In a serene spot on the outskirts of Chitwan National Park, Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge is one of Nepal’s premier eco resorts. There’s a strong focus on sustainability, a progressive approach to elephant care, and experienced staff on hand to ensure your stay is stress-free. Tharu Lodge is perfect for exploring the National Park and spotting some of the area’s wildlife.
The accommodation is split between generously-sized bungalows and safari tents, all with a simple yet welcoming feel and a rustic look. The en-suites are surprisingly bright and modern, given their simple facilities, with just a few luxury touches here and there. Elephant motifs tie the interiors in with the resort’s conservation work, while storm lamps bring a cosy, camping vibe after dark, softened by the flicker of candles in cosy corners.
Situated in southern Nepal, on the western part of Chitwan National Park, Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge is around an hour and 15 minutes’ drive from Bharatpur airport.
Outdoor pool & firepit
Sunset boat safari
Walking with elephants
Tennis & jungle hikes
Seeing the resident elephants having a bath and playing in the mud was the highlight of my entire trip.
Discover what to expect from staying at Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge
The initial draw to visiting Tiger Tops and spending time out in the jungle is, of course, the wildlife and sense of adventure. However, taking the time to wander down to the nearby Tharu village, meet the locals and experience a little daily life is every bit as engaging and important. Immerse yourself in the culture, learn about local heritage and get involved - you’ll leave feeling part of the family.
The knowledgeable lodge naturalists are always keen to take intrepid travellers out on thrilling jeep drives to spot wildlife, including Bengal tigers, sloth bears, crocodiles and one-horned rhino. You can even walk alongside the project’s resident elephants as they make their way through the landscape, sometimes allowing you to get breathtakingly close to rhino an other wildlife in the elephants’ protective wake. The naturalists are always on hand to tell you more about these fascinating animals - a highlight every time we visit.
Enjoy home-grown, organic ingredients cooked in a variety of traditional Nepali and international dishes, served either in the indoor restaurant or al fresco in the garden. A simple terrace surrounds a good-sized outdoor pool where you can cool off with a swim or lay back on a lounger. Play a game of tennis, if you’re feeling active, or sway gently in a hammock if you want to kick back for a while. Go trekking in Chitwan National Park, learn about the resort’s work with elephants, and explore the local villages before ending the day with a boat safari on the river to watch the sunset.
As one of Nepal’s best eco-resorts, their commitment to combining sustainability with a top-class guest experience is impressive. Not only are they proud to be Nepal's first company to offer responsible elephant experiences, they’re also partnered with the ITNC charity on several initiatives supporting conservation projects. They remain fully dedicated to supporting and providing a better education to thousands of children in the surrounding communities too, by way of scholarships, uniforms and textbooks. Their commitment to sustainability and retaining a low environmental footprint is a high priority.