# Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve: Nepal's Birding Paradise

_Published 9 May 2026_

On the floodplains of the Koshi River in eastern Nepal, [Koshi Tappu](/places/koshi-tappu-wildlife-reserve) is one of the best birdwatching sites in South Asia.

**Quick answer:** Koshi Tappu became **Nepal's first Ramsar site in 1987**. It's famous for winter **migratory birds**, ducks, waders and storks, and protects one of the last populations of **wild water buffalo** (arna). Best visited **November–March**.

## Wildlife

- Hundreds of bird species, including many winter migrants.
- Wild water buffalo.
- Gangetic dolphins in the river, occasionally.
- Deer and other mammals.

## Getting there

Fly to Biratnagar and drive about 1.5–2 hours, or stay at camps near the reserve.

## Plan your trip

See our [Koshi Tappu birdwatching tour](/koshi-tappu-birdwatching-tour), [birdwatching guide](/blog/birdwatching-in-nepal-guide) and [wetlands of Nepal](/category/wetlands-of-nepal).

## Frequently asked questions
### What is Koshi Tappu famous for?
Birds and wild water buffalo.

### When did Koshi Tappu become a Ramsar site?
In **1987**, Nepal's first.

### When is the best time?
November–March.

### How do I get there?
Fly to Biratnagar and drive.


Web page: https://himalayanhiking.com/blog/koshi-tappu-wildlife-reserve-guide