and experience their vibrant music and dance performances, known as Tharu Stick Dance.

Local Food: Don’t miss trying the local cuisine! The typical Tharu dish, ‘Dal Bhat’, a platter of lentil soup, rice, vegetables, and pickles, is a must-try. Also, sample the locally brewed rice beer known as ‘Raksi’.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Chitwan National Park is a sanctuary for a diverse range of wildlife, with over 68 species of mammals, 544 species of birds, and 126 species of fish. The park is also home to more than 600 plant species, including the dominant sal tree, which forms 70% of the forest cover.

Commonly Seen Animal Species

Visitors are almost guaranteed to spot several wildlife species, such as:

• The One-Horned Rhinoceros: Chitwan is home to the second largest population of this endangered species. These solitary animals are usually seen grazing in the grasslands.
• Spotted Deer: Often seen in herds, these graceful creatures are a common sight in the park.
• Wild Boar: Frequently spotted around the park, these animals play a crucial role in the ecosystem by disturbing soil and spreading seeds.
• Rhesus Monkey and Hanuman Langur: These primates are commonly seen swinging in the trees and foraging on the ground.
• Crocodiles: During canoe rides, you’ll often see Mugger and Gharial crocodiles basking on the river banks.

Other Animal Species – If You’re Lucky

With some luck, you might spot:

• Bengal Tiger: Seeing a Bengal Tiger is a rare and thrilling experience. Though sightings are not common, the presence of these majestic animals is often hinted at by their footprints or roars. I personally did not see the tiger in Chitwan but I did see their footprints.
• Leopard: These elusive cats are most active at dawn and dusk. They are sometimes spotted in trees or near water bodies.
• Sloth Bear: Mostly nocturnal, they can occasionally be seen during the daytime, especially during the hot summer months when termites, their favorite food, are abundant.

Plant and Tree Species Not to Miss

Chitwan National Park’s vegetation is a mix of deciduous forests and grasslands. The most iconic tree is the sal tree, which is not only vital for the park’s ecosystem but also has cultural significance in the region. Other plant species to look out for are the silk cotton tree, which has beautiful red flowers, and the acacia, known for its distinctive thorns.

Best Locations and Times for Wildlife Spotting

For the best wildlife viewing opportunities, take a guided safari early in the morning or late in the afternoon when animals are most active. The grasslands and the river banks are great places for wildlife spotting. Remember, patience is key when it comes to wildlife viewing!

Photographic Guide – Best Spots to Photograph

Sunrise and Sunset: Chitwan’s wide skies and open landscapes create spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Capture these moments from the riverbanks for reflections on the water, or from the higher grounds for panoramic views.

Wildlife: The grasslands, riverbanks, and forest edges are the best places to photograph Chitwan’s diverse wildlife. Patience is crucial; it can take time for animals to appear.

Sauraha Village: This vibrant village with its traditional houses, bustling markets, and local life provides great opportunities for street photography.

Tharu Cultural Performances: The colorful Tharu dance performances are a fantastic subject for photography, offering a mix of movement, color, and cultural storytelling.

Birdlife: With over 550 species, Chitwan is a bird photographer’s paradise. The early morning and late afternoon are the best times to photograph these feathered beauties.

Scenic Landscapes: Chitwan’s landscapes vary from dense forests to vast grasslands and serene rivers. Don’t miss capturing these scenic vistas.

Packing Checklist for Chitwan National Park

Here’s a basic packing list for a trip to Chitwan National Park:

• Clothing: Lightweight clothing for the daytime and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Choose neutral colors that blend with the environment for better wildlife watching. Don’t forget a raincoat if you’re visiting during the monsoon.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Waterproof shoes can be useful during the monsoon or for morning walks when dew is common.
• Binoculars: Enhance your wildlife viewing and bird-watching experiences with a good pair of binoculars.
• Camera and Accessories: Don’t forget your camera, extra memory cards, and batteries. A telephoto lens can be helpful for wildlife photography.
• Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are crucial to protect from the sun.
• Insect Repellent: To protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and help reduce plastic waste.
• Travel Documents: Don’t forget your passport, visa, and any necessary permits or paperwork.
• First Aid Kit: Always handy to have for minor injuries or ailments.

Pack based on your personal needs and the activities you plan to engage in. Remember to respect the park’s guidelines and keep the environment clean!

Day Trip and Itinerary Suggestions

While a single day in Chitwan National Park could give you a glimpse into its wonders, I’d recommend at least a two to three-day itinerary to truly soak in the experience. Here’s a suggestion for a three-day visit:

Day 1: Arrive in Sauraha, settle into your hotel, and explore the local village. In the evening, enjoy a Tharu cultural dance performance.

Day 2: Begin with an early morning bird-watching walk. Later, embark on a half-day jungle safari. In the afternoon, take a guided walk through the forest to learn about the flora and fauna of Chitwan.

Day 3: Start the day with a canoe ride along the Rapti River. Visit the Elephant Breeding Centre in the afternoon. Spend your evening relishing local cuisine and maybe even trying out a cooking class.

Remember, this is just a suggestion, and the actual activities and their order may vary depending on weather conditions, wildlife movements, and your personal preferences.

Nearby Attractions and Places to Visit

If you have a bit more time in your schedule, consider exploring these nearby attractions:

• Bishazari Tal (20,000 Lakes): Located about 20 km away, this extensive wetland area is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers.
• Devghat: A sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Trishuli rivers. It’s approximately 20 km from Chitwan and offers insight into Nepal’s religious practices.
• Bharatpur: About a half-hour drive from Chitwan, Bharatpur is a bustling city with several attractions, including the Narayani River, Chitwan Art Gallery, and Bageshwori Temple.
• Narayangarh: This nearby town has a variety of restaurants and shops selling local products. It’s a great place to experience the everyday life of the Nepalese people.

Remember, whether your visit to Chitwan National Park is short or extended, the goal is to take in the natural beauty, rich wildlife, and cultural diversity of this incredible place. Travel respectfully, enjoy every moment, and take back memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chitwan National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including rare species like the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Definitely! Chitwan offers a unique blend of wildlife viewing, cultural experiences, and jungle activities, making it a must-visit for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Costs vary depending on the type of safari (jeep or elephant-back) and tour operator, but in general, prices can be anywhere between $30 and $200.

A 2 to 3-day trip is usually sufficient to experience the major attractions, including a safari, canoe ride, and a cultural show.

The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent.

By bus, the distance is about 150-175 kilometers, taking approximately 5-7 hours, contingent on traffic and road conditions.

Both offer unique experiences. While Pokhara is famed for its serene lakes and mountain views, Chitwan is known for its jungle safaris and wildlife. Your choice depends on your interests.

Yes, Chitwan is home to the Bengal tiger. While sightings are rare due to their elusive nature, early morning safaris offer the best chance.

Chitwan is about 145 kilometers from Pokhara, taking approximately 4-6 hours by road.

The most common way is by road, either by bus or private vehicle. Buses depart regularly from Pokhara to Chitwan.

Julien is an exploration-minded, curiosity-driven traveler and blogger. On a mission to witness the planet's natural beauty and diversity, he shares his experiences on this website through articles, videos, and photography, including interactive virtual tours.

Fascinated by animals and plants since young, he is also fond of outdoor and so-called extreme sports, often discovered while traveling and practiced back at home where he focuses on improving his knowledge and skills - so he can explore further on the next trip!

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Essay on Bengal Tiger | 400, 500, 600+ Words

Tigers are one of the species that are the most well-known throughout the world. Learn more in this Essay on Bengal Tiger.

Essay on Bengal Tiger

The Bengal Tiger is the largest species of wild cat alive nowadays. There used to be nine subspecies of tigers, but three of them went extinct by the 20th century. Due to excessive hunting and destruction of the forests for land, the tiger species have been reduced by a large margin and most of the tiger species are endangered.

The Bengal tiger also known as Indian Tigers, is an endangered species due to the excessive hunting by the people. They were hunted by the people for merit and to sell their body parts for money. These days there are around 2500 Royal Bengal Tigers in the world. They have been gaining population due to the impressive efforts of the people working to preserve them. The Royal Bengal Tiger is the national animal of India.

Tigers are solitary hunters. These beasts are very territorial and leave marks to show their territory. They are carnivorous and can travel quite a distance to catch their prey which includes deer, wild boars, buffaloes, cows, and other large mammals. They rely upon sneak tactics to catch their prey using their unique furs. No two tigers can have the same striped patterns. So, one of them can be identified by looking at the design of their furs. The stripes are not only present in their fur but in their skin as well.

Also read: Essay on One Hored Rhino

The tigers live up to 10 to 15 years. They are ferocious eaters and can eat up to 40 kg of meat in one go, but they usually eat lesser than that. Nighttime is the most optimal time for them to hunt, and they are very dedicated hunters. These tigers are very good runners and swimmers. They are very strong and can carry one to two tons by themselves. Their roar is the most powerful among any other tiger species in the world, and it can be heard up to three kilometers. Bengal tigers also have the biggest canine , measuring up to 10 cm.

The rear legs of the Bengal tiger are stronger ad longer than the front legs, this is because these tigers can leap forward up to 10 meters. The saliva of the Bengal Tiger has antiseptic properties, so when they get injured they lick themselves to heal their wounds. The female gives birth to about two to six cubs at a time and raises them alone. The newborn is very vulnerable, and they are protected by their mothers for a period of time.

The cause that led the tiger population to dwindle was that the locals were rewarded when hunting the tigers. This was a trend in the 19th century. This caused the tiger population to rapidly decrease and the agricultural land to increase. Nowadays, the Bengal Tigers are protected by the government and other non-governmental organizations. This has caused other new problems to arise, as the livestock of the villagers living in the Terai region, where the tiger rehabilitation programs are being held, are being eaten by the tigers. Some of them also attack humans, and this has caused the reputation of the tigers to plummet.

People in the Terai region mostly do not have a good impression of the Bengal tigers and only think of them as man-eating tigers or tigers that steal their livestock. But even so, this majestic creature ought to be preserved, as it is one of the greatest animals to exist. The Royal Bengal Tiger has an important role in maintaining the ecosystem and is important in some cultures of the world.

Hopefully, you’ve learned more through the essay on Bengal Tiger!

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Mongabay Series: Indigenous Peoples and Conservation

Fear and hardship for the last community inside Chitwan, Nepal’s tiger central  

• Residents of Nepal’s Madi Valley have for the last half century lived almost entirely surrounded by Chitwan National Park, famous for its tigers, leopards and rhinos.
• While the wildlife are a major tourist draw for the park, for the community they’re a constant source of fear, with attacks on people, livestock and crops far higher here than elsewhere in Nepal.
• The fate of the community epitomizes the tricky balance Nepal has tried to strike between conservation efforts and community welfare, complicated by cultural and political factors and the broader history of relocation in the Chitwan region.  
• Though many residents have moved away from Madi, the poorest have been left behind, with no choice but to eke out a precarious existence as intruders on their own land.

MADI, Nepal — Surya Prasad Paudel, a lean 42-year-old with an aquiline nose, sunken eyes and gray facial hair, stands waveringly in front of his mud house with the sunlight bathing the straw thatched roof a golden hue.

On his phone, he scrolls through images of his recently slaughtered goats, prey to a leopard ( Panthera pardus ) that struck in the dark of the night. “We hear tigers growl right next to our house almost every night,” Paudel says, still scrolling through the stark photos. He says he wants to claim compensation, but the process for doing so is a jumble of red tape, leaving him and many others in a state of confusion and helplessness.

Paudel and his family live in Nepal’s Madi Valley, a settlement of 38,295 people spread across an area twice the size of Paris. To its south rises the hill of Someshwor, on the other side of which lies India.

The settlement, comprising Indigenous Tharu, Bote and Darai peoples, as well as hill migrants, is encircled on its three other sides by Chitwan National Park. The valley is part of a vital transboundary corridor for animals such as endangered tigers ( Panthera tigris ), facilitating their movement between Chitwan and India’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

This also makes Madi the epicenter of human-wildlife interactions in Nepal, says Rishi Subedi from the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), a semigovernmental body, are leaving the settlement in droves.

Chitwan National Park, established in 1973 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, is at the forefront of Nepal’s tiger conservation efforts. These efforts have seen the country nearly triple its tiger population between 2010 and 2022. Similarly, on the other side of the border in Valmiki, tiger numbers soared by 75% between 2018 and 2022 .

Various studies, including the government-commissioned Status of Tigers and Prey in Nepal (2022) , suggest that cases of human-wildlife conflict are most frequent in regions close to transboundary corridors, where bottlenecks in wildlife movement through human-dominated landscapes exacerbate the situation.

Despite a decrease in human fatalities from wildlife encounters since 2014, livestock depredation and crop raiding have increased, putting additional strain on the already vulnerable village economy in Madi. A 2020 study showed that between 2014 and 2019, while human casualties from encounters with wildlife hovered at less than one per year, the number of reported livestock depredation incidents increased from around eight to 25 per year.

In 2012, a bull elephant that authorities named Dhurbe killed four people in Madi, triggering a mass protest against the national park. Villagers demanded the culling of the elephant (which has become notorious in Nepal for its deadly and destructive behavior), and vandalized the park authority’s offices in anger.

“We hear tigers growl right next to our house almost every night,” Paudel says, his voice tinged with a mix of fear and helplessness. The reality of living with the famous yet dangerous animals is a constant source of anxiety. “It’s not just tigers. There are other animals too,” he continues. “Sometimes we wake up to find a leopard on our porch.” The fear is palpable, with villagers scared to use the outdoor toilets at night. In many homes, the toilets are in a separate building a short distance from the main house, requiring a precarious journey in the darkness.

A challenging life in Madi

The history of the settlement is intrinsically linked with the transformation of Chitwan from a resettlement area to a protected national park. In the 1970s, the eradication of malaria in the Terai Plains of southern Nepal triggered a mass migration from the hills, with people flocking to the fertile plains where Indigenous communities already lived, including in Madi Valley. Incentivized under various government schemes, this migration, while beneficial for agricultural productivity, led to significant deforestation.

Thus Chitwan, once a hunting ground for the country’s rulers until the 1970s, was declared a national park to preserve its rich biodiversity, especially its tigers and one-horned rhinos ( Rhinoceros unicornis ), displacing many villages over time. The most recent significant displacement occurred in the late 1990s with the evacuation of Padampur, another enclave inside the boundaries of the protected area.

However, Madi remained untouched by these evictions. The village’s large population and fertile land made it politically and economically impractical to displace its residents. Similarly, its hosting of religious monuments linked to the Hindu epic the Mahabharata also heightened its importance among devotees.

Madi also became a politically important area for various parties. Nepal’s current prime minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal contested the 2017 general elections from the electoral district of Chitwan-3, which includes Madi. The history of Dahal’s Maoist party, which waged a 10-year-long insurgency against the state, is also linked with the area. On June 6, 2005, a landmine planted by insurgents blew up a passenger bus, killing 38 people in the Badarmude area of Madi. Ever since, Dahal has issued numerous apologies to the families of the victims; his opponents accuse him of not wanting to risk agitating them again by bringing up resettlement.

Despite being spared from eviction, the villagers of Madi face numerous challenges and restrictions imposed by park authorities. At 10 o’clock every night, park officials barricade the only point of entry into or out of the settlement, ostensibly to protect both the park and the villagers. Getting to the next town means navigating a 10-kilometer (6-mile) stretch of bumpy road. Until recently, this curfew meant that villagers faced significant difficulties accessing medical care at night, as road use was heavily restricted.

“These days the soldiers allow us to pass in case of emergencies,” says Sabina Rai from the community of Madi-11.

Access to basic amenities has also been a longstanding issue for Madi. For years, the area didn’t have access to grid electricity, as park authorities didn’t allow power lines and pylons inside the park boundaries. It was only after significant effort and negotiation that they agreed to allow underground cables to bring electricity and internet connectivity to Madi. Even then, however, the power supply remains unreliable, often flickering out during critical times.

The park’s listing as a World Heritage Site has also complicated issues. The UNESCO World Heritage Committee has repeatedly expressed concerns over the road connecting Madi to the Hulaki Highway and the town of Thori near the Indian border. A monitoring team recommended that the restrictions on this road be maintained to protect the integrity and the “outstanding universal value of the national park.” They said the road shouldn’t be used for freight or passenger vehicles beyond Madi, further isolating the community and limiting its economic opportunities.

In addition to this, during the rainy season, countless streams bear down on the enclave from the slopes of Someshwor, the hill at the Indian border. These trigger flash floods, worsening the already limited access that residents have to the outside, and effectively cutting off the valley during the monsoon.

Moving far away

These compounding difficulties have driven many locals to leave. “With so many problems associated with Madi and it getting negative press, many local people have sold off their land to outsiders at dirt-cheap prices,” says Tara Kumari Kaji Mahato, the mayor of Madi. Those with the financial means have already left, seeking better opportunities and safety elsewhere.

The buyers of their land tend to be businesspeople from Kathmandu and other major cities, who see potential in developing hotels and resorts for ecotourism, capitalizing on the area’s natural beauty and wildlife. According to data from Madi municipal authorities, in the last two decades, the population of the area has dwindled by almost 40%.

Because Madi falls in the buffer zone of the national park, residents need to seek permission from the park authority to open a business, be it small or big, and must carry out an environmental impact assessment, which requires navigating through red tape.

It’s the poorest of Madi’s residents, some of whom Mongabay spoke with, who are hit hardest. They have no choice but to remain and continue their precarious existence. They venture into the forest to meet basic needs such as collecting firewood, despite the legal prohibitions and the dangers posed by wildlife.

“Legally, they aren’t allowed to go into the jungle. But they have no other option but to go there,” says Rishi Subedi from the National Trust for Nature Conservation.

To mitigate this risk, the NTNC, through the U.K.-government-funded Darwin Initiative, provides stoves and gas to poor households as an alternative to firewood. Yet this solution is fraught with its own challenges. Many poor households can’t afford the routine cost of buying new gas canisters, or the occasional cost of maintaining and repairing the stoves. According to the 2021 census, nearly half of the 10,000 households in the valley use fuelwood as a primary source of energy to cook food, perpetuating the cycle of risk and legal conflict.

“We feel abandoned,” says Paudel’s father, Dirgha Narayan, reflecting the sentiment of many villagers who say the government and conservation authorities have abandoned them. They say they’re ready to be resettled elsewhere if adequate compensation and support are provided.

However, Mahato, the Madi mayor, points out that the government has already invested significantly in local infrastructure, such as education and health care, making relocation a complex and costly proposition.

Karan Bahadur Shah, a professor of conservation at Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu, says there need to be more balanced solutions.

“If highways can pass through other national parks such as Bardiya with early warning systems and speed limits, why not Chitwan?” he says. “We need to have measures that work for both wildlife and people. A blanket ban isn’t just for the people.”

At night, as the sun sets over the hills, the forest comes alive with the sounds of wildlife. The villagers huddle inside their homes, the flickering light of their unreliable electricity casting long shadows. “There’s no simple fix to the issue,” Mahato says. “We need to adopt long-term measures to help people to live with the animals.”

Banner image: Tigers photographed by a camera trap in Nepal. Image courtesy of DNPWC/NTNC/Panthera/WWF/ZSL  

Abhaya Raj Joshi is a staff writer for Nepal at Mongabay. Find him on 𝕏 @arj272 .

Dahal, S., Thanet, D. R., & Gautam, D. (2020). Assessment of human-tiger conflict and its community based mitigation efforts in Madi Valley of Chitwan district, Nepal. Journal of Forest and Natural Resource Management , 2 (1), 37–49. doi: 10.3126/jfnrm.v2i1.40219

As Nepal’s tigers thrive, Indigenous knowledge may be key in preventing attacks

Related Mongabay podcast episode: Congo Basin communities left out by ‘fortress conservation’ fight for a way back in. Listen here:

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Tiger Conservation Initiatives in Nepal

2011, The Initiation

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