Narayangarh – Sauraha - 35km
A short ride led to Royal Chitwan National Park. Even though the
route followed the main highway, road signs were non-existent. To
such an extent, I cycled past the turnoff twice.
Sauraha, the village outside the park, had loads of accommodation.
Nearly all cottages are set in lush gardens. Due to the political unrest,
tourist numbers haven’t returned in full to this part of Nepal and one
could pick and choose from an ample variety. Substantial discounts
were offered at nearly all places and I found a convenient cottage
opposite the park entrance.
The rest of the village was rather touristy, and prices were far higher
than expected. Nepal was more expensive than India and my money
was fast running out.
Elephants were a common sight close to the park. One could see
pahits (a person who works with the same elephant throughout their
working life) walking their elephants between the park and the river
to give them their daily bath.