The Team behind the project:
Narayan Aryal: Narayan worked in wildlife lodges in both Chitwan and Bardia National Parks in the 1990s, including as a guide and lodge manager. He now runs a trekking agency in Kathmandu and manages the arrangements for our visitors to get to and from Bardia as well as throughout the rest of Nepal.
Madhu Tharu: Madhu has lived in Thakurdwara all his life and has been a vital part of the team since the lodge's very inception. First starting as a gardener and caretaker, over the years Madhu has taken on more responsibilities and learned more and more about the nature and wildlife in and around the park. He now manages the lodge and is our chief guide, and his friendly smile and calm presence are a vital part of the experience of staying with us in Bardia.
Ralph, Martin & Ray: Ray, Ralph and Martin first met Narayan in Bardia while driving an overland expedition from the UK to Kathmandu in 1999. After several years of running these overland expeditions and shorter holidays for tourists, Ray emigrated to New Zealand where he lives now and is our representative there. Ralph continues to run a tour operator in the UK (Encounters Travel) and provides our representation there, as well as packages covering the whole of Nepal that take in Bardia Eco Lodge.