Far West & Karnali · – · –
Far West & Karnali in January
The plains are cool and quiet. Fog often hangs over Bardia and Shuklaphanta until 10 am, so safaris start late, but afternoons are clear and pleasant for walking safaris and birding. In the hills, Rara and Khaptad are under snow and most lodges are shut. Tharu villages celebrate Maghi in mid-January, the Tharu new year, with dancing, feasts and new household decisions. A good month for a wildlife-only trip.
Local tip for January
Pack a warm fleece for open jeeps on foggy mornings in the Terai.
Where to go in January
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 January
Questions
Is January a good time to visit Far West & Karnali?
The plains are cool and quiet. Fog often hangs over Bardia and Shuklaphanta until 10 am, so safaris start late, but afternoons are clear and pleasant for walking safaris and birding. In the hills, Rara and Khaptad are under snow and most lodges are shut. Tharu villages celebrate Maghi in mid-January, the Tharu new year, with dancing, feasts and new household decisions. A good month for a wildlife-only trip.
What is the weather like in Far West & Karnali in January?
Bardia 8–23 °C with thick morning fog; Jumla below freezing at night. 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 January?
We suggest Bardia National Park, Shuklaphanta National Park, Ghodaghodi Tal. Pack a warm fleece for open jeeps on foggy mornings in the Terai.