Sauraha
Sauraha is one of Nepal’s most popular wildlife and nature destinations, located beside Chitwan National Park in Chitwan District. Known for its forests, grasslands, rivers, wildlife, Tharu culture, and peaceful countryside, Sauraha is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience Nepal beyond its mountains and cities.
Located approximately 160 km southwest of Kathmandu, Sauraha can be reached conveniently by road and is a popular destination for short holidays, family trips, wildlife experiences, and overnight stays. Its location near Chitwan National Park provides opportunities to observe wildlife and explore the natural environment through activities such as jeep safaris, canoe rides, jungle walks, and bird watching.
Sauraha is also known for the Rapti River, where visitors can enjoy peaceful riverside walks and beautiful sunset views. The surrounding forests and wetlands support diverse wildlife and bird species, while nearby Tharu communities provide opportunities to experience the traditional culture, lifestyle, food, and dances of the region.
The combination of wildlife, nature, local culture, and easy road access makes Sauraha suitable for families, couples, groups, photographers, nature lovers, and travelers looking for a relaxing countryside escape from Kathmandu.
Places to Visit
| Place | Highlights | Recommended Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Chitwan National Park (Sauraha entrance) | Wildlife safaris, jungle walks | Half Day / Full Day |
| The Rapti riverbank | Canoe rides, elephant bathing | 1-1.5 hours |
| Local Tharu villages | Traditional Tharu culture and homes | 1-1.5 hours |
| Elephant Bathing Area | Watching elephants bathe in the river | 30-45 minutes |
| Crocodile Breeding Center | Gharial and marsh mugger conservation | 1 hour |
| Tharu Cultural Museum | Tharu history, traditions and cultural exhibits | 1 hour |
| Bish Hazari Lake | Wetlands, bird watching and natural surroundings | 1–2 hours |
| Sauraha Village | Local restaurants, shops and relaxed countryside atmosphere | 1-2 hours |
| Chitwan Jungle Areas | Wildlife viewing, nature walks and photography | 2–3 hours |
Things to Do
- Explore Chitwan National Park and experience its forests and grasslands.
- Join a jeep safari for opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
- Take a canoe ride along the Rapti River.
- Watch the sunset from the Rapti riverside.
- Explore nearby Tharu villages and experience traditional local culture.
- Visit the Tharu Cultural Museum and learn about the history and lifestyle of the Tharu community.
- Visit the Elephant Breeding Center.
- Enjoy bird watching around forests, rivers, wetlands, and surrounding countryside.
- Take guided jungle and nature walks where available.
- Visit Bish Hazari Lake and explore its wetland environment.
- Enjoy local Tharu and Nepali food.
- Experience traditional Tharu cultural performances.
- Enjoy wildlife, landscape, sunset, and nature photography.
- Relax around Sauraha and enjoy its peaceful countryside environment.
- Combine your Sauraha visit with other destinations in Chitwan and nearby regions.
Suggested Sightseeing Itinerary
Half-Day Tour (Up to 4 Hours)
| Destination | Visit Time |
|---|---|
| The Rapti riverbank | 1.5 hours |
| Local Tharu village | 1.5 hours |
Recommended Package: Half Day
Full-Day Heritage Tour (Up to 8 Hours)
| Destination | Visit Time |
|---|---|
| Chitwan National Park safari | 3-4 hours |
| The Rapti riverbank | 1.5 hours |
| Local Tharu village | 1.5 hours |
| Crocodile Breeding Center | 1 hour |
Recommended Package: Full Day
Plan Your Own Itinerary
You can plan your own itinerary and hire our vehicles based on your travel plans. Our sightseeing service is flexible, and no extra charges apply for minimal additional time. We provide professional drivers who are trained to deliver exclusive and personalized service, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
Our Rental Service
Explore the city comfortably with our professional rental car service. Whether you're planning a short outing or a full day of sightseeing, we offer convenient packages to match your itinerary.
| Package | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Half Day | Up to 4 Hours | NPR 4,500 |
| Full Day | Up to 8 Hours | NPR 8,000 |
Our Services
Our service includes:
- Professional driver
- Flexible sightseeing itinerary
- Hotel pickup and drop-off within the city
- Comfortable, well-maintained electric vehicles
Plan your itinerary, choose the package that suits your schedule, and enjoy exploring the city at your own pace.