If you're planning a short but memorable escape into nature, spending just 24 hours in Bardia National Park can be one of the most rewarding experiences during your Nepal wildlife tour. Located in the remote western Terai region, Bardia is Nepal’s largest and least disturbed national park, offering visitors a unique blend of wildlife adventure and cultural exploration in a single day.
Your journey begins early in the morning, typically around 6:30 AM, with a guided jungle walk. This is one of the most iconic and immersive ways to experience Bardia. Accompanied by experienced local naturalists, you’ll quietly explore sal forests, grasslands, and riverbanks. Jungle walks here are rare in South Asia and allow you to track wildlife on foot — spotting tiger paw prints in the soil, listening to the warning call of a barking deer, and if you’re lucky, observing a one-horned rhinoceros or even a Royal Bengal tiger in its natural habitat. The thrill of encountering wildlife up close in such a peaceful, natural setting is unlike anything else.
After the walk, you return to your eco-lodge or jungle resort for breakfast. Many of the lodges in Bardia focus on sustainability and offer traditional Nepali meals, often with local Tharu influences. A typical breakfast might include beaten rice, fresh curd, chapatis, and herbal tea — nourishing and ideal before you head out again.
Around mid-morning, you’ll set out on a jeep safari into the park’s core areas. Jeep safaris cover more distance than walks, allowing greater chances to encounter rare and wide-ranging species. The drive takes you through various habitats, and you may see elephants, swamp deer, wild boars, sloth bears, and even crocodiles sunning by the river. The elusive tiger remains the highlight for many visitors, and Bardia is considered one of the best places in Asia to see one in the wild.
By early afternoon, after lunch and a short rest, you’ll head toward the Karnali River or the Babai Valley for birdwatching. Bardia is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 400 recorded species. You might see kingfishers darting over the water, great hornbills gliding through the trees, or the endangered Bengal florican quietly walking the grasslands. This part of the day is calmer, offering time to absorb the serenity of nature and appreciate the park’s rich biodiversity.
Later in the afternoon, typically around 4:30 PM, you’ll visit a nearby Tharu village. The Tharu people are the indigenous inhabitants of the Terai, and their culture is deeply connected to the forest. A guided walk through the village provides insight into their traditional mud homes, hand-made tools, and unique customs. You might also witness a Tharu stick dance or enjoy snacks made from local ingredients. This visit adds a cultural layer to your wildlife experience and supports the local community through responsible tourism.
As the sun begins to set, return to the banks of the Karnali River to watch the sunset. The skies turn golden and crimson, reflecting off the water, while birds return to their nests and jungle sounds begin to shift into night mode. It’s a tranquil, soul-stirring end to a thrilling day.
Back at your lodge by evening, you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner, often followed by a wildlife documentary or a conversation with the guide about the day’s sightings. Many lodges encourage storytelling and knowledge sharing, making it a relaxing and reflective part of your adventure. The day ends with a restful night’s sleep in your eco-lodge, surrounded by jungle sounds under the clear Terai sky.
Though one day may seem short, 24 hours in Bardia National Park offers an incredibly rich and rewarding experience. With its blend of thrilling safaris, peaceful birdwatching, cultural discovery, and genuine wilderness, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Nepal wildlife tour. Whether you're a nature lover, photographer, or adventurer, Bardia has something unforgettable to offer — even in just a day.
