Parsa National Park
In Nepali: पर्सा राष्ट्रिय निकुञ्ज
Parsa was set up as a wildlife reserve in 1984 and became a national park in 2017. It adjoins Chitwan to the west, and together they form one of the largest protected tiger landscapes in South Asia. Its dry sal forests and Siwalik ridges hold wild elephants, gaur, sloth bears and a growing number of tigers.
There are few facilities, which is its charm: jeep safaris and guided walks can be arranged from the headquarters at Adhabhar on the Hetauda–Birgunj road, and homestays are starting up in nearby villages.
What to see and do
Take a jeep drive along forest tracks through sal and pine woods and across dry riverbeds, looking for elephants, gaur, sambar and signs of tigers. Birdwatchers can find hornbills, woodpeckers and the colourful Indian pitta. Community forests on the park's edge offer walks with local guides.
Good to know
Facilities are limited compared with Chitwan; book activities through the park office or a local homestay. Carry water — the forest is dry and hot from March to June.
Quick answers
- Where is Parsa National Park?
- Parsa National Park is in Parsa district, Madhesh Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Parsa National Park?
- About 400 m (1,312 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Parsa National Park?
- For a 4-day trip from Kathmandu, about NPR 8,500 (≈ US$63) per person on a budget, or NPR 19,000 (≈ US$140) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 7,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Parsa National Park?
- Plan 2 nights there; with travel from Kathmandu and back, about 4 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Parsa National Park?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 1,500 / US$11 to enter Parsa National Park (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- When is the best time to visit Parsa National Park?
- October–March
- How do I get to Parsa National Park?
- Headquarters at Adhabhar, on the highway between Hetauda and Birgunj. It is about 69 km (straight line) from Kathmandu.
- What is Parsa National Park called in Nepali?
- पर्सा राष्ट्रिय निकुञ्ज
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