About Thakurdwara

Overview

Thakurdwara is a village in Bardiya district of western Nepal and the headquarters and main entry to Bardiya National Park. Bardiya covers 968 sq km of sal forest, grassland and riverine land along the Karnali and Babai rivers, and is the largest undisturbed park in Nepal's Terai. Tigers, rhinos, elephants, swamp deer and Gangetic dolphins are found here, and lodges along the park edge arrange jeep safaris, walks and river trips with licensed guides.

Best Time to Visit Thakurdwara

Plan your trip around the right season

Oct-NovBest Window

Why visit

Clear skies after the monsoon and the park reopens fully.

Keep in mind

Tall grass can hide animals early in the season.

How to Reach Thakurdwara

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Nepalgunj airport is about 95 km away, roughly 2.5 to 3 hours by road, with flights from Kathmandu. From India, the Rupaidiha and Nepalgunj border crossing is the closest. Indian citizens need a passport or voter ID for Nepal.

Getting Around Thakurdwara

Local transport and practical tips

Local transport

Lodges arrange jeep safaris, walks and transfers. Bicycles are handy in the village.

Best Areas to Stay in Thakurdwara

Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip

Thakurdwara

Most visitors

Jungle lodges near the park headquarters.

Nepalgunj

Late arrivals and onward travel

City hotels near the airport and border.