Route · Far West & Karnali
Bardia National Park to Shuklaphanta National Park
From Thakurdwara in Bardia to Mahendranagar, the gateway to Shuklaphanta, is about 180 km and 4–5 hours west on the East-West Highway, crossing the Karnali at Chisapani and passing Ghodaghodi Tal, a good stop for birds and a meal.
Drive south from Thakurdwara to Ambassa on the East-West Highway and head west, crossing the Karnali on the cable-stayed bridge at Chisapani. The highway runs through forest and farmland past Ghodaghodi Tal and Attariya to Mahendranagar, about 180 km in total. With a two-hour stop at Ghodaghodi, the drive makes a relaxed day.
Buses run west along the East-West Highway from Ambassa or Kohalpur to Attariya, Dhangadhi and Mahendranagar. They are cheap and frequent but slow and crowded, with many stops, and you may need to change at Attariya. Take a morning bus and keep your luggage with you.
Worth a stop on the way
- Chisapani and the Karnali Bridge
- Ghodaghodi Tal
- Attariya junction
- Dhangadhi (short detour)
Local tip
Leave Bardia after breakfast and stop at Ghodaghodi Tal around midday, so you reach Mahendranagar in time for an afternoon at Rani Tal.
Questions
How far is Shuklaphanta from Bardia?
About 180 km by road from Thakurdwara to Mahendranagar, taking 4–5 hours by private car on the East-West Highway. Local buses take 6–7 hours with changes. The park headquarters is on the edge of Mahendranagar.
Is it worth stopping at Ghodaghodi Tal on the way?
Yes. Ghodaghodi Tal, a Ramsar-listed lake system, lies right beside the highway near Sukhad, roughly halfway. A two-hour stop gives a forest walk, waterbirds and often basking mugger crocodiles, and you can eat in Sukhad bazaar.
Can I fly between Bardia and Shuklaphanta?
There are no flights between them; they are too close. The nearest airports are Nepalgunj for Bardia and Dhangadhi for Shuklaphanta, both linked to Kathmandu. Driving along the highway is the only practical option.
Is the road from Bardia to Shuklaphanta good?
It is the East-West Highway, mostly paved and in reasonable condition, though some sections have potholes and roadworks. Watch for buses, trucks and animals on the road. In the monsoon, river crossings can occasionally cause delays; check current status before you travel.