Nepal is not only about treks and hiking. At times, but it can also be about sightseeing. Not an ordinary tour, but a tour full of jungle safaris and wild animals everywhere along the way.
Yes, the Bardiya National Park Tour is one such form of tour. It offers you the exhilaration that you are seeking during the tour. The Bardiya National Park Tour is one of the finest experiences available in this part of Nepal.
Bardiya National Park is the largest and one of the cleanest national parks in Nepal. The park is situated in the western part of the country. It covers an area of more than 968 square kilometers. Also home to a great variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and a host of other bird species.
The thick forests, grasslands, and riverine scenery of the park make it an ideal home for these impressive animals. One can have the privilege of watching wildlife in their natural habitat.
Watching the animals in the open wilderness is a thrill that can be remembered even after the tour.
Visitors can take guided jungle tours in jeeps or canoes, or go on walks through the forest along peaceful trails. They can even become culturally involved with the local Tharu people. These activities are holistic, offering adventure, learning, and relaxation.
Every day in the park leads to new things and amazements. Whether it is seeing wild animals through the mist in the early morning or hearing the symphony of birds and insects during the sunset.
Furthermore, this tour also offers a unique perspective on Nepal that goes beyond the typical tourist experience. It enables you to become one with nature, enjoy the country’s efforts in saving wildlife, and experience the silence of the wild.
The largest and cleanest national park in Nepal is the Bardia National Park. It was established in 1988 and is in the Terai region of Nepal. It lies in the Bardiya District of Nepal’s extreme western region, covering an area of 968 square kilometers.
The Karnali River borders the park on the west side, the Babai River on the south, and the Siwalik Hills on the north.
The park has a diverse habitat for various wildlife species, including Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, elephants, and several bird species.
The altitude of the park varies considerably, ranging from 152 meters in the lowlands of the South to 1,441 meters in the hills of the North. Such a wide range of altitudes produces a diversity of ecosystems, including tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands, and riverine habitats.
The dense forest covers about 70 percent of the park, sheltering a myriad of both flora and fauna.
The area was initially proclaimed a Royal Hunting Reserve in 1969 and subsequently designated the Royal Karnali Wildlife Reserve in 1976. It was designated as a national park in 1988, with a particular focus on the conservation and protection of its unique biodiversity.
The aims of habitat restoration, anti-poaching, and sustainable tourism have been put forward over the years.
Bardiya National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers today.
Tourists can spend time on jungle safari trips, guided nature walks, and birdwatching as they adventure to observe wild animals in their natural habitat.
Here are some fun facts about Bardiya National Park.
Apart from jungle safaris, there are lots of options for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Unlike Chitwan National Park, which is away from crowds, it offers more peaceful and raw experiences.
Here are the main activities you can enjoy during the Bardiya National Park Tour.
Walking inside the national park with an experienced guide is probably the most common and thrilling activity that you can do here. It allows you to see wildlife up close, including rhinos, elephants, and even tigers, if you are lucky.
The jeep safari is another popular adventure activity available in Bardiya. It takes visitors into the inner part of the park, where animals like tigers, elephants, and wild boars can often be spotted.
Two of the major rivers of Nepal, the Karnali and Babai Rivers, flow through Bardiya. This gives you a chance to enjoy peaceful rafting. During this trip, you can spot Gangetic dolphins, crocodiles, and water birds.
Bardiya is home to more than 500 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Annually, various bird species migrate here for nesting, feeding, mating, and seasonal refuge.
Visiting the breeding center helps you understand how elephants are raised and protected in Nepal.
This center works to conserve the endangered gharial crocodile.
The museum showcases the unique culture, history, and lifestyle of the Tharu people, the indigenous community of the region.
Bardiya National Park is inhabited by several small Tharu villages. The tour allows you to see traditional mud houses, observe farming methods, and experience daily life. Maybe, in the evening, you can enjoy the Tharu cultural dance programs.
One of the more unique and captivating activities in Bardiya is spotting the rare Gangetic dolphin. While spotting is not confirmed, it is an opportunity to spot these playful and elusive creatures in their natural habitat.
A short drive from the park area, near the district headquarters of Gulariya, lies the Blackbuck Conservation Area. This protected zone is dedicated to conserving blackbuck, a species of antelope. So, a short drive to the conservation area is a good option.
Apart from the above-mentioned adventure activities, visitors can also go for traditional fishing with locals, go camping near riversides, or simply relax in eco-resorts surrounded by nature.
Bardiya National Park is a year-round destination; however, the best time to visit, depending on your preferred experience, varies by season. Different seasons offer distinct attractions, with lush greenery during the monsoon and clear skies and good wildlife sightings in the dry months.
The dry season, from November to April, is the most recommended time to see tigers and other large mammals. During this period, plants are sparsely covered, and wild animals are concentrated around water bodies, making them easily visible when undertaking a jungle safari.
This is also a good time of year when the sun is not too hot, the mornings are cool, and therefore your safaris are even more enjoyable.
To avian fans, wintertime (December to February) is ideal, as migratory birds in droves come into the park, thus enriching the already rich birdlife of the park.
When visiting the park’s wetlands and rivers, birdwatchers could observe exotic and colorful species.
When you feel like enjoying Bardiya in all its lush green, the monsoon period (June to September) imparts a different feel. The park turns green and beautiful, but heavy rains can render safaris a little difficult. It is a season when people want to go on a serene nature trip, rather than an animal expedition.
Your Bardiya National Park Tour will be accommodated in comfortable 3-star hotels, where you get to enjoy your days in the wild, followed by a comfortable, relaxing stay after the action-packed days in the jungle.
Himalayan Masters select these hotels to ensure that they are comfortable, clean, and well-serviced.
All rooms are spacious, featuring attached bathrooms, hot showers, and modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and comfortable bedding. There are even hotels with gardens or balconies where you can sit back and connect with the serene environment.
Himalayan Masters ensure that not only is your bed comfortable, but also that you are used to the warmth of local hospitality. The employees are hospitable and eager to assist with any requirements you may have.
The hotel is customized to provide you with a blend of comfort and nature that will enable you to sleep well, while still being in the proximity of the beauty of the wilderness in Bardiya.
Food on the tour would be an ideal combination of international and local Nepali cuisines. Breakfast is typically bread, eggs, tea/coffee, and fresh fruits, which provide you with the vitality you require throughout the day.
Lunch and dinner may be taken in the hotel or at local restaurants, where you can enjoy authentic Nepalese cuisine, including dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), local vegetables, pickles, and curries.
Continental cuisines also have their choices, and, therefore, you will be able to savor both local and common dishes. On request, there are also vegetarian and vegan meals available.
Your trip to Bardiya National Park is made smooth, safe, and enjoyable when you book the tour with Himalayan Masters. Himalayan Masters will arrange all logistics, including accommodation, meals, jungle safaris, and local permits.
Bardiya tour is carefully planned to be both safe and exciting, and it suits everyone, including families, solo travelers, and nature lovers.
Himalayan Masters also provides guides who are experienced and familiar with the park. They ensure your safaris are secure, assist in spotting animals, and present fascinating facts about the park, its flora and fauna, and the local culture.
Whether it’s making a comfortable stay or how you’ll spend your day on safari, Himalayan Masters has it all covered, so you can concentrate on the adventure and create some memorable moments.
| Day | Itinerary |
| 1 | Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Drive to Bardiya and explore the community forest and sunset |
| 2 | Day-long Walking Safari in Tiger Territory |
| 3 | Full day Jeep Safari |
| 4 | Last Safari and Drive to Nepalgunj and fly to Kathmandu |
Drive: Hotel → Tribhuvan International Airport (30 min Approx.)
Flight: Kathmandu (TIA) → Nepalgunj Airport (50 min)
Drive: Nepalgunj Airport → Bardiya (Jungle Resort) (3 hrs)
Your Bardiya National Park Tour begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. It offers a fantastic aerial view of the fertile, green Terai plains. The flight duration is 50 minutes.
Upon landing, we will start our drive from Nepalgunj to Bardiya. It will take around 3 hours to reach Bardiya. Â
As you go, you will go through traditional villages, farmlands, and country roads, giving you your first peek into the beauty of Nepal’s lowland.Â
Upon arrival at your jungle resort, you will be greeted with a welcome drink and shown to your room. Then take a pause and enjoy the serene environment and prepare to experience the first taste of Bardiya’s beauty.Â
In the afternoon, we will provide you with a guided tour of the communal forest, where you will begin to see wildlife in its natural setting. Watch out for spotted deer in the field, lingering langurs among the trees, and coloured birds on the branches.
You will also be taken to a nearby Tharu village, where you will be welcomed by the local people. Learn about their unique traditions, hand-built mud houses, and vibrant lifestyle.Â
In the evening, we will take you to a sunset point on the Karnali River. In this case, you will witness an amazing spectacle of colors as the sun sets on the horizon, casting a golden light over the river and the jungle around it. Â
We will then return to the resort for a nice home-cooked dinner after this quiet experience. You will sleep with the voices of the forest and get prepared for the adventures.Â
: Lunch and Dinner
: Resort at Bardiya
: 50 min Flight and 3 hours drive
Bardiya National Park is easy and direct to visit. However, it is highly advisable to learn about the entry fees and permits before visiting.
Thakurdwara is the main entrance to the park, and here you can easily purchase your tickets at the official ticket booth.
The Tourist Service Center in Kathmandu can also be used by those planning to arrange tickets. This gives you a hassle-free start to your adventure without the last-minute rush.
If you have any special activities you’d like to do, such as jeep safaris, guided nature walks, or a canoe ride down the river, it is advisable to book these in advance.
Tour operators, such as Himalayan Masters, can assist with all bookings and obtain permits to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Bardiya National Park is a thrilling place to visit, particularly when you are fortunate enough to see the big three in the park: tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, and elephants.
Such unbelievable views are what make the visit memorable, leaving lasting lifetime memories. But living in a place with wildlife also implies that safety is always a priority.
Always follow the advice of trained park guides and maintain a safe distance from animals. Follow specific routes when on safari in the jungle and avoid going alone.
Bear in mind that the park is their home, and the behavior of wildlife should be respected, as it guarantees your safety and the protection of these amazing creatures.
Neutral colored clothing, low noise, and the use of a pair of binoculars would increase your likelihood of spotting wildlife without endangering your own safety.
Your Bardiya adventure will be exciting, memorable, and safe with proper planning and guidance.
The Bardiya National Park Tour is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in Nepal. It is known for its dense sal forests, where you can spot some rare animals, including the Bengal tiger itself.
Things could happen in this remote wilderness. Therefore, having travel insurance for the Bardiya National Park tour is essential. Having proper insurance ensures your safety, peace of mind, and financial protection.
Ensure your travel insurance policy covers medical emergencies (with a minimum of $10,000) and medical evacuation expenses. Likewise, it should cover wildlife risks and adventure activities such as jungle walks, jeep safaris, rafting in the Karnali River, or cycling.
Additionally, check if your insurance covers trip cancellation or delay, as well as loss or theft of belongings. Your insurance company should provide 24/7 assistance services.
The weather in Bardiya National Park is typically hot and humid during the summer and mild in the winter.
Since the park is situated in the Terai region of Nepal, the temperature in May and June can reach above 37°C. During winter nights, it can drop to around 7-10°C.
Moreover, the best time to visit Bardiya National Park is from October to March. During these months, the weather is cooler and animals are more active.
Particularly during the summer, especially in May and June, visitors have a higher chance of spotting wildlife. During these months, animals come out to drink water.
On the other hand, the monsoon season (July-September) brings heavy rain and muddy trails. So, safaris may be limited during this time.
Visiting Bardiya National Park means stepping into one of Nepal’s most unknown, wild adventures, where the Bengal tiger roams freely, elephants wander in herds, and the Karnali River flows through lush forests.
To make the most of this tour, smart packing is essential. The weather in Bardiya is characterized by hot, humid summers and cooler evenings in winter. Therefore, packing a mix of light, breathable clothing and safari gear is crucial.
Here’s a list of things you need to pack.
Here is a list of things that you can/need to bring on your Bardiya National Park Safari Day.
Getting to Bardiya National Park is an adventure. You can choose either a scenic drive or a short flight, followed by a drive to the national park entry gate.
The most popular option is to take a flight from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, departing from the domestic terminal to Nepalgunj Airport. It is about an hour’s flight, followed by 1.5-2 hours’ drive, covering about 71 km (44 miles).
You can also choose to drive from Kathmandu to the Bardiya National Park entry gate, which is about 561 km (404.5 miles). It’s a long drive, approximately 13-15 hours.
Likewise, if you are in Pokhara, you can either take a flight or a direct bus to Nepalgunj. It’s about an 11-12-hour drive, covering more than 410 km (255 miles). From Lumbini, you can reach the national park in approximately 8-9 hours by road, covering 285 km (177 miles).
Whichever option or route you choose, the journey to Bardiya National Park is filled with the views of picturesque villages, lush tropical forests, and rivers.
Bardiya National Park is located in the far-western Terai region of Nepal. It lies in a bit more remote region compared to parks like Chitwan National Park. Its remote location adds more to its wild charm.
However, it is accessible from most major cities in Nepal. You can get to Bardiya National Park via bus, car, or flight. Here is a quick review of the distance and travel options.
| City | Distance to Bardiya National Park | Travel Time (Approx.) | Transportation Option |
| Kathmandu | 561 km | 13–15 hrs drive/1 hr flight + 2 hrs drive | Bus, Car, or Flight to Nepalgunj |
| Pokhara | 453 km | 11–12 hrs drive/1 hr flight + 2 hrs drive | Bus, Car, or Flight |
| Lumbini | 285 km | 6-7 hrs drive | Bus or Private Car |
| Nepalgunj | 85 km | 2 hrs drive | Car or Jeep |
| Chitwan National Park | 438 km | 10-11 hrs drive | Car or Jeep |
| Dhangadhi | 88 km | 2 hrs drive | Bus or Private Car |
| Biratnagar | 842 km | 18-20 hrs drive | 1 hour 15 min flight to Nepalgunj + 2-3 hrs drive |
| Butwal | 296 km | 6-7 hrs drive | Bus or Private Car |
| Surkhet | 144 km | 4 hrs drive | Bus or Private Car |
| Gulariya | 36.4 km | 1 hr drive | Bus or Private Car |
While Bardiya National Park offers a wide range of adventure opportunities, there are some things to avoid in order to respect wildlife and local culture. There are certain activities that are either prohibited or discouraged.
It is essential that you follow these guidelines to protect the environment, ensure your safety, and respect local conservation efforts.
While you can observe elephants at the breeding center, elephant rides for tourists are not permitted. This is due to growing concerns about the welfare of elephants and the training method.
Unlike Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, it is strictly prohibited and illegal within Bardiya National Park and any protected area in Nepal. Any form of hunting or poaching can cause several legal penalties. Respect wildlife, observe it from a distance, and leave no trace behind.
Never feed wild animals in the park. This can alter their feeding habit and disrupt their natural foraging behaviors. Feeding them can make them dependent on humans and even lead to aggression. It can also spread disease and impact their health.
Leave no trace. Littering is strictly prohibited inside the park and buffer zone. Do not throw plastic bottles, wrappers, or any non-biodegradable waste. Carry all your trash out and dispose of it properly at the designated bins.
Loud noises, shouting, or sudden movements can scare away animals and disturb their natural behavior. In defense, they might even attack you. So, always follow your guide’s instructions and abide by rules for both your and the animal’s safety.
Avoid wearing bright colors, such as red or yellow, or loud patterns. This can make you stand out to animals, making you more prone to animal attacks or scaring them away. So, try wearing earthy-toned colors.
Venturing off the designated safari tracks, or without an experienced, licensed, and armed guide, is extremely dangerous and strictly forbidden. The park is home to dangerous animals, including tigers, rhinos, and other wild creatures, as well as poisonous snakes. Therefore, hiring a wildlife guide is highly recommended.
Do not take anything or remove natural items from the park, such as plants, rocks, feathers, or animal remains. Leave everything as you found it. If not, you might get in trouble if the guards find it.
Starting a fire is risky, especially during the dry season (winter), in the dry forests of Bardiya. Smoking can also cause a forest fire, which can lead to a forest fire. Therefore, carrying a lighter or any other item that could cause a fire is strictly prohibited in the national park.
