Situated in the mid-far western Terai, bordered by the Karnali River, Bardia National Park covers 968 sq. km. It is 585 km from Kathmandu and is the largest and most undisturbed expanse of wilderness in southern Nepal, although it is also the least explored by 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 Nature Conservation Trust are active in the park monitoring wildlife and breeding habitats. They have also implemented an educational scheme for local people highlighting the importance of, and need for conservation.
Walking in allows you to explore the rich diversity of the jungle, grasslands and rivers. This is the best way to see wildlife and nature close up. Your guide can give you in-depth information on the habitats you pass through, details of the plant and animal life you encounter and will brief you on general tracking tips.
Local bikes are available for you to explore the local village, with or without a guide.
An early morning 30 km drive by jeep will drop you by the Karnali River. This is followed by a serene day rafting down the gentle Karnali. Drifting down the river allows you to spot wildlife, especially the endangered freshwater Gangetic dolphin, the gharial crocodile, exotic birds and big game on the nearby river banks. Swimming is also possible and sometimes the dolphins may join you!
This essentially dances performed by local Tharu dance troupes and is a highlight of any visit to Forest Hideaway. You will see the colorful dances with traditional costumes and music.
FROM THE BLOGNepal is not only known for trekking in snow-capped Himalayas but also an exquisite Jungle Safari through the pristine National parks. The geography of Nepal is such that the northern side has Himalaya’s whereas the southern lowland commonly known as Terai is densely vegetated with tropical forests providing habitat to diverse variety of wildlife, flora and different native as well as migratory birds.
