Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
In Nepali: कोशी टप्पु वन्यजन्तु आरक्ष
Koshi Tappu protects the floodplain of the Sapta Koshi just above the Koshi Barrage. It was created in 1976 to save the wild water buffalo (arna), whose population here has since grown to several hundred, and it is a Ramsar wetland of international importance.
More than 500 bird species have been recorded, including many migrating ducks, storks and the rare swamp francolin; winter is the peak season. Visitors can go on guided walks, boat trips and birding outings, staying in lodges and homestays on the edge of the reserve.
What to see and do
Go birdwatching at dawn along the embankments and wetlands, take a boat trip on the Koshi to see waterfowl and perhaps river dolphins, and look for wild water buffalo grazing on the grassland islands. The Koshi Barrage area nearby is also excellent for birds, especially in winter.
Good to know
Stay in lodges at the reserve's edge that offer guided birding. Entry permits are required. Summer is hot, humid and wet, with fewer birds; November to March is the prime season, and February is especially good for migrants. Bring binoculars.
Quick answers
- Where is Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve?
- Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is in Sunsari district, Koshi Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve?
- About 75 m (246 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve?
- For a 4-day trip from Biratnagar, about NPR 7,500 (≈ US$56) per person on a budget, or NPR 15,500 (≈ US$115) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 6,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve?
- Plan 2 nights there; with travel from Biratnagar and back, about 4 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 1,000 / US$7 to enter the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- When is the best time to visit Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve?
- November–March for birds
- How do I get to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve?
- On the East–West Highway, about 1 hour west of Itahari. It is about 35 km (straight line) from Biratnagar.
- What is Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve called in Nepali?
- कोशी टप्पु वन्यजन्तु आरक्ष
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