Parsa National Park: A Paradise for Wildlife Enthusiasts

Parsa National Park is located in the south-central lowland Terai region of Nepal, covering an area of 637.37 square kilometers. The area was historically used as a vacation site for the Rana rulers of the country before being gazetted as a wildlife reserve in 1984 to preserve the habitat for wild Asian elephants and a variety of other fauna. The park’s pristine sub-tropical jungle is contiguous with Chitwan National Park in the west.

In 2017, Parsa National Park was upgraded to a National Park, further solidifying its status as an important biodiversity hotspot in Nepal.

Wildlife Safaris

The best way to experience endangered and exotic wildlife is by going on a safari. Visitors can choose between jeep safaris or elephant safaris, both of which are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about wildlife and their habitats. Some of the animals that visitors can expect to see during a safari include Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, leopards, elephants, and many other species.

Birdwatching

Parsa National Park is home to over 500 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can spot a variety of birds, from small songbirds to large birds of prey. Some of the park’s most famous birds include the Bengal Florican, the crested serpent Eagle, and the great hornbill.

Protected Mammals
S.N	Name	Scientific Name
1	Royal Bengal Tiger	Panthera Tigris
2	Pangolin	Manis Pantadactyla
3	Hyaena	Hyaena Hyaena
4	Four-Horned Antelope	Tetraceurs Quadricornis
5	Bison	Bos Gaurus
6	Asian Elephant	Elephas Maximus
7	One-Horned Rhino	Rhinoceros Unicornis

Protected Birds
S.N	Name	Scientific Name
1	Giant Hornbill	Buceros Bicornis

Protected Reptiles
S.N	Name	Scientific Name
1	Asiatic Rock Python	Python Molurus
2	Golden Monitor Lizard	Varanus Flavescens

Hiking Trails

It offers several hiking trails that range in difficulty, providing visitors with stunning views of the landscape and the opportunity to experience its natural beauty up close. The trails are well-maintained, and visitors are advised to hire a guide who can point out the various flora and fauna along the way.

Accommodation

There are several accommodation options available there, ranging from basic guesthouses to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose to stay in the nearby town of Birgunj or in one of the lodges located within the park itself. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.

Find accommodation in the Parsa National Park area on Booking.com.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Parsa National Park is between October and March, which is the dry season in Nepal. During this time, the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for wildlife viewing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The monsoon season from June to September can make travel and outdoor activities more difficult due to heavy rainfall and flooding. However, the national park remains open year-round, and visitors can still enjoy the park’s natural beauty during other times of the year.

Highlights of Parsa National Park

• Wildlife: Parsa National Park is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, leopards, and elephants, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Biodiversity: The park’s diverse range of habitats, including subtropical forests, grasslands, and riverine forests, supports a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna.
• Indigenous Communities: Parsa National Park is home to several indigenous communities, including the Tharu people, who have lived in the area for generations and have developed a unique culture and way of life.
• Activities: Visitors to Parsa National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and hiking, providing opportunities to explore the park’s natural beauty and biodiversity up close.
• Conservation: The park has faced numerous conservation challenges, including poaching and habitat loss, but with the help of conservation organizations and local communities, it has been able to overcome these challenges and continue to thrive as a biodiversity hotspot in Nepal.

How to Get there

Parsa National Park is easily accessible, as the Kathmandu-Hetauda-Birgunj highway passes by the entrance gate. Visitors can take a bus from Kathmandu, which takes approximately six to seven hours to reach there. Alternatively, a flight to Simara takes about 20 minutes, followed by a 15-minute bus ride to headquarters. Regardless of the mode of transportation chosen, visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Nepalese landscape along the way, making the journey to Parsa National Park an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Entrance Fees for Parsa National Park

National Park Areas	Nepali	SAARC	Foreigners
Parsa National Park	NRs. 100 per person per entry	NRs. 750 per person per entry	NRs. 1,500 per person per entry

Read more on the official site of the Park.

Conclusion

Parsa National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Nepal up close. With its diverse range of flora and fauna, well-maintained hiking trails, and experienced guides, the park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. So, pack your bags and head to Parsa National Park for an unforgettable adventure!