Bardia National Park is a protected area located in the far-western region of Nepal, covering an area of 968 square kilometers. Established in 1988, it is one of the largest and least explored national parks in the country. It is situated near the Karnali River and is bordered by the Siwalik Hills in the south and the Chure Hills in the north.
The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, Asian elephants, gharials, crocodiles, and over 400 species of birds. It is also home to several indigenous communities, including the Tharu people, who have been living in the area for centuries and have their own unique culture and traditions.
The best time to visit Bardia National Park is between October and April, when the weather is dry and warm. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by jeep, and there are also opportunities for rafting and kayaking on the Karnali River. There are several lodges and campsites located within the park, providing visitors with a chance to experience the wilderness up close.
One of the main attractions of Bardia National Park is its population of Bengal tigers. The park is home to an estimated 50 to 60 tigers, making it one of the best places in Nepal to see these majestic animals in the wild. Visitors can take guided jungle walks or jeep safaris to increase their chances of spotting a tiger, but sightings are never guaranteed.
Another highlight of the park is its population of one-horned rhinoceroses. Bardia is one of the few places in Nepal where these endangered animals can be seen in the wild. Visitors can take elephant safaris or jeep tours to search for rhinos, and the best time to see them is early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
In addition to tigers and rhinos, Bardia National Park is also home to a variety of other wildlife. Visitors may see herds of Asian elephants grazing in the grasslands, or spot a rare gharial basking in the sun along the riverbanks. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 400 species of birds recorded within its borders.
Overall, Bardia National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife and nature. Its remote location and lack of tourist crowds make it a unique and authentic experience, and its diverse range of flora and fauna make it one of the most biodiverse places in Nepal.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and spend the day exploring the city. Visit popular tourist sites such as Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Boudhanath Stupa. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepalese dinner at a local restaurant.
Take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, which is the nearest airport to Bardia National Park. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, you’ll be met by a representative from your lodge or tour operator and driven to the park. After check-in and lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to relax and explore the surrounding area.
On your second day in the park, start with a jungle walk with a trained naturalist guide. The walk will take you through the forest, grasslands, and riverbanks, giving you a chance to spot various wildlife such as deer, monkeys, and birds. In the afternoon, embark on an elephant safari to explore deeper into the park. From the back of an elephant, you’ll have a unique perspective and vantage point to spot animals such as rhinoceroses, tigers, and wild elephants.
After breakfast, take a jeep safari to explore the park’s different areas and maximize your chances of spotting wildlife. The jeep will take you through different habitats, such as grasslands, forests, and riverbanks, and your guide will share their knowledge and expertise on the park’s ecology and wildlife. In the afternoon, take a visit to a nearby Tharu village to learn about their culture, customs, and way of life.
On your final day in the park, enjoy a leisurely morning before being transferred back to Nepalgunj for your return flight to Kathmandu. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you can spend the rest of the day exploring the city or doing some last-minute shopping before your departure the next day.