July 28, 2025

Nestled in the lowland plains of eastern Nepal, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a haven for wetland wildlife, home to over 500 species of birds, endangered water buffaloes, and rare aquatic life. Spanning just 175 sq. km, it may be Nepal’s smallest protected area, but it’s one of the richest in avian biodiversity and wetland ecosystems.

Designated as a Ramsar Site in 1987, Koshi Tappu is a paradise for birdwatchers, nature photographers, and responsible travelers looking to experience Nepal beyond mountains and jungles.

Location and Landscape

Koshi Tappu lies on the floodplains of the Sapta Koshi River in Sunsari, Saptari, and Udayapur districts, southeast of Dharan and Itahari. The terrain is a mosaic of:

  • Oxbow lakes, marshes, and mudflats
  • Tall grasslands and riparian forests
  • Seasonally flooded islands formed by the Koshi River

It’s one of the last refuges of natural wetlands in Nepal’s Terai region.

Wildlife Highlights

Birds (500+ species)

Koshi Tappu is Nepal’s top birding destination, especially during winter migrations (Nov–Feb). Notable sightings include:

  • Swamp Francolin (vulnerable)
  • Black-necked Stork, Black-headed Ibis
  • Lesser Adjutant, White-rumped Vulture
  • Spot-billed Duck, Bar-headed Goose
  • Ruddy Shelduck, Eurasian Wigeon, Pied Harrier
  • Indian Skimmer (rare)
  • Sarus Crane, Brahminy Kite
  • Purple Heron, Glossy Ibis, Stork-billed Kingfisher

Many endangered or rare migratory birds flock here from Siberia, China, and the Tibetan Plateau.

Mammals

  • Wild Water Buffalo (Bubalus arnee) – critically endangered, ~200 remain
  • Fishing Cat
  • Asian Palm Civet
  • Golden Jackal
  • Indian Otter, Jungle Cat
  • Occasional sightings of Gangetic Dolphin in deeper channels

Reptiles & Amphibians

  • Gharial Crocodile
  • Mugger Crocodile
  • Indian Softshell Turtle
  • Common Toad, Tree Frogs, and various water frogs
  • Pythons, Water Snakes, Monitor Lizards

Conservation Status and Challenges

Koshi Tappu was gazetted in 1976 to protect the last wild population of Asian Wild Water Buffalo, now a globally endangered species. Key conservation features include:

  • Designation as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance
  • Active involvement of local communities in eco-tourism and anti-poaching
  • Joint conservation with WWF Nepal, Bird Conservation Nepal, and NTNC

However, the reserve is also vulnerable to:

  • River erosion and flooding from the Sapta Koshi
  • Grazing and encroachment
  • Pollution and plastic waste from upstream towns

Things to Do in Koshi Tappu

  1. Birdwatching Tours – Best done with local ornithologists or naturalist guides
  2. Boat Safari or Canoe Rides – Seasonal trips into backwaters to spot birds and mammals
  3. Village Walks and Homestays – Stay in nearby Tharu and Musahar communities
  4. Cycling Around the Reserve – Scenic rides along dikes and watchtowers
  5. Photography Expeditions – Especially during golden hours for cranes and buffaloes

When to Visit

  • October to March: Best birdwatching season (dry and cool)
  • November to February: Peak migratory bird activity
  • April–June: Hot but excellent for water buffalo sightings
  • July–September: Monsoon floods submerge much of the reserve

How to Reach Koshi Tappu

  • By Air: Fly to Biratnagar (50 min from Kathmandu), then 1.5-hour drive to the reserve
  • By Road: 10–12 hr drive from Kathmandu via BP Highway or Mahendra Highway
  • Nearby Cities: Dharan, Itahari, and Inaruwa for logistical support

Where to Stay

There are eco-lodges and birding camps just outside the reserve, particularly around Prakashpur and Laukahi, offering:

  • Sunrise birdwatching platforms
  • Canoe trips and naturalist-led walks
  • Tharu-style accommodations with solar energy and compost toilets

Many operations are locally run or employ members of nearby communities, making it a model for low-impact tourism.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve: At a Glance

CategoryHighlights
Key SpeciesWater Buffalo, Fishing Cat, 500+ birds
Birding SeasonOct–Mar (esp. Nov–Feb)
Access PointsBiratnagar, Inaruwa, Laukahi
Best ActivitiesBirdwatching, Canoe Safari, Village Tours
Conservation FocusWetland birds, aquatic life, buffaloes
Ethical TravelNo motorboats in core areas, community lodges