We leave the lodge at first light, cross the Rapti by boat and work the edges of the grassland on foot and by jeep. In spring, male Bengal floricans make their display flights above the short grass, leaping into the air with a flash of white wings before parachuting down. It is one of the rarest bustards in the world, and Chitwan's western grasslands remain one of its strongholds in Nepal.
The same morning usually turns up lesser adjutant and woolly-necked storks, crested serpent eagles, red junglefowl and a mix of prinias, warblers and munias in the grass. On the riverbank you may find black-bellied terns, river lapwings and wintering ducks between November and February. Our naturalists use calls, scopes and field guides and keep a list for you at the end of the trip.
Grassland birding is hot work after 10 am from March, so plan to be back for a late breakfast and rest at midday. Bring binoculars, a long lens if you have one, a hat and neutral clothing. The grass is cut and burned in January and February, which opens the views but makes the area look scorched for a few weeks.
Good for
- Photographers
- Solo
- Couples
- Seniors
Questions travellers ask
Can I see the Bengal florican in Chitwan?
Yes, with luck and the right season. The best time is March to May, when males display over the short grass in the western grasslands near Meghauli. Sightings are not guaranteed because numbers are small. A specialist birding naturalist who knows the display areas improves your chances considerably.
Is Meghauli better than Sauraha for birding?
For grassland species, yes. Meghauli has larger open grasslands and fewer vehicles, which suits floricans, francolins and grass warblers. Sauraha and Bishazari Tal are better for forest and wetland birds. Keen birders often split their stay between the two areas.
Do I need my own binoculars for birding in Chitwan?
Bring your own if you can. Lodges have some binoculars to lend and naturalists carry a scope, but having a pair each makes a big difference. An 8x42 or 10x42 is ideal. A small field guide or a birding app helps too.
