July 28, 2025

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Chitwan National Park, Parsa National Park is a quiet, biodiverse haven for rare wildlife, ancient Sal forests, and peaceful eco-tourism. As the largest terrestrial park in the Terai Arc Landscape, it plays a critical role in wildlife movement and protection, especially for tigers, elephants, leopards, and an impressive roster of birds and reptiles.

Covering an area of 637.37 square kilometers and adjoining Chitwan National Park to the west, Parsa is less frequented by tourists—making it a perfect escape for travelers seeking solitude, nature immersion, and off-the-beaten-path wildlife encounters.

Location and Landscape

  • Districts: Parsa, Bara, and Makwanpur
  • Province: Madhesh and Bagmati
  • Elevation: 435 to 950 meters above sea level

The park comprises subtropical Sal forest, riverine valleys, low hills, and wetlands. The core habitat is made of dense Sal (Shorea robusta) stands, interspersed with open grasslands, bamboo clusters, and khair-sissoo forests along seasonal rivers.

Wildlife Highlights

Mammals

  • Royal Bengal Tiger
  • Asiatic Elephant (seasonal migration from Chitwan and India)
  • Leopard, Sloth Bear, Gaur (Indian Bison)
  • Sambar, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar
  • Indian Civet, Rhesus Macaque, Langur Monkeys

Birds (Over 300 recorded species)

  • Giant Hornbill, White-throated Kingfisher
  • Red Junglefowl, Peacocks, Grey-headed Fish Eagle
  • Woodpeckers, Babblers, Drongos
  • Migratory birds like Black Stork, Bar-headed Goose, Osprey (in winter)

Reptiles and Amphibians

  • Indian Python, King Cobra, Common Krait
  • Monitor Lizards, Turtles, Toads, Tree Frogs

What Makes Parsa Special

  1. Low Tourist Footfall – You may have a whole safari to yourself
  2. Critical Wildlife Corridor – Links Chitwan National Park and Valmiki Tiger Reserve (India)
  3. Home of Rare Gaur – The majestic Indian Bison is more easily spotted here than anywhere else in Nepal
  4. Undisturbed Sal Forests – Dense, lush, and ancient
  5. Amlekhgunj Gadhi Fort – A historic site from the Rana era now within the park

Things to Do in Parsa National Park

  • Wildlife Jeep Safaris – Especially rewarding for spotting gaur and elephants
  • Nature Walks – Through Sal forests and wetlands, accompanied by local guides
  • Birdwatching – Excellent year-round but best during migration seasons
  • Historical Excursions – Visit the Amlekhgunj Gadhi and nearby Makwanpur Gadhi
  • Cultural Visits – Interact with local communities from the Terai and hill fringes

Best Time to Visit

  • October to March: Cooler and drier months; best for wildlife visibility
  • April–June: Hot, but good for bird activity
  • July–September: Monsoon season; limited safari access

How to Get There

  • By Road: 5–6 hours drive from Kathmandu to Amlekhgunj or Aadhabhar gate
  • By Air: Fly to Simara Airport, then drive 20–30 minutes to park entry
  • Rail Link (India): Easily accessed via Raxaul border (for Indian tourists)

Where to Stay

Accommodation is limited but growing, especially near Aadhabhar Gate and Amlekhgunj. Lodges and homestays offer:

  • Guided safaris and bird walks
  • Cultural activities with locals
  • Local food and forest-edge settings

It’s ideal for wildlife researchers, birdwatchers, and conservation-focused travelers.

Parsa National Park: At a Glance

CategoryHighlights
Signature SpeciesRoyal Bengal Tiger, Gaur, Elephant, Giant Hornbill
LandscapeSal forest, grasslands, wetlands, historic sites
Wildlife ExperienceQuiet, authentic, low-impact safaris
CultureTerai communities, historical forts
Adventure TypeWildlife tracking, nature photography
Conservation FocusWildlife corridor, gaur protection, habitat preservation