Overview
Information for Bardiya wild-life safari tour package cost, programs/activities, season, getting there by flight/overland, duration, accommodation facilities and tour plan, organiser company, national parks in west nepal
Bardia National Park safari tour package in Nepal
The Bardia National Park most unspoiled wilderness is spread over 968 sq km and located in the Western Nepal Terai 370 mks from Kathmandu. The park is reputed for its rich and diverse flora and fauna considered one of the most picturesque national parks in Asia.
The vegetation in the park ranges from early successional stages to tall floodplain grassland. Established on the alluvial floodplain of Karnali, Orai, and Babai rivers systems to the climax stage, sal forest, extended on relatively dry flat lands, and slopes of the park are revegetated and are dominated by grass species. The park provides an excellent wilderness experience for visitors. Unique flora and fauna and landscape of the park and the indigenous culture of buffer zone communities are important attractions for tourists.
The park is bound on the north by the Chure hills and is skirted on the West by the Geruwa river, a branch of the Karnali which is a major tributary of the Ganges. The southern fringes are the villages of the indigenous and unique Tharu people of western Nepal.
It is generally known as the best place where your chances of spotting a tiger in Nepal are the highest. Other animals include the rhinoceros, swamp deer, leopards, jungle cats, blue bulls (nilgai), sloth bears, barking deer, and langurs. There are a few wild elephants and one of the males is considered the largest in Asia!
The Geruwa river that rushes in through a break in the hill range, silt-laden and full of snowmelt, is home to the famous Mahseer game fish, gharial, mugger crocodile, and the freshwater Gangetic dolphin. The park also has cobras, kraits, and pythons.
The park boasts more than 250 species of birds, including the endangered Bengal florican, Sarus crane, and many species of geese, ducks, and parakeets.
Activities
1. Jungle trek: a full day walk in the jungle accompanied by an experienced naturalist and wildlife tracker, where you are sure to see many of the abundant wildlife and excellent photographic opportunities
2. Jeep safari: The comfortable four-wheeled safari makes deep forays into the jungle covering a large area of the park which ensures you types of forest and wildlife.
3. Rafting: a full day rafting with packed lunch on the Karnali river which runs across the park, you shall have an excellent opportunity to view birds and river dolphins. crocodile.
4. Bird watching: an excellent opportunity to watch many of the 350 species of birds.
5. Elephant safari: a unique and great opportunity to see wildlife from the top of Asia's Elephant.
6. Elephant breeding center visit: a visit provides seeing the small baby elephant and giving birth to the baby.
7. Crocodile breeding center and Tharu museum visit: seeing the lifestyle of local Tharu people and the breeding of crocodiles is another attraction of the trip.
8. Village tour: the tour is to a nearby Tharu village where you will learn and see the lifestyle of the community.
9. Cultural program: a dance and cultural program performed by the Tharu shall be another highlight of your visit.
Access
It is a far way from Kathmandu's expensive travel or a long way drive to reach the Bardia National Park. There are daily flights as well as public buses from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. The airport at Nepalgunj 85 kms from the park provides regular flights. The park office is situated at Thakurdwara, 20 km southwest along a dirt road from Anbassa on the Mahendra highway. The drive from Nepalgunj takes less than 2 1/2 hours, although local buses take much longer. For Thakurdwara, there are a couple of direct buses from Nepalgunj taking two-three hours
Night buses from Kathmandu to Mahendranagar can drop you at Ambassa, although they get there in the wee hours of the morning.
Season
The best time to visit the park is from October through March. The months of April-June are unbearably hot while July-September is monsoon time.
Accommodation
The accommodation facilities are more as the number of tourists is increasing every year. There are a number of lodges and hotels that have sprung up in the recent past, so there is no real problem with accommodation. However, in the season, it may be advisable to make a booking before heading out there.
Ethnic group - Tharus, Bramin, Chhetri, and Mongoloid
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, Drive to Bardia, and Walk in the Park
Your Bardia National Park adventure begins with an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a lively city located in the western region of Nepal. After a short flight of approximately 45 minutes, you’ll be greeted by our team from Holiday Mountain Treks & Expedition, and we will drive you to Bardia National Park, which takes around 2 to 3 hours. During the scenic drive, you’ll pass through local villages, farmland, and rural landscapes, giving you a first glimpse of life in this less-visited but captivating part of Nepal.
Upon arrival at your lodge in Bardia, you’ll check in, settle into your accommodation, and enjoy a welcoming drink. Afterward, you’ll set off on a relaxing walk through the park. Your expert guide will lead you on an informative walk through Bardia National Park, where you’ll explore the diverse ecosystems of this less-touristed yet equally captivating park. The walk will provide a chance to observe local wildlife and learn about the park’s rich flora and fauna. Bardia is home to a variety of species such as the endangered Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, wild elephants, and numerous birds, so keep your eyes peeled for sightings.
As evening approaches, you’ll return to your lodge to enjoy a cultural experience. The Tharu people, indigenous to the Terai region, will perform their traditional dance and music. The Tharu dance is vibrant and energetic, reflecting the cultural richness of the local community. After the dance, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at your lodge before relaxing for the night, ready for another day of adventure.
Day 2 : Full-Day Jeep Safari in the Jungle, Crocodile and Elephant Breeding Centers, and Sunset at the Karnali River
On your second day, you’ll start the morning with a hearty breakfast before heading out for an exciting full-day jeep safari through Bardia National Park. Your experienced guide will take you deep into the jungle to explore the park’s diverse wildlife habitats. The safari will take you through dense forests, grasslands, and riverbanks, offering you the chance to spot animals like the elusive Bengal tiger, rhinos, wild elephants, and a variety of bird species.
During the safari, you’ll also visit the Crocodile Breeding Center, where you’ll learn about the important conservation efforts aimed at protecting gharials and other species of crocodiles that inhabit the park. The breeding center is an excellent opportunity to see these fascinating reptiles up close and to understand the conservation measures in place to safeguard their population.
In the afternoon, after a thrilling safari, you’ll head towards the Karnali River to witness a mesmerizing sunset. The serene atmosphere and the breathtaking view of the sun setting over the river provide the perfect ending to a day of exploration. The sight of the sky changing colors and the reflection in the water creates a magical experience that will stay with you long after the day has ended.
After returning to your lodge, you’ll enjoy another delicious dinner and have the chance to relax, recounting the day’s adventures with fellow travelers.
Day 3 : Final Day of Departure
On the final day of your Bardia National Park tour, you’ll have an early breakfast at your lodge. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to relax or take a short stroll around the area before heading back to Nepalgunj for your return flight to Kathmandu. Your drive back to Nepalgunj will be a smooth journey, and once you arrive at the airport, you’ll board your flight back to the bustling capital city.
As your flight takes off, you’ll reflect on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had over the last few days, from the thrilling safaris to the serene sunsets and cultural performances. Holiday Mountain Treks & Expedition ensures that your departure is smooth and hassle-free, concluding your Bardia adventure with fond memories of Nepal’s wilderness and rich cultural heritage.