Bardia National Park: Nepal's Wild and Remote Tiger Country

Bardia National Park: The Wild Alternative

Bardia National Park in western Nepal is everything Chitwan is — and more — for those willing to travel further. At 968 square kilometres, it is Nepal's largest national park in the Terai, and its relative remoteness means fewer visitors, less development, and a more genuinely wild experience.

Why Bardia Over Chitwan?

• **Better tiger sightings** — Bardia's lower tourist numbers and excellent habitat mean your chances of seeing a wild Bengal tiger are significantly higher than at Chitwan.
• **Wild elephants** — unlike Chitwan where most elephants are domesticated, Bardia has a healthy population of wild Asian elephants.
• **Fewer tourists** — Bardia receives a fraction of Chitwan's visitors, creating a more authentic jungle experience.
• **The Karnali River** — one of Nepal's great rivers, excellent for rafting and dolphin spotting (Gangetic river dolphin).

Wildlife

• Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros (reintroduced), wild elephant
• Swamp deer, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boar
• Gharial and mugger crocodile
• Gangetic river dolphin
• Over 400 bird species

Activities

Jungle walks, jeep safaris, canoe trips on the Karnali River, rafting, and community village visits.

Getting There

• **Domestic flight** to Nepalgunj, then 2-hour drive.
• **Overland** from Kathmandu or Pokhara (12-14 hours by bus).

Bardia is for the traveller who wants the real deal — raw, wild, and unforgettable.