Bardia Jungle Safari: A Wild Adventure in Nepal’s Western Frontier

The Bardia Jungle Safari is an extraordinary wildlife expedition that beckons adventurers to Nepal’s rugged western wilderness. Nestled in the Terai region, Bardia National Park stands as a hidden gem, offering an untamed natural playground where the wild reigns supreme. Here is an overview of what makes the Bardia Jungle Safari a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados:

Untouched Wilderness: Bardia National Park is renowned for its vast expanses of pristine wilderness. The park spans over 968 square kilometers, making it one of the largest and least-visited national parks in Nepal. This remoteness ensures that the park remains relatively untouched, preserving its natural ecosystems and diverse wildlife.

Rich Biodiversity: The heart of Bardia’s allure lies in its rich biodiversity. The park is home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including:

Bengal Tigers: Bardia is one of the last strongholds of the Bengal tiger, and it offers a rare chance to spot these magnificent big cats in their natural habitat.
One-Horned Rhinoceros: Bardia has a thriving population of one-horned rhinoceroses, and sightings are almost guaranteed during safari excursions.
Asian Elephants: Herds of Asian elephants roam freely in the park, creating memorable encounters for visitors.
Leopards, Sloth Bears, and Deer: Other notable residents include leopards, sloth bears, various deer species, and numerous smaller mammals.
Avian Paradise: Bardia is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds, including the endangered Bengal florican and the critically endangered white-rumped vulture.

Jungle Safari Adventures: Bardia Jungle Safaris offer an array of thrilling activities, including:

Jungle Walks: Embark on guided jungle walks led by experienced naturalists, where you’ll traverse dense forests, riverbanks, and grasslands while tracking wildlife.
Elephant Safaris: Take a ride on the back of an elephant, granting you an elevated view of the jungle and the chance to encounter elusive animals.
River Safaris: Glide along the Geruwa River on a traditional wooden boat, observing crocodiles, freshwater dolphins, and other aquatic life.
Birdwatching: The park’s diverse birdlife provides endless opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Cultural Encounters: The Bardia region is home to the indigenous Tharu community, known for their distinct culture and traditions. Many safari programs include visits to Tharu villages, where you can interact with the friendly locals, witness their traditional dances, and gain insights into their way of life.

Responsible Tourism: Bardia National Park places a strong emphasis on responsible tourism and wildlife conservation. Safari operators and lodges in the area are committed to sustainable practices, ensuring that the park’s pristine environment remains intact for generations to come.

The Bardia Jungle Safari is a journey into Nepal’s wild west, offering an unforgettable blend of wildlife encounters, lush landscapes, and cultural experiences. It’s a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in one of the world’s most diverse and captivating ecosystems.

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

You will be picked up at the airport by one of the Real Journey Nepal staff and driven to your Kathmandu host family or a hotel. Here you will be welcomed into the family, be given your own room and be provided with all your meals while in Kathmandu. This will be your home during your orientation and volunteering in Nepal. With easy bus routes into town and the surrounding countryside, this quiet and safe suburb is the perfect base for your time in Nepal. Meals: Bed and Breakfast

Day 2 :

Boudhanath and Pashupatinath Day Tour: Exploring Kathmandu's Spiritual Heart

The Boudhanath and Pashupatinath Day Tour is a journey into the spiritual heart of Kathmandu, Nepal's capital city. This cultural and religious adventure takes you to two of the most sacred and revered sites in Nepal, offering a profound and enriching experience.

Boudhanath: The Stupa of Compassion

Your day begins with a visit to Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you approach the stupa, you'll be captivated by its massive dome and the watchful eyes of the all-seeing Buddha painted on its pinnacle. The stupa is a center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal and a hub of spiritual activity.

Highlights:

1. Circumambulation: Join the devout pilgrims as they perform the kora (circumambulation) around the stupa. Walk clockwise, turning prayer wheels, and spin prayer flags to offer your prayers and good wishes.

2. Boudhanath Monasteries: Explore the monasteries surrounding the stupa, where you can witness Buddhist monks and nuns in their daily rituals. Some monasteries may allow you to participate in meditation sessions.

3. Shopping: The area around Boudhanath is renowned for Tibetan handicrafts, thangka paintings, prayer beads, and other Buddhist artifacts. Take some time to shop for souvenirs and support local artisans.

4. Tea Houses: Enjoy a traditional Nepali or Tibetan meal at one of the cozy tea houses with rooftop views of the stupa. It's a great place to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Pashupatinath: The Abode of Lord Shiva

In the afternoon, your tour takes you to the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world. The temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts thousands of devotees and pilgrims every day.

Highlights:

1. Pashupatinath Temple: Explore the main temple area and its intricate pagoda-style architecture. While non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple, you can observe the rituals and ceremonies from outside.

2. Aryaghat: Witness the sacred cremation ghats along the Bagmati River, where Hindus perform the last rites of their loved ones. The ritualistic ceremonies provide insight into Hindu funeral traditions.

3. Sadhus (Holy Men): Encounter and engage in conversations with the colorful and ascetic Sadhus, who are devoted to Lord Shiva. They often welcome visitors and may share stories about their spiritual journey.

4. Surrounding Temples and Monuments: Explore the various temples, shrines, and ancient sculptures within the Pashupatinath complex, each with its own historical and religious significance.

Note: Please be respectful of the religious customs and traditions at both Boudhanath and Pashupatinath. Dress modestly, remove your shoes when required, and ask for permission before taking photographs, especially of people.

Conclusion:

The Boudhanath and Pashupatinath Day Tour provides a deeply immersive experience into Nepal's rich spiritual and cultural heritage. These two iconic sites offer a glimpse into the profound devotion and rituals of both Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment or simply wish to explore the vibrant tapestry of Nepali culture, this day tour is a captivating and meaningful excursion that will leave a lasting impression.

Day 3 :

Arrival in Bardia

Morning: Arrive at Nepalgunj Airport, the closest major airport to Bardia National Park.
Transfer: You will be met by a representative from your chosen tour operator or lodge and transferred to your accommodation near Bardia National Park.
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Nepali meal at your lodge.
Afternoon: After settling in, embark on a guided nature walk in the surrounding area or visit the nearby Tharu village to learn about the local culture and lifestyle.
Dinner: Savor a delicious dinner at the lodge's restaurant.

Day 4 :

Full-Day Jungle Safari

Breakfast: Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for a full day of jungle exploration.
Jungle Safari: Head into Bardia National Park with an experienced naturalist guide for a full-day jungle safari. Explore the diverse ecosystems, rivers, and grasslands while searching for wildlife.
Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the wilderness.
Wildlife Encounters: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings, including one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species.
Afternoon Safari: Continue your jungle safari in the afternoon, focusing on different areas of the park.
Return: Return to your lodge in the evening.
Dinner: Relish a well-deserved dinner and share your wildlife encounters with fellow travelers.

Day 5 :

River Safari and Birdwatching

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a thrilling river safari along the pristine Geruwa River. This is an excellent opportunity to spot aquatic wildlife, including crocodiles and freshwater dolphins.
Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch on the riverbank.
Birdwatching: Spend the afternoon engaged in birdwatching. Bardia National Park is a birding paradise, with over 400 species of birds.
Dinner: Return to your lodge for a scrumptious dinner.

Day 6 :

Elephant Safari and Nature Walk

Elephant Safari: Begin your day with an elephant safari, a unique way to explore the park's terrain and spot wildlife from a higher vantage point.
Breakfast: Return to the lodge for breakfast.
Nature Walk: After breakfast, take a nature walk with your guide. Explore the diverse flora and fauna, and learn about the park's conservation efforts.
Tharu Cultural Program: In the evening, attend a Tharu cultural program, featuring traditional dance and music.
Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at the lodge.

Day 7 :

Departure from Bardia

Check out of your accommodation and transfer to Nepalgunj Airport for your onward journey or additional travel plans.

Day 8 :

Farewell friend and departure/Fly back home:

Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! A Real Journey Nepal representative will drop us off at the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. On our way to home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Cost Includes

Park Entry Permits: The package typically includes permits to Bardia National Park, allowing you to access the park's protected areas.
Accommodations: Accommodations within or near Bardia National Park are generally included. These may range from basic lodges to more comfortable jungle resorts, depending on the package type.
Meals: Most packages offer full board, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner during your stay in Bardia. Meals are often served at the accommodation.
Jungle Activities: The primary highlight of the package is a variety of jungle activities, which may include:
Jungle Safari: Guided jeep or elephant safaris to explore the park's wildlife.
Nature Walks: Guided walks with experienced naturalists to observe flora and fauna.
Bird Watching: Birdwatching excursions with knowledgeable guides.
Canoeing: Canoe trips on the Karnali River to spot aquatic wildlife.
Tharu Village Visit: Cultural visits to nearby Tharu villages to learn about the indigenous culture and lifestyle.
Wildlife Conservation Fees: The package often covers conservation fees that contribute to the protection and preservation of Bardia National Park.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and experienced naturalist guides to accompany you during jungle activities, enhancing your wildlife spotting experience.
Transportation: The package may include transportation to and from Nepalgunj Airport (the nearest airport) to the park, as well as transfers within Bardia.

Cost Excludes

International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal, as well as any associated expenses such as visa fees, is typically not included in the jungle safari package.
Personal Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance, which covers aspects like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and evacuation, is generally not provided and should be arranged independently.
Optional Activities: Some activities, such as tiger tracking or rafting (if available), may not be included in the base package and may incur additional charges.
Personal Expenses: Expenses for items such as alcoholic beverages, extra snacks, souvenirs, laundry, and additional meals outside of the package in Nepalgunj or other locations are not included.
Tips and Gratuities: Tipping guides, naturalists, and lodge staff is customary but typically not included in the package cost. It's advisable to budget for tips separately.
Medical Services: Costs associated with medical services or medications needed due to illness or injury are not included in the package. Travelers should have adequate medical insurance.
Additional Nights: If you wish to extend your stay in Bardia or in Nepalgunj before or after the safari, the cost of additional nights at accommodations is generally not included.
Airport Taxes: Any applicable airport taxes or fees are typically not covered in the package.
Before booking a Bardia Jungle Safari tour package, it's essential to review the specific inclusions and exclusions with the travel agency to ensure you have a clear understanding of what is covered and what additional costs you may need to budget for during your wildlife adventure in Bardia National Park.