Quick answer
Most visitors to Chitwan see one-horned rhinos, crocodiles, deer, monkeys and many birds. Tigers and sloth bears live in the park but are rarely seen, and no honest guide can promise them.
How likely is each sighting?
- One-horned rhino: commonly seen
- Gharial and mugger crocodiles: commonly seen basking on the Rapti river
- Deer and monkeys: very common
- Birds: more than 500 species
- Wild elephant and sloth bear: occasional
- Bengal tiger: rare
One-horned rhinoceros
The greater one-horned rhino is the animal Chitwan is known for, and one of the most likely sightings. You may see one from a jeep, from a canoe at the river edge or on a guided walk. Read the Chitwan travel guide to plan your trip.
Gharial and mugger crocodiles
The Rapti river is a stronghold for the rare gharial, with its long thin snout, and for the broader-snouted mugger. They bask on the sandbanks and are best seen on a quiet canoe ride.
Deer, monkeys and other animals
Spotted deer and sambar deer are common in the grasslands and forest, and monkeys are seen along the riverbank and the forest edge. You may also see reptiles. Wild elephants and sloth bears live in the park too, but sightings are occasional.
Birds
Chitwan has more than 500 bird species. Look for hornbills in the forest canopy, kingfishers, storks and darters along the river, raptors over the grassland and colourful bee-eaters and rollers. Early morning is best. See our bird watching tour.
The Bengal tiger
Chitwan has tigers, and a sighting is possible on a jeep safari or a night in the jungle, but they are rarely seen. Treat a tiger as a bonus, not a goal, and be wary of anyone who guarantees one.
Which activity gives you the best chance?
| Activity | Best for seeing |
|---|---|
| Jeep safari | Rhinos, deer and the widest range of animals across the park |
| Canoe ride | Gharial and mugger crocodiles, river birds, and sometimes rhinos at the water |
| Jungle walk | Tracks, birds and small details, with two licensed naturalists |
| Jungle tower night | Animals coming to a river and waterhole at dusk and dawn |
Local tip
Wildlife is wild and never guaranteed. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times, and the dry season from February to May makes animals easier to spot.
Frequently asked questions
What animals can you see in Chitwan National Park?
One-horned rhinos, gharial and mugger crocodiles, spotted and sambar deer, monkeys, more than 500 bird species and, occasionally, wild elephants and sloth bears. Bengal tigers live in the park but are rarely seen.
Can you see a tiger in Chitwan?
It is possible but rare. Rhinos are far more likely.
Will I see a rhino in Chitwan?
Rhinos are commonly seen on jeep safaris, canoe rides and jungle walks, though nothing is guaranteed.
Where can I see gharial crocodiles in Chitwan?
On the Rapti river, basking on the sandbanks. A canoe ride is the best way to see them.
What is the best time to see wildlife in Chitwan?
Early morning and late afternoon, and February to May, when the grass is shorter.
