Plizio Visual Lab

Banke National Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

wildlife-area

Weather…

Banke National Park is located in mid-western Nepal, in Banke District, near the Indian border. It was established in 2010 and covers an area of about 550 square kilometers. The park is part of the Banke-Bardia complex and serves as an important wildlife corridor between Bardia National Park and India's Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. Vegetation includes Sal forests, grasslands, and riverine floodplains. Wildlife includes Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, greater one-horned rhinoceroses, sloth bears, axis deer, and Gangetic dolphins in adjacent rivers. The park is also known for its bird species, including the Bengal florican. Access is limited to guided tours. Banke National Park is managed by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation and has buffer zones for local communities.

Location: Nepal
Nearby: Kohalpur (21 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	19	24	30	33	33	30	28	27	25	21	16
Rain mm	24	30	22	21	62	191	407	290	173	32	4	8

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The prime season to visit the expansive Terai landscapes is between late autumn and early spring, offering pleasant temperatures and clear skies. The dry months significantly improve visibility through the vegetation, making it easier to spot wildlife traversing this crucial protected habitat.

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Best time of day

Dawn excursions capitalize on the heightened activity of nocturnal species returning to rest and early risers beginning their daily foraging routines. Exploring the park during the fading light of dusk is equally rewarding, as the cooling temperatures encourage movement near watering holes.

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Etiquette

Exploring the national park strictly requires adherence to established routes, usually accompanied by an authorized local guide to minimize ecological disruption. Loud noises, sudden movements, and leaving behind any non-biodegradable waste are heavily restricted to protect the fragile environmental balance.

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What to bring

Durable outdoor clothing in muted shades such as khaki or olive is convenient for remaining inconspicuous among the thick jungle flora. Comprehensive insect repellent, sturdy trekking boots, and reliable optics are crucial investments for navigating the rugged terrain safely and effectively.

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Getting there

Reaching this emerging conservation area generally requires private transport from regional hubs, as public connections may be somewhat limited and infrequent. Arranging entry permits and securing a knowledgeable local ranger beforehand ensures a smooth start to your jungle expedition.

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What to expect

As a newer and potentially less commercialized park, animal sightings rely heavily on tracking skills rather than predictable tourist routes. Embracing the wilderness experience, absorbing the profound silence of the forest, and trusting your guide's expertise make the eventual wildlife discoveries profoundly satisfying.