Bardiya National Park

Bardiya National Park, established in 1988 as Royal Bardiya National Park, is a protected area in the Terai Lowlands of Nepal. Spanning over an area of 968 km², it is the largest and most undisturbed wilderness area in the Terai region and offers a unique and breathtaking wildlife experience.

Bardiya National Park is located in the western region of Nepal. Known for its rich biodiversity, this park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves wildlife and nature. With varieties of animals, birds, and vegetation, it offers a unique and thrilling experience to visitors.

Bardiya National Park Buffer Zone
Bardiya National Park Buffer Zone

In this blog post, we’ll explore the major attractions, the best time to visit, and things to do in Bardiya National Park.

Major Attractions

Bardiya National Park is home to the most exotic and endangered species of animals in the world. From Bengal tigers, elephants, and one-horned rhinos to sloth bears and leopards, the park is a haven for wildlife lovers.

Also, it is home to over 30 species of mammals, over 250 species of birds, and several species of reptiles and fish. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just a curious traveler, Bardiya National Park is the perfect place to see some of the world’s most magnificent creatures up close.

Bengal tiger in Bardiya National Park
Bengal tiger in Bardiya National Park

The major attractions in Bardiya National Park are:

Wildlife

Home to some of the world’s most exotic and endangered species, including Bengal Tigers, elephants, one-horned rhinos, sloth bears, leopards, and many more.

Bird Watching

With over 407 species of birds, Bardiya National Park is a paradise for bird lovers.

Bardia Elephant Breeding Center

This center is located within Bardia National Park and is dedicated to the breeding, research, and care of elephants. Visitors can observe the elephants and learn about their behaviors and habits from trained guides. The center also provides a unique opportunity to interact with baby elephants, as well as watch them being fed and bathed.

Bardia Crocodile Breeding Center

This center is located within Bardia National Park and is dedicated to the breeding, research, and conservation of crocodiles, especially the endangered gharials. Visitors can observe the crocodiles and learn about their ecology, biology, and importance in the local ecosystem.

Bardia Rhino Centre

This center is also located within Bardia National Park and is dedicated to the conservation and protection of the one-horned rhinoceros, an endangered species. Visitors can see the rhinos up close, and learn about their habitat, food habits, and other aspects of their life. The center also conducts research on rhino behavior and ecology, as well as organizes awareness campaigns to sensitize the local community about the importance of rhino conservation.

Tharu Cultural Museum

This museum is located in the nearby village of Thakurdwara and is dedicated to preserving and promoting the culture and traditions of the Tharu ethnic community, who are indigenous to the region.

The museum showcases various aspects of Tharu culture, including their costumes, music, dance, cuisine, rituals, and beliefs. Visitors can learn about the history and lifestyle of the Tharu people through interactive exhibits, audio-visual presentations, and guided tours. The museum also organizes cultural shows and workshops, where visitors can participate in Tharu art, craft, and music.

Scenic Views

The park is surrounded by stunning scenery and breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Best Time to Visit

Bardiya National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the animals are more visible as they come to the water sources to drink. This also makes it easier for visitors to spot the animals and take part in a wildlife safari.

Bardiya has short winters that bring cold and fog in December and January. As a result, there is little chance of seeing wildlife during this time. The monsoon, which lasts from the end of June to the end of September, brings a lot of rain, making it difficult and muddy to walk through the park.

A group of gharials and a Mugger crocodile on a sand bank of the Karnali River
A group of gharials and a Mugger crocodile on a sand bank of the Karnali River

Before the monsoon begins, right at the end of the dry season is the best time to see tigers. This would occur sometime in May or early June. Tigers are forced to seek out watering holes for themselves due to the hot weather and lack of water. Keep in mind that the hottest months of the year are April and May when temperatures can reach 40 degrees.

You can view the weather condition of Bardiya, Bheri, Nepal.

Things to Do

National Park offers a range of activities to visitors, including wildlife safaris, bird watching, and cultural tours. You are required to pay a mandatory guide and the park’s entrance fee, which is 1500 rupees per person per day to enter the National Park.

  1. Wildlife Safaris: The main attraction of Bardiya National Park is its rich and diverse wildlife. Visitors can go on a wildlife safari to see Bengal tigers, rhinos, elephants, and many other species in their natural habitat.
  2. Bird Watching: With over 407 species of birds, Bardiya National Park is a paradise for bird watchers. Visitors can take a guided bird-watching tour to see some rare and exotic bird species in the park.
  3. Elephant-Back Safaris: A unique way to explore the park, elephant-back safaris offer a comfortable and exciting way to see the wildlife of Bardia. Visitors can ride on the back of an elephant and observe the wildlife from a different perspective.
  4. Cultural Tours: Bardiya National Park is home to several ethnic communities, including the Tharu people. Visitors can take a cultural tour to learn about the local culture, traditions, and way of life.
  5. Rafting: The Karnali River runs through the park and is a great place for rafting and kayaking. Visitors can take a guided rafting tour and enjoy the scenic views of the park from the water.
  6. Jeep Safari: For a more off-road experience, visitors can go on a jeep safari. This is a great way to explore the park and see the wildlife from a different perspective.
  7. Nature Walks: For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, nature walks are a great option. Visitors can take a guided nature walk and observe the flora and fauna of the park.

Almost all National parks in Nepal offer breathtaking views of Nature.

Bardiya Jungle Safari
Bardiya Jungle Safari

How to get to the National Park?

Located in the far-western region of Nepal and is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are the ways to reach the park:

By Air

The nearest airport to Bardiya National Park is the Nepalgunj Airport, which is well-connected to Kathmandu and other major cities in Nepal. From the airport, visitors can take a private taxi or jeep to reach the park.

By Road

Bardiya National Park is well-connected to major cities in Nepal by road. Visitors can take a bus or private taxi from Kathmandu. The journey takes about 10-12 hours, depending on the mode of transportation.

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, the journey to Bardiya National Park is an adventure in itself, with stunning views of the Himalayas and the lush green forests of the park.

Accommodation and Food

The majority of hotels and eco-lodges in Bardiya National Park are located in or near Thakurdwara, the closest village to the park entrance. Because it is against the law to do so, no lodging is available within the park.

The average cost per night is between 1000 and 1200 Nepalese rupees. The majority of the food is Nepali, like dahl bath.

In conclusion, Bardiya National Park is an incredible destination for travelers who are interested in wildlife and nature. With its rich biodiversity, stunning scenery, and range of activities, it’s no wonder that Bardiya National Park is one of Nepal’s most popular tourist destinations.

So, if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, make sure to put Bardiya National Park on your travel bucket list!

Pictures © Copyright Wiki


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Sailendra Bhatta

An adventurer, writer, and Founder of Nepal Travel Vibes.

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