Tourism entrepreneurs in Nawalpur (Bardaghat Susta East) have expressed excitement after receiving official permission to operate jeep safaris inside Chitwan National Park. The new approval, granted for the fiscal year 2082/83, is expected to significantly boost tourism and promote local economic activities in the region.
According to the Chitwan National Park Office, the authorization was issued to the Nawalpur Tourism Committee, allowing it to conduct “Jungle Drive” safaris through designated routes in the park. Committee Chairperson Fansaram Mahato said the initiative would open new avenues for tourism development and attract both domestic and foreign visitors. “The permission will help expand tourism activities in the area and promote Nawalpur as a gateway to Chitwan National Park,” Mahato stated.
New Routes to Offer Half-Day and Full-Day Safaris
A formal agreement has been reached between the Chitwan National Park Office and the Nawalpur Tourism Committee to operate jeep safaris through the Nawalpur route. Under the agreement, visitors will have the option of half-day and full-day safaris, each offering a unique wildlife and natural experience.
For the half-day safari, two routes have been designated. The first begins from Amaltari Ghat, continues through Temple Tiger–Munda Lake–Devi Lake, and returns via the same route. The second route follows Amaltari Ghat–Munda Lake–Tiger Tops, before looping back. Both routes offer visitors the opportunity to observe rare wildlife species, dense sal forests, and wetland ecosystems that define Chitwan’s rich biodiversity.
Chairperson Mahato added that the full-day safari has been reserved for visitors traveling to the Gharial Breeding Centre, one of Chitwan’s major conservation attractions. The full-day route extends to the breeding center and returns through the park’s main forest trails to Amaltari. “This will allow tourists to experience Chitwan’s natural diversity in greater depth,” Mahato explained.
Seven Jeeps Approved for Safari Operations
Under the new permit, a total of seven jeeps have been authorized for safari operations through Nawalpur. Each vehicle will operate under the supervision of the tourism committee and the national park. The park office has also approved the list of vehicles to ensure compliance with conservation and safety standards.
In addition, the park has mandated the installation of Vehicle Tracking and Monitoring Systems (GPS) in all authorized jeeps. Chairperson Mahato stated that the committee has been given until Mangsir 15 (November 30) to install GPS devices in all safari vehicles. “We are committed to following the park’s regulations. GPS tracking will enhance safety, transparency, and environmental monitoring,” he said.
Unique Safari Experience via Nawalpur Route
Tourists opting for jeep safaris from the Nawalpur side will begin their journey by crossing the Narayani River at Amaltari Ghat by boat before entering the park. The safari jeeps will be stationed on the opposite side of the river within the park’s premises. This setup offers visitors a combined experience of boating and jungle adventure, making the Nawalpur route a distinctive option for visitors to Chitwan National Park.
The Nawalpur Tourism Committee has stated that this model ensures environmental protection while supporting local communities. The committee plans to promote the new route among domestic travelers and international tourists seeking authentic nature-based experiences.
Local Tourism Entrepreneurs Welcome the Move
Local tourism entrepreneurs have welcomed the park’s decision, calling it a milestone for Nawalpur’s tourism industry. Prominent tourism entrepreneur Dhaniram Gurau said that jeep safaris will help increase tourist movement in the area. “Our community forests in Nawalpur are already popular for rhino sightings. With this new permission, tourists heading to Chitwan will also be able to enjoy jungle drives through Amaltari,” Gurau said.
He added that the new route will not only attract visitors but also generate local employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity. “This initiative will promote tourism, enhance income for residents, and encourage sustainable use of natural resources,” Gurau remarked.
Strengthening Nawalpur’s Role in Chitwan’s Tourism Landscape
The decision to open jeep safaris from Nawalpur marks an important step toward diversifying access points to Chitwan National Park. Previously, most safaris operated from Sauraha and Kasara, located on the park’s eastern and central sides. The inclusion of the Nawalpur route now adds a western access point, helping distribute tourist flow more evenly and support community-based tourism in the region.
Local authorities believe this move will not only enhance conservation awareness but also uplift the livelihoods of communities living near the park’s buffer zones. As preparations continue for the formal launch of jeep safaris, tourism stakeholders remain optimistic that this development will turn Nawalpur into a key eco-tourism hub in western Chitwan.
