Facts & Figures: Kathmandu to Chitwan Tour
Total Distance: Approx. 160 km
Travel Time:
By Road: 5–6 hours (via Prithvi Highway)
By Flight: 20–25 minutes to Bharatpur Airport
Elevation:
Kathmandu: ~1,400 meters
Chitwan (Sauraha): ~200 meters above sea level
Language Spoken: Nepali, with Tharu spoken by locals; English widely used in tourist areas
Major Religion: Predominantly Hinduism, with Buddhist and Tharu cultural influences
UNESCO Site: Chitwan National Park – first national park of Nepal, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Main Attractions:
Jungle safari, elephant rides, canoeing, and Tharu cultural show
Rich biodiversity, including one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, elephants, gharials
Best Travel Season: October to March (dry season – best for wildlife viewing)
Local Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Climate:
Chitwan: Subtropical – hot and humid in summer, mild winter.
Lumbini Tour Overview:
Chitwan, located in the southern plains of Nepal, is famous for its rich wildlife, lush jungles, and cultural heritage. It is home to the Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for jungle safaris and encounters with rare species like the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, elephants, and gharial crocodiles.
Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris, canoe rides, bird watching, and Tharu cultural programs. The nearby Elephant Breeding Center and peaceful Rapti River sunsets add to the charm of the region.
- Distance from Kathmandu to Chitwan (Sauraha):
- By flight (to Bharatpur): approx. 20 minutes
- By road: approx. 5–6 hours (around 170 km), depending on traffic
Chitwan offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and those seeking a glimpse into Nepal’s wild side.
Highlights
- Lumbini – Birthplace of Lord Buddha Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lumbini is one of the most sacred places in Buddhism. The Maya Devi Temple marks the exact spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama. Nearby, the Ashoka Pillar and Puskarini Sacred Pond carry immense historical and spiritual significance.
- Monastic Eastern Zone – Known for Theravada-style monasteries built by countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.
- Monastic Western Zone – Home to Mahayana-style monasteries from China, Korea, Germany, and others, showcasing diverse architectural styles.
