Nepal’s great wetland on the floodplain of the mighty Sapta Koshi is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The 3 Days Koshi Tappu Safari (2 nights / 3 days) starts and ends at Biratnagar airport and takes you into the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve – established in 1976, covering 176 sq km between the river’s eastern and western embankments, and declared a Ramsar site (a wetland of international importance) in 1987. It was created to protect the last population of wild water buffalo, the arna, and is one of the best places in Asia to see waterbirds: more than 500 species have been recorded, including rare storks, ibises, eagles and the Bengal florican, with huge flocks of migratory ducks and waders from November to March.
After a 1.5-hour drive from Biratnagar to the wildlife camp and lunch, your naturalist leads a walk along the embankments of the Sapta Koshi, looking for storks, kingfishers, herons and herds of wild buffalo grazing on the grassy islands. The second day is spent mostly on the river: drift through sandbanks and channels in an inflatable raft in search of Gangetic dolphins, mugger crocodiles and countless birds, with a picnic lunch on the bank, then visit the Koshi Barrage, famous for its migratory birds and dolphins.
A final dawn bird walk in the forest and grassland completes the trip before breakfast and the transfer back to Biratnagar. Full board (two breakfasts, lunches and dinners), the camp, reserve entry fees and all activities are included.
Why choose this safari?
- One of the finest birdwatching destinations in South Asia.
- Wild water buffalo, Gangetic dolphins and crocodiles.
- Full board, reserve fees, airport transfers and all activities included.
Who is it for?
Birdwatchers, photographers, nature lovers and travellers seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-track wildlife experience (minimum two people). The grade is easy. November to March is best for migratory birds.
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