Bardia National Park in far-western Nepal is the largest undisturbed wilderness of the Terai – 968 sq km of sal forest, grassland and the braided channels of the Karnali River. Far quieter than Chitwan, it is considered one of the best places in Asia to see the Royal Bengal tiger in the wild, and is also home to wild elephants, one-horned rhinos, swamp deer, leopards, gharial and mugger crocodiles, the rare Gangetic dolphin and more than 400 species of birds. Our 3 Days Bardia Safari (2 nights / 3 days) is the perfect introduction: starting and ending at Nepalgunj airport, it includes lodge accommodation, all meals, tea and coffee, a full-day jeep safari, a half-day jungle walk with trackers and cultural visits.
After the 2.5-hour drive from Nepalgunj to Thakurdwara, the village at the park entrance, you begin with a walk through a Tharu village, where the indigenous people of the western Terai farm rice and mustard and live in mud-plastered houses decorated with paintings. The full second day is spent in the park – by jeep in the morning, crossing grasslands and riverbanks where tigers come to drink, and on foot with trackers in the afternoon – with visits to the crocodile breeding centre and the Tharu museum, and a Tharu stick dance in the evening.
On the last morning, after birdwatching or a village walk via the Elephant Breeding Centre, you return to Nepalgunj for your flight. Transfers from Kathmandu by private car, public bus or flight can be arranged at extra cost.
Why choose this safari?
- One of the best places in Asia to see wild tigers.
- Quiet, uncrowded park with genuine wilderness.
- Full board, jeep safari, jungle walk and Nepalgunj transfers included.
Who is it for?
Wildlife lovers, photographers and adventurous families. The grade is easy. Best from October to May; February to May, when the grass is cut, gives the best chances of seeing tigers.
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