Chitwan

Chitwan District is situated in the southwestern corner of Bagmati Province, Nepal, is a region of significant geographical and cultural importance. Covering an expansive 2,238.39 square kilometers, this triangular district boasts diverse landscapes, with the meandering Gandaki River forming its northwestern border and a modest watershed border defining its southern limit with India. The administrative heart of Chitwan is Bharatpur, Nepal's second-largest city, serving as a pivotal hub for commerce, education, healthcare, and transportation in South-Central Nepal.

Moreover, with Bharatpur Metropolitan and several municipalities, including Rapti, Ratnanagar, Kalika, Khairahani, Madi, and Ikshyakamana Gaupalika, overseeing local governance. Notably, Bharatpur stands out as a thriving economic and service center. Chitwan is celebrated for Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site beyond its urban life, attracting nature enthusiasts with its rich biodiversity, including the endangered one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tigers. However, Chitwan District combines natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and economic significance in the heart of Nepal's Terai region.

From the scenic Chitwan Valley, Chitwan District derives its name. This city is nestled within one of Nepal's Inner Terai valleys. However, this valley is situated between the Mahabharat and Siwalik ranges, both acknowledged as foothills of the majestic Himalayas. As one of the last undisturbed remnants of the Terai region, Chitwan holds a distinctive position which once stretched over the foothills of Nepal. Moreover, Chitwan was a densely wooded area teeming with wildlife, featuring the habitats of leopards and Bengal tigers in its original state. Over time, Chitwan has evolved from a pristine wilderness to a region that seamlessly blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and ecological conservation.

The residents of Chitwan District are primarily farmers, engaging in the cultivation of a variety of food and cash crops. However, the agricultural landscape includes the cultivation of staples such as rice, maize, wheat, beans, lentils, mustard, and vegetables. Particularly, boasting an extensive area under maize cultivation, Chitwan stands out as a major maize-producing area in Nepal, reaching 27,170 hectares in the year 2003–04. Maize cultivation occurs on irrigated and seasonally irrigated land during winter and spring, as well as on rain-fed land in the summer. Moreover, Chitwan is a strategic location, with good road accessibility, facilitates the efficient distribution of maize to other parts of the country.

Contributing to the local economy, poultry farming is a significant industry in Chitwan. However, the Chitwan region is renowned in Nepal for its mustard cultivation and the production of mustard oil. The fertile land in Chitwan, supplemented with clay, is conducive to the growth of various crops such as rice, wheat, and vegetables, including cabbage, cauliflower, radish, potatoes, broccoli, cucumbers, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and carrots.

Chitwan is known for Taas (Nepali: तास), a spicy fried goat meat dish served with bhuja or chiura. Momo, Bhuteko Bhat (fried rice), and sukuti are other popular dishes. Dal bhat (steamed rice and lentils), is the staple food of the area, though meat and dairy products are also consumed. Other popular cuisines include Newari and Tharu and Thakali. For centuries, traditional fermented foods and beverages have constituted about 20% of the local diet. Depending on altitudinal variation, finger millet, wheat, buckwheat, barley, vegetable, rice, potato, and soybeans etc. are grown.

Foods and taste 

Moreover, Chitwan is known for its diverse and tasty cuisine, featuring the popular spicy fried goat meat dish called Taas, often served with bhuja or chiura. Other favorites include Momo, Bhuteko Bhat (fried rice), and sukuti. However, the staple food is Dal Bhat, comprising steamed rice and lentils, supplemented by meat and dairy. However,  this region's cooking diversity extends to Newari, Tharu, and Thakali cuisines. Traditional foods form around 20% of the local diet. Similarly, Chitwan's agriculture, influenced by varying altitudes, yields crops like finger millet, wheat, buckwheat, barley, vegetables, rice, potatoes, and soybeans.

Geography

Chitwan is characterized by the flow of two significant rivers: the Rapti River to the east and the Narayani River to the north. Forming the northern boundary of the Chitwan National Park, the Rapti flows from east to southwest, while the Narayani, one of Nepal's largest rivers, runs north to south to the west of Bharatpur. Moreover, the Narayani Bridge connects Chitwan District with Nawalparasi District. The region is marked by its rich biodiversity, remarkably in Chitwan National Park and Parsa National Park, making it a haven for diverse flora and fauna. 

Additionally, rare species such as Bengal tigers, gharials, rhinos, leopards, mugger crocodiles, and Indian rock pythons thrive in these protected areas. The Nepal Army and anti-poaching units safeguard these natural treasures to preserve them. However, Bishazari Tal, located near Chitwan National Park, is a vital bird-watching  center. Additionally, Chitwan is home to Krishna Mandir, a unique Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, featuring mirrored interiors depicting historical events related to the deity. The temple also houses a statue of Lord Krishna and his wife.