Bish Hazari Taal Travel Guide

Bish Hazari Taal, also referred to as the “20,000 Lakes,” is definitely one of the most captivating wetlands in Chitwan, Nepal. Found within the buffer zone of Chitwan National Park, this giant lake system is full of life and surrounded by thick forests, thus becoming a heaven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The still water mirrors the plants around it and gives a serene and calm environment that feels pure and soothing. 

The lake is really well known for being the most wonderful place where migratory and resident birds, including rare and endangered species, can live. There are also crocodiles, rhinos, and other animals that people can see if they go to the lake. Bish Hazari Taal is both a natural and an ecological attraction that is very supportive of the area’s conservation and ecotourism. The tour to this peaceful marshland is the only way for the visitors of Chitwan to get away from the noise and experience the calm, untouched jungle. 

Why Visit Bish Hazari Taal?

Rich Biodiversity: Bish Hazari Taal is a flourishing wetland ecosystem that provides the necessary habitat for an infinite number of plant, insect, and animal species. This is a very significant habitat recognized as part of the Chitwan National Park buffer zone, and thus it has become a major attraction for nature tourists and researchers. 

Birdwatching Paradise: The lake has been the house of bird lovers, and it is ideal for birdwatching. A varied number of species such as storks, herons, kingfishers, and migratory birds can be observed here. Being the most influential place to find endangered species like the Bengal florican and lesser adjutant stork is one of the other crucial factors it adds to. 

Wildlife Spotting: In addition to birds, Bish Hazari Taal offers sightings of sunbathing crocodiles slowly coming to the shores, rhinos feeding in the grasslands nearby, and deer along with wild boars that come for a drink. It’s a place where one can see the wildlife up close right in their natural habitat. 

Scenic Beauty: Anyone who sees the lake can first picture the towering trees painted around its stations. That's precisely how the lake and the hidden woods below begin to blend together, creating a picturesque path for travelers. The lake, in fact, offers people calm and peace of mind that is photographic and simply meditative in nature during both sunrise and sunset hours. 

Eco-Tourism Value: Bish Hazari Taal, as part of the preserved wetlands, significantly contributes to conservation efforts. Visiting this lake will support ecotourism initiatives that benefit both the environment and the local communities surrounding the wetlands.

A relaxing adventure: The lake is not as popular as the crowded safari routes of Chitwan are in comparison. It is an ideal spot for the ones who want to go at a slower pace and seek some tranquility.

Cultural Significance: The lake also has some links with the lives of the locals in that the communities around it need the resources that the wetland provides and have some ancestral connections to the wetland. Here, visitors can gain knowledge about how nature and culture are coexisting in this place in various ways.

How to Reach Bish Hazari Taal?

• By Taxi or Privately Hired Vehicle: The most convenient option is to hire a taxi or private jeep from Bharatpur or Sauraha. The drive takes around 20–30 minutes and offers flexibility to stop along the way for sightseeing.
• Local Bus: Budget-friendly travelers can take local buses or jeeps running from Bharatpur and Sauraha toward the Chitwan National Park buffer zone. From the drop-off point, it’s a short walk to the entrance of Bish Hazari Taal.
• By Motorbike or Scooter: Renting a motorbike or scooter is a popular way to reach the lake. The ride takes you through small villages, farmland, and forested areas, making the journey scenic and enjoyable.
• By Bicycle: For adventure lovers, cycling from Sauraha or Bharatpur to the lake is a great experience. The route is relatively flat and passes through rural landscapes, giving travelers a closer look at local life.
• On Foot: If you are staying nearby in Sauraha, you can also walk to Bish Hazari Taal. The paths are straightforward and let you enjoy the natural environment, but wearing comfortable shoes is recommended.

Best time to Visit Bish Hazari Taal

Spring (March–May)

Spring is often the most popular time to visit Bish Hazari Taal. The temperature during that period is just perfect. The temperature is not that hot, which makes it very comfortable for strolling and discovering the surroundings. The lake is also full of life and birds are very active. They can be seen building their nests and feeding and therefore, this time is perfect for photographers and bird lovers.

The temperature during the day is around 25°C to 35°C, warm and pleasant, sometimes hot, whereas at night it drops to 15°C to 22°C, cooler and more comfortable compared to daytime.

Summer & Monsoon (June–August)

The marshes of Bish Hazari Taal remain full of life during the summer and the monsoon season. Heavy rains fill the wetlands and thick green forests surround the lake. The Lilies are most vibrant now, but the hiking trails can be slippery and hard to access. Fewer people are inclined to visit during this time. Therefore, travelers present at the site can fully enjoy a unique experience with nature, while birding will also be maintained at its highest quality. 

The temperature at the lake ranges between 28°C and 36°C, hot and humid, often with rainfall. At night, the temperature typically ranges from 20°C to 26°C, which is still warm but slightly cooler after rain showers.

Autumn (September–November)

Fall is definitely the peak season to go to Bish Hazari Taal. The blue skies are clean, the temperature is cozy, and the landscape after heavy rains gets everywhere with fresh greenery. That's a wonderful time for watching rhinos, crocodiles, and migratory birds because the animals that live on the water come to the swamp for water. It is also tranquil and safe to perform water sports, and the beauty has never been so alluring; taking pictures with a rising and setting sun over the lake has never been so unforgettable. 

The temperature during the day is 24°C to 32°C, making it one of the best times to visit, whereas at night it is 14°C to 20°C with pleasant surroundings.

Winter (December–February)

Bish Hazari Taal is definitely a place to come to during the winter if you are looking for a tranquil and rejuvenating spot. The winter mornings are cool, and very often, the lake is covered in a fog that wraps around the water, leaving a very special and quite nice atmosphere for those who come early at dawn. Migratory birds are arriving at the wetlands, so bird watchers get a fantastic chance to see a variety of species they wouldn't be able to if they came in a different season. 

Afternoons are bright and warm, during which one can enjoy a slow walk, not to mention wildlife spotting and photography. Morning cold is inevitable, but still, winter shows off the sky in all its grandeur and casts ever so peaceful moments by the lake. The day is Cool and sunny, usually 18°C to 25°C, whereas the night Can drop to 8°C to 14°C, with colder mornings and evenings

Things to Do Around Bish Hazari Taal

• Take a peaceful boat ride across the serene lake
• Spot one-horned rhinos grazing near the wetlands
• Watch crocodiles basking along the banks
• Enjoy birdwatching with both local and migratory species
• Walk through the scenic forest trails around the lake
• Capture sunrise and sunset views with stunning reflections
• Learn about the lake’s ecological and cultural importance
• Relax and soak in the calm atmosphere of the wetlands
• Explore nearby attractions inside Chitwan National Park
• Combine your visit with a jungle safari or village tour

Accommodation and food around Bish Hazari Taal

One of the best choices for accommodation during a Chitwan tour is either Bharatpur or Sauraha, both of which are located near Bish Hazari Taal and are not only close to the lake but also offer various accommodations. There is something for every kind of traveler, from small-budget guesthouses to luxurious jungle resorts. Many hotels and resorts are built in the middle of nature, so staying there is like being almost inside the forest but still having all your needs met. Some even offer a guide to help you visit Bish Hazari Taal and the areas near Chitwan National Park. 

Moreover, the region is also luxurious in terms of food. Many of these establishments offer accommodations and serve international-standard food, including small portions of traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat, momo, and thukpa, as well as continental and Indian cuisine, all aimed at meeting the needs of foreign travelers. In Sauraha, you will also come across quaint local restaurants and riverside eateries where you can savor the taste of grilled fish and barbecues or try organic farm-to-table meals. Most of the time, dining comes with beautiful views of the Rapti River or the forest, thus adding to the overall experience. Certainly, if you want a simple home-cooked-style Nepali meal or a more exclusive dining experience in a resort, the area around Bish Hazari Taal will give you both your desire and comfort fulfilled.

Available Packages

Below are some package tours offered by Nepal Trek Adventure for those interested in visiting the beauty of Bish Hazari Taal and Chitwan. When visiting Bish Hazari Taal, selecting NTA ensures hassle-free tours around the lake and provides an opportunity to learn about its natural and cultural values, making your experience enjoyable and educational.

• Chitwan National Park Tour - 6N 7D
• Jungle Safari: 2 Nights, 3 Days
• Kathmandu Chitwan Tour—7 Days
• Nepal 8-Day Adventure Tour

Conclusion

Bish Hazari Taal is among the beautiful gems of Chitwan that is largely unknown to most visitors. It delivers visitors a calm and wonderful nature experience that is a bit far from the other attractions that are usually crowded with tourists. The lake is surrounded by green forests and wetlands and is just the perfect place to have a rest, take photos and watch the birds. The lake is populated by many species of birds, crocodiles, and other wild animals; thus, it is a heaven on earth for nature lovers and bird watchers. People can have a very relaxing boat ride, walk in the forest, and have the opportunity to see the local people living in harmony with the wetland ecosystem.