Royal Bardia National Park covers approximately 1000 sq km of untouched wilderness in the far western Terai region of Nepal. Because of its isolation, it remains a tranquil and relaxing place, with far fewer visitors than Chitwan. It is also the best place in Nepal to spot an elusive tiger. .
From Kathmandu, it is a 16 hour journey by road to Nepalgunj, and then a further 1-2 hours to Bardia, while from Pokhara, it takes approximately 10 hours.
Alternatively, there are regular flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, where you can pick up transport to the Park.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, you have to reach the pickup point and from there you will be picked up by a car and a naturalist to the camp.
This park is the largest and most undisturbed wilderness area in the Terai. About 70% of the park is covered with open sal forest, and the remaining area is a mixture of grasslands, savannah and riverine forests. It provides an excellent habitat for endangered animals like the one-horned rhinoceros and Royal Bengal tiger, and endangered birds such as the Bengal florican and sarus crane. In fact, more than 30 different mammals and over 250 species of birds have been recorded in the park, and other inhabitants include wild elephants, leopards, sloth bears, monkeys, gharial and marsh mugger crocodiles and the freshwater Gangetic dolphin.
Activities at Bardia centre around the elephants, with jungle walks and boating on the Geruwa River also included.
ITINERARIES
The itineraries and activities of the Chitwan and the Bardia national parks are almost similar in character, but activities may vary between seasons. The number and course of your safari activities are determined by the number of nights you book for. Two nights - three days programs could include activities like Elephant back safari, jungle walk, bird watching, dugout canoe rides on the river and a visit to the elephant briefing. In the evening a cultural show of the traditional Terai dances are a must. By booking three nights – four days program you could add up a few more specialized excursions like a jungle jeep drive and a visit to the elephant breeding centre. To further enhance your jungle experience and add to the trill and excitement, a stay in one of the lodges inside the parks will give you a memorable holiday of a lifetime.
