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The core area is now 932 sq.km,
with a buffer zone extending the park by over 500 sq.km. The park
ranges from 110m above sea level to 740m and comprises 70% sal
forest, 20% grassland, 7% riverine forest with the remainder being
rivers and sandy banks. A 2000
census of resident adults recorded approximately 500 rhino, 300
gaur and 40 tigers. Aside from the One Horned Rhino, a major
drawer is the incredible number and diversity of bird species,
some lists include over 500 species with around 200 being
resident. During the main migratory season it is not unusual to
spot over 100 species in a day. Specialities include Indian pitta,
Bengal florican, black necked stork and grey headed fishing eagle.
Around the rivers both gharial and mugger crocodiles can be seen,
other notable residents include otters, jackal, wild dog, sloth
bear and leopard. Because the elephant grass grows up to 20ft tall
many of the 50 mammal species easily remain unseen in the
grasslands. During January the grasses are harvested by local
villagers and then burnt to prevent trees establishing themselves,
the new growth attracts grazing mammals and sightings are
increased. Wild elephants generally remain on the Eastern park
fringe so are rarely seen.
Much of the accommodation is within the park and enjoys isolated
positions where wildlife viewing barely ceases. Safaris are mainly
on elephant back or water borne, but you can take jeep drives and
guided jungle walks from some locations. Although the park remains
open year round many of the lodges close during the monsoon, when
river levels are high and tracks are flooded. Chitwan is a half
days drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara. There are flights from
Kathmandu to Bharatpur followed by a two hour road transfer; the
final approach to some lodges can require multiple river boat
crossings. |
