Bardiya National Park

Bardiya National Park is a premier wildlife destination in western Nepal, covering 968 km² of sal forests, grasslands, and riverine habitat along the Karnali River. Established as a wildlife reserve in 1976 and upgraded to a national park in 1988, it protects significant populations of Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, greater one-horned rhinos, and the endangered Gangetic dolphin. Compared to Chitwan, Bardiya is less crowded and offers a more remote wilderness experience.

The climate is humid subtropical with very hot summers (April–June), a monsoon (June–September), and mild winters (October–February). The best wildlife-viewing season is October–April.

By Plane

Nepalgunj Airport (KEP) is 60 km east. A taxi from Nepalgunj to Thakurdwara (park headquarters) costs Rs 3000–4000 (1.5 hours).

By Train

The nearest Indian railway station is Rupaidiha, 80 km south-east.

By Car / Road

Bardiya is 500 km west of Kathmandu (10–12 hours by bus) on the Mahendra Highway. Tourist buses from Kathmandu and Pokhara arrive daily.

Jeep safaris are the main way to explore the park (Rs 4000–7000). Guided jungle walks and canoe trips are also available.

• Bengal Tigers – Bardiya has a high density of tigers.

• Asian Elephants – Wild elephants are frequently spotted.

• Greater One-horned Rhinos – Reintroduced population, now thriving.

• Karnali River – The largest river in Nepal, home to Gangetic dolphins and gharial crocodiles.

• Gangetic Dolphins – Rare freshwater dolphin sightings in the Karnali.

• Tharu Villages – Traditional Tharu settlements on the park boundary.

• Jeep safari – Half-day or full-day game drives.

• Jungle walk – Guided with armed naturalist.

• Canoe trip – On the Karnali River.

• Bird-watching – Over 400 species including Bengal florican.

• Tharu cultural tours.

Accommodation inside and near the park provides meals – dal bhat, curries, and basic international dishes.

Tea, beer, and bottled water.

• Budget: Thakurdwara lodges (Rs 1000–2000).
• Mid-range: Bardiya Jungle Hiking or similar (Rs 3000–6000). Comfortable cottages with attached bathrooms.
• Upscale: Bardiya National Park Resort (Rs 6000–12,000). Full-board with guided activities.

Tharu handicrafts and local souvenirs.

• Thakurdwara – Park headquarters and main tourist village.
• Nepalgunj (60 km east) – Transport hub.
• Banke National Park (80 km east) – Adjacent protected area.
• Surkhet (100 km north) – Mid-western hill headquarters.