Currently, it is estimated that there are more than 34 rhinos in Bardia National Park. The translocation of Chitwan rhinos to Bardia National Park began in 1986, with 58 individuals placed in the park. In 2015, the rhino population increased to 29 specimens. One-horned rhinos are endangered. In 2022, there were only about 3700 individuals distributed between India and Nepal. They are herbivores and their diet consists of grass, leaves, aquatic plants, and fruits. A male can measure up to 380 cm (about 12.5 ft) and weigh 3000 kg (about 6613 lb).
April to May is the best time to see rhinos, because it is too much hot and they go to the river to drink water and swim. They can stay in the water for several hours at a time to protect themselves from the heat.
The best activity to see this species is through the full day jungle walks, as there is a long stop at a tower near the river, where the people wait for the rhinos, and this is the best place to see them. It is a place with lots of vegetation and the river, where on hot days they like to eat fresh grass and refresh in the river.
The experience of seeing rhinos at Bardia is magical. Not because it is difficult, because if you have patience and a few days available it is possible, but because they are in their wild habitat, in the middle of silence where only the sounds of birds and the river can be heard.
Activity Packages
Other Wildlife Features
Elephants
There are more than 100 Asiatic elephants in Bardia National Park. They are the largest of all mammals in Nepal, weighing about 5000 kg. They are an animal very sociable, which normally walks in a herd and with an average life expectancy similar to that of humans.
Crocodiles
The Karnali river in Bardia National Park is home to the endangered gharial crocodile and mugger crocodile.
Birdlife
There are 407 species of birds, including the Bengal florican, white vulture, peacock, and bar-headed geese, which are symbols of the park. Lesser florican, silver-eared mesia, hornbills, eagles, peacocks, bee-eaters, water birds and crane Sarus have also been sighted.