Nepal Sunshine
Wild Bengal tiger in Bardia National Park

Bardia National Park Safari – 4-7 Days in Nepal's Wilderness

Discover the untamed wilderness of Bardia National Park with Nepal Sunshine on our immersive safari. As Nepal's largest national park and one of its best-kept secrets, Bardia offers an authentic wildlife experience with fewer visitors than Chitwan. Home to the endangered Royal Bengal tiger, wild elephants, one-horned rhinoceros, and over 400 species of birds, Bardia represents Nepal's most pristine wildlife habitat and outstanding biodiversity.

Duration

4-7 Days

Group Size

2-12

Location

Bardia

Climate

Subtropical

Best Time

Oct-May

Food

Nepalese & Int'l

Stay

Jungle Lodge

Available

Year-round

Wildlife

Pristine

Start/End

Kathmandu

Highlights of the Bardia National Park Safari

  • Explore Nepal's largest and most pristine national park, far from the tourist crowds
  • Higher chances of spotting the elusive Royal Bengal tiger in its natural habitat
  • Expert-guided jeep safaris through diverse habitats: grasslands, sal forests and riverine landscapes
  • Thrilling jungle walks along animal trails with experienced naturalists
  • Peaceful boat rides on the magnificent Karnali River spotting crocodiles and aquatic birds
  • Observe wild elephants, one-horned rhinoceros, leopards, and numerous deer species
  • Rich birdwatching opportunities with over 400 recorded species including Bengal florican
  • Cultural experiences in traditional Tharu villages with their unique architecture and crafts
  • Night-time wildlife presentations and stargazing in one of Nepal's least light-polluted areas
  • Environmentally sustainable lodges serving organic produce and traditional cuisine

Safari Overview

Bardia National Park represents the largest and most undisturbed wilderness area in Nepal's Terai lowlands. Established in 1988 and covering 968 square kilometers, this magnificent reserve offers a genuine wildlife experience in a pristine natural setting far from the beaten tourist path. With its diverse ecosystems of sal forests, grasslands, savannas, and riverine woodlands along the Karnali River, Bardia supports extraordinary biodiversity in a relatively undisturbed environment.

The park is renowned for hosting Nepal's largest population of wild elephants and offers exceptional opportunities to spot the elusive Royal Bengal tiger. With fewer visitors than Chitwan, wildlife in Bardia behaves more naturally, making encounters particularly rewarding for dedicated nature enthusiasts. Other notable species include one-horned rhinoceros, leopards, sloth bears, and various deer species, alongside resident and migratory birds, reptiles, and aquatic life.

Our carefully designed safari immerses you in this remarkable ecosystem through multiple activities that maximize wildlife viewing opportunities. Expert naturalist guides lead jeep safaris through the park's core areas, while guided jungle walks offer intimate encounters with the forest environment. Boat trips along the majestic Karnali River provide yet another perspective on the park's rich biodiversity.

Beyond wildlife, our safari includes meaningful cultural experiences with the indigenous Tharu people, who have adapted to life in this challenging environment over centuries. You'll visit authentic Tharu villages to learn about their distinctive architecture, farming practices, and cultural traditions that remain largely unchanged by modern influences.

Throughout your adventure, you'll stay in a comfortable eco-lodge that complements the natural environment while providing necessary amenities. The longer duration of our Bardia safari allows for a more comprehensive exploration of this magnificent wilderness and increases your chances of memorable wildlife encounters. Whether you're a serious wildlife photographer, birdwatcher, or simply seeking an authentic nature experience away from crowds, Bardia National Park delivers an unparalleled safari experience.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu to Bardia National Park

Your adventure starts with a morning flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (about 45 minutes), where our team will meet you. We'll drive you to Bardia National Park (2-3 hours), giving you a glimpse of rural Nepali life along the way. At the jungle lodge, you'll get a warm welcome, enjoy some refreshments, and hear about what's in store for your trip. After settling in and having lunch, we'll take you on a short walk around the lodge area where you might spot some wildlife like deer, monkeys, and colorful birds. Your day ends with a traditional Tharu dinner and cultural show, introducing you to the local indigenous culture.

Travel
Flight to Nepalgunj (45 min) + Drive to Bardia (2-3 hours)
Activities
Orientation walk, Tharu cultural program
Accommodation
Jungle Lodge
Meals
L, D

Day 2: Full Day Jungle Safari

We'll wake you up early for a light breakfast before heading out on an exciting full-day jeep safari. This is where the real adventure begins! Our expert guides will take you deep into Bardia's wilderness, tracking animal movements and showing you the park's hidden treasures. Keep your eyes peeled for Bengal tigers, wild elephants, rhinos, and leopards as we explore different habitats from forests to grasslands. We'll stop for a packed lunch in the park, making the most of our time in the wild. In the evening, we'll head back to the lodge for a well-deserved rest and dinner, followed by a talk about the park's conservation efforts.

Activity
Full-day jeep safari (8-9 hours)
Wildlife Focus
Tigers, elephants, rhinos, deer species
Accommodation
Jungle Lodge
Meals
B, Packed L, D

Day 3: Jungle Walk and Karnali River Experience

Experience the jungle up close with an early morning guided walk through the forest. Walking quietly with our guides, you'll learn to spot animal tracks, understand territorial markings, and discover the amazing plant life. It's perfect for spotting birds and smaller wildlife you might miss from a vehicle. After a late breakfast back at the lodge, we'll take you on a relaxing boat trip down the Karnali River. Drift along peacefully while looking for crocodiles, water birds, and animals coming to drink at the riverbanks. We'll finish the day with dinner and a presentation about local wildlife and how people and animals coexist in the region.

Morning Activity
Guided jungle walk (3-4 hours)
Afternoon Activity
Karnali River boat trip (2-3 hours)
Wildlife Focus
Birds, crocodiles, small mammals
Accommodation
Jungle Lodge
Meals
B, L, D

Day 4: Bird Watching and Return to Kathmandu

On your final morning, early birds can join a special birdwatching trip around the lodge area. Bardia is home to over 400 bird species, and your guide will help you spot and identify them. After breakfast and checkout, we'll drive you back to Nepalgunj for your flight to Kathmandu. If time allows, you might get to visit the local market for souvenirs. Once you're back in Kathmandu, our team will help you get to your hotel or with your onward travel plans.

Morning Activity
Bird watching tour (optional)
Travel
Drive to Nepalgunj (2-3 hours) + Flight to Kathmandu (45 min)
Meals
B