Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve lies on the floodplains of the Sapta Koshi River in the southeastern Terai region of Nepal. The reserve was established in 1976 to preserve the habitat of the only remaining population of Wild Buffalo, Arna (Bubalus arnee). Covering an area of 176 sq. km, it is Nepal's smallest wildlife reserve. The eastern and western embankments of the Sapta Koshi River define the area. In 1987, Koshi Tappu was declared a Ramsar site, a wetland of international significance. In 2004, the Government of Nepal declared a 173.5 sq. km buffer zone surrounding the reserve.

Features

The Sapta Koshi River is one of the three main tributaries of the Ganges. The reserve experiences rapid and intense flooding during the rainy season, leading to the construction of embankments parallel to the river to control the flooding.

Climate

The reserve experiences three distinct seasons:

1. Summer (February to May): Intensely hot with minimal precipitation. Temperatures can reach up to 40°C.
2. Monsoon (June to September): Heavy rainfall, peaking in July, with high humidity and temperatures.
3. Winter (October to January): Clear skies with moderate temperatures. Nights can get quite cold.

Flora and Fauna

The reserve is primarily composed of tall grasslands. Villagers are permitted to collect thatch grass annually for roofing and wall construction. There are small patches of Khair-sissoo scrub forest and deciduous mixed riverine forest.

Wildlife:

• The last surviving population of Wild Buffalo (Arna), estimated at around 159 individuals, is distinguished by their large horns.
• Around 20 other animal species, including Hog Deer, Wild Boar, Spotted Deer, Blue Bull, and Rock Python, inhabit the area.

Birdlife:

• Approximately 441 bird species have been recorded, including 14 endemic species.
• Notable species include 20 duck species, 2 Ibis species, White-tailed Stonechat, Striated Marsh Warbler, 30 shorebird species, 114 waterbird species, the endangered Swamp Partridge, and Bengal Florican.
• The Koshi Barrage is a crucial resting place for migratory birds, with 87 species recorded during winter and trans-Himalayan migrations.

Aquatic Life:

• The Koshi River hosts 80 fish species.
• Endangered species like the Gharial crocodile and Gangetic dolphin have also been spotted in the river.

During winter, migratory birds are a common sight around the Koshi Barrage and the river channel. Wildlife is most active during dawn and dusk. On clear days, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of several Himalayan peaks, including Makalu (8,463m), the world's fifth-highest mountain.

Activities in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

Visitors can arrange elephant rides from the Reserve Headquarters.

How to Get There

• By Bus: Daily bus services (day and night) operate from Kathmandu to Kakarbhitta and Biratnagar. Disembark at Jamuha, 4 km from Laukhi, and walk 2.5 km to the Reserve Headquarters.
• By Air: Daily flights to Biratnagar are available. From Biratnagar, visitors need to take a bus and stop at Jamuha.

The Reserve Headquarters is located at Kusaha in Sunsari District. A few lodges and teashops are available near the Headquarters. Visitors are advised to carry a first-aid kit, including medicines for intestinal issues. A telephone is available at the Headquarters.