Wild water buffalo
Nepal's last herd.
Bijay Chaurasia — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Nirmal Dulal — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Bijay Chaurasia — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Nabinregmi72 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Bijay Chaurasia — CC BY-SA 4.0
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a broad expanse of wetland on the floodplain of the Kosi River in eastern Nepal. It is one of the country's most important birdwatching sites, with reed beds and freshwater marshes. Nature lovers come for the peace of the plains and the migrating birds, far from the well-known tourist areas. The reserve was established in 1976 and listed as a Ramsar site in 1987. It covers 176 sq km in Sunsari, Saptari and Udayapur districts, at an elevation of 75 to 81 m. It holds Nepal's last herd of wild water buffalo. Some 485 bird species have been recorded here, among them the large adjutant stork and Pallas's fish eagle. You walk along the edges of green channels between fields of tall grass topped with white plumes in autumn, with wooden boats resting by the water. Cormorants stand on posts in the river, and green bee-eaters perch on wires. The horizon is completely flat, so the sun looks large and orange above the plain at sunset. It is about 35 km in a straight line from Biratnagar, and about 107 km from Janakpur. Arrange trips with a guide or local lodging. Bring binoculars and insect repellent, and keep clear of the wild buffalo. The cooler months of the year are better for viewing.
Nepal's last herd.
Cormorants and eagles on the river.
A large orange sun.
Kosi River floodplain, Sunsari, Saptari and Udayapur districts, eastern Nepal
Birdwatching by boat or on foot with a guide, as the reserve is known for its variety.
Biratnagar, about 35 km away in a straight line.