Koshi Tappu wildlife safari

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a protected area located in the southeastern Terai region of Nepal, spanning across Sunsari, Saptari, and Udayapur districts. Established in 1976, it is Nepal’s first Ramsar Site and was specifically created to protect the last remaining population of wild water buffalo, locally known as Arna. Covering an area of 176 square kilometres, the reserve lies on the floodplains of the mighty Sapta Koshi River, making it one of the most significant wetland ecosystems in South Asia. The landscape is dominated by extensive grasslands, marshes, and seasonal riverine forests, creating a perfect habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna. Koshi Tappu is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, especially as a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 485 bird species recorded, including many rare and migratory birds. It also shelters endangered species like the Ganges River dolphin, wild water buffalo, swamp francolin, and the Bengal florican. This unique reserve offers not only opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and river safaris but also a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Tharu and other indigenous communities. Koshi Tappu represents a rare harmony between nature conservation and community-based eco-tourism in Nepal.