Dugout canoe on the Rapti River
The canoes of Chitwan are long, narrow boats hollowed from the trunk of the simal or silk-cotton tree, steered by a boatman standing at the stern with a pole. They seat four to six people on low benches, close to the waterline, which is part of their appeal. We set off soon after sunrise, when mist lies over the river and animals come down to drink. The trip lasts 1 to 2 hours, drifting with the current, with almost no sound except birds and the pole in the water.
Mugger crocodiles, broad-snouted and up to 4 m long, are commonly seen on the sandbanks and in the shallows. The gharial, with its long, narrow snout built for catching fish, is much rarer and critically endangered; Chitwan has one of its last wild populations, supported by the breeding centre at Kasara. Along the banks look for kingfishers, ruddy shelducks, storks, herons, egrets and ospreys. Deer and rhinos sometimes come to the water, and otters are seen now and then.
The canoes ride low, so sit still, keep hands inside the boat and follow the boatman's instructions; they are not suitable for very young children. In winter, mornings are cold and damp, so bring a warm layer and a hat. At the end of the drift our jeep meets you, or we walk back for an hour with our naturalist through the forest edge, looking for tracks. River levels and routes vary with the season, and in monsoon canoeing is usually suspended.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Is a dugout canoe ride safe in Chitwan?
Yes, when you follow the boatman's instructions. The canoes are stable on the slow Rapti if passengers sit still and keep their hands inside. Crocodiles do not approach occupied boats, and naturalists keep a safe distance from wildlife on the banks. We do not recommend canoeing for children under about six or for anyone who cannot sit on a low bench for an hour.
What will we see on a canoe safari?
Mugger crocodiles are common on the sandbanks, and gharials are seen occasionally. Birds are the main attraction: several species of kingfisher, storks, herons, egrets, ruddy shelducks and birds of prey. Deer, wild boar and sometimes a rhino come down to the river edge. Early morning in winter gives mist, soft light and the best chances.
When are canoe trips not possible in Chitwan?
During the monsoon, roughly July to September, high water and strong currents usually stop canoe trips, and many lodges reduce operations or close. In very low water late in the dry season, routes may be shortened. Our lodge naturalists choose the stretch of river each day. Check current status before you travel.
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