Safari in Nepal

Nepal's Chitwan and Bardia national parks offer world-class tiger and one-horned rhinoceros safaris in the Terai lowlands. The country also provides...

Nepal Safari at a Glance

4 safari regions, 10 parks & reserves, 147 wildlife species recorded.

Travel Advisories for Nepal

UK FCDO: See travel advice before travelling.

Best Time to Visit Nepal

The best months to visit Nepal are March, April, May, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 9.3°C, rainfall 22.2mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 75.3%
  • February: Good, temperature 12.3°C, rainfall 22.4mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 66.5%
  • March: Great, temperature 17.5°C, rainfall 31.8mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 59.7%
  • April: Great, temperature 22.1°C, rainfall 27.3mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 48.5%
  • May: Great, temperature 23.5°C, rainfall 111.3mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 64.7%
  • June: Good, temperature 25.1°C, rainfall 287.7mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 74.3%
  • July: Good, temperature 24.2°C, rainfall 467.7mm, sunshine 7.8 hrs, humidity 86.9%
  • August: Good, temperature 23.9°C, rainfall 370.8mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 87.7%
  • September: Good, temperature 23.3°C, rainfall 292.1mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 86.5%
  • October: Good, temperature 20.4°C, rainfall 92.3mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 78.5%
  • November: Good, temperature 15.7°C, rainfall 4.1mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 72%
  • December: Good, temperature 11.7°C, rainfall 8mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 70%

Wildlife in Nepal

Home to 147 recorded species including 44 iconic birds, 40 birds of prey, 39 waterbirds, 9 tropical birds, 5 big herbivores, 3 predators.

Notable Species in Nepal

Recommended Packing List for Nepal

Based on average temperature of 19.1°C, typical conditions, humidity 73%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 19°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Safety & Health - Nepal

Nepal offers truly world-class safaris, from tracking tigers in the Terai to spotting snow leopards in the high Himalayas, and we absolutely love the dramatic diversity. While generally safe, we always advise being prepared: understand the health risks like malaria in the lowlands, secure comprehensive travel insurance including evacuation, and always heed the advice of your local guides. With sensible precautions, your Nepalese safari will be an unforgettable adventure.

Visa

We find it easiest to get your visa on arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport or at major land border crossings. Just be sure to have a valid passport, a couple of passport-sized photos, and the correct fee in USD or local currency ready. It's usually a smooth process, but we always recommend checking the latest requirements with the Nepalese embassy or consulate before you fly, as rules can change.

Malaria

Malaria is a concern in the Terai lowlands, particularly in areas like Chitwan and Bardia National Parks where we track tigers and rhinos. If your itinerary includes these regions, we absolutely recommend discussing antimalarial prophylaxis with your doctor. Beyond medication, we always advise using a strong insect repellent with DEET, wearing long sleeves and trousers at dusk and dawn, and sleeping under mosquito nets where provided. The high-altitude regions, thankfully, are generally malaria-free.

Safari Regions

Nepal FAQs

Can I combine a Himalayan trekking adventure with a wildlife safari in Nepal?

Absolutely, Nepal is uniquely positioned to offer both world-class trekking and exceptional wildlife safaris. Many travelers choose to complete a trek in the Himalayas before heading to the Terai lowlands, where parks like Chitwan and Bardia are easily accessible by domestic flight or scenic drive from major cities.

What is the best time of year for a successful tiger and rhino safari in Nepal's Terai lowlands?

The optimal time for a tiger and rhino safari in Nepal's Terai lowlands is generally from October to March. During these dry months, vegetation is less dense, and animals congregate around water sources, significantly increasing your chances of sightings. The weather is also more comfortable for game drives and other activities.

How realistic is a snow leopard sighting in Nepal, and what does such an expedition entail?

Spotting a snow leopard in Nepal is an extremely challenging but rewarding endeavor, requiring multi-day high-altitude trekking into remote Himalayan regions like Shey Phoksundo National Park. These expeditions are typically specialized, require significant physical fitness, and involve experienced local guides and trackers to maximize your slim chances of encountering this elusive big cat.

What are the typical safari activities and modes of transport offered in Nepal's national parks?

In Nepal's national parks, the primary safari activities include jeep safaris, which offer excellent coverage of the park's diverse habitats. Additionally, guided walking safaris with armed rangers provide an immersive experience, and dugout canoe trips along rivers are popular for birdwatching and spotting aquatic wildlife like crocodiles.

Are there any specific health or safety precautions I should be aware of when visiting Nepal's lowland safari regions?

When visiting Nepal's lowland safari regions, such as Chitwan and Bardia, it's advisable to consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis, as these areas can have a low risk. Always use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers, and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, to ensure a comfortable and safe trip.

Recommended Books for Nepal

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.

Other Safari Countries in South Asia