Bardia National Park Travel Guide

Bardia National Park is Nepal’s largest and most pristine national park, covering 968 sq km in the Terai region. It is a hidden paradise for wildlife lovers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers, offering an authentic jungle experience with fewer tourists compared to Chitwan National Park.

This untouched wilderness is home to Royal Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, wild elephants, and freshwater dolphins, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore Nepal’s rich biodiversity.

Essential Information About Bardia National Park

  • Location: Bardiya District, Western Nepal.
  • Established: 1988.
  • Size: 968 sq km (374 sq mi).
  • Elevation: 152m to 1,444m above sea level.
  • Best Time to Visit:
    • Winter (November-February) – Best for spotting tigers and rhinos.
    • Spring (March-May) – Pleasant weather and active wildlife.
    • Monsoon (June-September) – Lush greenery but harder to spot wildlife.
    • Autumn (October-November) – Great for jungle safaris and birdwatching.
  • Entry Fees:
    • Foreigners: NPR 1,500 (~$11 USD).
    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 750 (~$6 USD).
    • Nepali Citizens: NPR 100.
  • Permits Required:
    • Bardia National Park Entry Permit.
  • Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR).
  • Language: Nepali and Tharu; English in tourist areas.
  • Time Zone: Nepal Standard Time (NST) UTC+5:45.

Interesting Facts About Bardia National Park

  1. Bardia has the highest density of Royal Bengal tigers in Nepal.
  2. It was originally a hunting reserve before being declared a national park.
  3. The Karnali River is home to rare freshwater dolphins and gharials.
  4. One of the last habitats for wild elephants in Nepal.
  5. Over 400 bird species, including the endangered Bengal florican.
  6. Fewer tourists than Chitwan, making it a more exclusive experience.
  7. Managed with the help of local Tharu communities.

How to Get to Bardia National Park

By Air (Fastest Route)

  • Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (50 minutes).
  • Drive from Nepalgunj to Bardia (~2.5 hours, 85 km).
  • Flights available daily via Nepal Airlines, Buddha Air, and Yeti Airlines.

By Road (Budget-Friendly)

  • Bus from Kathmandu to Ambassa (~12-15 hours, 580 km).
  • Take a jeep or local transport (30 min) to reach Thakurdwara (park entrance).
  • Night buses available for a more time-efficient journey.

Best Things to Do in Bardia National Park

1. Jungle Safari (Best for Wildlife Spotting)

  • Jeep safari for a higher chance of spotting tigers and rhinos.
  • Walking safari for an immersive experience.
  • Elephant-back safaris are no longer offered to support ethical tourism.

2. Tiger Tracking

  • Bardia has Nepal’s highest density of Bengal tigers.
  • Best chances: Early morning or late afternoon near waterholes.

3. Rafting on the Karnali River

  • Spot crocodiles, gharials, and river dolphins.
  • Best time: October to April for calm waters.

4. Birdwatching

  • Over 400 species of birds, including the Bengal florican, lesser adjutant, and hornbills.
  • Best time: Winter months (November-February).

5. Visit the Tharu Cultural Museum

  • Learn about the indigenous Tharu community, their traditions, and history.

6. Explore the Babai Valley

  • A remote and scenic area for spotting wild elephants, blackbucks, and leopards.

7. Fishing in the Karnali River

  • Home to golden mahseer, catfish, and other exotic species.
  • Catch-and-release practice is encouraged.

Best Accommodation Options in Bardia National Park

Luxury Lodges (Comfort & Wildlife Experience)

  • Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge – Eco-friendly luxury with excellent wildlife experiences.
  • Bardia Jungle Resort – High-end jungle lodge with great service.

Mid-Range Resorts (Best for Adventure Travelers)

  • Racy Shade Resort – Comfortable rooms with great jungle views.
  • Bardia Eco Lodge – Affordable stay with good food and wildlife tours.

Budget Guesthouses (For Backpackers & Budget Travelers)

  • Tharu Home Stay – Experience local Tharu hospitality.
  • Wild Trak Adventure Lodge – Simple yet cozy jungle accommodation.

Best Attractions in Bardia National Park

  • Karnali River – Perfect for rafting, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
  • Babai Valley – A remote wilderness area with wild elephants and leopards.
  • Thakurdwara – The main entry point with cultural attractions.
  • Blackbuck Conservation Area – Protects the rare and endangered blackbuck antelope.

Getting Around Bardia National Park

  • Jeep Safari – Best for exploring deep into the jungle.
  • Walking Safari – Guided treks for a close wildlife encounter.
  • Bicycles – Available for rent in Thakurdwara.
  • Boats/Rafts – For river tours on the Karnali River.

Best Day Trips from Bardia National Park

  1. Tharu Villages – Learn about the traditional culture and lifestyle.
  2. Ghodaghodi Lake – A stunning wetland area with diverse wildlife.
  3. Suklaphanta National Park – Another great place for wildlife safaris (~6 hours away).

Practical Tips for Visiting Bardia National Park

  1. Hire a local guide – Essential for wildlife spotting.
  2. Wear earth-toned clothes – Helps blend into the jungle.
  3. Carry insect repellent – The Terai region has mosquitoes and leeches.
  4. Pack binoculars – Best for birdwatching and spotting distant animals.
  5. Bring cash – No ATMs inside the park.
  6. Stay silent during safaris – Helps increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
  7. Respect local culture – The Tharu community has unique traditions.

Conclusion

Bardia National Park is a true hidden gem of Nepal, offering an untouched wilderness, incredible biodiversity, and authentic cultural experiences. Whether you want to track tigers, raft on the Karnali River, or immerse yourself in Tharu culture, Bardia promises an unforgettable jungle adventure.

🌿🐅 Plan your trip to Bardia and discover Nepal’s wild side! 🚶‍♂️🌏

Bardia National Park, Nepal
Bardia National Park, Nepal
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