Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is an example of one of the finest birding
sites in Asia. Koshi Tappu was established as a wildlife reserve in 1976
with an aim to protect the last remaining population of Asiatic Wild
Buffaloes in Nepal. The reserve has a total area of 175 sq. km. and is
roughly rectangular in shape. The principal habitats in the reserve
include: wetlands, grasslands and small patches of riverine forest. To
date this is the only Ramsar Site (a wetland of international
significance) in Nepal. More than half of Nepal's birds are recorded
from Koshi Tappu! Among the mammals, besides Wild Water Buffaloes, the
elusive Gangetic Dolphin and Fishing Cat are occasionally seen here.A
barrage on the southern side of the reserve has created a water
reservoir where thousands of migrating waders and wildfowl take rest.
The barrage was built nearly 40 years ago, mainly to save people in the Indian state of Bihar from the devastating floods of the Koshi River. High earthen embankments bound the Koshi River on both its eastern and western sides, which confine the course of the waters within these bunds.Many small marshlands, pools and grasslands are formed which provide a haven for birds and birdwatchers alike. The vegetation near these banks holds many passerines. In addition, large agricultural fields that lie adjacent to the reserve make fine habitat for many birds. The finest birding sites in and outside the reserves are located between Koshi Camp and down south all the way to the barrage. Within this stretch many birds and mammals are found that offer the experience of a lifetime. Koshi Tappu is the ultimate destination for any nature enthusiasts and experts visiting Nepal.
The barrage was built nearly 40 years ago, mainly to save people in the Indian state of Bihar from the devastating floods of the Koshi River. High earthen embankments bound the Koshi River on both its eastern and western sides, which confine the course of the waters within these bunds.Many small marshlands, pools and grasslands are formed which provide a haven for birds and birdwatchers alike. The vegetation near these banks holds many passerines. In addition, large agricultural fields that lie adjacent to the reserve make fine habitat for many birds. The finest birding sites in and outside the reserves are located between Koshi Camp and down south all the way to the barrage. Within this stretch many birds and mammals are found that offer the experience of a lifetime. Koshi Tappu is the ultimate destination for any nature enthusiasts and experts visiting Nepal.
- Activities: Game viewing, bird watching
- Accommodation: Resorts, tented camp
- Access: 90-minute drive (40 km) from Biratnagar, which is 50 minutes by air or 500 km by road from Kathmandu.
- Wildlife: Elephants, wild buffalo, wild boar, hog deer, spotted deer, blue bull and jackal; reptiles include gharial crocodile; Gangetic dolphins are found in the Koshi River.
- Birds: 479 species of birds, some of which fly all the way from Siberia during winter.
- Vegetation: Grassland with patches of scrub and deciduous riverine forests
- Best Season: October-March, April-June (hot), July-September (rainy)
- Park Headquarters: Kusaha
- Entrance Fee: Nepalis - Rs. 50 per day per entry, SAARC nationals - Rs. 500 per day per entry, foreigners - Rs. 1,000 per day per entry.
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