Bardia Jungle Safari

Bardia National Park is a protected area of westernmost Nepal and one of the biggest park of the country. However, it has total geographical area of 968 km square and support large numbers of Bengel tiger, Bengal Indian one – horn rhino, elephant and other many bird and reptile animals etc. 

One of the greatest gifts for the nature lovers and wildlife lovers, Bardia National Park is the wonderful destination to enjoy, to explore the beauty of the Terai belt about the nature and various systems.

The Bardiya National Park is located on Bardiya district at the southern part near the Karnali River and also a part of the Bardiya Complex on larger scale. 

As one of the ecosystems which has all the vegetation in the from of a large forest, a large grass land and river system which provides characteristic suitable homes for the various species, it forms a large wildlife reserve.

What is the way to get to Bardia National Park? 

It is very easy to access Bardia National Park. Access to the park can be done through road means, which normally takes 1.5 to 2 hour drive from Nepalgunj. 

Another method of getting to Bardiya is by a Bus which is a 12-14 hour journey depending on the roads conditions. Travellers can hire Private vehicles as well from Kathmandu to lukla. 

Wildlife and Biodiversity in Bardia Jungle Safari time

Bardia National Park has magnificent wildlife and biodiversity, which makes it one of the most exciting travel sites for those who enjoy the natural world and wildlife. The park has a number of the most recognized of Nepal’s fauna, such as:

• Bengal Tigers
• One-Horned Rhinoceroses
• Wild Elephants
• Leopards, Wild Boars, and Deer
• Crocodiles

Common plants include:

• Sal Trees
• Grasslands
• Riverine Vegetation

Since it is a bird watcher’s dream to spot over 400 species of birds, including so endangered as the Bengal Florican, Bardia is a bird watcher’s paradise. 

Forests, grasslands, and river communities within the park sustain ecosystems of significant value to both flora and fauna, which contain a rich diversity of species which are highly adapted to the diversity of their environment.

Best Time to Visit Bardia National Park

When to go to Bardia National Park also depends on the desired experience e.g., specializations are provided in the park over the year, but some months are the best time to watch wildlife and appreciate the natural landscape.

Winter (December to February): 

Winter is one of the most suitable time for visiting as the weather is sunny and pleasant. Regarding wildlife watching this is the time of year that offers the highest chances of seeing lots of animals since the animals come in for a drink. Making use of unobstructed skies and cooler temperatures, now would be a good opportunity for outdoor leisure (e.g., jungle safaris and bird watching).

Spring (March to May): 

Spring is another excellent season to visit Bardia. It’s warm but not too uncomfortable, and all the trees in the park are full of flowers. This is also a time to be observing nature, especially early in the morning and night when animals are most conspicuous. The park is less crowded than it is in the winter, with a peaceful and tranquil safari experience.

Monsoon (June to August): 

Severe monsoon season rainfall is extremely challenging to control when safaris must be operated with an increase of the number of closed trails and roads blocked by mud. Wildlife still exists but probably more elusive in terms of expectation of frequent sightings since many animals are more likely to remain concealed during the rainy season. It is low season, and if you don’t mind the rain, it is a quieter time to go.

Autumn (September to November):

It can be a very photogenic season to visit when the weather is mild. Parks are waterlogged during the monsoon season, but wet areas, trails and road surfaces become bare for use at any time once a season. Animals are at their richest and most mobile this time of year, and because the park is dominated by impassable cane, it is a prime spot for safaris and nature tours.

Overall the best time of year for visiting Bardia National Park for good wildlife watching and comfortable weather is winter and spring. 

What Else Can Be Done During the Jungle Safari in Bardia Park

Bardia National Park provides a variety of experiences for visitors to engage with the magnificent wildlife, the beautiful landscape and the local culture. 

1. Jungle Safaris (by Jeep or Elephant)

Jeep Safari: 

The only affordable method of covering the broad ecological spectrum of Bardia National Park is a jeep safari. This enable a person to stroll round large tracts of the park and observe many animals including tiger, rhino, wild elephants and deers. 

During the jeep safari, you will be driven to the core of the jungle and while there, the experienced drivers will assist you to locate the animals and in the process inform you about the ecosystem. 

The safari is most often started in the morning hours of the day or in the evening of the day because that is the time of the day when terrestrial animals are most active.

Elephant Safari: 

Alternatively, you can go on a safari riding an elephant. This is of particular interest, e.g., for wildlife photography when one has to come close to other species like rhinos and tigers without disturbing them. 

A way to understand the jungle from the other side is the elephant ride experience, and the experience is incredibly helpful in searching for animals in places where the jeep can not reach.

2. Bird Watching

Bardia National Park is a highly biodiverse area, and it has over 400 avian species on it. The park’s diverse habitats, from grasslands to wetlands, attract a variety of birdlife, both resident and migratory. Some of the best birdwatching opportunities include:

Endangered Species: 

Note especially some endangered species, such as the Bengal florican, and other endangered species such as the sarus crane and the great hornbill.

Water Birds: 

Riverine and wetland associated habitats in the park are home to breeding stocks of waterfowl, e.g., kingfishers, herons and storks.

Tropical Birds: 

Bardia’s dense forest is an excellent location for observing various colourful tropical passerine birds, such as the Indian roller, barbets and woodpeckers. Early morning and twilight hours are favourable for birdwatchers.

3. Nature Walks

Guided nature walks are the most appropriate option to bring with oneself into the natural world in a way that has a personal association with it, as exemplified by the explorer strolling through the park. Walking through the dense woodland and grassland with a skilled guide allows you to: 

Learn About Flora and Fauna: 

Guides will feature a range of plant species, details of their medicinal value, and support in relation to wildlife in the locality. You’ll also learn about the park’s ecosystems, from the sal trees to the riverside vegetation.

Spot Smaller Wildlife: 

Despite the fact that a jeep safari may be designed for some large animals, visitors can discover smaller animals, insects, and birds, as well as the tracks of the larger animals, by walking. Species in the park.

4. Local Culture and Attractions

Bardia National Park is not only a wildlife nature reserve; the hinterland of the park is a cultural landscape, and the area is characterized by a variety of how visitors engage with the local Tharu culture: 

Village Tours: 

It is also feasible trips to the sites of the adjacent Tharu villages in order to get an immersive experience of traditional way of life. Tharu is indigenous to the area and maintains a very strong link with the earth and the forest. 

In specific situations, interaction with villagers during the village circumnavigation path, while approaching their houses and observing what they are doing in their daily life such as agricultural works, cooking, or craft production, also can be made.

Tharu Cultural Performances: 

The Bardia visits are a must to experience cultural program of The Tharu people. Multicolour, vibrant dances are part and parcel of village festivities and generally danced in festivals or congregations. Performances are usually characterized by fast tempo music, beautiful costumes, and energetic dance. 

Tharu Museums: 

There are also small local museums as well which one can visit to learn about Tharu history and Tharu culture, respectively. Such museums are, as a rule, equipped with ancient instruments of music, clothes, and other objects, signs of long cultural history.

Cultural Festivals: 

If your time of visit coincides with an event in a town celebration, you may witness the Tharu community celebrating its native festivals with music, dance and traditional rituals. Special celebratory festivities, e.g., Maghi (New Year Day celebration among the Tharu community), Tihar (Festival of lights) etc., provide culturally appropriate immersions.

5. River Safari and Fishing

River Safari: 

Continuing on board with the calm, Karnali River is a non‐immersive way to view the park from a different angle. It will be possible to observe crocodiles lying in the sun, aquatic birds such as kingfishers and herons and even perhaps the very rare sight of the endangered gharial.

Fishing: 

Fishing besides provides a chance to disconnect and fishing along the Karnali River is quite relaxing too. Fishing is safe and unrestricted there under the pretense of the park’s scenery.

6. Photography

The photographers’ paradise Bardia National Park is great scenery, density forests, wild animals, cultural color and many others.

 Depending on whether one is interested in capturing a wild animal or capturing a flower or any other vegetation within the park, it is always very possible to make very good shots.

In most aspect when compared to other National parks, Bardia National Park fall somewhere in between Adventure, Wildlife observation, Nature and Culture. 

From the neo-tropical forests on jeeps to elephants, tourist attractions of the avian kind, cultural lessons and even a nice walk by the park, every traveler gets to have a taste of the beauty of the park during the safari experience.

Safety Tips and Guidelines for Bardia Jungle Safari

• Follow the Guide’s Instructions: Never forget instructions and suggestions given by your driver while on safaris and in the wild. They are trained to ensure your safety.
• Stay Inside the Vehicle: On jeep safaris keep all within the vehicle. Do not try to leave, or do any quick movements that might startle animals.
• Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals. Do not bother or attempt to communicate with them or feed them.
• Wear Proper Clothing: You should wear neutral clothing (green, beige, or brown) that will help to camouflage and avoid attracting human vision.
• Stay Quiet: Avoid making loud noises that could disturb wildlife. Speak in a low voice when necessary.
• Avoid Flash Photography: Flash technology allows animals to be frightened and agitated to a point where the enclosure is upset. Using natural light, strong light, or adjusting your camera settings to be effective in dark environments.
• Keep Personal Items Secure: Keep your valuables and belongings in a safe place. Avoid leaving anything outside the vehicle during the safari.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry sufficient water to be properly hydrated (e.g., during long safaris or nature hikes).
• Be Mindful of Weather: Check the weather forecast before departure and be prepared for all types of weather, including rainfall and heat waves.
• Stay Alert: When walking in the jungle, be sure to keep aware of what’s around you. Be on the lookout for wildlife and other perils.
• Avoid Littering: Respect nature by disposing of trash properly. Keep the park clean for future visitors and wildlife.

Is Bardia National Park safari safe?

Yes, it is safe to go for a jungle safari in Bardia National Park. The park is efficiently managed through the professional, experienced, and piloted guides, who conduct safaris to ensure visitor safety and enjoyable experiences.

Guides have experience in animal behaviour and park rules, thus [of putting] down. Along any wild outing, safety is, in turn, ensured by compliance with the rules, limited motility about the group, and the way as not to upset the wild setting of animals.

Safari choices and elephant attractions within the park, too, are available to provide safe, engaging experiences. If you comply with safety regulations and are careful, you can have a safe and thrilling safari experience at Bardia.

Accommodation and Food in Bardia National Park

Accommodation

Facilities for accommodation range from small lodges to more traditional resorts in Bardia National Park. 

Luxury Resorts: These provide comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and excellent services. Many resort facilities are on offer, with swimming pools, spa facilities and guided safaris all organized within the resort.

Eco-Lodges and Guesthouses: There are only a handful of choices for individuals who have an aesthetic affinity to the eco-friendly building and rustic look. They offer a certain number of facilities but have a serene, naturalistic character.

Budget Accommodations: To experience low cost travel the budget options are also very easy guesthouses or living with the locals in the lodges. These accommodations offer basic rooms with essential amenities.

Food

Food for guests, including Nepali and international dishes, is available at the hotels/sites you would be visiting in Bardia National Park. In most resorts (and lodges) a flexi-board scheme is available, comprising breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Local Nepali Cuisine: Enjoy real Nepalese food that can be sampled, ranging from dal bhat (lentil, rice, and stew type dish), momo (dumpling) and sukuti (dried meat) that offers the taste of the region.

Western and Continental Options: Most resorts and lodges serve Western food (e.g., pasta, pizza, sandwiches) to appeal to tourists.

Fresh and Local Ingredients: The food is almost always cooked using indigenous goods, either fresh and natural or fresh and natural, with one change. Some accommodations also offer vegetarian and vegan meals.