This morning you leave Kathmandu and drive south into Nepal’s Terai region (see ‘Essential Information’). Geographically part of plains India the Terai is a low-lying area criss-crossed by streams and rivers and characterised by tall sal trees and elephant grass. It is the perfect environment for a range of Nepal’s most exotic wildlife, chiefly the Indian on-horned rhino.

In addition though it is believed that tigers make their home in the park though sightings are rare indeed.

After checking in you’ll embark on an elephant-back safari penetrating deep into the jungle – the one-horned rhino, deer, birds, bison and monkeys are a common sight, with bear, leopard and the tiger less frequent.

To wrap up your day, a local group of the indigenous Tharu people will put on a fascinating cultural show – their renowned 'stick dance'.

Your day starts early as there is full day of activities. Firstly you’ll take a canoe ride on the Rapti River, which forms the boundary of the National Park. The banks are the favoured resting place of the famous 'marsh mugger' crocodiles and the unique long-nosed, fish-eating 'gharial' crocs.

Off the canoe and you’ll head to the elephant breeding centre where no doubt there will be some baby elephants to make friends with. The latter part of the day will be taken up by a visit to a nearby village and a museum showcasing the life, culture and history of the ethnic people from this region – the Tharu. You’ll even have a ride in a local bullock cart.

Today you’ll head to the other part of the National Park on a 4WD safari to a wetland of some 20,000 lakes, an area that offers you another opportunity to witness the plethora of wildlife and bird life.

En-route you’ll visit the crocodile breeding farm. If the sight of Royal Bengal tiger has eluded you so far, then you sure can take heart from the sight of a rescued one – an orphan tiger, just next to the breeding farm.

Your exploration of Chitwan is not complete just yet. Today you’ll make a guided bird watching walk in the company of an experienced naturalist. For even those with no real interest in birds this walk introduces some of the most fascinating residents of the region and is enjoyed by all.

This afternoon you return to Kathmandu by air, a flight of approximately 25 minutes.