10 Best Things to Do in Bardia National Park

Bardia National Park, located in the far western lowlands of Nepal, is one of the country’s best-kept secrets for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Less crowded than its southern counterpart, Chitwan, Bardia offers a raw, authentic jungle experience teeming with rare wildlife, traditional culture, and untouched landscapes. Here are the top 10 things to do when visiting Bardia National Park.

1. Spot a Tiger in the Wild

Bardia is one of the best places in Asia to see the elusive Royal Bengal tiger in its natural habitat. With a rising population and fewer tourists, your chances of spotting one are higher here than almost anywhere else in Nepal. Explore deep into the park’s sal forests and riverine grasslands with an expert local guide. Even if you don’t see a tiger, you’ll likely encounter rhinos, wild elephants, spotted deer, crocodiles, and langurs. The thrill of walking through tiger territory or watching silently from a riverbank is unmatched.

2. Take a Full-Day Tiger Tracking Tour

For those who want to increase their chances of a tiger sighting and learn more about these majestic predators, a full-day tiger tracking tour is highly recommended. Guided by experienced naturalists, this immersive experience involves following fresh pugmarks, listening for alarm calls, and staking out watering holes where tigers often come to drink. It’s not just about seeing the tiger—it’s about understanding its behavior and habitat.

3. Stay in a Jungle Treehouse (Machhan)

Imagine falling asleep high above the forest floor, lulled by the sounds of crickets, rustling leaves, and distant animal calls. Spending a night in a traditional Machhan or treehouse in the community forest is a highlight of any Bardia trip. It’s an ideal way to connect with nature and offers chances to spot wildlife from above—especially during dusk and dawn. Wake up to birdsong and sunrise over the jungle canopy.

4. Explore Tharu Villages and Stay in a Community Homestay

Bardia is home to the Danguara Tharu, an indigenous ethnic group with rich traditions and deep ties to the land. Staying with a Tharu family in a community-run homestay allows you to immerse yourself in daily life—cook traditional meals, learn farming techniques, and join in on evening storytelling. Their homes, made of mud and bamboo, are charming and eco-friendly. It’s a heartwarming cultural exchange and a step into a slower, more grounded way of life.

5. Join a Tharu Cultural Dance Program

After a day of jungle adventures, unwind with an evening of cultural celebration. Tharu dance performances feature rhythmic drum beats, colorful costumes, and graceful stick dances that depict stories of love, harvest, and bravery. Guests are often invited to join in, making it a fun and participatory experience. These programs are more than entertainment—they’re a vital expression of identity and pride for the Tharu community.

6. Full-Day Jungle Walk in Bardia National Park

A guided jungle walk is a must for those who want an up-close and personal experience with Bardia’s wilderness. Trekking through dense forests, open meadows, and riverside trails allows you to move silently and increases the chances of surprising wildlife. You’ll pause at watchtowers and watering holes where animals gather. The walk covers 15 to 20 kilometers, so a good fitness level and a spirit of adventure are essential.

7. Birdwatching in the Shiva Community Forest

Bardia is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 400 species. The Shiva Community Forest, located near the park, is one of the best places to observe a variety of birds such as black ibis, hornbills, kingfishers, egrets, and bee-eaters. Local guides, who know the terrain intimately, can lead you to the best lookout points. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, the vibrant colors and songs of Bardia’s birds will captivate you.

8. Fishing in the Babai Valley

The Babai Valley is one of Bardia’s most scenic and serene areas, less visited than the central parts of the park. Here, you can try traditional fishing techniques in the clear, cool waters of the Babai River while soaking in views of hills, forests, and sandy beaches. It’s not only a peaceful retreat but also a chance to connect with nature in a traditional way. Local guides will show you how to fish like the locals do.

9. Camping in the Jungle

For the adventurous, camping in the heart of the jungle offers an unforgettable experience. Set up your tent near the river or within a designated forest area, and spend the night under a canopy of stars. With proper safety and guides, this activity lets you enjoy campfire meals, stargazing, and nocturnal jungle sounds. It’s a raw and thrilling way to feel one with the wilderness.

10. Rafting and Canoeing on the Karnali River

The mighty Karnali River, Nepal’s longest, flows through Bardia and provides a vital lifeline for its wildlife. A rafting or canoeing trip along its waters allows you to see crocodiles sunbathing, birds nesting on the banks, and even the rare Gangetic dolphin surfacing in the deep pools. Some tours combine rafting with wildlife spotting and cultural stops, making it a well-rounded, soft-adventure activity ideal for all levels.

Bonus Tip: Visit the Breeding Centers

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about Nepal’s conservation efforts by visiting the Elephant and Gharial Breeding Centers near the park. These facilities offer insights into how endangered species are nurtured and reintroduced to the wild. Watching young elephants or rare crocodiles up close adds an educational dimension to your trip.

Final Thoughts

Whether you come for the thrill of tracking a tiger, the peace of fishing by a jungle river, or the joy of connecting with local culture, Bardia National Park promises rich and diverse experiences. It’s Nepal at its most wild and welcoming—perfect for those who crave something off the beaten path, yet deeply authentic.