The Far West of Nepal is one
of the least explored regions of the Himalayas. Within this region is a
seldom visited national Park which still offers challenging adventure.
Established in the 70s, Royal Bardia National Park was upgraded to National
Park status in 1988. However, it was not until 1994 that facilities existed
for independent visitors. Therefore Royal Bardia National Park remains very
much-untouched wilderness which appeals to the nature lover and naturalist.
Tharu Style Resort
Known as 'Tharu', the indigenous people of
lowland Nepal live in close harmony with nature. Depending on the forest for
building materials and medicines, and on the rivers for fish, these farmer/
fishermen still live as they have for generations. In keeping with these rural surroundings,
accommodation ranging from standard to deluxe, is built in traditional clay
and timber style with grass roofs and Tharu decoration. With a restaurant
offering set buffet and a la carte meals, Forest Hideaway provides the
perfect relaxed setting from which to explore the pristine conservation area
that is Royal Bardia National Park. Electricity has not yet reached Bardia -
kerosene lamps are used for lighting and gas for cooking. Natural solar
energy heats the water except in the cool months of January and February
when we provide refuse generated hot water and bedtime hot water bottles to
keep you snug!
Safari Activities
Offering walking, jeep and elephant-back safaris
as well as a range of cultural tours and activities, Forest Hideaway
provides the visitor with access to a natural wonderland.
·
Elephant-back safaris
·
Walking safaris
·
Educational walks for children
·
Bird Watching
·
Jeep safaris
·
Culture tours
·
Tharu dances
·
Fishing
Endangered Species
As well as dozens of more common animals and
hundreds of birds, Royal Bardia National Park is home to 19 of the 39
species legally protected in Nepal. With 8 types of ecosystems, Bardia holds
the key to the survival of many species. In fact, the World Wildlife Fund
(WWF) has identified Bardia as playing a major role in the survival of the
world tiger population.
·
royal bengal tigers
·
river dolphins
·
rhinoceros
·
pangolins
·
great pied hornbills
·
wild elephants
·
black buck antelopes
·
bengal floricans
·
gharial crocodiles
Conservation
Originally a hunting reserve, Bardia became a
wildlife conservation area in 1976 and was upgraded to National Park status
as recently as 1988. As well as providing a home for a wide range of
mammals, birds and reptiles, Royal Bardia National Park provides the ideal
environment for the study of wildlife. The WWF and the King Mahendra Trust
for Nature Conservation are both active in the Park monitoring wildlife
movement and breeding habits as well as pursuing a policy of forestry care
and educating local people on the meaning of, and need for, protected areas.
Positive Tourism
As well as adhering to the rules of nature
conservation, Forest Hideaway endeavours to pass on the positives of tourism
to the local community. Over 70% of our staff come from the surrounding
villages, a third of whom have received formal certified training since
beginning employment. Local craftsmen and builders are employed on an adhoc
basis and as many local products as possible are used in both the kitchen
and in the decoration of the resort.
Essential Facts
When to come
- the best time to visit Forest Hideaway is from October to end June.
Transport
- Forest Hideaway is 585 km south-west of Kathmandu - 12 hours by road or 1
hour flying time.
Day 01:
Arrive by bus and jeep at hotel at approx. 7 AM Tharu village/culture tour.
Day 02:
Whole day walking Safari to view and swim with Gangetic dolphins.
Day 03:
Exploration of tiger territory. Elephant back safari. Tharu Cultural program
(evening)
Day 04:
Bird watching Depart.
Optional day:
Arrive Nepalgunj by flight. Arrival and dinner at. hotel at approx. 7.00 PM.
Important:
Before you travel please check your Tour Voucher and Arrival
Information for the latest joining instructions. This will be sent to
you upon receipt of final payment.
All itineraries are subject to
change without prior notice.
