From 11 to 14 August 2017, exceptionally heavy monsoon rain fell across Nepal. Rivers burst their banks across the southern Terai plains, affecting 31 of 75 districts. More than 120 people died, tens of thousands of houses were damaged, and hundreds of thousands of people were affected.
In short: The August 2017 floods were among the worst in the Terai in years. In Sauraha, the gateway to Chitwan National Park, the Rapti flooded hotels, and tourists were evacuated by elephant, tractor and raft.
Monsoon travel
July and August are the wettest months. Chitwan and Bardia lodges often close in the peak monsoon; roads can be cut by landslides. See monsoon travel and Chitwan guide.