Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is an example of one of the finest birding sites in Asia. Koshi Tappu was established as a wildlife reserve in 1976 with an aim to protect the last remaining population of Asiatic Wild Buffaloes in Nepal. The reserve has a total area of 175 sq. km. and is roughly rectangular in shape. The principal habitats in the reserve include: wetlands, grasslands and small patches of riverine forest. To date this is the only Ramsar Site (a wetland of international significance) in Nepal. More than half of Nepal's birds are recorded from Koshi Tappu! Among the mammals, besides Wild Water Buffaloes, the elusive Gangetic Dolphin and Fishing Cat are occasionally seen here.A barrage on the southern side of the reserve has created a water reservoir where thousands of migrating waders and wildfowl take rest.The barrage was built nearly 40 years ago, mainly to save people in the Indian state of Bihar from the devastating floods of the Koshi River. High earthen embankments bound the Koshi River on both its eastern and western sides, which confine the course of the waters within these bunds.Many small marshlands, pools and grasslands are formed which provide a haven for birds and birdwatchers alike. The vegetation near these banks holds many passerines. In addition, large agricultural fields that lie adjacent to the reserve make fine habitat for many birds. The finest birding sites in and outside the reserves are located between Koshi Camp and down south all the way to the barrage. Within this stretch many birds and mammals are found that offer the experience of a lifetime. Koshi Tappu is the ultimate destination for any nature enthusiasts and experts visiting Nepal.AccessibilitiesBy Road :From Kakarvitta (coming from India ) it is roughly 3 hours drive to the camp along the east-west highway. From Chitwan it is 300 km which takes roughly an 8 hour drive to reach the camp. From Kathmandu it is 500 km. which generally takes 12 hours. We generally do not recommend driving straight from and to Kathmandu as it is rather a long journey.This scenic route can be better enjoyed by making your visit a combination of Chitwan and Koshi holidays. At Chitwan you may like to spend at least 2 nights to enjoy some of the birds and large mammals.Raft:If you are rafting in one of the tributaries of the Koshi River , our camp is easily accessed by stopping your boat at Madhuban. Given prior notice of your arrival we will send escorts for your group. Our camp will be an ideal place to relax after a long journey down the river.By Air:It is a 50 minute flight from Kathmandu to Biratnagar, and there are at least 6 flights a day. The camp is a little over an hour's drive from Biratnagar airport.ActivitiesWe offers many options and activities to give full opportunities to view the wildlife at its best. The exploration of the wildlife is constantly with the trained local naturalist.Morning / Evening Jungle walkThe jungle along the belts of the Koshi River is full of birds and other animal species. by the river lagoons and wetlands provides excellent opportunity to sight birdlife, deer and herds of water buffaloes.Soft wildlife RaftingTaking a raft down the Koshi river, is another alternative for exploring the reserve. Here, you can see the water birds daily chores like looking for food. The marsh muggers or the ghariyal crocodiles sun bathing but of course out of reach. You might be lucky enough the spot the rare wild buffaloes. Down the end, at the barrage, Genetic river dolphins could be your best view of the day.Village WalkThis is another interesting activity. Tharus, the early inhabitants of the region have their own unique way of living not affected by the western influence. Their beautifully decorated homes and their way of living can be an interesting part of the tour. The village is also plastic-free, one of the few environmentally aware and clean villages in the country. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Camp itself took this initiative towards environmental awareness.Birds to seeRarities include Greater Adjutant Stork, Red-necked Falcon, Indian Skimmer, Indian Courser, Bengal and Lesser Floricans, Hodgson's Bushchat, amongst others.Spot-billed Pelican, Lesser Adjutant Stork, Black-necked Stork, Falcated Duck, Baer's Pochard, Comb Duck, White-tailed Eagle, Imperial Eagle, Pied Harrier, Caspian Tern, Black-bellied Tern, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Swamp Francolin, Striated Grassbird, Bristled Grassbird.Accomodation:The following packages programmes are suggested for Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve:
