Banke National Park
In Nepali: बाँके राष्ट्रिय निकुञ्ज
Banke was established in 2010 as a gift to the Earth for the Global Tiger Summit, and it links Bardiya in Nepal with Suhelwa in India to form a large forest corridor. Tigers, leopards, elephants, four-horned antelope and hundreds of bird species live here.
Tourist facilities are limited, which makes it a peaceful alternative to Bardiya. Community homestays in the buffer zone arrange jungle walks and jeep drives.
What to see and do
Go on a jeep drive or guided walk through sal forest and grassland, watch for tigers, elephants, deer and hornbills, and visit community-run homestays in the buffer zone to learn about Tharu life alongside wildlife.
Good to know
Book through the park office in Obhari or local homestays. Facilities are minimal; carry water. Wildlife is wild — follow your guide's instructions strictly.
Quick answers
- Where is Banke National Park?
- Banke National Park is in Banke district, Lumbini Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Banke National Park?
- About 300 m (984 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Banke National Park?
- For a 4-day trip from Nepalgunj, about NPR 8,000 (≈ US$59) per person on a budget, or NPR 16,000 (≈ US$120) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 6,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Banke National Park?
- Plan 2 nights there; with travel from Nepalgunj and back, about 4 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Banke National Park?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 1,500 / US$11 to enter Banke National Park (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- When is the best time to visit Banke National Park?
- October–April
- How do I get to Banke National Park?
- On the East–West Highway east of Kohalpur. It is about 33 km (straight line) from Nepalgunj.
- What is Banke National Park called in Nepali?
- बाँके राष्ट्रिय निकुञ्ज
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