Bardia National Park surrounds an area of 968 sq km, first gazetted in 1976 and further extended in 1984.It is situated in the mid far-western Terai, east of the Karnali River.(Best reached by a flight to Nepalgunj followed by a three hour jeep drive).
The park is the largest and most undisturbed wilderness area in the Terai, predominately Sal forest which covers around 70% the remainder is a balance of mixed grassland, Savanna and Riverine forest. Since farming ceased in the Babe Valley after 1500 people were resettled, the natural vegetation is regenerating making it a prime habitat for wildlife.
The park provides excellent cover for endangered animals: rhinoceros, wild elephant, tiger, swamp deer, black buck, gavial, crocodile, marsh mugger crocodile and genetic dolphin all now established.
Birdlife (over 200 resident species) includes the Bengal Florican, Lesser Florican, Silver-Eared Mesa and Saris Crane. The grassland and river habitat attracts a variety of migratory birds during certain times of the year. More than 30 different mammals reside along with many snakes and lizards The park runs an important breeding programme for the Gangetic dolphin (fresh water) the only breeding centre in Nepal.