What Types of Hotels Can You Expect to Find in Chitwan?

Chitwan National Park boasts a wide array of accommodations, all situated in the town of Sauraha!

Jungle cottage in Chitwan
A typical jungle cottage in Chitwan/Sauraha
Please refer to my guide to Chitwan National Park to understand the distinction between "Chitwan" and "Sauraha." Essentially, they are adjacent towns often referred to interchangeably.

There is no accommodation within the National Park itself, so disregard any claims made by touts or package holidays to the contrary.

Unfortunately, in 2017, several large "resorts" managed to secure permission to reopen resorts within the main jungle area, despite concerns raised by locals and conservationists regarding potential environmental damage. As of 2018, these resorts have not yet reopened within the jungle.

What to Expect from a Hotel/Resort in Chitwan:

High-End: Swimming pool, 24-hour generators, 24-hour hot water, air conditioning, cable television, ensuites, valet service, room service, Wi-Fi, restaurant, tour desk, airport/bus pickup, jungle tours.

Mid-Range: Backup generator, 24-hour hot water, cable television, en suite, Wi-Fi, restaurant, tour desk, airport/bus pickup, jungle tours.

Budget: Backup battery/generator, solar-powered water heaters, cable television, shared bathrooms, Wi-Fi, restaurant, tour desk, bus pickup, jungle tours.

Accommodation Notes: As evident, virtually all hotels and resorts offer airport/bus pickups, jungle tours, and Wi-Fi. The key differentiator lies in the quality of accommodation.

It's important to note that not all high-end resorts are truly luxurious. Some may opt for a more rustic experience, which could be misleading for guests expecting a higher standard. It's generally more practical to choose a mid-range or budget resort for a more authentic jungle experience.

Similarly, while some budget accommodations may seem basic, Sauraha offers some of the most affordable options throughout Nepal.

Regardless of the type of accommodation you select, remember that Chitwan/Sauraha is a jungle area, so encounters with wildlife, including insects, rhinos, and tigers, are part of the daily landscape!

Due to the pandemic, some hotels and resorts have closed, and others continue to feel the economic impact. Keep in mind that staff shortages or facility downgrades may occur when visiting Sauraha. Supporting local businesses ensures that funds spent on accommodation benefit the community directly.

No Resorts Inside Chitwan National Park

All types of accommodations are prohibited within the actual National Park. Although resorts were previously allowed inside, they were removed for conservation reasons. Disbelieve any resort claiming to be "inside Chitwan National Park."

Bamboo style Lodges in Chitwan

As previously mentioned, there are no actual resorts or hotels within the inner boundaries of Chitwan National Park. However, the village of Sauraha is located just beside the park, across the Rapti River. Sauraha houses most of Chitwan's accommodations, ranging from high-end resorts to budget guest houses.

Malpur Road

Sauraha's primary thoroughfare is known as Malpur Road. Two iconic landmarks grace this route: an elephant statue at one end and a rhino statue near the river. Along this road, you'll find a diverse array of accommodation options. For budget travelers or backpackers, the simplest strategy is to depart from the bus stop, turn right, and walk to the end of the dusty road. Then, turn left, and you'll soon see the elephant statue on your right—this is where most budget accommodations begin. For more detailed guidance, please consult my guide on reaching Chitwan.

Riverside

At the southern terminus of Malpur Road is the Rapti River. The river runs wide, meandering from west to east, offering various types of accommodation. A new promenade-style walkway parallels part of the riverside, although navigating it can be challenging due to the numerous seating arrangements and fences established by local restaurants.

Eastward, the road loops back to the north, where you'll find a series of budget and mid-range hotels. In this region, it's not uncommon to spot rhinos foraging for food in resort gardens in the early morning, and occasionally, elephants. Please remember not to approach them, as they are wild animals.

Westward, you'll find more upscale resorts, which typically require some means of transportation for easy access.

Resort Areas in Sauraha

Numerous high-end resorts in Sauraha are situated beyond easy walking distance from the town center. These resorts often combine modern amenities with a jungle-like setting. They typically provide pick-up or shuttle services from town, though many guests prefer to dine and entertain themselves on-site.

Sauraha/Chitwan is brimming with resorts, hotels, and guesthouses. Even on a busy peak season day, you'll find available rooms. The best deals can be secured by visiting budget and mid-range hotels along the main Malpur Road and the eastern riverside, then heading north.

High-end resorts and some superior mid-range hotels now favor online bookings and often offer the best rates there. Visiting these establishments in person may lead to higher prices.

For budgeting purposes, the following categories apply:

  • High-end: USD $50-$100+ per night
  • Mid-range: USD $30+ per night
  • Budget: under USD $5-$25 per night

I have personally reviewed nearly 60 hotels, resorts, and guesthouses in Chitwan, and have included some of these reviews below! Additional recommendations can be found in my guidebooks to Chitwan and Nepal.

Tent Lodge in Chitwan


Hotel, resort and guesthouse reviews in Chitwan


Hotels, resorts and guest houses are separated by budget. Do keep in mind that even budget hotels will often refer to themselves as "resorts" or "jungle lodges". Use the reviews below to see what's really a resort vs a bamboo hut!

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High-end resorts, hotels and lodges in Chitwan

Some resorts/hotels/lodges are well outside Sauraha but will offer shuttles to and from. Price range: USD $50-100+ per night

Maruni Sanctuary Lodge Maruni Sactuary Lodge: Situated on the outskirts of beautiful Chitwan National Park, about 1.5 KM from the main road in Sauraha, is this sanctuary of peace and tranquility. Surrounded by its green ambiance, the lodge will provide the best services and amenities to ensure your stay is comfortable and memorable. ★★★★☆ book here

+ Pool

+ Service

Green Park Green Park Resort Chitwan: Rising up above from your expectations” is what sets this jungle resort apart from the rest of the hotels in Chitwan. Located just 1.5 km from the town center (ignore their map distance), Green Park Resort offers easy access with a shuttle to Sauraha. With its ideal location and facilities, Green Park Resort is the perfect escape for relaxation and exploration. ★★★★★ book here

+ Top Rated!

+ Pool

+ BBQ

+ Service

Hotel Jungle Crown Hotel Jungle Crown: If you’re looking for a combination of luxury and adventure, Hotel Jungle Crown could just be the place for you. Whether you want to explore the grassland sitting atop an elephant or ride a canoe down the Rapti River – count on Hotel Jungle Crown to make your trip memorable. ★★★★☆ book here

+ Pool

+ Sauna

+ Service

Sapana Village Lodge Hotel Sapana Village Lodge Chitwan : Catch a glimpse into Chitwan’s Tharu culture! You’ll find all 30 rooms at Hotel Sapana Village Lodge influenced directly by the authentic Tharu style, Chitwan’s ancient heritage and the surrounding environment. You’ll get to experience the local culture and the beautiful nature Chitwan has to offer with the help of the experienced guides located here. ★★★★★ book here

+ Spa

+ Culture

+ Service

 


Mid-range resorts, hotels and lodges in Chitwan

Some resorts/hotels/lodges are well outside Sauraha but will offer shuttles to and from. Price range: USD $30-50+ per night

Rhino Residency Resort The Rhino Residency Resort – a great place to get sunset views over the Rapt river. Literally just a minute away from Chitwan National Park, this resort features charming colonial-style bungalows, a swimming pool in the midst of a serene garden and a bar that boasts some great beverages. ★★★★☆ book here

+ Pool

+ Location

 

Hotel 7 star Hotel Seven Star: It's not really 7 stars or even 5 but if you’re looking for a comfortable and an affordable hotel in Chitwan that seems to think they are a 5 star resort then Hotel Seven Star is the place for you. Take advantage of the great services and the excellent amenities this hotel has to offer, such as spa and wellness center, a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, 24-hour room service – all tailored to suit your every need with some great online booking prices. ★★★★☆ book here

 

+ Pool

+ Spa

Gaida Lodge Chitwan Gaida Lodge: A top pick of the southern lodges. Gaida has a pristine open area with seating. Two accommodation zones - one with cottages & another inside a larger new building. Restaurant & bar are both good. Staff here were exceptionally nice ★★★★★ book here

+ Top Rated!

+ Gardens

+ Bar

+ Value

Royal Park Hotel Royal Park Hotel: Unplug from the rest of the world for a peaceful relaxation at Royal Park Hotel. Surrounded by lush green fields, the hotel rooms are built in traditional Nepali style with all the Western comforts. What’s more, each room is fitted with a large panoramic window for you to enjoy the spectacular surroundings of Chitwan. ★★★★★ book here

+ Bar

+ Location

+ Service


Budget resorts, hotels and lodges in Chitwan

Chitwan offers some of the best budget lodges and guesthouses in all Nepal. The facilities might not be top-notch everywhere but it's worth shopping around. USD $5-25+ per night

Motherland resort Motherland Resort Motherland Resort delivers a different side to paradise! The rustic resort, located in Sauraha near the river, is just 5 minutes away from the Chitwan National Park. The hotel boasts a spacious sun terrace where guests can enjoy the view and the peaceful environment ★★★★☆ book here

+ Hot tub

+ Location

 

Chitwan Village Resort Chitwan Village Resort:Explore the picturesque paradise that Chitwan is, and let nature take over your holiday like no other. Chitwan Village Resort, situated right across the Rapti River, offers you an exciting combination of wildlife adventure and luxury. You can be rest assured that your stay with Chitwan Village Resort will be happy, comfortable and memorable. ★★★★☆ book here

 

+ Location

+ Value

Gaida Lodge Evergreen Ecolodge: Looking for a low-cost ecological hotel in Sauraha? Look no further than Evergreen Ecolodge. The 8 natural bedrooms built using recycled materials and fitted with natural insulation, this ecolodge is committed towards conservation, cultural sensitivity and style. Experience nature at its purest form; being green will never be this appealing! ★★★★☆ book here

+ Eco friendly

+ Gardens

+ Value

Chitwan Forest Resort Chitwan Forest Resort:With a choice between renovated cottages or a new mansion sized hotel you’ll be in safe hands here. The cottage rooms are well priced with a stable generator operating and working WiFi. The owner Deekpak is very honest and his tours are well priced. ★★★★★ book here

+ Eco friendly

+ Location

+ Service


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