Bardia National Park is in western Nepal near Nepalgunj and is the biggest and least crowded wildlife park in the country. It’s one of the best spots for a Nepal wildlife safari, giving you an amazing chance to see Nepal’s cool nature. The park is about 540 km from Kathmandu, so you can get there with a short domestic flight and then a nice drive to the park.
The Bardia National Park spans around 968 square kilometers of dense forests, grasslands, and rivers, providing a rich habitat for a variety of Bardia wildlife.
On this safari tour, you can expect to encounter Bengal tigers, wild elephants, one-horned rhinoceroses, swamp deer, monkeys, gharials, river dolphins, and a wide variety of birds, including hornbills, kingfishers, vultures, and eagles. Visitors can explore the jungle on jeep safaris, elephant-back rides, or trekking trails, and also enjoy cultural experiences with the local Tharu community.
Fast, hassle-free, guided by locals- Book your Bardia Safari today!
Bardia National Park has lots of exciting safari experiences that let you explore a Nepal wildlife safari with beautiful scenery and colorful local culture. Each activity gives a special way to see the park’s different animals and enjoy its natural beauty.
Explore the jungle and grasslands on a guided jeep ride with the Bardia jeep safari.
Observe wildlife from the height of an elephant ethically with the Bardia elephant safari.
Spot rare birds like hornbills, kingfishers, and eagles during birdwatching tours.
Increase your chances of spotting the Bengal tiger on the Bardia tiger safari Nepal.
Cruise the Karnali River to see dolphins, gharials, and aquatic birds.
Walk jungle trails while spotting wildlife up close on the Bardia trekking safari.
Engage with local Tharu traditions, music, and crafts during cultural experiences.
Not sure which safari is best? Talk to our tour guides and design your own adventure.
Bardia National Park is in western Nepal, near Nepalgunj, and spreads over about 968 square kilometers of forests, grasslands, rivers, and wetlands. It’s the biggest protected area in the Terai and has rare animals like Bengal tigers, wild elephants, and one-horned rhinoceroses.
The park’s landscapes include sal forests, grasslands, riverine forests, and the Karnali River floodplains, which create a diverse ecosystem supporting both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. Bardia also plays a key role in wildlife conservation and community-based tourism, benefiting local Tharu communities while preserving natural habitats.
When you get to Nepalgunj, our team at Himalaya Trekking Nepal will meet you and make sure your ride to Bardia is easy and comfortable. The drive takes about 2-3 hours, so you can enjoy the local views. When you reach your lodge, we’ll greet you with a drink and start your adventure with a fun Tharu cultural show, where you can watch traditional dances, listen to music, and appreciate local handicrafts.
Bardia National Park covers around 968 square kilometers and is home to over 53 mammal species, including Bengal tigers, wild elephants, and one-horned rhinoceroses - your first glimpse of this wild paradise will be unforgettable.
Lodge in Bardia
Lunch and Dinner included
2–3 hours drive
300m
We’ll start the day early with a Bardia jeep safari through the park’s amazing landscapes, from thick forests to open grasslands and riverbanks. In the afternoon, you can go on a guided jungle walk, where our experienced local guides will help you see animals like swamp deer, monkeys, and lots of different birds.
Later, relax at the lodge and hear from our naturalists about the park’s amazing biodiversity - it’s home to around 400 bird species, 25 reptile species, and 121 fish species, so there’s always something exciting to learn and see.
Lodge in Bardia
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Full day
300m
Today, we take you on a morning boat ride along the Karnali River to spot river dolphins, gharials, and countless aquatic birds in their natural habitat. Afterward, we’ll visit the Tharu Cultural Museum to give you a closer look at the local community’s life and traditions.
As the day winds down, enjoy a peaceful sunset over the river followed by a traditional Tharu dinner at your lodge. The Karnali floodplains are home to many endangered species, so every moment on this excursion is both scenic and educational.
Lodge in Bardia
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Full day
300m
On your last day, you can enjoy an optional early morning birdwatching session before we drive you back to Nepalgunj for your flight to Kathmandu. We usually recommend visiting in autumn (September-November) or spring (March-May) when wildlife sightings are at their best.
And if your trip falls during local festivals like Dashain or Tihar, you’ll get a bonus peek into Nepal’s vibrant cultural celebrations alongside your safari adventure.
N/A
Breakfast
2–3 hours drive
300m
The Bardia National Park Safari package offers a complete adventure with prices based on group size: solo travelers pay $1,095, groups of 2–4 pay $895 per person, 5–10 pay $850, 11–15 pay $800, and 16–20 pay $750 per person. The package includes domestic flights, transfers, comfortable lodges, all meals, guided jungle safaris, wildlife spotting, cultural activities, and park entry fees. Excluded costs are personal expenses, gratuities, travel insurance, and optional activities. Booking early ensures the best rates and a seamless safari experience.
Food is a big part of your Bardia safari. We make sure that when it’s time to recharge, it’s just as appetizing and exciting as spotting the wildlife.
Authentic Nepali Cuisine - Enjoy freshly made dal bhat, seasonal veggies, and local treats.
Tharu Traditional Meals - Try the flavors of the local Tharu community, cooked with ingredients from nearby.
Continental Options - If you like familiar foods, many lodges also serve continental meals and simple Western dishes.
Special Dietary Needs - Vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free? Just tell us before your trip, and we’ll sort it out.
Bardia offers a range of accommodation choices to suit different budgets and preferences:
Eco-Lodges & Mid-Range Resorts - Most of our standard packages include cozy, eco-friendly lodges or boutique resorts close to the park entrance. Expect clean rooms, private bathrooms, and warm hospitality.
Luxury Safari Lodges - If you want a fancier experience, we can upgrade you to top lodges like Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge or Forest Hideaway Resort, which are known for great amenities, personal service, and an awesome wilderness feel.
Family-Friendly Stays - For families traveling with kids, we partner with resorts that provide larger rooms, safe open spaces, and tailored safari experiences suitable for all ages.
To help you visualize your adventure, here’s a quick look at the main route for your Bardia Safari. You’ll start in Kathmandu, take a flight to Nepalgunj, and then drive to the park. From there, our itinerary takes you through the park’s jungle trails, grasslands, and riverbanks, with key highlights including jeep and elephant safaris, river excursions on the Karnali, and visits to Tharu cultural villages.
The route is designed to maximize wildlife sightings and cultural experiences, giving you a mix of adventure, relaxation, and education at every stop. While most of the journey is easy to moderate in difficulty, it ensures you experience the park’s most scenic and wildlife-rich areas.
Timing your visit to Bardia National Park can make a big difference in your wildlife sightings and overall experience. Here’s a quick guide to the best and off-peak seasons for your safari adventure.
The best time to visit Bardia is in autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). The weather is nice, the skies are clear, and animals are more active, so it’s easier to see Bengal tigers, elephants, and lots of different birds.
Highlights of Peak Seasons
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures for safaris.
Higher chances of spotting Bengal tigers and other big mammals.
Excellent birdwatching conditions with migratory and resident species.
Enjoy Tharu cultural programs alongside optimal wildlife visibility.
Going in winter (December-February) or the monsoon season (June-August) can still be fun, but has some challenges. Winter has cold mornings and sometimes fog, while the monsoon brings heavy rain, muddy paths, and higher rivers. It might be harder to see animals during these times, but birdwatchers and nature lovers can still have a cool experience.
Highlights of Off-Peak Seasons
Winter offers peaceful surroundings and fewer tourists.
Monsoon showcases lush green landscapes and active rivers.
Good opportunities for birdwatching and spotting aquatic species.
Chance to experience the park’s serene and quiet atmosphere.
Plan your package for the Bardia Safari Tour as there is only limited spots available during peak season.
Get the excitement of Bardia National Park with fun wildlife adventures. From seeing sneaky tigers to spotting rare birds, a Bardia tiger safari Nepal gives an unforgettable look at Nepal’s amazing nature.
See more of the park and its different habitats on a Bardia jeep safari. It’s great for spotting Bardia wildlife like elephants, deer, and the awesome Bengal tiger, while riding comfortably with a guide.
Always listen carefully to your guide as they know the safest paths and how far to stay from animals, keeping you safe and not bothering the wildlife.
For a special adventure, the Bardia elephant safari gets you close to the jungle without scaring the animals. Riding on an elephant lets you quietly spot creatures like rhinos and tigers. It’s important to follow your guide’s instructions to stay safe and respect the wildlife.
Get a wider view with a Nepal wildlife safari to see more of the area’s amazing wildlife. From Bardia birdwatching to spotting rare animals, this safari mixes adventure with safe wildlife watching, making it one of the best Bardia tour packages for anyone wanting a real nature experience.
Note: There is always a risk of getting attacked by aggressive animals during the safari so make sure you don’t do anything that would provoke other animals.
Bardia National Park is a paradise for people who love wildlife. It has some of Nepal’s most famous and rare animals. On your Bardia safari, you’ll see lots of different animals, birds, and reptiles in the park’s forests, grasslands, and rivers. Our expert guides make sure you get the best chance to see these amazing creatures safely and respectfully.
Big Animals
Bengal tiger
Wild elephants
One-horned rhinoceros
Other Mammals
Swamp deer
Wild boars
Monkeys
Birds
Hornbills
Kingfishers
Vultures
Eagles
Reptiles & Water Species
Gharials
Crocodiles
River dolphins
Planning your Bardia Safari is simple, and we make sure you have all the required permits and documents sorted before your trip. Since Bardia National Park is a protected area, every visitor needs an entry permit to explore its jungles and wildlife.
Bardia National Park Entry Permit - Costs approximately NPR 1,500 (about $12) per person for foreign nationals.
SAARC Nationals - Pay a discounted fee of around NPR 750 (about $6).
Nepali Citizens - Entry fees are much lower, around NPR 100.
We handle the entire process on your behalf, so you don’t need to worry about standing in queues or filling out forms.
To make things smooth, you’ll need:
A valid passport or a government-issued photo ID.
A few passport-sized photos for permits (we can assist if you don’t have them).
A copy of your travel insurance details for emergencies.
Side Note: While travel insurance isn’t mandatory, we highly recommend it. Since safaris involve boat rides, jungle treks, and remote wilderness exploration, having coverage for medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip cancellations gives you peace of mind.
Leave the paperwork to us and focus on the adventure. Book your Bardia Safari today for a seamless, hassle-free experience!
Packing right is important to make your Bardia safari fun and comfortable. Since the park’s weather can change during the day, we suggest bringing a mix of light clothes, protective gear, and other essentials.
Clothing:
Light cotton shirts & pants for hot days.
Warm layers or fleece for cold mornings.
Waterproof jacket for monsoon.
Neutral-colored clothes for wildlife spotting.
Footwear:
Softened, comfortable trekking shoes.
Sandals or slip-ons for relaxing in lodges and hotels.
Essentials:
You can bring binoculars for spotting wildlife.
Make sure you carry a good camera for capturing moments.
Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection during the hot midday.
Insect repellent for mosquitoes and bugs, as this is a jungle safari.
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Optional but Recommended:
A small travel first-aid kit.
Carry a power bank for charging your cameras and other devices anytime.
Lightweight dry bags to protect your electronics during river excursions.
Pro Tip: If you’re joining during winter or monsoon, pack extra layers and quick-dry clothing to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Distance from Kathmandu: ~585 km (1-hour flight to Nepalgunj + 2-hour drive to Bardia).
Tiger Sighting Success Rate: Approximately 40-50% on jeep or elephant safaris during peak season.
Big Wildlife You Might See: Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, Asian elephants, gharials, wild boars.
Birdwatching: Over 400 species, including hornbills, kingfishers, eagles, and vultures.
Best Safari Months: Autumn (Sep-Nov) and Spring (Mar-May).
Monsoon Consideration: Heavy rainfall (Jun-Aug) may limit accessibility and wildlife visibility.
Recommended Safari Duration: 4-5 days for a full experience; 6-7 days for trekking-focused or photography safaris.
Cultural Highlights: Enjoy Tharu dance and music programs in the evenings.
Safety Tip: Always follow your guide’s instructions during jungle walks, elephant rides, and boat trips.
Packing Reminder: Don’t forget binoculars, camera, sun protection, insect repellent, and comfy trekking shoes.
At Himalaya Trekking Nepal, we don’t just plan safaris, we make them unforgettable. Here’s why travelers choose us for their Bardia National Park safari:
Local Insights: Our guides know Bardia’s wildlife, culture, and secret spotslike the back of their hand.
Tailored Packages: We offer the best Bardia tour packages for solo travelers, couples, families, or groups with a custom itinerary if necessary.
Sustainable Tourism: We support wildlife and nature conservation as well as help local Tharu communities by using their services.
End-to-End Support: From planning to your return, to your journey in the national park , all the way to the time where we part ways, we’re with you all the way.
Join hundreds of happy travelers who explored Bardia with us. Get a free quote!
Bardia National Park is in far-western Nepal, about 585 km from Kathmandu. The easiest way to get there is to take a 1-hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then a 2-hour drive to the park.
Bardia is a wildlife paradise, and the Bardia tiger safari Nepal offers an incredible opportunity to witness Bengal tigers in their natural habitat, along with one-horned rhinos, Asian elephants, and gharial crocodiles.
A 4 to 5-day itinerary is ideal to enjoy the full experience - from jeep safaris and jungle walks to boat rides and Tharu cultural programs. For wildlife photographers or adventure seekers, we also offer longer trekking safari options of 6 or 7 days.
Yes, an entry permit is mandatory for all visitors. Don’t worry, though - when you book with Himalaya Trekking Nepal, the permit cost is already included in your package price.
The best time to visit Bardia is in autumn (Sep-Nov) and spring (March-May). The weather is nice, the skies are clear, and the animals are most active. These months are perfect for spotting tigers, birdwatching, and exploring the landscapes of Bardia National Park.
Bardia National Park is very safe for solo travelers and families. All Bardia safaris are done with professional guides and experienced naturalists, and strict safety rules are followed during jungle walks and boat rides. For families with kids, we suggest jeep safaris and cultural activities, while elephant-back safaris are optional and closely supervised.
Bardia offers a range of accommodations, from eco-lodges and mid-range resorts to luxury safari lodges with private river-view decks. Depending on your budget, you can upgrade your package to include premium stays with air-conditioned rooms, swimming pools, and exclusive dining experiences.
Yes! Most of our packages include an evening of Tharu cultural performances. You’ll get to enjoy traditional dances, folk music, and storytelling from the indigenous Tharu community, offering an authentic cultural touch to your safari experience.
Definitely, with Himalaya Trekking Nepal, you can fully customize your safari. Whether you want to add luxury accommodation, include side trips to Lumbini or Chitwan, or extend your stay for photography-focused tiger tracking, we can tailor the package to suit your preferences.
Yes, we strongly recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations. While rare, unforeseen situations like wildlife injuries or weather disruptions can occur, so it’s always better to be prepared.
Light cotton clothes for warm days, warm layers for mornings and evenings, comfy walking shoes, sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent are must-haves. A good pair of binoculars and a camera with extra batteries will make your Bardia safari even better.
For jeep safaris, there’s no age restriction. For jungle walks, however, we recommend a minimum age of 10 years due to safety protocols. Families with younger kids can enjoy boat rides, cultural shows, and guided village walks instead.