Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a protected area in the Terai of eastern Nepal covering 175 km² of wetlands in the Sunsari, Saptari and Udayapur Districts. It comprises extensive mudflats, reed beds, and freshwater marshes in the floodplain of the Sapta Kosi River, and ranges in altitude from 75 to 81 m.

The vast expanse of open water and the surrounding environment offers one of the most outstanding birdwatching sites in Asia (now recognized by Ramsar). The Koshi Tappu is rectangular shaped which is about 10 km in length and 10 km in breadth. The Reserve also allows fishing after you have a fishing permit.

The vegetation mostly consists of tall grasslands. The local villagers collect grasses from the jungle within the Reserve once in a year, generally in January which they use to thatch the roofs.

Rare Bird Spoted in Koshi Tappu

Ornithologists have said they spotted a new species of bird in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, making the number of bird species spotted in Nepal. The bird was first spotted on the banks of the Koshi river, 3 km south of the Koshi Barrage.

Experts said it took five months to have it verified. The newly-spotted bird belongs to the Caprimulgidae family. Nightjars are small to medium-sized birds having long and pointed wings and a gaping mouth with long bristles, meant to catch flying insects. Nightjars are nocturnal, with soft, owl-like patterned plumage.

Flora and Fauna of Koshi Tappu Wildlife

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is home to a rich diversity of life, including approximately 31 species of mammals and over 200 species of fish.

The Reserve offers significant protection to the wild water buffalo (Arna), which is a major focus of conservation efforts. In addition to the Arna, it supports about 20 other animal species

The aquatic and marshy areas are habitat for reptiles such as the Gharial Crocodile and Mugger (Marsh) Crocodile. Furthermore, the Reserve’s diverse ecosystem is the habitat for 15 globally significant species.

🌿 The Best Time to Visit Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

The best time to visit between October till March. This is because; one can witness the migratory and resident birds on the barrage and the main channel of the river during this period of the year.

Also, this time prevents the heavy rainfall during the monsoon season and the extreme heat of the summer. Besides, October to March offer the visitors with the beautiful views of the mountains. The world’s fifth highest mountain Mount Makalu (8475 m) can be seen from the park.

Things to do in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

Bird Watching

Bird watching inside Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve offers an exciting opportunity of sighting some 400 species of birds as you explore the marshes on foot, inaccessible sandbanks and islands of the mighty Koshi River. If you want to experience this with expert guides and photography support, check out bird photography tours in Nepal which include Koshi Tappu as a highlight.

Jeep Safari

The Koshi River runs through a section of the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. A safari is perfect in the jungle, especially along the banks of this river, which is teeming with birds and other wildlife. The river lagoons and wetlands attract deer, gharials (crocodiles), water buffalo, and more than 400 bird species for visitors to observe.

River Rafting

Exploring the reserve can also be done by rafting down the Koshi River. Observe water birds or animals going about their daily routines. Kingfishers dive into the river in search of food, while marsh muggers or gharial crocodiles bask in the sun. Even the rare Wild Buffaloes and Gangetic River Dolphins can be seen.

Village/Jungle Walk

Exploring life in the reserve on foot is just as fascinating. This is where the Tharus reside. The early inhabitants of the region have a distinct lifestyle of their own. It is untouched by the western world. Their beautifully decorated homes and cultural style are delightful. With the help of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Camp, this Tharu village is plastic-free. It is one of the few environmentally aware and clean villages in the country.

Facilities in Koshi Tappu Wildlife

It consists of 12 large deluxe safari tents with easy twin beds and simple modern toilet amenity including hot and cold shower facilities. The restaurant with fully stocked bar is located centrally on the thatched house, ‘Golghar which serves Nepali and International cuisine from our experienced kitchen.

How to get Koshi Tappu Wildlife

The reserve is easily accessible by both air and road. Regular flights are available from Kathmandu to Biratnagar. The flight duration is about 45 minutes and offers you with the amazing views of the Eastern Himalayas including Mount Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. It is only 3 to 4 hours’ drive from Biratnagar to reach the Reserve.

The Reserve is almost 560 kilometers away from Kathmandu. A drive of almost 14 hours along the Mahendra highway will lead you to the Reserve. Kathmandu Car Services is Kathmandu based car rental company. You can rent a vehicle according to your need.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Entrance Fee

National Park Entry Fee in Nepal differs according to the nationality in Nepal. There are low charges for Nepalese national where SAARC national needs to pay the average cost where nation citizens beside this are charged high in Nepal which comes under foreigners categories.

An entry fee of Rs. 1500 (Foreigner), Rs. 750 (SAARC Nationals) and Rs. 100 (Nepali) and 13% VAT.

Map of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve