Both Chitwan and Bardia National Parks offer amazing jungle safaris in Nepal – but they feel quite different. One is easier to reach and more developed, the other is wilder and usually quieter.
This simple guide compares Chitwan and Bardia so you can decide which safari is better for your time, budget and travel style. At the end, we also suggest a “third option” if you’re mainly interested in birds.
1. Location & Travel Time
Chitwan National Park
- Approx. 5–6 hours by tourist bus from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Short domestic flight to Bharatpur + 30–40 min drive to Sauraha.
- Very good if you have limited days and want easy connections.
Bardia National Park
- Longer journey: typically a domestic flight to Nepalgunj + 2–3 hour drive.
- Overland travel from Kathmandu or Pokhara takes more time.
- Best if you have a few extra days and want a more remote feel.
If your schedule is tight, starting with Chitwan National Park Safari is usually more practical.
2. Wildlife Viewing
Both parks are home to one-horned rhinos, deer, crocodiles, many bird species and – with luck – tigers. The experience, however, is slightly different:
Chitwan
- Very good chances to see one-horned rhinos.
- Elephant, jeep and canoe safaris available.
- Birdlife along the rivers is excellent year-round.
Bardia
- Fewer visitors and a more “wild” atmosphere.
- Known for good tiger and other big wildlife sightings when conditions are right.
- More walking and full-day jeep safaris deep inside the park.
If your priority is higher comfort and easy rhino sightings, Chitwan is ideal. If you dream of a quieter, wilder safari, look at our Bardia National Park Safari.
3. Atmosphere & Crowd Level
- Chitwan: More developed, more lodges and restaurants, more travellers. Good for families and first-timers.
- Bardia: Fewer lodges, more peaceful village surroundings, and usually fewer jeeps inside the park.
4. Budget & Comfort
Both parks offer basic to nice mid-range lodges.
- Chitwan: Slightly more choice at every budget level, easier to combine with other parts of Nepal.
- Bardia: Transport costs can be higher because of distance, but once there, daily expenses are similar.
5. Who Should Choose Which?
- Choose Chitwan if: You want easy access, only have 2–3 spare days, or are travelling with children and want more accommodation and activity options.
- Choose Bardia if: You don’t mind travelling a bit further, prefer quieter parks and are keen on a more “expedition” feeling.
Bonus: Best Option for Birdwatchers
If your main interest is birds, consider our Koshi Tappu Birdwatching Tour. This wetland area in eastern Nepal is one of the country’s best spots for water birds and migratory species.
Still not sure which park is right for you? Send us a quick message with your dates and interests, and we’ll help you choose between Chitwan, Bardia or another wildlife destination.
