Things to do · Chitwan
Gharial Breeding Centre at Kasara
See endangered gharial crocodiles raised for release at the Kasara conservation centre.
- Address
- Kasara, Chitwan National Park, Nepal
Overview
The gharial breeding centre at Kasara, deep inside Chitwan National Park, is a conservation success story you can visit in person. The gharial is a critically endangered crocodilian with a distinctive long, thin snout adapted for catching fish, and its numbers have crashed across South Asia. The centre hatches eggs collected from the wild, raises the young in protected pools until they are large enough to fend for themselves, and then releases them into the Rapti and Narayani rivers to rebuild the wild population.
Set at the park headquarters area, the centre gives a rare, close-up look at these gentle, fish-eating crocodiles and the work being done to save them.
What to expect
You will see breeding and rearing pools holding gharials of different sizes, from juveniles to larger sub-adults, along with interpretive signs explaining their life cycle and the threats they face. Mugger crocodiles, the bulkier, broad-snouted cousins of the gharial, are often kept nearby for comparison. Because Kasara sits in the heart of the park, the drive there is itself a mini-safari, with good chances of spotting deer, birds and even rhinos along the way.
When and how
The centre is reached on a guided jeep trip into the park, often built into a half- or full-day safari, so a park entry permit and a licensed guide are required. Go in the cooler morning or late-afternoon hours for comfortable weather and the best chance of wildlife on the drive. As with all park activities, the prime season is the dry months of October to March.
Tips
- Combine the visit with a jeep safari so you make the most of the journey into the park interior.
- Bring water, sun protection and a hat — Kasara is exposed and the Terai gets hot.
- Keep a respectful distance from the pools and follow your guide's instructions at all times.
- Read up on the wider context in our Nepal national parks and wildlife guide.
The gharial centre is one of the more meaningful top things to do in Chitwan, pairing well with Bishazari Tal and a classic jungle safari. Plan it all with the Chitwan travel guide.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a gharial crocodile?+
The gharial is a critically endangered, fish-eating crocodilian recognised by its very long, narrow snout. It lives in rivers across the Indian subcontinent, including the Rapti and Narayani rivers in and around Chitwan.
What does the gharial breeding centre do?+
The centre at Kasara hatches and raises young gharials in protected pools until they are large enough to survive, then releases them into Chitwan's rivers to boost the wild population of this endangered species.
Where is the gharial breeding centre in Chitwan?+
It is located at Kasara, the headquarters area inside Chitwan National Park, roughly south-west of Sauraha. Reaching it usually involves a jeep trip, often combined with a wider park safari.
Can you see baby gharials at the centre?+
Yes. The breeding pools hold gharials of different ages, including juveniles, alongside information on the conservation programme. Mugger crocodiles are sometimes housed nearby as well.
Do you need a park permit to visit Kasara?+
Yes. Kasara lies inside the national park, so a valid park entry permit and usually a guide are required. Most visitors arrive as part of a guided jeep safari that includes the centre on the route.
