Bardia National Park Safari
Experience the wilderness of Bardia National Park, Nepal's largest undisturbed area, home to Royal Bengal tigers, rhinos, elephants, and diverse birdlife. Enjoy guided jungle activities, cultural programs, and explore its rich Sal forests and grasslands.
Bardia National Park (968 sq. km) is the largest and most undisturbed wilderness area in western Nepal. Located about 531 km from Kathmandu, it is accessible by a 45-minute flight or a drive to Nepalgunj, followed by a four-hour journey to the park headquarters in Thakurdwara. The park is covered with dense Sal forests, open grasslands, and savannahs, creating a rich habitat for wildlife.
Bardia is home to Nepal’s second-largest population of Royal Bengal tigers, after Chitwan National Park. Other notable animals include the greater one-horned rhinoceros, wild elephant, swamp deer, blackbuck, goral, and the endangered Gangetic dolphin. The park also shelters rare birds such as the Bengal Florian, lesser Florian, and Sarus crane. In total, more than 30 mammals, 230 bird species, and various reptiles and fish are recorded in the area.
About 70% of the forest consists of Sal trees, and locals use their leaves to make traditional plates for
Trip Facts
Fact
Bardia National Park (968 sq. km) is the largest and most undisturbed wilderness area in western Nepal.
Location
Far Western Nepal, about 531 km from Kathmandu. Accessible via Nepalgunj.
Best Season
October – March: Pleasant weather, best for wildlife sightings. April – May: Hot but good for tiger sightings near waterholes. Monsoon (June – September): Lush vegetation, fewer visitors, but limited visibility and some activity restrictions due to rain.
Accommodation
Wide range: Budget lodges, eco-resorts, mid-range hotels, and luxury jungle retreats. Popular areas: Sauraha (Chitwan) and Thakurdwara (Bardia). Homestays also available for cultural immersion.
Transportation
Kathmandu to Nepalganj by flight and 4 hours drive or Diret bus to the Park 15-16 hours.
Second-largest population of Royal Bengal tigers in Nepal
Home to greater one-horned rhinoceros, wild elephants, swamp deer, blackbuck, and goral
Endangered Gangetic dolphin found in Park Rivers
Reptiles: Gharial and marsh mugger crocodiles
Over 230 bird species, including Bengal florican, lesser florican, and Sarus crane
70% Sal forest, plus riverine forest and grasslands
Traditional use of Sal leaves for religious and cultural purposes
Activities: Jeep safari, jungle walk, birdwatching, rafting, and cultural tours
Cultural experience with local Tharu community
Royal visit: Prince Harry visited in 2016, highlighting its global appeal
Organized trips by Asian Hiking Team, tailored to your time and interest
- Tourist Bus from Kathmandu to Nepalganj to Bardia park and Kathmandu (both way transport). OR flight to Nepalgunj and drive to Park 4 hours.
- Accommodation on Twin/Double bedded rooms.
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the stay in Bardia.
- All Jungle Activities as per Itinerary.
- Jungle Tour Guide.
- National park/Elephant Breeding Center/museum entrance.
- Government taxes.
- Accommodation on Twin/Double bedded rooms.
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the stay in Bardia.
- All Jungle Activities as per Itinerary.
- Jungle tour Guide.
- Bardia National park
- Elephant Breeding Center.
- Museum entrance.
- Jeep Driving/ Elephant riding etc.
- Domestic Airfare from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu (on request).
- Video camera fee (USD100, per camera).
- Donation or Tips.
- Bar bills.
- Anything not mentioned in the itinerary, etc.
| Date | Duration | Status | Booked | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Oct 8, 2025 Oct 11, 2025 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Nov 19, 2025 Nov 22, 2025 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Nov 14, 2025 Nov 17, 2025 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Dec 2, 2025 Dec 5, 2025 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Jan 2, 2026 Jan 5, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Feb 25, 2026 Feb 28, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Mar 26, 2026 Mar 29, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Apr 25, 2026 Apr 28, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
May 12, 2026 May 15, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Jun 25, 2026 Jun 28, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Jul 22, 2026 Jul 25, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Aug 21, 2026 Aug 24, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Sep 30, 2026 Oct 3, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Oct 20, 2026 Oct 23, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Nov 26, 2026 Nov 29, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now | |
Dec 21, 2026 Dec 24, 2026 | 4 days | Open | Book Now |
- Wide range: Budget lodges, eco-resorts, mid-range hotels, and luxury jungle retreats.
- Homestays also available for cultural immersion.
- From Kathmandu or Pokhara: Tourist Bus: 18-20 hours to Bardia National park.
- Domestic Flight: 45 min to Nepaljung and 4 hours drive to National park.
- Typical safari packages: 2 nights / 3 days or 3 nights / 4 days.
- Both way flight to/from Nepalgunj is recommended, we pick up from airport to the park.
- Includes arrival, safari activities, cultural programs, and departure.
- Jeep Safari (inside core areas of the park).
- Elephant Safari (now limited; replaced mostly with jeep/foot safaris for ethical reasons).
- Canoe Ride on Rapti or Narayani rivers to view crocodiles and aquatic birds.
- Nature Walk / Birdwatching with naturalist guides.
- Tharu Village Visit – learn about the local Tharu culture and traditions.
- Cultural Dance Performances by local communities.
- Elephant Breeding Center Visit (Chitwan) or Crocodile Breeding Center (Bardia).
- October – March: Pleasant weather, best for wildlife sightings.
- April – May: Hot but good for tiger sightings near waterholes.
- Monsoon (June – September): Lush vegetation, fewer visitors, but limited visibility and some activity restrictions due to rain.
- Chitwan National Park Permit: NPR 2,000 per person/day (foreigners).
- Bardia National Park Permit: NPR 1,500 per person/day (foreigners).
- Children under 10 years often free; SAARC nationals have reduced rates.
- Permits can be arranged by tour operators or purchased at park entry gates.
- Parks are malaria-free, but mosquito protection is recommended.
- Always follow guide instructions during safaris.
- Avoid feeding or approaching wild animals.
- Travel insurance with medical and evacuation coverage is recommended.
- Respect local Tharu customs during village visits.
- Dress modestly, especially in rural areas.
- Photography is welcome but ask before taking pictures of people.
Lightweight clothing (neutral colors for safari) : Lightweight clothing (neutral colors for safari)
Warm layers (winter mornings can be chilly) : Warm layers (winter mornings can be chilly)
Insect repellent and sunscreen : Insect repellent and sunscreen
Comfortable walking shoes/sandals : Comfortable walking shoes/sandals
Binoculars and camera for wildlife viewing : Binoculars and camera for wildlife viewing
Personal medications and reusable water bottle : Personal medications and reusable water bottle
