See Tigers in Nepal in 2023

Nepal offers a wonderful opportunity to get into the heart of Tiger country within its Terai region – more specifically, Chitwan and Bardia National Parks. However, setting eyes on these apex predators in either park remains a challenge, as animals here are very natural in behaviour and far from habituated, unlike their Indian counterparts. In addition, the sense of adventure is emphasised by the limited number of tourists that visit here, ensuring any sighting could possibly be a solo vigil.

To increase the likelihood of a Tiger, a 3-day extension to Suklaphanta National Park at Nepal’s western extremity presents a differing habitat than the aforementioned parks. Open grasslands that support myriad deer species, as viewed from well situated viewing platforms, offer the possibility of finding a Tiger away from the dense lowland forest.

Pre-pandemic, in March 2020, I spent three full days in Tiger country, with unbelievable results. With limited time at three of Nepal’s premier national parks for observing this enchanting big cat, my first stop at Nepal’s largest national park – Chitwan – brought an incredible encounter with not one, but a family of four Tigers! An adult female, along with her three cubs, were watched for at least 10-minutes by just myself, my driver and a volunteer! The build-up made the sighting even more special; we tracked footprints, heard alarm calls, then heard the bellowing grunt of an adult female, which led us to a dry riverbed where she emerged from the thick tangle. Such a rare event will be difficult to replicate, however, this scene only adds to the evidence that Nepal’s Tiger population is booming.

These tours are not all about these big cats as, along the way, One-horned Rhinos, Gharials, Asian Elephants, and possibly, a Leopard, are all likely encounters too. Not to mention the impressive bird list comprising Bengal Florican, White-throated Bush Chat, Red-headed Trogon and Blue-bearded Bee-eater, our ‘Nepal – The Tigers of Chitwan & Bardia National Parks’ holiday is the perfect subcontinent getaway.

Book tour