Nestled in the floodplains of the Koshi River, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve spans an area of 175 square kilometers, offering an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts. This sanctuary, renowned as one of Asia’s finest bird-watching destinations, features a diverse landscape of marshes, lagoons, mudflats, and arable land, making it a haven for a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Unique Features
The reserve's diverse habitats provide the perfect setting for nature walks through grasslands, river lagoons, and woodlands. Bird watchers can revel in the sight of both migratory and local bird species, with the best viewing opportunities from October to March.
Accessibility
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is accessible by air, land, and river, offering multiple exciting travel options:
By Air: A brief 45-minute flight from Kathmandu to Biratnagar, followed by a scenic one-and-a-half-hour drive to the reserve.
By River: For the adventure-seeker, an 8-10 day rafting journey down the wild stretches of the Sun Koshi River provides an exhilarating route to the reserve.
By Road: A picturesque 500 km drive through the meandering countryside from Kathmandu, which takes approximately 10 hours.
What's Included
Accommodation: 3 nights in comfortable and eco-friendly lodges or camps within the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.
Meals: Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the stay at the reserve.
Transportation: Airport transfers from Biratnagar to the reserve and back. All internal transfers related to the tour activities.
Guided Activities: Bird-watching excursions with experienced naturalists. Guided nature walks through grasslands, river lagoons, and woodlands. Wildlife safaris to observe the diverse fauna, including the endangered wild water buffalo. Canoeing trips on the river lagoons.
Entrance Fees: All entry fees to the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.
Cultural Programs: Evening cultural programs featuring local traditions and dances.
Equipment: Use of binoculars and other bird-watching equipment.
Emergency Services: Basic first aid and emergency support.
What's Excluded
Travel to Nepal: International flights to and from Kathmandu.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and health insurance.
Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as souvenirs, tips, and additional drinks or snacks not included in the meal plan.
Optional Activities: Optional activities and excursions not specified in the itinerary.
Visas and Permits: Nepal entry visa and any other necessary permits.
Additional Transportation: Costs related to travel by river rafting (if chosen as a mode of arrival/departure) beyond the included itinerary.
Special Requests: Any special dietary requirements or additional services not mentioned in the inclusions.
Detailed itinerary
On the first day, travelers have the option to either fly or drive from Kathmandu to Biratnagar. A 45-minute flight offers a scenic aerial view of the diverse Nepalese landscape, including the majestic Himalayas. Alternatively, the 10-hour drive through the countryside provides a picturesque journey, passing terraced fields, quaint villages, and lush forests. Upon arrival in Biratnagar, guests will transfer to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, where they will check into their eco-friendly lodge or camp. The evening includes a welcome briefing about the tour and the reserve, followed by a leisurely walk around the lodge to acclimate to the surroundings. Dinner will be served at the lodge, accompanied by an introduction to the next day’s activities.
The second day begins with a hearty breakfast at the lodge before setting out for a guided jungle walk through the reserve’s diverse habitats. This exploration covers marshes, grasslands, and woodlands, offering ample opportunities to spot various bird species, including both migratory and resident birds. Expert naturalists will provide insights into the behaviors and habitats of these birds. After returning to the lodge for lunch, the afternoon features further exploration, either on foot or by canoe, allowing for close-up observations of aquatic life and bird species. The evening includes a return to the lodge for relaxation, dinner, and a cultural program showcasing local traditions and dances.
Day three involves a full-day excursion, starting with breakfast at the lodge before heading to the Black Sanctuary, a key habitat within the reserve known for its rich biodiversity. Travelers will enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serene surroundings of the sanctuary. Post-lunch, the journey continues to the Babai Bridge, a significant landmark offering breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes. This day provides further opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting. After returning to the lodge in the evening, guests will have dinner and can enjoy a relaxed evening, possibly around a campfire, sharing stories and experiences from the day.
The final day starts with breakfast at the lodge, followed by preparations for departure. Guests will transfer from the lodge to Biratnagar for their return journey. Depending on their chosen mode of travel, they will either take a 45-minute flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying aerial views of Nepal’s diverse landscapes, or embark on a scenic 10-hour drive, reflecting on the wildlife adventure and natural beauty experienced in Koshi Tappu. This day marks the end of a memorable tour filled with nature, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Want to make it a private tour?Book this trip as a private departure -for any group, big or small.
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