Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, located in the eastern Terai plains of Nepal, is a protected area known primarily for its rich birdlife, wetland ecosystems, and wild water buffaloes (Arna). Though smaller in size compared to other parks, it’s a biodiversity hotspot and the first Ramsar Site of Nepal, highlighting its international importance as a wetland.

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Quick Facts

• Location: Sunsari, Saptari, and Udayapur districts, Koshi Zone, Eastern Nepal

• Established: 1976

• Area: 175 km²

• Altitude: 75 to 81 meters above sea level

• UNESCO Ramsar Site: Designated in 1987

• Best Time to Visit: October to March

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Unique Features of Koshi Tappu

1. Birdwatching Haven

Koshi Tappu is Nepal’s top destination for birdwatchers, offering sightings of:

• Over 520 bird species

• Migratory waterfowl, waders, and wetland birds

• Rare species like the Siberian crane, Black-necked stork, and Greater adjutant

• Birding is especially rewarding during winter migrations (Nov–Feb)

2. Habitat for Wild Water Buffalo (Arna)

The reserve is the last refuge in Nepal for the wild water buffalo (Bubalus arnee), locally known as Arna, with conservation efforts helping their population rebound.

3. Wetland and Riverine Ecosystems

Located along the Koshi River floodplains, the reserve is a mosaic of:

• Freshwater marshes

• Mudflats and grasslands

• River channels

• Seasonal lagoons and oxbow lakes

These support amphibians, reptiles, fish, and a diverse aquatic ecosystem.

4. Other Wildlife

In addition to birds and buffalo, Koshi Tappu is home to:

• Gangetic dolphins in the Koshi River

• Asian elephants, fishing cats, and smooth-coated otters

• Several species of deer, wild boar, and reptiles like pythons and crocodiles

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Eco-Tourism and Activities

Things to Do:

• Guided birdwatching tours with local naturalists

• River rafting and boating on the Koshi River

• Nature walks and grassland treks

• Village visits to learn about local Tharu and indigenous communities

Where to Stay:

• Eco-lodges and campsites near the Koshi Barrage

• Guesthouses in nearby towns like Inaruwa or Biratnagar

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How to Get There

By Road:

• Around 8–10 hours drive from Kathmandu via East-West Highway

By Air:

• Flight to Biratnagar Airport from Kathmandu (approx. 45 mins), followed by 1–2 hour drive to the reserve

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Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Ideal for birdwatching and comfortable temperatures

• April to June: Hot and dry but quiet

• July to September: Monsoon season; rich foliage, but some areas may be flooded

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Trivia and Fun Facts

• Koshi Tappu is Nepal’s smallest wildlife reserve, but extremely important ecologically.

• It lies on the East Asia-Australasia Flyway, a key migration route for birds.

• The Koshi Barrage, near the reserve, is both a major irrigation project and a great birdwatching spot.

• More than 200 species of fish have been recorded in the reserve’s water bodies.

• It’s one of the few protected areas in South Asia that shelters true wild buffaloes, not domestic hybrids.