July 28, 2025

Located in the remote western Terai, Bardia National Park is one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets. Sprawling across 968 square kilometers, this protected area is the largest national park in the Terai and home to pristine sal forests, riverine grasslands, and a thriving population of wild tigers and elephants.

Unlike Chitwan, Bardia is less commercial and more rewarding for those seeking solitude, raw nature, and thrilling wildlife encounters. The park borders the Karnali River to the west and the Babai River to the east, both of which support diverse flora and fauna.

Location and Landscape

  • District: Bardiya, Province 5
  • Accessible via Nepalgunj (80 km away)
  • Altitude: 152 to 1,449 meters

Bardia’s ecosystem is a blend of dense sal forests, open grasslands, and wetlands, making it ideal for large mammals and hundreds of bird species. To the east lies the Babai Valley, a pristine and lesser-known sector of the park, which offers an even wilder and more secluded safari experience.

Wildlife Highlights

Mammals (50+ species)

  • Royal Bengal Tiger (one of the best chances in Nepal to see one)
  • Asiatic Elephant
  • One-horned Rhinoceros
  • Sloth Bear
  • Leopard
  • Barasingha (Swamp Deer – reintroduced)
  • Gaur (Indian Bison)
  • Gangetic Dolphin (in Karnali River)
  • Otters, Jackals, Jungle Cats

Birds (400+ species)

  • Bengal Florican (critically endangered)
  • Great Hornbill, White-rumped Vulture, Black Stork
  • Crested Serpent Eagle, Peafowl, Indian Courser
  • Migratory birds like Ruddy Shelducks, Sarus Cranes, Harriers

Reptiles and Amphibians

  • Mugger Crocodile, Gharial (in riverine areas)
  • King Cobra, Pythons, Water Monitors
  • Toads, Frogs, and Geckos

Babai Valley: Bardia’s Wild Heart

Babai Valley lies in the eastern core zone of Bardia and is a deeply forested, rugged wilderness that’s ideal for:

  • Multi-day treks inside the buffer zones
  • Remote camping safaris
  • Birding near Babai River floodplains
  • Less disturbed tiger and rhino tracking zones

It offers dramatic ridgelines, hidden waterholes, and is a conservation success story due to reforestation and anti-poaching efforts.

Access is limited and guided visits are highly recommended.

Things to Do in Bardia

  1. Walking Safari – Bardia is among the rare places in Asia where you can walk safely through tiger territory with trained guides
  2. Jeep Safari – Full-day or half-day expeditions through grasslands and river corridors
  3. Birdwatching – Excellent during winter migrations (Nov–Feb)
  4. Cultural Experience – Visit Tharu villages for insight into local traditions, stilt dances, and community-led conservation
  5. Rafting or Boating – Seasonal rides on Karnali River for dolphin sightings and aquatic birds
  6. Camping or Eco-lodges – Many lodges offer rustic but comfortable stays with solar power, organic food, and expert trackers

Best Time to Visit

  • October to March: Cool and dry, best for wildlife
  • April to June: Hotter, but higher chance of tiger sightings
  • July to September: Monsoon season, park mostly closed

How to Get There

  • By Air: Flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu (~1 hour), then 2–3 hours by road
  • By Road: 12–14 hours from Kathmandu via Mahendra Highway
  • By Tourist Bus: Direct buses from Pokhara and Kathmandu to Ambassa or Thakurdwara

Where to Stay

Most eco-lodges are located around Thakurdwara, the gateway to Bardia, offering:

  • Thatched cottages
  • Locally sourced meals
  • Guided wildlife activities

For those seeking seclusion, Babai Valley camping treks or wilderness homestays near Chepang or Manau are gaining popularity.

Bardia National Park: At a Glance

CategoryHighlights
Signature SpeciesTiger, Elephant, Rhino, Gaur, Dolphin
Birding HotspotsKarnali floodplain, oxbow lakes, grasslands
Adventure TypeWalking safaris, camping, river wildlife tours
Hidden GemBabai Valley (rugged trekking and isolated sightings)
Culture & PeopleIndigenous Tharu community
Conservation FocusTiger corridor protection, rhino habitat restoration