Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Safari - 5 Days

99 reviews in TripAdvisor
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration
5 Days
Trip Grade
Easy
Maximum Altitude
1,400 to 17 m.
Activities
Jungle safari, Birds Watching, Sightseeing
Group Size
20
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Best Time
Spring and Autumn

Nested in the southeastern Terai of Nepal is an ecological gem by the name, of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Safari.Spanning 176 sq. Km, this lively sanctuary has been a haven for nature lovers, bird watchers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Join us on our virtual journey to discover some wonders this great reserve has. More than anything else, the highlight is the over 485 species of birds inhabiting these reserves that turn a visit from any birding or nature lover into paradise.

As dawn breaks over the wetlands and grasslands, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Safari comes to life with the harmonious songs of numerous birds. From powerful raptors effortlessly riding overhead, to tiny warblers flying between the reeds, each part of Koshi Tappu showcases a frenzy of avian activity. Notable species include the endangered Bengal florican, the towering Sarus crane, and the elusive swamp francolin.

In winter, the reserve gets an influx of migratory birds in addition to the already impressive bird life in Koshi Tappu. Whether you’re an experienced birder or simply appreciate the beauty of birds, this wildlife Safari offers an unforgettable experience of your lifetime.

Wildlife at Koshi Tappu Wildlife Safari

While the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Safari is very well known for its bird watching and safaris, the reserve also hosts a number of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Get ready to witness beautifully marked spotted deer and the blue bulls or Nilgai in the grasslands of Koshi Tappu.

You might spot the rare wild water buffalo or catch a glimpse of a Gangetic dolphin surfacing in the river. The riverine forests and marshy areas are also filled with gharial and the stealthy marsh mugger crocodile. With patience and a bit of luck, you might even encounter an Indian python basking in the sun or a colorful frog hopping by the water's edge.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is more than just a scenic location, it's a paradise for petrichor. It plays a crucial role in preserving Nepal’s natural heritage. It is among the comparatively small national parks in this country, yet it is a very important stop for the endangered species and a source of shelter for numerous plant and animal species.

Trip Highlights of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Safari Tour

  • Birds watching paradise, explore over 485 species of birds.
  • Exploration of varieties of wildlife and vegetation.
  • Boat Safari on Sapta Koshi River
  • Explore 200 plus species of fish and 31 species of mammals, including the Ganges River dolphin
  • Cultural experiences, explore diverse culture
  • Nature walks and forest walks, as riverbank walk
  • Scenic beauty and relaxing getaway
  • Luxury adventure vacation
  • Flight over the Himalayas range so explore the beauty of paradise.
  • You will be offering global cuisine in the local organic test.

Overview of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Safari

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is located in Southeastern Nepal’s protected area of Marsh and Wetland. This nature home for animals and birds is in the flood plains of the Sapta koshi River, which is the longest river in Nepal. Since its establishment in 1976 AD, this reserve has proved to be a popular tourist spot among domestic tourists and tourists from other parts of the world. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve buffer zone is around 173.5 square kilometers. Elevation Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is 75 m to 81 meters above sea level, which is equivalent to 246 to 266 feet above sea level. However, the wildlife reserve is in the eastern Tarai region. It is near the Indian border, and close to Biratnagar 50 kilometers. The distance from Kathmandu to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is 456 Km by road.

The climate here is different by the seasons, Summer is from February till May and is instantly hot, and the temperature will reach 40 degrees Celsius. Jun to the end of August will be monsoon season, and the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve will experience flooding while the temperature could be shaded but still hot. September to November is the best time to visit the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. In this time the temperature will be cool, the monsoon will have recently passed by, and varieties of vegetation will be blooming, so it looks beautiful. Travelers will have a chance to explore many other wild animals. The wildlife reserve park is small but precious Up to date, koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Tour is among some of the traveling packages that are in high demand in Nepal.

Wildlife in Koshi Tappu Park

This wildlife sanctuary is situated 347 km east of Kathmandu and the main attraction of this sanctuary is the endangered wild water buffalo locally called “Arna”. In addition to this special buffalo, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve's inhabitants are 31 species of mammals, 485 species of birds, and 200 species of fish.

Further, Koshi Tappu is the most popular reserve for bird watching which sums up to more than 485 species. Hence makes Koshi Tappu a reserve, which is one of the best destinations for bird watching in Asia. Others are water birds, coastal birds, birds of prey, and birds that migrate such as the Bengal florican which is listed as an endangered species, and the Sarus crane.

Besides birds, there are wildlife in the form of water buffaloes,hog deer, spotted deer, golden jackal, Asian elephants, etc. Overall Koshi Tappu area is full of deciduous riparian forest, rich swampy, vegetation, and grasslands.

Activities in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and Safari Tour

Boating in Sapta Koshi River

A visit to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a wonderful way to experience Nepal’s diverse ecosystems. Visitors can also go boating in the Sapta Koshi River and can see Gangetic dolphins, sun-basking crocodiles, and Gharials.

Birdwatching Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Tour

It also attracts bird watchers owing to the fact that it is a place for both resident and migratory birds. The park has been known to have migratory bird species making it the perfect region for bird watching tourism.

Picnic Sapta Koshi Riverbank

Guests can have packed lunches in the conservation area while enjoying the bird watching and scenic views by the side of the riverbank. Depending on the tourist's preference the best season to visit the koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is during the Winter season (October to March). Because the climate is cold and dry the chances of seeing the bird movement are high. Due to its geographical location, the area receives monsoon rains from June to September leading to heavy downpours and flooding which are not conducive for tourist activities.

It comes under the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Government of Nepal with the collaboration of many non-governmental organizations. It aims to conserve the ecological balance of the wetlands, control human impact on animals and birds, and popularize eco-friendly tourism.

Best 10 Things to Do in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Tour Safari

  1. Bird watching camp, over 485 species of birds.
  2. Boating on the Koshi River
  3. Koshi Tappu Jeep Safari
  4. Wildlife observation Tower (Machan)
  5. Nature Walking through the beautiful riverbank and jungle.
  6. Camping overnight with the permission of the reserve’s authority.
  7. Picnic lunch and snacks
  8. Village visits and community interaction
  9. Elephant riding and safari
  10. Unlimited photography and capture of the moments.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Safari Cost in 2025

Amazing Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is medium-range costs and prices due to its geographical situation and other aspects. The cost depends on the various services, standard of hotel, transportation, food, and several other aspects. However, in general, the cost of 5 days of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve’s Safari will be USD 600 to USD 900. It comes with a package of airport transfer, transportation, Safari tour, food and lodging, Boating or canoeing, and Jeep safari. The pricing is based on the group size during the booking, quality accommodation, and meals that we will be providing during this Jungle Safari tour. Individual group costs will be following below:

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Safari Tourcosts of solo trekker USD 845.

Group of 2 to 7 travelers,the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Safari Tour costs USD 795.

Group of 7 to 14, travelers Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Safari Tour cost USD 740.

Group of 14 to 20 travelers, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Safari costs USD 690.

Note

Best for bird-watching 

Itinerary

Itinerary Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Tour Details Itinerary.

Trip PlanExpand all

You can take a flight or drive to reach Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Generally, flights take 35 minutes to reach Biratnagr and from Kathmandu. It takes 1 hour and 25 minutes of drive to reach the Koshi Tappu Camp. If you are traveling by road, it takes 8 hours to reach the Camp on the east-west highway.

Max Altitude: 75 m Meals: Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Resort

An early morning wake-up call from the resort staff followed with tea/coffee. After having some breakfast, you head towards the banks of the Koshi River for boating. Boating on Sapta Koshi offers remarkable views of the surrounding environment, birds flying, sunbathing crocodiles, and if you are lucky enough you can encounter Gangetic Dolphins too.

Max Altitude: 75 m. Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Comfortable Resort

Today is the day for watching varieties of local and migrated birds of this wildlife reserve. After having your breakfast, you will begin your Birds watching tour where you can spot birds like Gadwall, Red Collared Dove, Eurasian Moorhen, and Asian Openbill. Overnight stay at the resort and unwind. 

Max Altitude: 75 m. Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Resort

Today is the day for an adventurous jungle walk, you will begin your day with early breakfast either at the place where you got accommodation or pack a breakfast that you can enjoy during your outing. Your tour will kick off by taking a jungle walk accompanied by trained naturalist tour guides.

Take a walk through the park and some of the numerous areas that are represented here such as marshes, grassland, and river edge, and look out for the wildlife treasure within Koshi Tappu. An opportunity to watch birds at a close range. Especially along trails and water bodies where different categories of birds such as water birds, shore birds vultures, birds of prey, and migratory birds can easily be sighted. Enjoy a picnic lunch at an established area within the reserve whilst being surrounded by a beautiful environment.

Afternoon season Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

In the afternoon go for a boat ride in the relaxed environment of the Koshi River. Sail through oxbow lakes and marshes. Where the animals including water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, several genera of birds, etc can be viewed in a different and unique way. Make spectacular shots of breathtaking views of the scenery and of the wild animals. Where you are privileged to encounter Koshi Tappu while in a photography session. Look out for the animals that are normally sighted at the river sides. Such as elephants bathing, birds feeding, and fishermen fishing.

Hence, tourists are advised to retire to their respective establishments within or in close proximity with Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve in the evening as the day comes to an end. Take a break from the day’s activities and what you saw on the shore by taking some time to enjoy a beverage or a snack. Based on your wishes and schedules, there are extra activities you can do when you’re done with the bird watching. You can decide to take a cultural tour of neighboring Tharu villages, take a nature walk, or just relax at your lodge/ resort.

Max Altitude: 75 m. Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Resort

Aafter having spent the whole day visiting the different sites and the Wildlife Reserve of Koshi Tappu we shall drive back to Biratnaga. Which is the nearest point to fly to Kathmandu? In general, flights that operate alongside the Biratnagar to Kathmandu usually take about 35 to 45 minutes thus making it a convenient means of transport between the two cities. You will get refreshing views of the Terai plains and The Himalayan mountains in Nepal.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m. Meals: Breakfast and Farewell DinnerAccommodation: 3 star Category Hotel
Cost Details
Includes
  • Flight from Kathmandu to Biratnagar - Kathmandu
  • An escorted English-speaking nature guide
  • Hotel/Resort accommodation with deluxe rooms on twin-sharing
  • 3 Meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
  • Koshi Tappu Wildlife Entry Permit
  • First Aid Kit
  • Government/ Local taxes
  • Staff Insurance & Salary
  • Touch Planet Treks T-shirt
  • Certificate of achievement by Touch Planet Treks
  • Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu
  • All ground transportation as per the itinerary
  • One-night hotel in Kathmandu
  • Airport transfer and farewell
Excludes
  • International air ticket
  • Any type of personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages & soft drinks, phone calls,
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Insurance
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and highway.
  • Gratuities to our staff
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Essential Information

Best time to visit Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Safari

  • Spring and Autumn are the best times to visit Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.
  • September to November – The best time to visit
  • February to May  - The best time to visit

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is located in the eastern part of Nepal Tarai region. So, it is at a lower altitude thus there will be quite hotter weather. The climate here is different by the seasons, Summer is from February till May and is instantly hot, and the temperature will reach 40 degrees Celsius. Jun to the end of August will be monsoon season, and the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve will be flooding while the temperature could be shaded but still hot. September to November is the best time to visit the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Hence, December to April is also a good time to visit Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. During this time the temperature will be cool, the monsoon will have recently passed by, and varieties of vegetation will be blooming, so it looks beautiful.

Backpacking for Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Safari

  • Digital Camara or Smartphone
  • Medium range Binocular
  • Safe drinking Water bottle
  • Dry fruits and snacks or Choco bars
  • Sunscreen
  • Mask
  • Power bank, airphone, and charging cable
  • Safari Boots
  • UV protection glasses
  • Hat or cap
  • Buff or neck gaiter for dust and wind protection
  • 2 to 3 lightweight shirts or T-shirts
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Warm, insulated innerwear for chilly evenings
  • Usual trousers and clothes
  • Umbrella or raincoat
  • Dos and Don’ts in the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Safari

Dos

  • Respect the local community and the Reserve’s rules and policies.
  • Wear green or earth-friendly colour
  • Advice to wear full sleeves and a protective dress
  • Wear Sunglass and a Hat
  • Keep your trash and rubbish with you bring them back and throw them in the bin
  • Keep silent during the Safari in the Park
  • Seat properly in the Jeep
  • Be within a group while on safari and jungle walking

Don’ts

  • Don’t make noise or shouting while in the Safari
  • Wearing bright color clothes
  • Littering in the Jungle
  • Outdoor toilet
  • Feeding the wild animals
  • Playing and trying to touch wild animals.
  • Drinking alcoholic beverages during the jungle safari
  • Breaking local rules and Wildlife Reserve’s policies

 

Review Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Tour

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is in the Nepal Terai region, It is one of the famous reserves that has maximum biological diversities specifically birds.

  • Birdwatching: It's home to over 485 bird species. So, bird lovers would be thrilled with what they see in this reserve. People love the opportunity to watch both local and migratory birds in their environment as we see.
  • Wildlife: Other than bird watching it has a population of wildlife animals. Likewise, wild water buffalo, deer, wild boar, and even the Royal Bengal tiger are rarely seen in the area.
  • Scenery and Landscape: Located at the banks of the Koshi River. The topography of the reserve includes wetlands, grasslands, and riverine forests. Making the reserve beautifully scenic and endowed with many ecosystems.
  • Accommodation and Facilities: However, the reserve provides various options of accommodations from austere lodges to luxurious tents. While appreciating the facilities provided for the visitors, some of them may deem the amenities to be less developing compared to most wildlife tourist attractions.
  • Guided Tours and Activities: It also provides opportunities for visitors to participate in such activities as jungle walks. And also guided tours, bird watching, and jeep tours. Indeed, visit experience at the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve will be amazing. Depending on the interest of the visitor towards nature, especially the birds watching. Besides, your visit should be one that is memorable and full of accomplishments provided you engage in the right kind of activities.

Join Touch Planet Treks Pvt. Ltd, we will provide personalized service at a reasonable price, we have a professional and experienced team, Namaste.

Ramjee Neupane (Neo)
Need Help? Contact our Expert
Traveler Reviews
May 21, 2024
"Highly Recommended"
Nitin Agarwal
Nitin Agarwal
- India
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