In the western reaches of Nepal lies a sanctuary of natural beauty and biodiversity – Bardia National Park. Here, where the untouched wilderness meets the horizon, an adventure unfolds for those seeking an escape into the heart of nature. Bardia stands as a testament to the raw, untamed beauty that Nepal has to offer. This makes Bardia National Park a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and intrepid travelers alike.
While Chitwan has long been the poster child for Nepal’s wildlife adventures, Bardia remains a secret to many. Bardia beckons those who seek not just a glimpse but a personal rendezvous with the wild. In a country where the mighty Himalayas often steal the spotlight, Bardia quietly asserts itself as a sanctuary, offering a wildlife experience that rivals, if not surpasses, its more celebrated counterpart, Chitwan National Park.
In this blog, we navigate through the wilderness of Bardia National Park. While Chitwan may boast popularity, Bardia stands tall, offering a quieter, more intimate dance with nature.
Location of Bardia National Park
National Park sprawls across untamed landscapes of Nepal’s western Terai region. Bardia, with its vast expanses, stands as a testament to Nepal’s wild beauty. With a total area of 968 square kilometers, Bardia National Park is the biggest national park in the Terai lowlands. The park was created to preserve the habitat of tigers and their prey species and to save representative ecosystems.
History of Bardia National Park
When the Karnali Wildlife Reserve was first established in 1976, it was a modest area. Around 1500 Babai Valley homes were moved out of the park at that time, making room for the wildlife and flora to thrive. Bardia Wildlife Reserve was the new designation for it in 1982, and it was expanded to its present extent in 1984. 1988 saw the reserve granted National Park status. 1986, 1991, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2016 and 2017 saw the translocation of 91 Greater One-horned Rhinos from Chitwan National Park to Bardia National Park.
Biodiversity and Wildlife of Bardia National Park
Bardia National Park hosts a wildlife spectacle that rivals the best. Unlike Chitwan’s bustling scenes, Bardia offers a quieter, more profound connection with nature’s creations.
Flora
Bardia National Park’s expansive, untouched landscapes provide a range of wilderness experiences. Sal woodland (Shorea robusta) occupies around 70% of the forest, with grasslands and riverine forests occupying the remaining portions.
Fauna
Among the animals in Bardia National Park are the greater one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephants, and Bengal tigers. Bardia is home to fifty different kinds of mammals, including the grey langur monkeys, marsh mugger crocodiles, gharial crocodiles, leopards, and swamp deer. Sometimes, while rafting along the Geruwa River—the eastern channel of the Karnali River—rafters may glimpse the endangered Gangetic river dolphins.
Bird lovers will find nirvana at Bardia, since the area is home to over 400 different species of birds, including the critically endangered Bengal florican and Sarus crane. 125 documented fish species, including the golden mahseer, call the Karnali and Babai rivers home. Anglers can enjoy fishing in these waters.
Safari Experience in Bardia National Park
Bardia National Park offers a safari experience that transcends the conventional. Bardia promises a personal and authentic encounter with the untamed wilderness.
Jeep Safaris
Embark on a journey through Bardia’s diverse landscapes with Jeep safaris. Navigate through dense forests and open grasslands, increasing your chances of spotting elusive wildlife in their natural habitat. The absence of crowds enhances the intimacy of your wildlife encounters.
Elephant Safaris
For a truly unique experience, opt for an Elephant safari. Traverse the park atop these gentle giants, witnessing the forest from a different perspective. The slow and steady pace allows for a more immersive connection with the surroundings.
Walking Safaris
Feel the earth beneath your feet on a walking safari, a stark contrast to the mechanized experiences in Chitwan. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, explore the terrain, track animal prints, and absorb the sights and sounds of Bardia at a pace that lets you appreciate every moment.
Guides and Their Role
In Bardia, guides are not just navigators; they’re storytellers. Local guides share their deep knowledge of the terrain, wildlife behavior, and conservation efforts, offering a richer understanding of the park’s intricacies.
Cultural Experiences in Bardia National Park
Bardia National Park presents an opportunity to engage with the rich cultural tapestry that envelops the region. Bardia’s cultural experiences are authentic, offering a genuine connection with local communities. In Bardia, cultural experiences aren’t separate from the wilderness; they’re interwoven threads in the rich fabric of the park’s identity.
Tharu Communities
Step into the lives of the Tharu people, the indigenous community residing in the Bardia region. Tharu cultural programs provide a glimpse into their traditional dances, music, and rituals, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant heritage that coexists with the wilderness. Bardia’s cultural experiences unfold organically. Witness traditional farming practices, learn about medicinal herbs, and participate in everyday life activities that have sustained the Tharu people for generations.
Impact of Tourism on Local Culture
Bardia takes pride in fostering a symbiotic relationship between tourism and local culture. Unlike Chitwan’s more commercialized interactions, Bardia emphasizes responsible tourism practices, ensuring that cultural exchanges benefit both visitors and the communities they encounter.
Homestay Engagements
For a deeper cultural immersion, consider Tharu homestays. Live alongside local families, participating in daily activities and gaining insights into Tharu customs. These experiences go beyond scripted performances, fostering genuine connections with the community.
Conservation through Cultural Awareness
Bardia’s approach to cultural experiences isn’t just about entertainment; it’s a tool for conservation. By highlighting the interdependence of culture and nature, the park instills a sense of responsibility among visitors to preserve both the wildlife and the communities that call Bardia home.
Best Times to Visit Bardia National Park
In West Nepal, every season unveils its distinct allure and festivities. The prime windows to explore Bardia National Parksare from mid-September to mid-December and from early February to late May. During these periods, temperatures fluctuate between 25 to 37 degrees Celsius. The temperature entice animals to rivers, enhancing wildlife spotting chances. For Bengal Tigers, November, March, and April are optimal, while bird enthusiasts may find February a haven for migratory species.
From mid-December to January’s end, Bardia experiences cooler weather and occasional fog. Despite the chill, evenings offer warmth around campfires.
The monsoon season, spanning mid-June to mid-September, brings hot, humid days. Though rain showers are intermittent, they subside, leaving behind a picturesque sky. River levels rise, posing access challenges to Bardia National Park. However, it offers ideal conditions for a rafting adventure and the chance to spot the elusive Gangetic river Dolphin.
How to Get to Bardia National Park
The Badia National Park headquarters, Thakurdwara, is reachable by bus every day from Kathmandu. By bus From Kathmandu to Thakurdwara takes approximately 15–16 hours. If you would prefer not to take a lengthy travel, Nepalgunj is also served by regular flights from Kathmandu. There are buses from Nepalgunj to Thakurdwara, which takes about three to four hours. You can also schedule a private van for a speedier and more opulent ride.
