To elevate wildlife tourism in Nepal, Siddhartha Hospitality, one of the country’s leading hospitality chains, has officially launched a high-end luxury wildlife resort in Meghauli, Chitwan. This initiative aims to draw affluent domestic and international travelers seeking exclusive and immersive experiences in nature.
Siddhartha Wildlife Retreat Begins Operations in Meghauli
Previously operating under the name Sarang Wildlife Sanctuary, the resort has now been rebranded and relaunched as Siddhartha Wildlife Retreat, informed Krishna Neupane, CEO of Siddhartha Business Group of Hospitality (SBGH). Neupane stated that the rebranding reflects the group’s vision to offer an elevated level of service and nature-based luxury at one of Nepal’s top wildlife tourism destinations.
“Meghauli is already regarded as one of the most beautiful destinations in Nepal for observing aquatic life, wildlife, and birdwatching,” said Neupane. “With this resort, our goal is to bring luxury wildlife hospitality to visitors who want to experience nature with comfort and class.”
Located in the Heart of Nature
Situated approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Bharatpur Airport, Meghauli is easily accessible via blacktopped roads, making it convenient for both domestic and international tourists. The Siddhartha Wildlife Retreat spans over 12 bighas of forest area and offers a tranquil environment surrounded by untouched natural beauty.
According to CEO Neupane, the resort features a lush garden within its premises, providing a natural habitat where guests can spot various bird species and wildlife. A stream flowing through the resort adds to its serene and refreshing ambiance.
A Blend of Wildlife Luxury and Local Heritage
One of the standout features of the resort is its premium swimming pool and adjacent poolside bar, designed for leisure and relaxation. Guests can unwind in hammocks near the pool, offering a unique way to experience nature’s calmness after a swim.
Another highlight is the elephant interaction experience, which includes feeding, walking alongside, and even enjoying breakfast with elephants. The resort currently houses three elephants, including a calf, allowing for a range of engaging wildlife activities for guests.
Adding to the charm, 17 villas built in traditional Tharu architectural style offer 24 deluxe rooms that can accommodate up to 48 guests. “Each villa is designed with modern amenities while retaining the essence of local heritage,” said Neupane. “We’ve ensured the highest level of service from basic needs to luxury comforts within a forest setting.”
Ideal for Jungle Activities and Birdwatching
Located along the western boundary of Chitwan National Park, the resort is directly connected to the buffer zone forest. This allows guests to experience the feel of staying in the jungle while remaining in a secure and well-managed environment. The resort also offers tailored jungle activity packages for both domestic and international visitors. Meghauli is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 550 species of birds recorded in the area. This makes it one of the most biodiverse destinations in Nepal for avian observation and photography.
Guests can also enjoy a scenic canoe ride on the Rapti River, which winds alongside the national park. The river cruise offers close encounters with crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The journey culminates at Golaghat, the confluence of the Rapti and Narayani rivers, where the sunset view is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Jungle Safari with Modern Comfort
Tourists can book either half-day or full-day jungle safari experiences. The resort provides comfortable Hilux jeeps with experienced guides who enhance the safari experience through insightful commentary and safety measures. The immersive safari tours give tourists a chance to observe rhinos, deer, wild boars, and possibly even the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, all within their natural habitat.
Part of a Growing Hospitality Network
Siddhartha Hospitality currently operates over 30 outlets across Nepal under various brands, catering to a wide range of tourists and business travelers. Their portfolio includes:
- Siddhartha Vilasa – Five-star luxury hotels
- Siddhartha Vaibhav – Four-star hotels
- Siddhartha Batika – Three-star accommodations
- Siddhartha Cottage, Escafe, and others – Boutique and lifestyle-focused services
The addition of Siddhartha Wildlife Retreat in Meghauli further solidifies the group’s presence in Nepal’s growing tourism sector and showcases their commitment to sustainable and high-end tourism development.
Promoting Responsible and Experiential Tourism
By introducing a luxury wildlife retreat in a location like Meghauli, Siddhartha Hospitality is not only expanding its business but also contributing to responsible tourism. The resort operates in a manner that supports local communities, preserves biodiversity, and promotes authentic cultural experiences, particularly those of the indigenous Tharu and Kumal communities.
As Nepal aims to diversify its tourism offerings beyond mountain trekking, developments like the Siddhartha Wildlife Retreat represent a significant step toward positioning the country as a premium nature and wildlife destination in South Asia. With luxurious accommodations, immersive jungle experiences, and a deep respect for local culture and environment, Siddhartha Wildlife Retreat is set to become a benchmark in Nepal’s wildlife tourism landscape.
