Sauraha is the small town on the northern bank of the Rapti River where most visitors to Chitwan National Park stay. From here, jeeps, canoes and walking safaris head into the park, and rhinos sometimes wander through the fields at the edge of town. In the evening, everyone gathers on the riverbank to watch the sun set over the jungle.
Quick answer: Sauraha is about 5–6 hours by road from Kathmandu or Pokhara, or a short drive from Bharatpur airport. Stay in a jungle lodge, book jeep safaris, canoe trips and jungle walks, and visit a Tharu village. Best time: October–April.
Sauraha at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Northern edge of Chitwan National Park |
| From Kathmandu | About 5–6 hours by road |
| Nearest airport | Bharatpur |
| Activities | Jeep safari, canoe trip, jungle walk, Tharu culture |
| Best time | October–April |
Things to do
- Jeep safari into the park.
- Canoe trip on the Rapti.
- Guided jungle walk.
- Sunset on the riverbank.
- Tharu cultural show and village walk.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Sauraha is where Nepal's jungle adventures begin. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.