Koshi Tappu Wildlife
Reserve lies on the flood plains of the Sapta-koshi
in Saptari and Sunsari districts of eastern Nepal. The
Reserve covers 175 sq. kms and was established in 1976.
Rapid and complete inundation of the reserve
to depths ranging from 10 to 300 cm. occurs during the
monsoon. The Sapta-Koshi river also changes its course
from one season to another. The vegetation is mainly
tall Khar-pater grassland with a few patches of Khair-sisso,
scrub forest and deciduous mixed riverine forest.
The reserve offers important habitat for
a variety of wildlife. The last surviving population
(about 100 individuals) of Wild Buffalo or Arna are
found here. Other mammals occurring here are hog deer,
wild deer, spotted deer and blue bull.
The reserve also assists the local economy
by providing fishing permits and allowing the collection
of edible fruits and ferns in season.
A total of 280 different species of birds
have been recorded in the reserve. These include 20
species of ducks, 2 species of ibises, many stroks,
egrets, herons and the endangered swamp partridges and
Bengal floricans. The endangered Gharial, Crocodile
and Gangetic dolphin have been recorded in Koshi river.
- Entry Fee Per Person Per Day :
- For Nepalese Nationals, Rs. 20/-Free
- For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
- For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1000/-
- (Note: Entrance fee not required for
children under 10 years).
Access:
Koshi Tappu is easily accessible from Kathmandu, being
well connected by a national highway. There are daily
flights from Kathmandu to Biratnagar and road connected
Biratnagar to national highway. |