Situated in the mid far western Terai, in a remote part of Nepal, bordered by the Karnali River, the National Park covers 968 sq. km. It is 585 km from Kathmandu. The park is the largest and most undisturbed expanse of wilderness in southern Nepal. Although the largest park it is least explored by foreign tourists.

About 70% of the park is covered with Sal jungle, the remaining 30% is a mixture of grassland, savannah and riverine forest. The park contains eight types of ecosystem. The park headquarters are situated at Thakurdwara (also the location of Forest Hideaway) and is surrounded by idyllic villages and fields inhabited by an indigenous ethnic group, the ‘Tharu’.

Originally a hunting reserve, Bardia became a conservation area in 1976 and then attained National Park status in 1988. Presently a plan is being considered to further expand the park both north and eastwards. Conservation is a strong theme within Bardia; the park as well providing a home habitat for many species also provides an ideal environment for the study of wildlife. The WWF and the King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation are active in the park monitoring wildlife and breeding habitats. They have also implemented an educational scheme for local people identifying the meaning of, and need for conservation.

More than thirty different mammals, over two hundred species of bird and many snakes, lizards and fish have been recorded within the park. Both resident and migratory birds can be found within the park boundaries. As well as the numerous more common animals and birds the Bardia National Park is home to 19 of Nepal’s 39 legally protected species. These include the One-horned Rhinoceros, wild Asian Elephant, Bengali Tiger, Swamp Deer, Black Buck Antelope, Gangetic Dolphin and Gharial Crocodile. Endangered birds include the Bengal Florican, the Silver-eared Mesia and the Sarus Crane. In fact the WWF indicated the Bardia National Park as playing a major role in the survival of the world tiger population. As a result, it is not surprising to find that Bardia provides the best opportunity to view the Bengal Tiger in Nepal.

Itineraries:

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu

After you arrival in Kathmandu, one of our representative greets you at the international terminal and escorts you to your allotted hotels. After some refreshment at hotel, now carry out sightseeing program of Kathmandu City by paying visit to popular sites like Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square. Later in the evening drive back to Hotel. Hotel Hyatt Regency or Similar.

Day 02: Fly to Nepalgunj and drive to Bardia National Park

Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and drive to Bardia. Upon arrival you will be met by representative, provided refreshment and transferred to Lodge, approximately a two-hour drive away.
Once at Lodge a hot Nepali lunch will be served. In the afternoon, head out on a duck jeep safari to the National Park in search of elusive tigers and leopards. The safari will last for two and a half hours.
The evening will be spent with cocktails around an outdoor fireplace before moving into the GholGhar (Nepali dining room) for dinner. A good setting for late night chats, the stocked bar remains open until the last person goes to bed.

Day 03: Elephants Encounter

Rising early, guest can take a tour of the jungle to track tigers, elephants of the great one-horned rhinoceros in the morning light. An al-fresco styled buffet breakfast will be served on return. Guests will then have the rest of the day to meet the elephants – the most popular activity.
Spend a day with mahouts, elephant keepers, and watch daily life at the elephant camp unfold. Help prepare the 150 kilograms of feed each elephant requires each day, head down to the river to watch the elephant bathing, and take an afternoon stroll through the villages or community forest together with one of these gentle grey giants of the jungle. These intimate, once in a life time experience will give you a deeper connection to the jungles of Nepal.

Day 04-05: Enjoy Jungle Activities

On days four to five, guest have the opportunity to partake in as many or as few activities at Lodge; they can be conducted at your leisure and pace.
Activities includes:
• Bird Watching
• A river safari to spot wildlife grazing at dawn or dusk
• A jeep safari in the National Park in search of tigers, rhinos and leopards
• Village walks
• A tour of the organic farm to see how grow its veggies, recycles grey water and generates heat through compost
• Afternoon tea by the river where deep crimson sunset fall behind the forest canopy
• Relaxing with a good book in one of the many hammocks on the property

Day 06: Departure from Bardia, fly to Kathmandu

Enjoy an early alfresco breakfast before a morning flight back to Kathmandu. Pick up from airport and transfer to the hotel.

Day 07: Departure from Kathmandu

Enjoy the breakfast at Dwarikas and drive back to airport for your next adventure.

Cost Includes:

• Airport pick up/drop off as per the itinerary.
• Accommodation in Kathmandu including breakfast.
• Kathmandu – Nepaljung – Kathmandu flight
• Nepaljung – Bardia – Nepaljung by jeep.
• Accommodation in Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge.
• All meals of breakfast, lunch and dinner while in Bardia.
• Highly experienced safari guide during the trip.
• National park and conservation area permit and fees.
• All jungle activities as per the itinerary.
• Government Tax/Vat
• Tourist service charge

Cost Excludes:

• Any type of personal expenses, such as alcoholic beverages and drinks, phone and laundry.
• Travel insurance, trip cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, loss, theft or damage to baggage and personal effects.