The best months to visit Chitwan National Park are Oct – Mar. Dry season, best wildlife sightings.
Quick facts
Currency NPR (Nepalese Rupee) Cash only in most lodges
Language Nepali / Tharu English spoken by guides
Timezone NPT (UTC+5:45) No DST
Best Months Oct – Mar Dry season, best wildlife sightings
Daily Budget ~$15–35 USD Budget backpacker range
Visa Visa on Arrival 15/30/90 day options at airport
When to go
UNESCO-listed subtropical wilderness: track one-horned rhinos through elephant grass, drift past crocodiles on dugout canoes, and discover ancient Tharu culture.
Getting Around in Chitwan National Park
- Sauraha is small and walkable: all lodges, restaurants, and safari offices are within a 15-minute walk
- Tourist buses connect Sauraha to Kathmandu (5-6 hours) and Pokhara (5-6 hours) daily at 7am
- Local buses from Narayanghat connect to Lumbini, Bhairawa, and other Terai destinations
For itineraries, costs and practical travel advice, see the full Chitwan National Park travel guide.
Timezone: NPT (UTC+5:45) (No DST)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Chitwan National Park?
The best months to visit Chitwan National Park are Oct – Mar (Dry season, best wildlife sightings), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Chitwan National Park budget breakdown.
