What to do in Bardia National Park

If Chitwan is Nepal's headline wildlife park, Bardia is its wilder, less-visited secret – and for serious safari-goers, that's precisely the appeal. Tucked away in the far west of the Terai, this vast stretch of riverine forest, grassland and sal woodland sees a fraction of the visitors, which means more intimate encounters and a genuine sense of wilderness. It's one of the best places in Asia to spot Bengal tigers in the wild, with healthy populations and guides who know every pug mark and alarm call. One-horned rhinos roam here too, translocated from Chitwan and now thriving, alongside wild elephants, swamp deer and the prehistoric-looking gharial. Jeep safaris venture deep into the park at dawn and dusk, while canoe trips drift silently along the Karnali River, scanning the banks for basking crocodiles and the flash of a kingfisher. Walking safaris are particularly rewarding here – tracking fresh tiger prints through the morning mist with an experienced naturalist is about as thrilling as wildlife watching gets. Birders will find over 400 species, from giant hornbills to paradise flycatchers. It takes more effort to reach Bardia than Chitwan, but for those willing to make the journey, the rewards are a rawer, quieter and altogether more immersive jungle experience.