Bharatpur Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bharatpur with our comprehensive travel guide including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, what to buy, and local culture and customs.


Introduction to Bharatpur

Bharatpur is located in the district of Chitwan, Province No. 3, in Western Tarai of Nepal. It is an emerging city and a popular tourist destination due to its famous Chitwan National Park, which is a natural habitat for the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros. Besides the national park, Bharatpur is also famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes.

List of Places to Visit in Bharatpur

Bharatpur has unique offerings for every kind of tourist, from culturally rich attractions to natural wonders. Here is a list of must-visit places in Bharatpur:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chitwan National Museum: It is a popular tourist spot exhibiting the rich cultural heritage of Chitwan. It showcases a unique collection of Tharu culture, history, and various flora and fauna of Chitwan.
  • Devghat: It is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, located on the banks of the Trishuli and Kali Gandaki rivers. It is believed that Demigods performed a Yajna here, and Lord Vishnu appeared as Narayana in Matsya Avatar.
  • Narayangarh Fort: It is a historical fort built during the 18th century by Kaji Amar Singh Thapa. It stands on the south bank of Narayani River, and it played a vital role during the Unification Campaign of Nepal under King Prithvi Narayan Shah.
  • Tharu Cultural Museum: This museum aims to preserve and showcase the unique culture, lifestyle, and history of the Tharu community. Through exhibitions, artwork, and interactive displays, it provides an experience of Tharu culture and tradition.

Natural Attractions of Bharatpur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chitwan National Park: It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for one of the world’s largest populations of one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, and Asian elephants. Visitors can enjoy jungle safari, elephant rides, bird watching, canoeing, and other adventure activities.
  • Begnas Lake: It is a serene freshwater lake located in the Kaski district of Nepal. It is surrounded by lush green hills, and visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking.
  • Rani Taal: It is located in the heart of the Chitwan National Park and is an ideal destination for nature lovers. It is a freshwater wetland and a natural habitat for various migratory birds.
  • Sauraha: It is a serene tourist spot located in the Chitwan district, surrounded by dense forests, grasslands, and the Narayani river. Visitors can enjoy elephant rides, jeep safaris, and bird watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bharatpur

Being surrounded by lush green hills, Bharatpur has many hiking and biking routes, which offer breathtaking views of the landscape. Here are some popular hiking and biking routes of Bharatpur:

  • Rapti River Route: This route offers scenic views of river Rapti and its surrounding hills. It starts from Chitwan National Park and ends at the beautiful Begnas lake.
  • Piple Route: It is an easy hiking route that passes through beautiful forests and leads to the serene Piple waterfall.
  • Fishlingdgaad-Taanukot Route: This biking route offers stunning views of the Himalayas, Trishuli river, and dense forests.

Best Things to Do in Bharatpur: Activities and Tours

There are many exciting activities and tours that visitors can enjoy in Bharatpur. Some of them include:

  • Jungle Safari: Visitors can go for a safari in the Chitwan National Park and experience the wild side of Nepal. They can explore the jungle either on elephant back or in a jeep.
  • Bird Watching: There are numerous birdwatching spots in Bharatpur, and visitors can witness rare and exotic birds.
  • Canoeing: Visitors can enjoy canoeing in the Rapti River, which is home to various flora and fauna.
  • Local Cooking Classes: Visitors can learn to cook traditional Nepali cuisine and get a taste of Nepal’s rich culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bharatpur

A week-long itinerary for Bharatpur can be planned as follows:

Day Activity
1 Arrival, check-in and car sightseeing around Bharatpur
2 Visit Chitwan National Park and Elephant Safari
3 Mountain Biking to Begnas Lake
4 Visit Narayangarh Fort and Tharu Cultural Museum
5 Canoeing and Bird Watching in Rapti River
6 Hiking to Piple Waterfall
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Bharatpur

Nepali cuisine is a blend of Indian and Tibetan cuisine, and it has its unique flavor and taste. The following are the must-try dishes and local beverages in Bharatpur:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Momo: A popular Nepali dumpling filled with minced meat or vegetables.
  • Dal Bhat Tarkari: The staple food of Nepal, which consists of lentil soup, rice, and curried vegetables.
  • Bara: A pancake-shaped dish made of black lentils and served with chutney.
  • Sekuwa: A skewered kebab made of meat or vegetables and marinated with Nepali spices.

Local Beverages

  • Chhang: A popular alcoholic beverage made of fermented rice or barley.
  • Tongba: A traditional Nepali beverage made of fermented millet or barley and served in a wooden container called Tumbha.

Where to Stay in Bharatpur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bharatpur offers various accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the popular options:

  • Hotel Jungle Vista: A luxurious hotel located near the Chitwan National Park, offering comfortable and spacious rooms with modern amenities.
  • City Guest House: A budget-friendly option located in the heart of the city with basic amenities and clean rooms.
  • Chitwan Jungle Lodge: An eco-hotel located near the Chitwan National Park, surrounded by lush green forests and scenic views.

What to Buy in Bharatpur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bharatpur is known for its unique handicrafts, pottery, and souvenirs. Visitors can bring home the following items:

  • Tharu Handicrafts: Handmade products made by the Tharu community, including wooden crafts, bamboo baskets, and pottery.
  • Nepali Tea: Locally grown and produced tea, which comes in various flavors and is known for its aroma and taste.
  • Pashmina Shawl: A soft, warm, and lightweight cashmere shawl, which is a popular souvenir item in Nepal.

Local Culture and Customs of Bharatpur

The Tharu people are the indigenous inhabitants of the Tarai region, and their lifestyle, culture, and customs are unique. Visitors should respect their traditions, dressing, and religious beliefs.

Best Time to Visit Bharatpur

The best time to visit Bharatpur is the winter season, from October to March, when the climate is pleasant, and the wildlife is more visible.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bharatpur

Do:

  • Respect the local traditions and culture.
  • Explore the Chitwan National Park and its wildlife.
  • Try traditional Nepali cuisine and local beverages.
  • Learn some basic Nepali phrases.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local customs and religious beliefs.
  • Pluck or damage the flora and fauna.
  • Wear revealing clothes or shorts while visiting religious sites.
  • Drink tap water without boiling or filtering.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bharatpur

Bharatpur is considered a safe city for tourists. Visitors should take care of their belongings, avoid night travel alone and follow standard safety precautions.

Health in Bharatpur

Visitors should take proper vaccinations and medical precautions before traveling to Nepal. They should carry necessary medicines and consult a doctor in case of any health issues.

Getting to Bharatpur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bharatpur

The nearest airport to Bharatpur is Bharatpur Airport, which has regular flights from Kathmandu.

Bus Stations Near Bharatpur

Visitors can take a bus from Kathmandu, Pokhara, or other major cities to reach Bharatpur. There are regular buses from the main bus stations of those cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Bharatpur from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Bharatpur

Visitors can hire a taxi, rent a bike, or use public transportation like buses and tuk-tuks to get around the city. Biking and hiking can also be a good option to explore the nearby areas.

Where to Go Next from Bharatpur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can plan a trip to the following destinations from Bharatpur:

  • Pokhara: A scenic city located 146 km west of Bharatpur, known for its natural beauty and adventure activities.
  • Kathmandu: The capital city of Nepal, located 163 km north of Bharatpur, known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and monuments.
  • Lumbini: A sacred pilgrimage site located 123 km southwest of Bharatpur, known as the birthplace of Gautama Buddha.

Conclusion

Bharatpur is a city that offers a unique blend of wildlife, culture, and adventure. With its scenic landscape and rich history, Bharatpur is a must-visit destination when traveling to Nepal.