Royal Chitwan National Park

Located in the Terai lowlands of Nepal, Royal Chitwan National Park is an unmarred treasure; a sweeping 932-square-km reserve established in 1973 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Its lush confines are home to Nepal's most enchanting topography, not to mention a refuge for unusual wildlife; with a myriad of ecosystems painting Royal Chitwan's landscape, including sweeping hills, lakes, flood plains, and a rhinoceros sanctuary, it's of little wonder Royal Chitwan National Park has gained significant international appeal.

According to Lonely Planet, Royal Chitwan National Park is considered Nepal's third largest attraction after the notorious Khatmandu Valley and trekking. The expansive region preserves the magnificent flora and fauna of Nepal's subtropical woodlands, seventy percent of which is comprised of indigenous Sal Forests. Beneath the Himalayas, dwelling in the heart of the densely-foliaged Gangetic Plain, Royal Chitwan National Park brims with these handsome trees, as well as a verdant swathe of vines, creepers, and air plants.

Besides Sal forests, Royal Chitwan cups in its fertile palm water marshes and billowing grasslands as well. In fact, the park boasts over fifty different grasses, including elephant grass which, at a staggering 8 meters, reaches heights known by few other varieties in the savannah. Perhaps the most titillating element of Royal Chitwan National Park is the bevy of mammals that inhabits the diverse landscape which, though endangers from the region's long lineage of poaching, remains visible to Chitwan trekkers. Visitors flock to this reserve to sneak glimpses of Chitwans' impressive inventory, including tigers, leopards, wild pigs, crocodiles, and a vast assemblage of birds.

Elephant rides abound in Royal Chitwan Park, and families and trekkers alike mount the gargantuan animal for optimum wildlife spotting in this intricate jungle. Riding in a howdah, or carriage perched on the back of an elephant, presents its benefits, especially for those craving an exotic escapade. For fortunate travelers, a Royal Chitwan safari will offer rare views of particularly titillating species, including the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, royal Bengal tiger, wild elephant, and the rare Gangetic dolphin.