If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then you should add Bardiya National Park to your list of must-visit places. It is a hidden gem of a wildlife sanctuary in Nepal, rich in unique wildlife and untouched nature that deserves much attention.
Bardiya National Park is a protected area in the Terai Lowlands of Nepal, covering an area of 968 km². It is the largest and most undisturbed national park in the country and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and Gangetic dolphin.
While many tourists are familiar with the famous Chitwan National Park, Bardiya is a lesser-known and underrated destination. It has remained a hidden gem, allowing tourists to enjoy the raw wilderness in its purest form. Chitwan is usually crowded, so Bardiya offers a peaceful and more personal experience for those seeking a quieter retreat. Likewise, there is more opportunity to spot rare wildlife in their natural habitat. You can also immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Tharu community living in the area. The tour is an excellent option for a trip with family and friends.
In this blog post, we will explore the major attractions of the National Park, how to explore the park, the culture of Bardiya, and everything related to the park. So, make sure you stick with us until the end!
Bardiya is home to several ethnic groups, including the Tharu, Brahmin, and Chhetri communities. The majority of the locals belong to the Tharu community. The Tharu people have a rich culture and history. They live in the surrounding villages near the park area. Hence, visitors can learn about their traditions and customs while taking the tour of the Bardiya National Park.
For centuries, the Tharu community has been living near the forests and rivers. They mostly rely on agriculture, fishing, and forest foraging to support their livelihood. The traditional Tharu houses are constructed from natural elements such as mud, wood, and grass. They use natural dyes to decorate their homes. Tharu people are also skilled craftsmen. Especially women of this community are skilled in weaving mats and baskets. Hence, their lives are intertwined with nature.
During your visit to the Bardiya National Park, you will have the opportunity to witness their traditional houses and vibrant culture. Many hotels and resorts host live Tharu dance and music performances. Similarly, you can also get to savor their traditional dishes. So, visiting the park will not only allow you to encounter wildlife in their natural habitat but also immerse you in the beautiful Tharu culture.
Bardiya National Park is located in the Bardiya district of the Western Terai region in Nepal. The park borders the Karnali River to the west and the Babai River to the south. It lies southwest of Kathmandu and is approximately 600 kilometers away. Visitors can access the national park from the capital city via road as well as by air.
There is a direct daily bus service available for visitors to take from Kathmandu to Bardiya. The bus departs from the Gongabu Bus Park in the late afternoon. It takes around 17 hours to reach Thakurdwara, a village close to the national park. The bus ticket from Kathmandu to Thakurdawa costs NPR 2200 per person.
One can also take an alternative route, which leaves from Kathmandu to Ambassa. It takes around 14 hours to reach Ambassa. However, you will need to take another local transport to reach Thakurdwara, which takes around 30 minutes.
The option is to take a 50-minute flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj Airport. The airport in Nepalgunj is the nearest one to the Bardiya National Park. From here, you must take a three-hour bus to Bardiya. Taking the flight is undoubtedly the convenient and quicker way to get there. However, it is expensive, and the price can vary depending on the season.
There is an entry fee for the Bardiya National Park. The costs are as follows:
Note: Children under the age of ten are eligible for free entry. The entry fee does not include activities such as elephant rides, boating, jeep riding, etc., within the park.
Visitors can easily get the entry permit at the Tourist Service Center in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. Alternatively, you can obtain it directly at the entrance of Bardiya National Park in Thakurdwara, Bardiya. The entry permit is for single use, non-refundable, and non-transferable. You will need a valid passport with a valid visa and two passport-size photographs for the entry permit.
It is always a good idea to hire a local guide for your Bardiya National Park tour. They ensure your safety during the trip and also provide expert insight on the area. They will provide knowledge on the flora and fauna and cultural insights. It helps to make your visit more enriching and fulfilling. You can hire a guide through your trek agency, which is the easiest and most reliable way. The hotels and resorts in Thakurdawa may also provide guiding services.
The climate of the National Park is subtropical, with hot and humid summers and cool and dry winters. The best time to visit the park is from October to March, when the weather is dry, and the visibility is good for wildlife viewing.
Park can be reached by road or air, with the nearest airport being in Nepalgunj.
Yes, there are several camping options available in the park, including tents, lodges, and resorts.
Yes, it is considered safe for visitors, but it is always best to follow the advice
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