Sauraha

Sauraha is a small tourist town on the eastern edge of Chitwan National Park, the most popular base for visitors exploring the park's rich wildlife. Situated on the banks of the Rapti River, Sauraha has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere with numerous hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops catering to travellers. It is the most accessible entry point for jeep safaris, canoe trips, and jungle walks in Chitwan.

The climate is humid subtropical with very hot summers (April–June), a monsoon (June–September), and pleasant winters (October–February). The best wildlife-viewing season is October–March.

By Plane

Bharatpur Airport (BHR) is 18 km west. A taxi from Bharatpur airport to Sauraha costs Rs 1000–1500 (30 minutes).

By Train

No train service.

By Car / Road

Sauraha is 160 km south-west of Kathmandu (5–6 hours by bus). Direct tourist buses from Kathmandu arrive daily (Rs 600–1000). Buses also connect to Pokhara (150 km, 5–6 hours).

Walking and cycling are the main modes of transport in Sauraha. Bicycles can be rented from most hotels. Horse-drawn carriages are a novelty option.

• Rapti River – The scenic river with views of the national park's floodplain.

• Chitwan National Park – UNESCO World Heritage site with tigers, rhinos, elephants, and over 500 bird species.

• Elephant Breeding Centre – A short walk from town, home to several baby elephants.

• Tharu Cultural Museum – Exhibits on the indigenous Tharu people.

• Sunset over the Rapti – The riverbank offers beautiful evening views.

• Jeep safari – Half-day or full-day trips into the national park (Rs 3000–6000).

• Canoe trip – Paddle along the Rapti River spotting crocodiles and birds.

• Jungle walk – Guided walks with armed park rangers.

• Tharu cultural show – Traditional Tharu stick dance and performances in the evening.

• Elephant safari – Ride an elephant into the park (ethical concerns – research operators carefully).

• Bird-watching – Excellent for migrant and resident species.

• KC's Restaurant – Popular for its varied menu and relaxed garden setting.
• Diamond Restaurant – Good Nepali, Indian, and Chinese options.
• Tharu Kitchen – Try authentic Tharu dishes including vegetables cooked in bamboo tubes.
• Many guesthouse restaurants – Most lodges serve their own meals.

Bars along the main street serve beer, cocktails, and soft drinks. The Jungle Bar is a popular nightspot.

• Budget: Sauraha Guest House – Rs 500–1200. Basic backpacker rooms.
• Mid-range: Hotel Wildlife, +977 56-580024 – Rs 2500–5000. Comfortable with pool and garden.
• Upscale: Hotel Jungle Crown, +977 56-580175 – Rs 5000–10,000. Luxury cottages with modern amenities.

Souvenir shops sell Tharu handicrafts, wooden masks, T-shirts, and local jewellery.

• Bharatpur (18 km west) – Transport hub with airport.
• Chitwan National Park Kasara (10 km south) – Park headquarters.
• Pokhara (150 km west) – Adventure capital with Fewa Lake.
• Kathmandu (160 km north-east) – Capital city.
• Nawalpur (25 km west) – Cross-river town.