July 28, 2025

Tucked away in the mid-western lowlands of Nepal, Banke National Park is one of the newest protected areas in the country, yet one of the most ecologically vital. Established in 2010, it forms a central link in the Terai Arc Landscape, connecting Bardia National Park to the west and Chitwan-Parsa-Valmiki complex to the east. This linkage makes Banke a crucial corridor for Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Elephants, and a host of migratory species.

With its mix of open grasslands, riverine forests, and rolling Siwalik hills, Banke is an emerging haven for eco-tourists, wildlife trackers, and those seeking a quieter, more pristine alternative to Nepal’s more popular parks.

Location and Landscape

  • Districts: Banke, Dang, Salyan
  • Province: Lumbini and Karnali
  • Area: 550 square kilometers (core), with a buffer zone of 343 sq km

The park stretches across the Babai Valley, with the Babai River slicing through its heart. Dense Sal forests dominate the landscape, interspersed with Khair-Sissoo stands, riverine vegetation, and occasional savannah-style grasslands that attract large mammals.

Wildlife Highlights

Mammals

  • Royal Bengal Tiger
  • Leopard
  • Asiatic Elephant
  • Sloth Bear, Gaur (Indian Bison), Nilgai (Blue Bull)
  • Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Sambar
  • Wild Boar, Jackal, Jungle Cat

Birds (Over 300 species recorded)

  • Ruddy Shelduck, Black Stork, Crested Serpent Eagle
  • Indian Peafowl, Osprey, Lesser Adjutant Stork
  • Flycatchers, Warblers, Parakeets, Kingfishers

Reptiles and Amphibians

  • Mugger Crocodile, Gharial (in river areas)
  • Python, Monitor Lizard, King Cobra, Rat Snake
  • Toads, Frogs, Garden Lizards

What Makes Banke Special

  1. Tiger Habitat Expansion – Banke is one of the few places where tiger numbers are increasing thanks to active habitat restoration.
  2. Elephant Corridor – A vital link for trans-boundary elephant movement between India and Nepal.
  3. Low Visitor Numbers – Ideal for quiet safaris and research-focused travel.
  4. Undisturbed Habitats – Less human interference compared to other parks.
  5. Proximity to Bardia – Can be combined with Bardia National Park for an extended wildlife circuit.

Things to Do in Banke National Park

  • Jeep Safaris – Track big cats and elephants in remote forest areas.
  • Birdwatching – Particularly rich during winter migration.
  • Trekking and Nature Walks – Through riverine and hill forest zones.
  • Community Visits – Explore nearby Tharu villages and learn about their culture.
  • Research Opportunities – Ideal for field studies in wildlife movement and forest ecology.

Best Time to Visit

  • October to March: Pleasant weather and high chances of spotting large mammals
  • April to June: Hot but dry; active birdlife and predator sightings
  • July to September: Monsoon season; many tracks become inaccessible

How to Get There

  • By Road: Nepalgunj is the nearest major town; about 8–10 hours from Kathmandu
  • By Air: Fly to Nepalgunj Airport; the park is 40–50 km from there by vehicle

Where to Stay

While infrastructure is still developing, you’ll find:

  • Eco-lodges and homestays near Khairbhatti and Kohalpur
  • Access to accommodation in nearby Bardia, for combined itineraries
  • Community-based tourism options with guided walks and local meals

Banke National Park: At a Glance

CategoryHighlights
Signature SpeciesBengal Tiger, Elephant, Gaur, Nilgai, Mugger Crocodile
LandscapeSal forest, Babai River valley, riverine woodland
Wildlife ExperienceQuiet, emerging, and conservation-driven
CultureIndigenous Tharu communities nearby
Adventure TypeWildlife tracking, birding, research travel
Conservation FocusElephant and tiger corridor, habitat protection