Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve was mainly established to protect the rare wild water buffaloes. The area of the reserve extends 175 sq. km to the north with one kilometer long barrage that spans the Koshi river. The vast expanse of water created by the barrage, marshes, lagoons, mudflats and arable land that lie around it offers an outstanding wetland which has created one of the best and finest bird watching sanctuaries in Asia. One of the most rewarding and greatest assets of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Park is that it offers ample scope for nature walks. For those with curiosity and perseverance walking on foot is the most profitable way of exploring the grassland, river lagoons and woodlands. The best time to visit this fabulous wildlife reserve is between October to March when much of the migratory and local birds can be sighted by the barrage and many of the river channels. Numerous Himalayan peaks including the Makalu I (8,463m), the fifth highest mountain in the world can be seen during these months. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is accessible by air, land and river. It is just 45 minutes flight to Biratnagar from Kathmandu and then a mere one and half hours drive to the camp. Rafting down for 8-10 days on the wild stretches of the Sun Koshi River is another exciting way to reach the destination. The third option would be the scenic drive through the meandering countryside road of about 500 km, that takes almost 10 hours from Kathmandu. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve also makes an exciting alternative destination of visitors who have already visited Royal Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park.