Trade the mountains for sal forest, elephant grass, and the slow brown ribbon of the Rapti river. Chitwan, in the Terai lowlands, is the Nepal travellers least expect.
What You Might See
Greater one-horned rhinos are almost certain — Chitwan is home to one of the largest populations in the world. Spotted deer, sloth bears, gharial crocodiles and 500-plus bird species fill out the cast. Bengal tigers exist here too, though sightings are rare and lucky.
How to Visit Ethically
Skip the elephant-back safaris. Pick a lodge that runs walking safaris, jeep drives and canoe trips on the Rapti, ideally with naturalist guides trained by the park. Stay at least two nights — wildlife rewards patience.