How to Plan Your Bardia National Park Safari in Kathmandu

If you’re planning a trip to Nepal, consider adding a safari experience to your itinerary. Bardia National Park in the mid-western region of Nepal is an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Established in 1988, this park covers an area of 968 sq km and is home to 53 mammal species, 642 fauna species, 12 species of fish, and 407 bird species. The highlight of this park is the Bengal Tiger, which you can spot if you’re lucky. If you’re interested in visiting Bardia National Park, here is a step-by-step guide on how to plan your safari:

Experience

The safari is a six to seven days trip in the territory of Bardia National Park. You will have the opportunity to explore the park on foot, by jeep, and canoe. You’ll also have a chance to interact with the local Tharu community and learn about their culture.

Highlights

– Walking safari and jeep safari – Canoe ride in Karnali River – Tharu village tour – Elephant ride (optional) – Birdwatching – Spotting Bengal Tiger

Day 1: Arrival

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, one of the company’s representatives will welcome you and explain the itinerary. Then, you’ll be escorted to the hotel on a private vehicle. In the evening, you’ll visit Pashupatinath Temple and Bouddhanath Stupa.

Day 2: Fly to Nepalganj

After breakfast, as per the flight schedule, you’ll fly to Nepalgunj. After an hour, you’ll arrive at the Nepalgunj airport, and then you’ll drive for approximately two hours and reach Thakurdwar, which is the main village of Bardia National Park. After arriving at the hotel in the evening, you’ll explore the Tharu lifestyle and culture.

Day 3: Walking Safari and Jeep Safari

After breakfast, the company’s representative will take you for a walk around the Karnali riverbed. You’ll spend approximately three hours observing different species of birds and small animals. Then, you’ll return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll take a jeep safari around the park, exploring different habitats and increasing your chances of spotting a Bengal Tiger.

Day 4: Explore the Park

After breakfast, you’ll take a tour of the park on foot. This is an excellent opportunity to get up close with nature and observe animals in their natural habitat. You’ll walk through grasslands, riverine forests, and sal forests. After lunch at the hotel, you’ll take a canoe ride in the Karnali River, where you’ll have a chance to spot freshwater dolphins.

Day 5: Elephant Ride (Optional) and Village Tour

After breakfast, you’ll have an optional elephant ride into the park. This is an excellent opportunity to observe animals from a safe distance. After lunch, you’ll take a horse-cart ride to a nearby Tharu village, where you’ll learn about their culture and lifestyle.

Day 6: Bird Watching and Departure

After breakfast, you’ll go birdwatching in the park. Bardia National Park is an excellent destination for bird enthusiasts, and if you’re lucky, you might spot the endangered Bengal florican. After lunch at the hotel, the company’s representative will escort you back to Nepalgunj Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu.

Book Your Tour Now

A safari in Bardia National Park is an excellent opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat and interact with the local Tharu community. If you’re planning a trip to Nepal, consider adding this safari to your itinerary. To book the tour, click on this link book the tour here.

FAQ About Kathmandu

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and is known for its rich culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. If you’re planning a trip to Kathmandu, you may have many questions in mind. In this FAQ section, we’ll answer some of the most common questions that travelers have about Kathmandu.

What is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

The best time to visit Kathmandu is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and trekking. However, if you’re traveling to Kathmandu for adventure sports like mountaineering, then the best time to visit is from April to May and from September to November.

What is the local language spoken in Kathmandu?

The official language spoken in Kathmandu is Nepali. However, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. You can also hire a guide or a translator to help you navigate the city and communicate with the locals.

What are some famous tourist attractions in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is a city steeped in history and culture and offers many tourist attractions. Some of the most famous tourist spots in Kathmandu are:

• Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as Monkey Temple)
• Boudhanath Stupa
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Durbar Square
• Kathmandu Valley
• Garden of Dreams
• Thamel (shopping and nightlife district)

What is the currency used in Kathmandu?

The currency used in Kathmandu and Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange booths, or ATMs. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially in smaller towns and villages.

What is the cuisine like in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu offers a wide range of cuisine, from traditional Nepali dishes to international cuisine. Some popular Nepali dishes are momos (dumplings), dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), and chicken or lamb curries. You can find restaurants serving Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Italian, and other international cuisine in Kathmandu.

Do I need a visa to visit Kathmandu?

Yes, all foreign nationals, except Indian citizens, need a visa to enter Nepal. You can obtain a visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or apply for a visa at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country.

What is the transportation system like in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has a public transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and rickshaws. However, the traffic in Kathmandu can be chaotic, and the roads are narrow and crowded, so it’s not a very efficient way to get around the city. Hiring a private car or a motorcycle is a better option if you’re traveling with a group or want to explore the city on your own.

What is the dress code in Kathmandu?

Nepal is a conservative country, so it’s always a good idea to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and temples. Women should avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, and low-cut dresses. It’s also best to remove your shoes before entering temples and shrines.

What are some safety tips for travelers in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is generally a safe city for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take some precautions. Here are some safety tips for travelers:

• Avoid carrying large sums of cash, expensive jewelry, or valuable items.
• Be wary of pickpockets and scammers in tourist areas.
• Use a taxi or a private car at night, especially if you’re traveling alone.
• Respect the local culture and traditions.
• Travel with a guide or a group, especially if you’re trekking or mountaineering.

Book Your Tour Now

Kathmandu is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and adventure. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples, trekking the Himalayas, or trying the local cuisine, Kathmandu has something for everyone. With proper planning and precautions, you can have a safe and memorable experience in Kathmandu.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a hub of culture, history, and adventure. Its streets are filled with ancient temples, bustling markets, and street vendors selling delicious local food. It’s a city that offers something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant city, here are some tips on how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Kathmandu.

1. Visit the Temples

Kathmandu is known as the city of temples, and for good reason. There are more than 2,000 temples and shrines in and around the city, each with its own unique history and architecture. Some of the most popular and must-visit temples in Kathmandu are:

Swayambhunath

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Buddhist shrines in Nepal. Located on a hilltop, it offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Pashupatinath

Pashupatinath is one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple, but you can still walk around the temple premises and witness the different rituals being performed.

Boudhanath

Boudhanath is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the largest stupas in the world. It’s a holy site for Tibetan Buddhists and attracts visitors from all over the world.

2. Explore the Markets

Kathmandu is known for its markets, and they offer a great shopping experience for tourists. Some of the most popular markets are:

Asan Market

Asan Market is the oldest market in Kathmandu and is a must-visit for anyone interested in local food and spices. You’ll find a variety of spices, fruits, vegetables, and traditional Nepali snacks.

Thamel

Thamel is a popular tourist hub and is known for its shops, restaurants, and bars. You’ll find everything from trekking gear to handicrafts here.

Durbar Square

Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in the heart of Kathmandu. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts.

3. Eat Local Food

Kathmandu offers a wide variety of local food, and trying different dishes is a must-do for any tourist. Some of the most popular local dishes are:

Momo

Momo is a type of dumpling stuffed with meat or vegetables and served with a spicy dipping sauce. It’s a popular snack and is available at most local restaurants.

Dal Bhat

Dal Bhat is a traditional Nepali meal consisting of rice, lentil soup, and a variety of side dishes. It’s a staple food in Nepal and is served in most restaurants.

Chatamari

Chatamari is a traditional Newari dish, which is a kind of rice crepe topped with minced meat, eggs, and vegetables.

4. Adventure Activities

Kathmandu and its surrounding areas offer a variety of adventure activities for tourists. Some of the most popular activities are:

Trekking

Nepal is famous for its trekking trails, and there are many treks that start from Kathmandu. The most popular ones are the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Bungee Jumping

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you can try bungee jumping in Kathmandu. The bungee jump site is located close to the Nepal-Tibet border and offers a breathtaking view of the Bhote Koshi River.

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is another popular adventure activity in Kathmandu, and there are many trails that you can explore. The most popular trails are the Kathmandu Valley Rim and the Shivapuri National Park.

5. Day Trips

Kathmandu is surrounded by many scenic towns and villages that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular day trips from Kathmandu are:

Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its ancient temples, palaces, and courtyards.

Patan

Patan is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and art.

Nagarkot

Nagarkot is a popular hill station located on the outskirts of Kathmandu. It offers spectacular views of the Himalayas and is a great place to watch the sunrise and sunset.

Book Your Tour Now

Kathmandu is a city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and adventure. It’s a city that is bustling with life, and there’s never a dull moment. By visiting the temples, exploring the markets, trying local food, indulging in adventure activities, and taking day trips, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Kathmandu. Don’t forget to bring your camera along, as there are many photo opportunities that you won’t want to miss.