Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Tour

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is situated on the alluvial flood plains of the Sapta-Koshi River (one of the three tributaries of Ganges) in Terai, Eastern Nepal. Established in 1976 with area of 175 sq. km. to protect the grassland and islands in the floodplains of Sapta Koshi River, it is also the last habitat of the Arna (wild water buffalo). Bird watchers arrive here in search of the beautiful Bengal florican and the flamboyant sarus cranes. More than 440 species of birds have been recorded here including those that arrive from Siberia and Tibet around November to February. The reserve is also home to wild boar, jackals, pythons and crocodiles. The endangered Gangetic dolphins are seen occasionally when they surface in the river.
Reverine and Sal forests and grasslands dominate the vegetation of the reserve. This combination of vegetation and wetland proves a special site for birds and animals. Around 300 species of birds have been recorded in this reserve. These include waterfowl, birds of prey, waders, and other water birds. The globally threatened Swamp Partridge (Francolinus Gularis) is also a familiar sight. The nearby Koshi Barrage has created a vast expanse of water. This makes it the most important staging point for migrating birds. At the same time it is an all year playground for resident ones. Makalu, the world's fifth highest mountain (8,463m), can be glimpsed on a clear day. This enhances the beauty of the scenery dramatically.
History - A study of the reserve was conducted between 1997 to 1998 by the Central Department of Zoology, Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu. The study found serious conflicts between the reserve wildlife and the local people living adjacent to the reserve. The people suffered crop depredations and animal harassment while the reserve managers had the problems of illegal poaching, cattle grazing, and other other illegal activities in the reserve. The study has several recommendations, one of which is the promotion of tourism to the area with the reserve using local tourist guides trained by wildlife experts.
You can explore the forest of Koshi Tappu safari riding on elephant back. Here you will see the hattisar (elephant stable) where elephant breed regularly and which is one of few such facilities in Asia. During the Koshi Tappu Safari at dusk and dawn time you will see many varieties of birds and animals sitting along the river. The best place to watch the bird species is the Barrage, downstream of the river.