Bardia Wildlife Safari
Trip at a Glance
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Country: Nepal
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Trip grade: Easy
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Destination: Bardia National Park
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Activities: Wildlife Safari
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Accommodation: Jungle Resort/Hotel
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Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
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Transportation: Private vehicle/Plane
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Maximum altitude: Kathmandu (1400m)
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Trip Start / End: Kathmandu - Kathmandu
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Best Season: Mar to Nov
Located in the Bardia district of western Nepal, the Bardia National Park adjoins the eastern border of Karnali River and is demarcated by the crest of ‘Siwalik Range’ to the north. Covering a massive stretch of 968 sq kms, this park, which is an abode to some 642 faunal species, happens to be the largest protected area in the region.
Few years back, several one-horned rhinos were transferred here from Chitwan National Park. There are several good lodges and tented camps in the vicinity of the park, which provide comfortable accommodation.
Since Bardia lies in the sub-tropical lowlands of Nepal, the weather is not going to please you much; excruciating heat during the summer and awfully cold during the winters. So, if you happen to be traveling during the summer, sunscreen is going to be your lifeblood and yes, light clothes and comfortable flip-flops/shoes are necessary.
Departing from Kathmandu, we have three options to get to Bardai; via Chitwan (drive), Pokhara (flight/drive) or Nepalgunj (flight). Our itinerary below is based on the third option (via Nepalgunj). The journey begins with an hour’s flight to Nepalgunj, the western region commercial hub of Nepal, followed by a couple of hour’s drive to Bardia on the same day.
In the days ahead, we get indulged in various enticing jungle activities like- jungle safari, canoeing, bird-watching etc. Eventually, the trip winds up with a flight back to Kathmandu from Nepalgunj.
Bardia Wildlife Safari Highlights
- Explore Bardia National Park, the largest and least explored national parks in Nepal.
- Encounter a wide variety of wildlife including Royal Bengal tiger, elephants, rhinoceros, deer, & more.
- Enjoy jeep safaris, elephant safaris, & canoe ride.
- Discover Tharu culture & tradition on village tour.
- Diverse Birdlife with over 400 species of birds.
Best Time for Bardia Wildlife Safari
The best time for a Bardia safari is from October to April when the weather is clear and wildlife sightings are better. During this time visitors have a higher chance of seeing animals near rivers and grasslands.
Why Choose Bardia Wildlife Safari?
- Less crowded jungle experience
- High chance of seeing Bengal tigers
- Rich wildlife and bird species
- Beautiful forests and river landscapes
Itinerary
Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m) and drive from Nepalgunj to Bardia National Park (150m/2 hours)
Day 02: Jungle activities at the Bardia National Park
Day 03: Jungle activities continue
Day 04: Drive to Nepalgunj and fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu (1400m)
You will be driven to the domestic wing of the Tribhuwan airport. An hour's flight will bring you to Nepalgunj, the western region hub of Nepal. We drive from here towards the Bardia National Park and arrive at one of the tea-houses in the region. After welcome drinks, we check-in to our rooms and freshen up ourselves. On the latter half of the day, we explore the village inhabited by the indigenous "Tharu" community and get acquainted to their unique live patterns and culture. The Tharus speak their own local language but are also able to converse in Nepali as well. So you could actually take the help of your Nepali guide to interact with the local people.
The jungle activities ought to be commenced early morning. Considering the fact that most of us are lazy sleepers, we get a wake up call early in the morning followed by hot tea/coffee. We then gear up for our most awaited jungle activities which include the elephant ride, jungle walk, visit to the Crocodile Breeding Center and Tharu Cultural Museum. You get to witness an array of exclusive wild lives like asian elephant, one horned rhinoceros, spotted deer or chittal, hog deer, barking deer, samber, swamp One Horned Rhinoceros in Bardia National Park, Nepal.deer or barasingha, nilgai, black buck, wild boar, royal bengal tiger, leopard, wild dog, golden jackal, striped hyena etc. The activity also includes watching the wild lives from a tower called as "Machan"; an experienced naturalist and wildlife tracker will be with us, to give us a profound idea about what we witness around. On top of that, you will have ample opportunities to capture these exclusive sights in your camera. The fun is not yet over. In the evening we will be entertained with a unique "Tharu" cultural dance show.
The enticing activities in the Bardia National Park continues. Today, "bird watching" is on the cards. As our jeep gradually pierces the heart of the park, we are certain to be flabbergasted with the sight of multifarious birds; all beautiful, chirpy and elegant in their own way. Bengal florican, white-rumped vulture, peafowl, bar-headed geese, lesser florican, crane, grey-crowned prinia, jungle prinia, pale-footed bush warbler, aberrant bush warbler, striated grassbird, golden-headed cisticola and chestnut-capped babbler etc. are some of the birds that literally embellish the park.
Before we wrap up our stay at Bardia, we head towards the Karnali River to catch glimpse of the Gangetic dolphins. We get back to our lodge for lunch and then later drive to Nepalgunj airport to board a flight back to Kathmandu. Once you are in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The remaining time is on your own. In the evening Marron Treks will host a farewell dinner cum a cultural program, featuring a range of traditional Nepali cuisines. Forget who you are or where you came from. Savor the Nepali dishes, dance to the tunes of Nepali folk songs…be a Nepali at least for this evening! You will then be driven back to your hotel where you can do the packing and take a contented sleep.
What is included?
- Airport pick-up and drop services.
- Applicable domestic airfare in accordance to the itinerary.
- Meal on a full board basis in Bardia.
- Accommodation in Bardia.
- All jungle activities as per itinerary.
- Professional Nature Guide.
- All park entry permits, conservation fees, etc.
What is not included?
- Any alcoholic beverages, or soft drinks.
- Items of a personal nature.
- Tips for Nature Guide.
FAQ's
What is the Bardia Wildlife Safari?
Situated in Bardia National Park in western Nepal, the Bardia Wildlife Safari offers a wild adventure. Discover the native Tharu culture, take jeep and elephant safaris, go on canoe rides, see exotic animals including tigers, rhinos, elephants, and deer, and explore deep forests. Both families and nature enthusiasts will enjoy the excursion.
What is the duration of the safari?
The typical duration of a Bardia Wildlife Safari is four days and three nights. This provides ample time for village visits, jungle excursions, and other outdoor pursuits.
When is the ideal time to travel to Bardia?
The greatest months of the year are March through November. It is advised to wear light clothing and sunscreen during the hot summers. Warm clothing is essential because winters are chilly.
What is the trip's highest altitude?
The safari takes place in the Bardia lowlands, with a maximum elevation of 1,400 meters near Kathmandu. As a result, there are no worries about altitude sickness and the journey is comfortable.
Who can join the Bardia Wildlife Safari?
Families, couples, and first-time tourists to Nepal can all enjoy the simple safari. No prior experience is required.
What kinds of animals are there in Bardia?
Elephants, deer, wild boars, one-horned rhinoceroses, Royal Bengal tigers, and other birds may be spotted. Bardia is ideal for birdwatchers because it is home to more than 400 different species of birds.
What kinds of activities are included?
Elephant safaris and jeeps
Riding a canoe on a river
Observing birds
Forest walks with a guide
Visits to villages to interact with the Tharu people
During the safari, where do we stay?
Near the park, lodging is offered in jungle lodges, resorts, or tea houses that provide a comfortable stay with meals.
Which meals are offered?
The package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which frequently include continental, Asian, and Nepali cuisine. Special Dietary requests can usually be accommodated.
During the safari, is electricity accessible in Bardia?
Yes, you may charge your phone, camera, and other gadgets at the majority of lodges and resorts close to Bardia National Park. Having a universal travel adaptor on hand is a smart idea.
Does Bardia have access to cell networks and Wi-Fi?
Yes. Wi-Fi is available in lodges and resorts, and mobile network connection is also good.
Does Bardia have ATMs?
There are ATMs in neighboring towns like Nepalgunj, but not in the park itself. It's advisable to have adequate cash on hand for your visit.
Do I require a guide?
Yes, trained nature guides lead all activities in the jungle. They explain animal behavior and the nature of the park, guarantee your safety, and assist you in spotting animals.
Do permits need to be obtained?
The safari package includes all park admission costs and permits.
Is the safari safe?
Indeed. The safari is secure with knowledgeable guides and appropriate safety measures. A worry-free wildlife adventure is guaranteed if you follow your guide's advice.
What should I bring to Bardia?
Among the necessities are:
Walking shoes and cozy clothing
Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen
Repellent for insects
A camera and binoculars
Personal hygiene products and prescription drugs
Universal adapter
Is it possible to combine this safari with other tours of Nepal?
Of course. For a full Nepal experience, many tourists combine visits to Bardia with excursions to Kathmandu, Chitwan, or Pokhara.
