Chitwan National Park, located in the southern plains of Nepal, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary famous for its rich biodiversity and thrilling jungle safaris. Situated near the city of Bharatpur, it attracts tourists from India and around the world seeking nature, adventure, and cultural experiences.

This guide covers the best ways to reach Chitwan National Park from key Indian cities and Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. Whether you prefer traveling by road, air, or rail, you’ll find detailed options, travel times, costs, and insider tips to plan your trip confidently.

Getting from Major Cities to Chitwan National Park – Main Options

By Road (Bus/Car)

Road travel is the most popular and flexible way to reach Chitwan National Park, especially from Nepal’s capital Kathmandu and Indian border towns. The journey offers scenic views of the Terai plains and can be tailored to your schedule.

• From Kathmandu:

  The drive covers approximately 150 km via the Prithvi Highway and Muglin-Bharatpur road, taking around 5–6 hours depending on traffic. Frequent tourist buses and private taxis operate daily, with ticket prices ranging from NPR 600 to 1200 (INR 350–700).

• From Sunauli Border (India-Nepal border):

  Chitwan is about 90 km from Sunauli, accessible via the East-West Highway. Local buses and shared jeeps are available, costing NPR 200–400. The road is mostly flat and well-maintained but can get congested during festivals.

• Self-drive or Taxi:

  Hiring a private taxi or self-driving from Kathmandu or Indian border towns offers comfort and flexibility. Expect tolls on highways and plan for rest stops at roadside dhabas or Bharatpur’s eateries.

• Bus Services:

  Tourist buses from Kathmandu’s Gongabu Bus Park to Bharatpur run early morning and afternoon. MSRTC buses from Indian border towns like Gorakhpur also connect to Nepal’s side, but require border crossing formalities.

• Road Conditions and Timing:

  Roads are generally good but can be affected by monsoon rains from June to September. Avoid night travel due to limited street lighting and occasional landslides on the Kathmandu-Muglin stretch.

By Air

Flying is the fastest way to reach Chitwan National Park, especially from Kathmandu or Indian cities with connecting flights. Bharatpur Airport is the nearest domestic airport serving the park.

• From Kathmandu:

  Daily flights by Nepal Airlines and Buddha Air connect Tribhuvan International Airport to Bharatpur Airport in about 25 minutes. Tickets cost around NPR 3500–4500 (INR 2000–2600).

• From Indian Cities:

  Direct flights to Bharatpur are limited, so travelers usually fly to Kathmandu first and then take a domestic flight. Alternatively, fly to Indian airports near the Nepal border like Gorakhpur and continue by road.

• Airport to Park Transfer:

  Bharatpur Airport is about 15 km from Chitwan National Park’s main entrance. Taxis and hotel shuttles are readily available, costing NPR 500–700.

• Flight Tips:

  Book flights in advance during peak tourist seasons (October to March) as seats fill quickly. Weather conditions like fog in winter mornings can cause delays.

By Train

There is no direct train service to Chitwan National Park, but Indian Railways connects nearby cities from where you can continue by road.

• Nearest Indian Railway Stations:

  Gorakhpur and Gonda stations in Uttar Pradesh are major railheads about 100–120 km from Chitwan. Frequent trains connect these stations to major Indian cities.

• From Gorakhpur:

  After arriving by train, travelers can take shared jeeps or buses to the Sunauli border, then cross into Nepal and continue by road to Chitwan.

• Border Crossing:

  The Sunauli border is the most common entry point for Indian travelers. Ensure you have valid travel documents and be prepared for customs checks.

• Train Booking:

  Use IRCTC’s online portal to book tickets well in advance, especially during festivals and holidays when trains are crowded.

By Flight from India (via Kathmandu)

For Indian travelers, flying to Kathmandu first and then taking a domestic flight or road trip to Chitwan is a convenient option.

• International Flights:

  Major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Varanasi have direct flights to Kathmandu operated by airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and Nepal Airlines.

• Connecting to Bharatpur:

  From Kathmandu, take a domestic flight to Bharatpur or opt for a tourist bus or taxi for the 5–6 hour road journey.

• Visa and Documentation:

  Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Nepal, but carry valid ID proofs like Aadhaar or passport for smooth immigration.

• Flight Booking Tips:

  Book international and domestic flights separately for better deals. Check baggage allowances carefully as domestic flights have stricter limits.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers reach Chitwan National Park smoothly, balancing convenience and cost.

• Book Your Tickets Early:

  Whether flying or taking the bus, secure your tickets at least two weeks in advance during peak seasons to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Start Early from Kathmandu or Border Town:

  Begin your journey early morning to avoid traffic jams and reach Chitwan before dusk, especially if traveling by road.

• Carry Necessary Documents:

  For Indian travelers, carry valid ID and any permits needed for Nepal entry. Keep photocopies handy for border and hotel check-ins.

• Choose Your Transport Mode:

  Decide between bus, taxi, or flight based on budget and comfort preferences. Flights save time but cost more; buses offer local experience.

• Arrange Local Transfer in Bharatpur:

  Pre-book a taxi or hotel shuttle from Bharatpur Airport or bus station to your lodge near the park to avoid waiting and overcharging.

• Pack Essentials for the Journey:

  Carry water, snacks, and light clothing. Monsoon travelers should pack rain gear and check road conditions before departure.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Use only registered taxis and buses. Avoid traveling alone at night on rural roads due to limited lighting and security.

• Food and Water:

  Drink bottled water and eat at reputable eateries. Bharatpur has good restaurants serving Nepali and Indian cuisine.

• Booking Strategy:

  Use IRCTC for Indian trains, Nepal Tourism Board or airline websites for flights, and verified bus operators for road travel.

• Local Commute:

  Within Chitwan, use cycle rickshaws, tuk-tuks, or hotel-arranged transport to explore nearby villages and markets.

• Luggage:

  Pack light as local transport can be crowded. Keep valuables close and use lockable bags.

• Seasonal Warnings:

  Avoid monsoon travel if possible due to landslides and roadblocks. Winter mornings can be foggy, causing flight delays.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Chitwan National Park is during the dry and cool months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and better wildlife sightings.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains, making road travel challenging and increasing the risk of landslides.

• Avoid peak festival weekends like Dashain and Tihar when transport is crowded and prices rise.

• Early morning departures help avoid Kathmandu’s rush hour traffic and improve chances of on-time flights.

• Travel during daytime for road trips to enjoy scenic views and safer driving conditions.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, so allow extra time for flights and road journeys.

Arrival at Chitwan National Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Bharatpur or the park’s main entrance, travelers are greeted by lush greenery and a vibrant local culture. The park is well-equipped with visitor centers and guided safari options.

Local transport includes hotel shuttles, taxis, and cycle rickshaws. Nearby attractions like Tharu villages and the Rapti River offer cultural and nature experiences. Popular stay areas include Sauraha and Kasara, with accommodations ranging from budget lodges to luxury resorts.

For late arrivals, pre-booked hotel transfers or prepaid taxis at Bharatpur Airport ensure safe and hassle-free transfers. Local guides can be arranged at the park entrance for jungle safaris and bird watching.

Conclusion

Traveling to Chitwan National Park is best done by a combination of road and air transport, with flights from Kathmandu to Bharatpur offering the quickest and most comfortable option. Road travel from Indian border towns provides an immersive experience of the Terai region’s landscapes and culture.

With proper planning, early bookings, and awareness of seasonal conditions, visitors can enjoy a smooth journey to this spectacular wildlife destination. Whether you choose the convenience of flights or the adventure of road travel, Chitwan awaits with unforgettable natural beauty and warm hospitality.