Bardia Jungle Safari Tour
Bardia National Park, located in the remote western Terai of Nepal, is a true wilderness gem for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path jungle safari experience. As the largest and least disturbed protected area in the Terai, Bardia offers incredible opportunities to observe some of the rarest and most endangered wildlife species in their natural habitat. If you're dreaming of a place where nature thrives undisturbed and tigers still roam freely, a Bardia jungle safari is the perfect adventure.
A Hidden Safari Paradise in Western Nepal
Unlike the more visited Chitwan National Park, Bardia sees far fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive wildlife experience. The park covers over 968 square kilometers of dense sal forest, open grasslands, and riverine ecosystems, all nourished by the mighty Karnali River. This vibrant landscape is home to over 400 species of birds, 30+ mammal species, and countless reptiles and aquatic life.
For wildlife lovers and photographers, Bardia is the best place in Nepal to track Royal Bengal tigers in the wild. This is the only park in Nepal where visitors have the opportunity to go on a tiger-tracking safari. While sightings are never guaranteed in nature, Bardia offers one of the highest chances to observe these majestic cats up close. Alongside tigers, the park is also inhabited by one-horned rhinoceroses, Asian elephants, blackbucks, swamp deer, sloth bears, and endangered species like the Gharial crocodile, marsh mugger, and the Gangetic dolphin—Nepal’s rare freshwater dolphin.
Wildlife Adventures in Bardia National Park
Days in Bardia begin early, with bird-watching walks at dawn, when the forest comes alive with vibrant calls and colors. As the sun rises, you may head out on an elephant ride or jeep safari, offering deeper access to the park’s thick vegetation. A visit to the Crocodile Breeding Center and an afternoon exploring more of the park’s flora and fauna give you a well-rounded experience of Bardia’s ecosystem.
Evenings in Bardia are peaceful and culturally rich. After a full day in the jungle, relax with a traditional Tharu cultural performance, a chance to connect with the indigenous community that has coexisted with the jungle for centuries. The Tharu people are known for their vibrant dances, distinctive houses, and deep knowledge of the forest.
Getting to Bardia from Kathmandu or Pokhara
Traveling to Bardia National Park from Kathmandu or Pokhara is easy and scenic. Most travelers fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a 2-3 hour drive to the park. Alternatively, overland travel by private vehicle or tourist bus is also possible, although it takes longer. If you're looking to combine your jungle adventure with treks in western Nepal, Bardia is well-connected to Rara Lake, Khaptad National Park, and Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha.
We recommend pairing this trip with other nature-focused experiences like the Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour or tranquil stays in Tharu villages near the national park.
Best Time to Visit Bardia
The ideal season for a Bardia jungle safari is between October and April, when temperatures are moderate, skies are clear, and the animals are more active around water sources. The months of March and April, in particular, are perfect for tiger sightings, as vegetation is dry and visibility improves. During the monsoon season (June to September), access may be limited due to rain and flooding, though the forest becomes lush and vibrant.
Safari Experience and Accommodation
A typical Bardia Jungle Safari Tour spans 2 to 3 days, including all jungle activities, full board meals, and accommodation at eco-lodges or forest resorts. From bird-watching and jungle walks to elephant-back safaris and crocodile-watching by the riverside, the experience is carefully curated for nature lovers. Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to comfortable mid-range resorts, all managed by locals who are deeply passionate about conservation and hospitality.
If you’re lucky, you may spot a Royal Bengal tiger crossing a grassland or bathing near the riverbanks—an unforgettable moment that defines the Bardia safari experience.
