Private car 2.5–3 h
The easiest option. Drive east from Nepalgunj to Kohalpur, then along the East–West Highway through the forest of Banke National Park to Ambassa, and turn north on the road to Thakurdwara. Most lodges arrange pick-up from Nepalgunj airport or the Rupaidiha border. Expect around ₹6,000–8,000 per car one way, depending on vehicle and season.
Bus + local jeep 3.5–4.5 h
Buses towards Mahendranagar or Dhangadhi from Nepalgunj or Kohalpur stop at Ambassa on the highway. From there, local jeeps or shared vehicles run to Thakurdwara, or your lodge can collect you. Cheap but slower and crowded, with luggage on the roof. Best done in daylight and in the cooler months.
From India 6–7 h from Lucknow
Drive Lucknow–Bahraich–Rupaidiha (≈ 190 km), cross at Jamunaha into Nepalgunj, and continue to Bardia, about 280 km in total. Indian citizens need a passport or voter ID. Private Indian cars need a Nepal customs permit, so many families switch to a Nepali car at the border.
Stops on the way
- Kohalpur
- Banke National Park (highway passes through)
- Ambassa junction
Take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and you can be on an afternoon jungle walk in Bardia the same day.
Questions travellers ask
How far is Bardia from Nepalgunj airport?
About 95 km to Thakurdwara, the main lodge village beside the park headquarters. The drive takes 2.5–3 hours via Kohalpur, the East–West Highway and Ambassa. Lodges in other parts of the buffer zone may be a little further. Most Bardia packages include the airport transfer.
Is there a bus from Nepalgunj to Bardia?
Yes, westbound buses from Nepalgunj or Kohalpur stop at Ambassa on the East–West Highway, and local jeeps or lodge vehicles cover the last 20 km to Thakurdwara. It takes 3.5–4.5 hours in total. A private car is far more comfortable, especially with luggage or in the heat.
Can I drive from Lucknow to Bardia in one day?
Yes. It is about 280 km and 6–7 hours via Bahraich, the Rupaidiha border and Nepalgunj, plus time for border formalities. Leave Lucknow early to arrive before dark. Indian citizens need a passport or voter ID; Indian private vehicles need a Nepal customs permit at the border.
What is the road like from Nepalgunj to Bardia?
Mostly good. The East–West Highway is paved, though busy with trucks, and passes through the forest of Banke National Park where wildlife occasionally crosses. The final 20 km from Ambassa to Thakurdwara is a narrower village road. Avoid driving after dark because of livestock and poor lighting.
