Bardia National Park: Explore Nepal’s Premier Wildlife Destination

Overview And Highlights

Bardia National Park: A Wilderness Paradise in Nepal

Nestled in the remote Terai region of western Nepal, Bardia National Park is the largest and least disturbed national park in the country, covering an impressive area of 968 sq. km. Renowned for its dense forests, savannah grasslands, and winding rivers, the park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers. It offers an authentic jungle experience, far from the crowds of more popular parks, making it an ideal destination for those who seek solitude in the lap of nature.

Key Features of Bardia National Park

Bengal Tigers and One-Horned Rhinos

Bardia is one of the best places in Asia to spot the elusive Bengal tiger. The park also hosts a thriving population of the rare one-horned rhinoceros, translocated from Chitwan National Park.

Rare and Diverse Wildlife

The park is home to over 30 species of mammals, including wild elephants, leopards, swamp deer, and gharial crocodiles. The Karnali River, flowing through the park, shelters the endangered Gangetic dolphin.

Rich Birdlife

With over 400 bird species, including the endangered Bengal florican, giant hornbill, and kingfishers, Bardia is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Tharu Culture

Surrounding the park are Tharu villages, where you can experience the unique culture, traditions, and hospitality of the indigenous Tharu people.

Program Packages: Explore the Best of Bardia

1. Jungle Safari & Cultural Discovery (3 Days/2 Nights)
Activities: Jeep safari, birdwatching, Tharu cultural program, and nature walk.
Ideal For: Those with limited time who want to explore the highlights of the park.

2. Ultimate Wildlife Adventure (4 Days/3 Nights)
Activities: Full-day jeep safari, river safari, birdwatching, and tiger tracking.
Ideal For: Nature lovers and families seeking a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

3. Tiger Tracking Expedition (5 Days/4 Nights)
Activities: Guided tiger tracking, overnight jungle stay in watchtowers, and exploration of remote park areas.
Ideal For: Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers keen to spot big cats and other rare species.

Best Time to Visit Bardia National Park

October to April is the best time to visit

October–November: Post-monsoon season with lush vegetation and active wildlife.
December–February: Cooler weather, perfect for extended jungle excursions.
March–April: Dry season, making animal sightings more frequent near water sources.
Monsoon Season (June–September): Heavy rains make jungle safaris difficult, and the park remains closed during peak monsoon months.

How to Reach Bardia National Park

By Air

Take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (1 hour). From Nepalgunj, drive 2-3 hours to the park.

By Road

A road journey from Kathmandu takes about 12-13 hours. This option is suitable for those who enjoy scenic drives and want to explore the Terai region.

Combination of Air and Road

For a comfortable and faster journey, fly to Nepalgunj and then drive to Bardia.

Accommodation Options

Bardia offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from basic lodges to eco-friendly jungle resorts. Popular options include:

Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge: A luxury eco-resort with guided wildlife experiences.
Rhino Lodge Bardia: Mid-range accommodations with comfortable amenities.
Tharu Homestays: For an authentic cultural experience with the local community.

Tips for Visitors

Guides & Permits: Always hire a professional guide for safaris and ensure you have the necessary park permits.
What to Pack: Comfortable clothes, hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera.
Respect Nature: Follow park rules and avoid littering to preserve the pristine environment.

Why Visit Bardia National Park?

Bardia National Park offers an unparalleled blend of wilderness and tranquility, providing visitors with a chance to reconnect with nature. Whether it’s tracking tigers, observing exotic birds, or immersing yourself in Tharu culture, Bardia promises an unforgettable adventure for all.

Day to Day Itinerary

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Day 1 : Program Packages: Explore the Best of Bardia

1. Jungle Safari & Cultural Discovery (3 Days/2 Nights)

Day 1: Arrival at Bardia National Park

Arrive at your lodge near Bardia National Park.
Welcome drinks and orientation about the park and activities.
Evening: Tharu cultural dance program and village tour to learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Tharu community.
Overnight at the lodge.

Day 2: Full-Day Jungle Safari

Early morning breakfast.
Full-day jeep safari in the park with an expert naturalist.
Explore grasslands, riverbanks, and forests to spot wildlife, including tigers, rhinos, and elephants.
Visit the Crocodile Breeding Center and the Tharu Museum.
Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Birdwatching and Departure

Early morning birdwatching walk along the riverbanks and wetlands to spot exotic bird species.
Breakfast at the lodge.
Check-out and depart for your next destination.

2. Ultimate Wildlife Adventure (4 Days/3 Nights)

Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Exploration

Arrive at Bardia National Park and check-in at your lodge.
Relax with refreshments and an orientation about the park.
Evening: Visit a local Tharu village and enjoy a traditional dance performance.
Overnight stay at the lodge.

Day 2: Full-Day Jeep Safari

Early morning breakfast.
Embark on a full-day jeep safari to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Spot wildlife such as tigers, rhinos, wild elephants, and deer in their natural habitats.
Lunch will be packed and served in the jungle during the safari.
Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and rest.

Day 3: River Safari and Nature Walk

Breakfast at the lodge.
Enjoy a river safari on the Karnali River to spot aquatic wildlife, including the Gangetic dolphin and crocodiles.
Afternoon: Guided nature walk through the jungle for birdwatching and exploring smaller wildlife.
Evening: Free time to relax or explore the area around the lodge.
Overnight at the lodge.

Day 4: Morning Birdwatching and Departure

Early morning birdwatching session near the park.
Breakfast at the lodge.
Check-out and depart for your onward journey.

3. Tiger Tracking Expedition (5 Days/4 Nights)

Day 1: Arrival and Preparation

Arrive at Bardia National Park and check in at your lodge.
Welcome drinks and briefing on the tiger tracking program.
Evening: Short walk along the park’s periphery to familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
Overnight stay at the lodge.

Day 2: Tiger Tracking and Jungle Safari

Early morning breakfast.
Spend the day tracking the Bengal tiger with an experienced guide and naturalist.
Walk through tiger habitats to look for footprints, scratch marks, and other signs.
Packed lunch will be served during the activity.
Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Overnight Stay in Jungle Tower

Breakfast at the lodge.
Continue tiger tracking activities, combining on-foot exploration and jeep safari.
In the evening, stay overnight at a jungle watchtower for a chance to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
Packed dinner and basic sleeping arrangements will be provided at the tower.

Day 4: River Safari and Exploration of Karnali Floodplains

Early morning exploration of the jungle before returning to the lodge for breakfast.
Enjoy a river safari on the Karnali River to spot dolphins, crocodiles, and water birds.
Afternoon: Explore the Karnali floodplains, an area rich in biodiversity.
Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5: Morning Nature Walk and Departure

Early morning nature walk for birdwatching and a chance to spot smaller mammals.
Breakfast at the lodge.
Check-out and depart for your next destination.

Custom Add-Ons for All Packages

Camping Option: Add an overnight camping experience for a more immersive jungle adventure.
Photography Tours: Extended programs tailored for wildlife photographers.
Extended Jeep Safaris: Explore deeper, less-visited areas of the park.

These programs ensure a comprehensive and memorable experience, catering to different interests and timeframes for visitors to Bardia National Park.

Additional Information

CHOOSE A PRIVATE DATE

If you’d prefer to share this Peace Nepal holiday trip with your own group of friends, we’ve got good news, it’s also available as a Private Adventure!, Our Private Adventure specialists are on hand to give you a quote or talk through some different options.

Feel free to give them a call at 977-1-4266467 or Email us at info@peacenepaltreks.com

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