Bardia: Exploring the Wilderness and Culture of Western Nepal

Plan your trip to Bardia and experience the magic of this hidden gem of Nepal.

11, Apr 2023 | nepaltraveller.com

Bardia is a place of immense natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness and culture of western Nepal and should be on every traveler's itinerary

Nepal is a country rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. While popular tourist destinations like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Everest base camp get most of the attention, there are many other hidden gems in Nepal waiting to be explored. One such place is Bardia, located in the western part of the country.

Bardia is a district in the Bheri Zone of western Nepal. It covers an area of 2,025 square kilometers and is home to the Bardia National Park. The park is the largest and least explored of Nepal's national parks and is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature lovers.

The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephants, and many species of birds. Visitors can explore the park on foot, on the elephant back, or in a jeep. There are also opportunities for river rafting and fishing in the Karnali River, which runs through the park.

Apart from the wildlife, Bardia is also home to the Tharu people, one of Nepal's indigenous groups. The Tharu people have their own unique culture and traditions, which visitors can experience through homestays and cultural tours. The Tharu village tour is an excellent opportunity to learn about their traditional way of life, including their cuisine, music, and dance.

One of the highlights of a visit to Bardia is the opportunity to stay in a jungle lodge or campsite. The lodges and campsites are located on the outskirts of the park and offer comfortable accommodation in a beautiful setting. Visitors can enjoy the sounds of the jungle at night, including the roar of the tigers and the trumpeting of the elephants.

In addition to the Bardia National Park, there are other places of interest in the Bardia district. The Karnali River, which flows through the park, offers excellent opportunities for fishing and river rafting. The river is home to the famous mahseer fish, which can weigh up to 100 pounds. River rafting on the Karnali is a thrilling experience, as the river has some of the most challenging rapids in Nepal.

Another must-see attraction in Bardia is the Kailash Bikas Bank, a community-led development initiative that aims to improve the living standards of the local communities through sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism. Visitors can take a tour of the project and learn about the bank's initiatives to promote sustainable development in the area.

For those interested in history, there are several ancient sites in the area, including the Dalla Chhatri, a memorial built in memory of a Tharu king, and the Badhaiya Tal, a lake that is believed to be the site of a historic battle.

Bardia is also home to the Bardiya Museum, which showcases the history, culture, and traditions of the Tharu people. The museum has a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide insight into the life of the Tharu people. This is an excellent place to relax and unwind. The area is peaceful and tranquil, and visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature without the crowds of tourists that can be found in other parts of Nepal.

In conclusion, Bardia is a destination that should not be missed by anyone visiting Nepal. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the wilderness and culture of western Nepal. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or a cultural traveler, Bardia has something for everyone. So pack your bags and head out to this hidden gem of Nepal to experience its natural beauty and cultural richness.

photo credit: Tiger Encounter


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