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Bardiya National Park is situated in the mid-western Terai region in the Bardiya district of Lumbini province, Nepal, covering a total area of 968 km sq. It was established in 1976 as the Karnali Wildlife Reserve. Later, it was renamed Bardiya Wildlife Reserve in 1982 and finally gained the status of a national park in 1988. During its time as the Karnali Wildlife Reserve, the Government of Nepal relocated 1,500 households from the Babai Valley outside of the park in order to promote the thriving of vegetation and wildlife.
In 1986, 1991, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2016, and 2017, a total of 91 one-horned rhinoceroses were transported to Bardiya National Park from Nepal's first protected area, Chitwan National Park. It was established to conserve the tiger population and other wild species that are prey for tigers, and it is especially famous for the Bengal tiger. Recently, in 2022, Nepal was awarded the TX2 Award for successfully doubling the number of tigers in Bardiya National Park since 2010. The best time to witness the tigers in the park is spring (March to May). Moreover, it is possible to encounter them in autumn (September to November).
Image Source: myRepublica
Both the local communities and the park collaborate in managing the buffer zone, which was declared in 1997 and covers an area of 327 km². As a result, the buffer zone includes both private properties and forested areas. Regarding wildlife, the national park is home to 42 species of herpetofauna, 61 species of mammals, 120 species of fish, and 513 species of birds. Animals such as elephants, tigers, and the flagship species, the rhino, are commonly seen in the park. Additionally, dolphins can be spotted in the Karnali River.
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Image Source: Bardiya National Park
Most of the area of Bardiya National Park is covered with sal trees, grasslands, and riverine forests. Endangered animals, including wild elephants, Royal Bengal tigers, black bucks, one-horned rhinoceroses, gharials, marsh crocodiles, Gangetic dolphins, and swamp deer, call the park their home. Furthermore, several migratory birds are frequently recorded visiting the park area.
In terms of ethnic groups, Bardiya National Park is similar to Chitwan National Park. The Tharu community is dominant in the area. Their unique culture, traditions, and cuisine have never failed to draw the attention of tourists. Hence, it is an alternative to Nepal's first protected area. To learn about the culture of the Tharu, one can also visit there.
Image Source: NepalNews
As mentioned above, Bardiya National Park is located in the Terai region, which means a hot climate is common in the area. The temperature can reach up to 45 degrees Celsius during peak summer. Nevertheless, in winter, the national park area is often covered with fog. The monsoon season typically begins in July and ends in September.
There is a museum at the headquarters of Bardiya National Park that mostly displays the culture of the Tharu community. There is also a community health post in Thakurdwara, which is near the headquarters. Moreover, several resorts are available for a memorable stay, including Bardiya Wildlife Resort, Mango Tree Lodge, Wild Planet Eco Retreat, etc.
To reach Bardiya National Park, you should first travel to Nepalgunj from your place of residence, either by bus or by flight. Both transportation options are easily available. From Nepalgunj, there are enough local vehicles available to take you to the headquarters of the national park.
