On the floodplain of the Sapta Koshi, Nepal's largest river, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve protects a mosaic of channels, marshes, grassland and forest. Established in 1976 to protect the wild water buffalo (arna), it is also a Ramsar wetland and one of the best birding sites in South Asia, especially in winter when migratory waterbirds arrive.
Quick answer: Koshi Tappu is about 1.5–2 hours by road from Biratnagar airport. Go birdwatching on foot and by boat, look for wild water buffalo, and visit the Koshi barrage. Best time: November–March.
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 1976 |
| Protection | Ramsar wetland |
| Known for | Migratory birds, wild water buffalo |
| Access | Fly to Biratnagar, then 1.5–2 hours by road |
| Best time | November–March |
Things to do
- Birdwatching walks along the embankment.
- Boat trips on the Koshi.
- Jeep drives to look for wild water buffalo.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Koshi Tappu is a must for birders visiting Nepal. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.