Welcome back, fellow wildlife enthusiasts! In the previous blog, Wildlife Safari in Nepal, we ventured into some of the renowned places of Nepal to explore on wildlife safari and marveled at the incredible creatures which roam in those lands. In this continuation, we will cover some other wildlife reserves and uncover the gems they hold. Let’s get into it.
Bardia National Park
All the travel enthusiasts, let’s have a look at the hidden gem in Nepal that you absolutely have to visit – Bardia National Park. Located on the edge of Terai region, the park is the largest national park of Nepal. Picture this in your head: a sprawling 968 kilometers of breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity in the far-west just waiting to be explored.
So, what makes Bardia National Park so special?
Well, the incredible flora and fauna that call this place home! From lush Sal forests to expansive grasslands and savannahs, this place has it all. It’s like stepping into a wildlife paradise where you see more than your eyes meet. The national park is a home to one of the endangered species, the ferocious Bengal Tigers. Spotting one of these beauties will leave you in awe. But that’s not all- Bardia is a home to Asian Elephants and the famous one-horned rhinoceroses. Can you imagine getting up close with these magnificent creatures? It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Bardia National Park boasts an impressive 53 species of mammals, over 400 species of birds, and 23 species of reptiles and amphibians. There are a staggering 839 species of flora and 642 species of fauna in this park. That’s like stepping into a real-life nature encyclopedia!
Well, the count doesn’t stop here. Imagine the thrill of witnessing herds of five different species of deer (namely Chital or Spotted Deer, Hog Deer, Sambhar Deer, Swamp Deer/Barasingha Deer and Barking Deer), playful langur monkeys swinging through the trees, and even rare and endangered species like the sloth bear. The view of blue bulls, wild boars, rhesus monkeys, civets, hyenas, rhesus macaque, jackal wild dogs, otters, mongoose, black buck and many other rare and endangered species is very pleasant to see.
The park is a haven for bird watchers too, with exotic birds fluttering about, including the Bengal florican and the silver-eared mesia. Talk about a bird enthusiasts’ and naturalists’ paradise!
That’s why a visit to Bardia National Park is not complete without going on a safari adventure. You can enjoy thrilling activities like bird watching, jungle walks, and even village tours to get a taste of the local culture. And if you’re up for some adrenaline-pumping action, why not try white-water rafting on the Karnali River? It’s an opportunity to spot river dolphins, and a whole array of fish.
So, the autumn, winter, or early summer are your golden ticket. The weather is warm and dry, making it the perfect time to explore this slice of paradise.
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at the magnificent Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve in Nepal!
Spanning 176 sq km in Nepal’s eastern Terai region, Koshi Tappu is nestled within the protective embankments of the Koshi Barrage. To reach this haven of biodiversity, you can embark on a scenic 10-hour, 450 km drive from Kathmandu along the Mahendra Highway. If you prefer a quicker journey, you can hop on a flight to Biratnagar and continue with a delightful 50 km road trip.
The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve in Nepal is the exclusive home to the endangered wild water buffalo species. This reserve stands as the sole habitat where these magnificent creatures can be found. The wildlife reserve is an absolute paradise for bird lovers, with its enchanting blend of rivers, wetlands, and paddies. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible variety of bird species that call this beautiful place their habitat. Imagine being surrounded by over 400 different bird species, including elegant storks, graceful ducks, regal eagles, and colorful kingfishers. Koshi Tappu is a bird lover’s dream come true to witness the mesmerizing avian wonders up close.
But Koshi Tappu is not just about birds and wild buffaloes. This sanctuary is also a vital habitat for a diverse range of wildlife like the sarus crane, along with ducks, ibis, storks, egrets, and herons. You might even spot endangered species like the swamp partridge and Bengal floricans. And don’t forget about the incredible inhabitants of the reserve like blue cows, deer, Gangetic dolphins, and gharial crocodiles finding solace in the serene land and waters of the Koshi region.
As you explore via safari in the reserve, you’ll witness a remarkable mix of riverine forests, marshy areas, and vast grasslands. The grasslands dominate the landscape and provide valuable resources for local villagers, who collect grass for traditional thatched roofs. The extensive wetlands also host an astonishing array of 514 plant species, including sugar cane, kapok, reed, eelgrass, and lotus. If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to know that fishing is permitted in the reserve as well.
To make the most of your visit, plan your trip between October and March, when migratory birds grace the reserve with their presence. Reach Koshi Tappu by air, private vehicle, or jeep—whatever suits your travel style. There are various hotels and resorts available, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay during your extraordinary wildlife adventure.
Besides these, there are other places as well that offer a wide range of choices for exploring Nepal’s wildlife and wonders. Embark on an incredible journey with Wild Yak Expeditions as we traverse the national parks and wildlife reserves, where adventure meets untamed wilderness and breathtaking biodiversity. Experience the thrill of a jungle safari, encounter diverse creatures, and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Nepal’s natural wonders. Get ready for an extraordinary wildlife extravaganza that will leave you with memories to cherish forever.