Bardiya National Park, a premier tourist destination in the western Terai region, has reported the highest revenue collection from eco-tourism in the past fiscal year 2080/81 BS (2023-24). According to Conservation Officer Purushottam Wagle, more than half of the park’s total revenue was generated from ecotourism activities.
In addition to ecotourism, the park also collected revenue from selling forest products, firewood, non-timber forest products, and fines. The park amassed NPR 13.56 million from forest product sales, NPR 835,847 from firewood sales, and NPR 12.73 million from non-timber forest products. Fines contributed NPR 2.86 million, while other miscellaneous sources added NPR 377,570 to the total revenue. Overall, Bardiya National Park collected NPR 45.21 million in revenue, with NPR 28.40 million coming from ecotourism alone.
The park registered 36 cases related to forest and wildlife issues last year, with four of them resolved. The remaining cases are under ongoing proceedings.
Bardiya National Park attracted 26,131 tourists last year, including 18,010 Nepalis, 6,684 foreigners, and 1,437 visitors from SAARC countries. Thakurdwara-based tourism entrepreneur Govinda Adhikari noted that tourists particularly enjoy observing elephants, tigers, rhinos, and other wildlife within the park.
In addition to the rich wildlife, tourists are also drawn to the local Tharu culture, traditions, and cuisine. Adhikari mentioned that visitors often spend hours on jungle walks and safaris, hoping to glimpse the elusive Bengal tiger. To enter the park and participate in activities such as jeep safaris, visitors are required to pay a specified fee.
