Bardia National Park: Nepal’s Untouched Wilderness
Bardia National Park, located in the western Terai region of Nepal, is the country’s largest and most undisturbed national park. Covering an area of 968 square kilometers, Bardia is a hidden gem for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari experience. With lush sal forests, grasslands, and riverine ecosystems, it’s a haven for endangered wildlife and a model of community-led conservation.
Quick Facts
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Location: Bardiya District, Lumbini Province, Nepal
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Established: 1988 (as a national park; originally Royal Karnali Wildlife Reserve in 1976)
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Area: 968 km²
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Best Time to Visit: October to March
Why Visit Bardia National Park?
1. Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger
Bardia is considered one of the best places in Asia to spot a wild tiger. Unlike the busier Chitwan National Park, Bardia’s remote terrain offers quieter, more intimate wildlife encounters.
2. Diverse Wildlife Encounters
Bardia boasts a variety of rare and endangered species, including:
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Royal Bengal tiger
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One-horned rhinoceros
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Asiatic elephants
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Leopards, sloth bears, and gharial crocodiles
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Gangetic dolphins in the Karnali River
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Over 400 species of birds, such as the sarus crane and great hornbill
3. Authentic Jungle Safaris
Visitors can enjoy:
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Jeep safaris
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Guided jungle treks
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Elephant tracking
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River rafting and dolphin spotting
4. Tharu Cultural Experience
The Tharu people have lived in harmony with this land for generations. Activities include:
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Cultural performances
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Traditional cuisine
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Village tours
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Homestays and handicraft workshops
Conservation and Eco-Tourism
Bardia is part of the Terai Arc Landscape and plays a critical role in:
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Tiger and rhino conservation
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Habitat restoration
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Anti-poaching operations
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Community-based tourism, empowering locals and reducing human-wildlife conflict
The park is managed by Nepal’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) with strong community involvement.
Getting There
By Road
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Around 15 hours from Kathmandu by bus or private jeep
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Closer access from Nepalgunj, a major town in western Nepal
By Air
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Daily flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj Airport
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Followed by a 2-hour drive to Bardia
Where to Stay
Lodging options in Thakurdwara, near the park entrance, include:
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Eco-lodges
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Safari resorts
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Budget-friendly guesthouses
Many are community-run, enhancing both sustainability and local benefits.
Best Time to Visit
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October to March: Cool and dry, ideal for safaris
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April to June: Hot but great for tiger tracking
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July to September: Monsoon season—park access may be restricted
Trivia and Interesting Facts
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Bardia is roughly twice the size of Chitwan, but far less visited.
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The Karnali River, Nepal’s longest, flows through the park’s western edge.
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It’s one of the few places in the world where you can see tigers and dolphins in the same region.
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The park was a former hunting reserve before it became protected land.
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Bardia has been featured in documentaries by BBC and National Geographic.