Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge
Bardia is the largest protected wilderness in Nepal's lowlands, and it sees a fraction of Chitwan's visitors. Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge sits on the park's edge, built in the mud-walled, thatched style of Tharu farmhouses, with simple, comfortable rooms and a dining area under the trees. The atmosphere is that of a working safari lodge, where conversation at dinner turns to pugmarks, alarm calls and where the tigers were seen that afternoon.
Activities are led by experienced naturalists: jeep drives through sal forest and grassland, walking safaris and long waits on the banks of rivers where tigers come to drink, and boat or rafting trips on the Karnali, home to mugger crocodiles and, rarely, the Gangetic dolphin. Tharu villages lie close by. Getting there means a one-hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and a drive of about 2.5 hours.
Why we book it
- Nepal's best odds of seeing a wild tiger
- Walking safaris and Karnali river trips
- Far fewer vehicles than Chitwan
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How do you get to Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge?
Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, about one hour, then drive about 95 km, usually 2.5 hours, to the lodge on the edge of Bardia National Park. Flights to Nepalgunj run daily but can be affected by winter fog. We usually allow four nights in Bardia so that the long journey is worth it and you have enough drives and walks to track tigers.
What is the chance of seeing a tiger in Bardia?
Better than anywhere else in Nepal, but never certain. Tigers are shy, and sightings depend on season, luck and patience. March to May, when the grass is cut and animals gather at water, gives the best odds. On a four-night stay with jeep drives, walks and river watches, many guests see a tiger or fresh signs, and almost all see rhino, deer and crocodiles.
When is the best time to visit Tiger Tops Karnali Lodge?
October to May. October to February is green and cool, with foggy mornings in December and January. March to May is hot, often above 35 °C, but the best time for tiger sightings. The park and most lodges close or restrict activities in the monsoon, roughly June to September, so check current status before you travel.
Journeys
Routes that stay here
Also in Nepal
Other stays
Kathmandu's most characterful hotel, built in Newar style around brick courtyards set with carved windows, doors and pillars rescued from old valley buildings. It sits in …
A hillside wellness resort at Dhulikhel, about 30 km east of Kathmandu, built in brick and stone on terraces facing the Himalaya. Yoga, meditation, spa therapies …
A small lodge of stone cottages on a ridge above the Pokhara valley, facing Machapuchare and the Annapurna range. It has a pool, a long terrace …
Shape your own journey Tell us your dates and what you hope to feel. We draw the route around you. Begin Not sure where to start? We match the land to your month, your pace and the people travelling with you. Begin Talk to a planner A first route and an indicative price within one working day. No payment to start. Begin