Our excellent guide, Suman, with doongas, on the Rapti River
Ordinarily, I’d like to share beautiful photos, or at least ones that convey useful information, such as a title sign. But today you’ll see some of my worst.
We were on a doonga (canoe)/walking safari in Chitwan National Park. For this trip, we floated down the Rapti River for about 2.5 miles, then walked through the jungle for another 5-6 miles.
Elephants passing by
In the beginning of the doonga portion we saw unusual birds, elephants, lush tropical vegetation, and along the banks, the occasional crocodile, namely, the marsh mugger (Crocodylus palustris), or crocodile of the marsh. They’re listed as threatened–vulnerable, so we were careful not to disturb them.
Gharials at the conservation center
We felt fortunate to see majestic creatures whose ancestors appeared 200 million years ago in the Triassic, and which can grow to 10 feet or more long. The area also provides a home for the critical-endangered gharials, or fish-eating crocodiles. We didn’t expect to see them in the wild, but did see many at the crocodile breeding center.
Mugger under water
But there was a moment when I lost all interest in the marsh mugger’s conservation status. One large one approached our doonga, possibly touching it. His shoulders and front legs were next to Susan’s seat; his impressive mouth was next to mine.
Mugger next to doonga
I knew not to trail my fingers in the water, but there would have been little defense against his attempting to overturn the canoe. As we had eight tasty people on board, and there were probably several other muggers nearby, that could have been disastrous.
Raju, with trusty stick
I tried to get a photo, but being generally inept and only now trying out a smart phone, I mostly managed to get photos of my palm and the sky. I won’t impose those on you, but I will share a couple that do show the crocodile.
On the trail
The most important photo shows the stick that our guide, Raju, used to bang on the head of the mugger to discourage it. Later, we learned that this was not a normal event, nor an exciting treat for the tourist, but a real emergency. The story went around Sapana Village, and Raju was a deserved hero.
On the trail (2)
Next to dormant termite mound
Mugger along the trail, apparently dead, but very much alive
Chip's journey 
I wonder what they imagined happening in a teen business class!
We had no waiver to sign. Anyone who goes to Chitwan or other Nepal parks should understand that there is some risk and that it ‘s a good idea to be prepared (hat, water, sunscreen, bug repellant, etc). The guides are required and they’re very good.
I think it’s just the angle on the elephants. They had full trunks, but there are many who’ve been mistreated.
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Glad you both will make it back to Wellfleet with both your arms and legs! Scary, putting it mildly. I had to sign a waiver for Sam to attend a series of 3 hour teen business classes at a local center, wondering if you had to sign a waiver to go on that trip?!!!!
Did those elephants have their trunks cut part way off, looks it from your photo, and that was
equally disturbing. I know you are safe, they are not.
What a trip! Thanks for sharing it with all of us.
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