Bardia National Park is a protected area located in the southwestern region of Nepal. It is one of the largest and most undisturbed national parks in the country, covering an area of approximately 968 square kilometers (374 square miles). The park is situated in the Terai region, which is a lowland area known for its rich biodiversity.
Established in 1988, Bardia National Park is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Bengal tiger, the one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephants, and the Gangetic dolphin. The park is home to more than 400 bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.
The topography of Bardia National Park consists of riverine forests, grasslands, and vast stretches of savannah. The Karnali River flows through the park, providing a vital water source for the wildlife. Visitors can explore the park through various activities such as jungle safaris, elephant rides, birdwatching tours, and river rafting.
The park offers opportunities for wildlife sightings and nature walks. Accommodation options within the park include wildlife resorts and lodges that provide a comfortable stay amidst the wilderness. The local Tharu community, known for their distinct culture and lifestyle, also resides in the vicinity of the park, offering visitors a chance to experience their traditions and customs.
Bardia National Park is less crowded compared to other popular national parks in Nepal, such as Chitwan National Park, which adds to its appeal for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path adventure. The park's remote location and pristine natural beauty make it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
On the other hand we denounce with righteous indignation and dislike men who are so beguiled and demoralized by the charms of pleasure of the moment so blinded.James J Eck
Things to do in Bardia National Park
There are several activities and things to do in Bardia National Park that allow visitors to explore the park's natural beauty and wildlife. Here are some of the popular activities:
Jungle Safari: Embark on a jungle safari to explore the park's diverse ecosystems. You can choose from various options, including jeep safaris, elephant safaris, or walking safaris led by experienced guides. These safaris offer a chance to spot wildlife such as tigers, rhinoceros, elephants, deer, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.
Birdwatching: Bardia National Park is a haven for birdwatchers. Take a birdwatching tour or go on guided walks to spot a wide variety of bird species. The park is home to numerous resident and migratory birds, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
Nature Walks: Explore the park's wilderness on foot by taking nature walks accompanied by knowledgeable guides. These walks allow you to appreciate the flora, fauna, and smaller creatures of the park while learning about the ecosystem.
River Rafting: Experience the thrill of river rafting on the Karnali River, which flows through Bardia National Park. Rafting trips provide an opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of the park from a different perspective and add an adventurous element to your visit.
Tharu Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Tharu community, who reside in the vicinity of the park. Visit Tharu villages, interact with the locals, learn about their traditional lifestyle, and enjoy cultural performances showcasing their music and dance.
Elephant Breeding Center: Visit the Elephant Breeding Center located within the park. Here, you can observe elephants, learn about their conservation efforts, and even get a chance to interact with the baby elephants.
Nature Photography: Bardia National Park offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant birdlife, making it a paradise for nature photographers. Capture the beauty of the park and its inhabitants through your lens.
Fishing: With proper permits, you can engage in fishing activities in the Karnali River. Anglers can try their luck at catching various species of fish found in the river.
It's important to note that activities and availability may vary depending on the season, weather conditions, and park regulations. It's advisable to check with authorized tour operators or the park authorities to plan your activities and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Birds in Bardia National Park
Bardia National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, offering a diverse range of bird species. Here are some of the notable birds you can spot in Bardia National Park:
Bengal Florican: The park is home to the critically endangered Bengal Florican, a large and elusive bird known for its unique appearance and elaborate courtship displays. Spotting this rare species is a significant highlight for birdwatchers visiting Bardia.
Sarus Crane: Bardia National Park is an important habitat for the Sarus Crane, which is the world's tallest flying bird. These elegant and majestic birds can be observed wading through the park's wetlands and grasslands.
Lesser Florican: Another rare and critically endangered species, the Lesser Florican, can be found in Bardia National Park. These small-sized bustards are known for their distinctive breeding displays and can be challenging to spot.
Great Hornbill: The park is home to the Great Hornbill, an impressive bird with a large, curved beak and a prominent casque on top of its head. These birds can be observed flying high in the forest canopy.
Oriental Pied Hornbill: This medium-sized hornbill species is also found in Bardia National Park. It features a black and white plumage, a large bill, and a distinctive call.
White-rumped Vulture: Bardia National Park is an important area for vulture conservation, and the White-rumped Vulture is one of the vulture species found here. These scavenging birds play a vital role in the ecosystem.
Grey-crowned Prinia: This small passerine bird is known for its distinctive grey crown and streaked plumage. It can be found in the park's grasslands and scrub habitats.
Painted Stork: Bardia National Park is frequented by the Painted Stork, a large wading bird with striking plumage. These birds can be observed near wetlands, rivers, and lakes.
White-throated Kingfisher: Known for its vibrant colors and distinctive call, the White-throated Kingfisher can be spotted perched on branches near water bodies within the park.
Asian Paradise Flycatcher: This beautiful bird with long tail streamers can be found in Bardia National Park. The male has a stunning white plumage, while the female has a mix of white and chestnut coloration.
These are just a few examples of the bird species found in Bardia National Park. The park is home to a rich avian diversity, making it a fantastic destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Wildlife in Bardia National Park
Bardia National Park is renowned for its rich wildlife diversity, with a wide range of mammals, reptiles, and other fascinating creatures. Here are some of the notable wildlife species found in Bardia National Park:
Bengal Tiger: Bardia National Park is one of the prime habitats for the critically endangered Bengal tiger. The park's dense forests provide a suitable environment for these majestic big cats.
One-horned Rhinoceros: Bardia is home to the rare one-horned rhinoceros, another critically endangered species. The park's grasslands and wetlands offer an ideal habitat for these impressive creatures.
Asian Elephant: Bardia National Park is known for its population of Asian elephants. These gentle giants can be spotted in the park's forests and grasslands, often seen near water sources.
Gangetic Dolphin: The Karnali River, which flows through Bardia National Park, is home to the endangered Gangetic dolphin. These unique aquatic mammals can occasionally be seen swimming in the river.
Gharial Crocodile: Bardia National Park is an important conservation area for the critically endangered Gharial crocodile. These long-snouted reptiles can be found in the rivers and streams within the park.
Mugger Crocodile: Alongside the Gharial, the park is also home to the Mugger crocodile. These large reptiles inhabit the park's water bodies, basking in the sun on riverbanks.
Wild Water Buffalo: Bardia National Park is one of the last remaining strongholds for the endangered wild water buffalo. These robust creatures can be seen grazing in the park's grasslands and wetlands.
Spotted Deer: The park is home to a significant population of spotted deer, also known as Chital. These beautiful deer can be seen grazing in open areas, especially during early morning and late afternoon.
Hog Deer: Another species of deer found in Bardia National Park is the hog deer. These medium-sized deer inhabit grasslands and are known for their distinctive hog-like appearance.
Smooth-coated Otter: Bardia National Park is home to the smooth-coated otter, a playful and agile aquatic mammal. These otters can be seen swimming and fishing in the park's rivers and wetlands.
In addition to these species, Bardia National Park is also home to a variety of primates, reptiles, amphibians, and numerous bird species, contributing to its reputation as a biodiversity hotspot. Exploring the park through safaris, guided walks, and river excursions offers excellent opportunities to encounter and appreciate its diverse wildlife.
The best time to visit Bardia National Park
The best time to visit Bardia National Park depends on your preferences and the experiences you seek. However, there are a few factors to consider when planning your visit, such as weather conditions, wildlife sightings, and park accessibility. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons in Bardia National Park:
Autumn (October to November): This is generally considered the best time to visit Bardia National Park. The weather is pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. The vegetation is lush after the monsoon season, making it an ideal time for wildlife sightings. Moreover, the chances of spotting tigers and other animals are relatively high during this period.
Winter (December to February): Winter in Bardia National Park brings cooler temperatures, particularly during the mornings and evenings. Days are generally sunny and comfortable. Wildlife sightings can still be good, and birdwatching enthusiasts will appreciate the presence of migratory bird species during this time.
Spring (March to May): Spring is another favorable time to visit Bardia National Park. The weather becomes warmer, and the park starts to bloom with colorful flowers and vibrant foliage. Wildlife is active during this period, and birdwatchers can enjoy spotting a variety of resident and migratory bird species.
Monsoon (June to September): The monsoon season in Bardia National Park brings heavy rainfall, with the peak occurring in July and August. During this time, the park's grasslands and wetlands become lush and vibrant, and the river levels rise. However, wildlife sightings may be more challenging due to dense foliage and animals taking cover. Some parts of the park may also be inaccessible due to flooding.
It's important to note that wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, as animals are free-roaming in their natural habitat. Nevertheless, visiting during the autumn and spring seasons generally provides a better chance to spot wildlife due to favorable weather conditions and vegetation.
Before planning your trip, it's advisable to check the weather forecasts, consult with local authorities or tour operators, and consider your personal preferences to determine the best time that aligns with your interests and expectations.