Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is newly promoted wildlife reserve situated on the flood plains of the Sapta-Koshi River in Eastern Nepal. It is the largest wetland area (Ramsar site), draining seven major rivers from the great Himalayan zone into the Saptakoshi (7 rivers). The habitat is a combination of scrub grassland and deciduous riverine forest with more than 280 bird species including 20 duck species, 2 species of ibises, many storks, egrets and herons. The endangered swamp partridge and Bengal florican are found here. The Koshi Barrage is an extremely important resting-place for migratory birds. The last surviving population of wild buffalo or arna is also found here. During the Koshi Tappu Safari at dusk and dawn, you will see many varieties of birds and animals sitting along the Saptakoshi river.
What to carry?
- Camera and binoculars to enjoy viewing abundant bird and wildlife
- Light colored & casual clothing that blends with nature
- Light jacket and sweater during winter months (November-March)
- Comfortable walking shoes, sunhat, sunglasses to view wildlife on foot
- Insect repellent and a personal first aid kit
- Small duffle bag and flash light is recommended
Entry Fee:
For Nepalese Nationalities, Rs. 20/- per person
For SAARC Nationalities Rs. 200/- per person
For Other Foreign Nationalities, Rs. 500/-per person
How to get there:
Koshi Tappu is well connected from Kathmandu by bus. Or, we can fly from Kathmandu to Biratnagar and from Biratnagar to Koshi Tappu by road.
Suggested Itinerary for Koshi Tappu
2 Night/ 3 Days Bird Watching in Koshi Tappu
Day 01: Drive/ Fly to Biratnagar and drive to the camp or drive directly from Kathmandu following East West Highway and divert from Jamuwa to the camp(2.5km) at Kusaha. Welcome and briefing about the facility and program of the wildlife camp. After lunch you will visit the marshland outside the reserve to see the storks, ibises, snipes, waterfowl, birds of prey etc. In the evening slide show on the natural history of the reserve followed by Nepali dinner. Overnight at camp
Day 02: After breakfast in the camp we go for full day excursion on boat and four wheels drive with pack lunch to see waders, waterfowl, birds of prey, marsh crocodile, otters, wild water buffalo and Gangetic Dolphins including a visit to Pink Tower. On this day we also watch Arna, the wild water buffalo, blue bull, hog deer, fishing eats etc. before we get back to the camp and observe cultural dance followed by barbecue dinner. Overnight at camp
Day 03: Early morning bird watching trip around the camp area, breakfast and make departure for Kathmandu.
What to bring
Binoculars, flashlight, insect repellent, swim-wear, sunhat, personal medicines, casual clothing and comfortable shoes, light clothing is needed the year round with a sweater or jacket required in the winter months from November to March
