Far West & Karnali · – · –
Far West & Karnali in December
Winter closes the high country: Rara, Khaptad and Humla see snow and most lodges shut. The plains are pleasant by day and Bardia is quiet, though fog can slow mornings. A good month for a short Bardia and Shuklaphanta trip, with Ghodaghodi Tal on the way between them. Christmas and New Year see a few more visitors in Bardia, so book lodges ahead. Days are short, with sunset before 5.30 pm, so plan drives to finish in daylight.
Local tip for December
Plan afternoon safaris in December, when fog lifts and animals move.
Where to go in December
Far West & Karnali152 mBardia National Park
Tiger forest on the Karnali, with Tharu villages at the gate
Far West & Karnali174 mShuklaphanta National Park
The world's largest swamp deer herds on Nepal's western edge
Far West & Karnali205 mGhodaghodi Tal
A Ramsar lake chain beside the highway, full of birds and crocodiles
Elsewhere in Nepal in December
Questions
Is December a good time to visit Far West & Karnali?
Winter closes the high country: Rara, Khaptad and Humla see snow and most lodges shut. The plains are pleasant by day and Bardia is quiet, though fog can slow mornings. A good month for a short Bardia and Shuklaphanta trip, with Ghodaghodi Tal on the way between them. Christmas and New Year see a few more visitors in Bardia, so book lodges ahead. Days are short, with sunset before 5.30 pm, so plan drives to finish in daylight.
What is the weather like in Far West & Karnali in December?
Bardia 9–24 °C with fog; snow above 3,000 m. Conditions change fast with altitude, so check the forecast for each stop a week before you travel.
Where should we go in Far West & Karnali in December?
We suggest Bardia National Park, Shuklaphanta National Park, Ghodaghodi Tal. Plan afternoon safaris in December, when fog lifts and animals move.