Overview
Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, located in the far southwestern corner of Nepal in the Terai region, is one of the country’s most biodiverse protected areas, covering an area of 305 square kilometers. Originally established as a hunting reserve in 1969, it was later designated as a wildlife reserve in 1976. The reserve was named after the vast “Phanta” grasslands it encompasses, which are some of the largest remaining undisturbed grasslands in the Indian subcontinent. The area was expanded to its current size in 2004, making it a sanctuary for a wide array of flora and fauna.
The reserve is famous for its large populations of swamp deer (Barasingha) and offers visitors the chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Suklaphanta is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including the elusive Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, elephants, spotted deer, and numerous bird species such as the endangered Bengal florican and Sarus crane. The dense sal forests, open grasslands, and wetlands provide a diverse ecosystem that supports over 450 species of birds and more than 30 species of mammals.
The best time to visit Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve is between October and April when the weather is pleasant, and the wildlife viewing opportunities are at their best. During this period, the chances of spotting tigers and other wildlife are higher, and birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of migratory birds. The reserve offers a unique experience for those seeking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, providing an opportunity to witness Nepal’s incredible biodiversity away from the more crowded national parks.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Duration: 4 Days
Difficulty Level: Easy
Tour Plan
- Morning:
- Begin your journey with a flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi, a city in the far western region of Nepal. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
- Afternoon:
- Arrive at Dhangadhi Airport and transfer to your hotel. Take some time to relax and enjoy lunch.
- Afterward, explore the local attractions in Dhangadhi, such as the Aircraft Museum, which showcases the history of aviation in Nepal, and visit the local market for a glimpse of regional culture.
- Evening:
- Attend a briefing session about the upcoming wildlife adventure and enjoy dinner at the hotel.
- Overnight stay in Dhangadhi.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Dhangadhi
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Morning:
- Depart from Dhangadhi after breakfast and drive to Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, a journey of approximately 2-3 hours through the scenic landscapes of the Terai region.
- Upon arrival, check-in at your jungle lodge or resort near the reserve.
- Afternoon:
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at the lodge before heading out for a guided nature walk in the reserve.
- Explore the rich flora and fauna as you traverse the diverse ecosystems of grasslands, sal forests, and wetlands.
- Evening:
- Return to the lodge for dinner, followed by an informative presentation on the reserve's wildlife conservation efforts and ongoing projects.
- Overnight stay at the lodge.
- Accommodation: Jungle Lodge/Resort
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Morning:
- Embark on an early morning jeep safari through the reserve's vast grasslands and forests. This is the prime time to spot the reserve's renowned wildlife, including swamp deer, tigers, elephants, and more.
- Visit the Rana Tharu village, where you can immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle and culture of the indigenous Tharu community.
- Afternoon:
- Return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation.
- In the afternoon, set out on a birdwatching tour, accompanied by an expert guide who will help you identify various bird species. Look out for the endangered Bengal florican and other exotic birds.
- Evening:
- Enjoy a leisurely dinner at the lodge, followed by an optional night walk in the buffer zone to observe nocturnal wildlife.
- Overnight stay at the lodge.
- Accommodation: Jungle Lodge/Resort
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Morning:
- After breakfast, participate in a final safari or nature walk to capture any last sightings of the park's wildlife.
- Depart from Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and drive back to Dhangadhi.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch in Dhangadhi before heading to the airport for your return flight to Kathmandu.
- Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel or onward destination.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
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