Chitwan National Park - Tharu Dancing

Traditional Tharu dancing is a popular evening entertainment at Chitwan's resorts. The Tharu first became known for their immunity to malaria, which allowed them to settle in the malaria breeding-grounds of the Tarai. Villages where old Tharu customs still survive are found in the vicinity of the National Park. Elsewhere in the Tarai these traditions have largely disappeared, the result of mixing with migrants from the mountains. Performed by groups of young men Tharu stick dancing combines strength, rhythm, skill and grace. Members of the audience are sometimes invited to join in. The dances and traditional costumes provide an intriguing glimpse of Tharu culture.