Tiger Tracking Trip in Bardiya – 7 Days

Kathmandu Valley has the highest concentration of World Heritage Sites, and it’s only fitting not to miss them while you’re staying in the valley itself. A great beginning to an already exciting itinerary, you can visit plenty of places in this capital city full of heritage. You will visit the Swayambhunath Stupa (aka “Monkey Temple”) in the morning. Later, have a sumptuous lunch at a restaurant in Kathmandu Durbar Square — one of the three mediaeval Durbar Squares inside the Valley. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the temple of Pashupatinath, belonging to Lord Shiva, where you can soak in the atmosphere and watch the world go by from a quiet bench above the bank of Bagmati. Later in the afternoon you will circumnavigate the renowned Stupa of Bauddhanath — probably the largest stupa in the world. Feel free to customise a day-trip from a number of choices.

You will begin early from Kathmandu headed for Bardia National Park. After breakfast, a short flight to Nepalgunj in Tarai provides beautiful views of the Himalayas. From there, the drive to Bardia will take about three hours, through lush jungles and also along the serene Babai River. Glimpses of wildlife can be had here while driving through the breathtaking landscapes. Upon arrival, you take some refreshments, catch a breath, and settle in the lodge. In the late afternoon, you will visit a nearby Tharu village, where cultural dances happen year-round. And as the sun sets over the river, the forests will wash in the hue of gold and green – and the feeling will sink in – that you have arrived in the real forest, and are ready for a memorable trip full of adventure and discovery.

Begin the day with birds chirping and the gentle sounds of nature. Starting with a delightful breakfast in the resort, you will embark on a scenic safari along the wide river of Karnali.  Along with the crocodiles, you might even spot some freshwater dolphins here, yes, dolphins. Contrary to popular belief, dolphins are not only found in the open ocean but also in tributaries and larger rivers, such as the expansive Karnali. The sight of “ghadiyal” crocodiles basking on the banks will certainly elevate the experience. The playful deers, flight of exotic birds, and the overall ambience will create a truly immersive experience for nature lovers. After lunch, you will take a jeep safari, go on the footsteps of the tiger and see the one-horned rhinoceros. The frequent sights of vibrant birds will certainly add to the experience; and later when you return to the resort for the night, you will reflect on the magnificent beauty and thrill of nature.

Start with an early breakfast and set off into the forests of Bardia. As your jeep rumbles through the dense jungle in the fresh morning air, an anticipation keeps building. Heed to your guide you will tell you different ways of searching for a tiger in its natural habitat. As elusive as it is, the Royal Bengal Tiger can be traced through several proven signs — paw prints, scratch marks, smell, and even their waste. The thrill of the search intensifies each hour as you move quietly through the thickets. On the side, you will come close to leopards and rhinos and even a leopard. As you will have your lunch in a serene spot beside the river, views of untamed landscape will entice you. And on a lucky day, you will — just like that — have the majestic sight of a tiger as it emerges from the grasses for a drink. You will begin your return journey as the day comes to an end, but the roaring bonfire will give a second start to the day — with shared stores and sumptuous dinner.

Spending a few days in Bardia National Park will renew your vigour. As you begin your journey back to Kathmandu, you will first take a scenic drive to Nepalgunj airport where rich greenery and vast fields will give way to busy towns and villages. From the airport, you will take a short flight back to Kathmandu — into the bustle and grind of the traffic. Once here, you will catch a breather, explore the evening and have dinner in one of countless restaurants of Thamel. 

After breakfast or depending upon your flight schedule we will transfer you to the airport. As your plane takes off from the runway in Kathmandu, your journey to Nepal comes to an end for this time — until you decide to visit again for some memorable and soul-searching trip in the Himalayas.