Kathmandu, June 13 -- Before Covid-19 and lockdowns I would be guiding tourists aroundBardia National Parkthis time of year. But the pandemic has meant empty homestays along the Khata Wildlife Corridor that connects wilderness areas in India and Nepal.

Local villages may have lost their income from eco-tourism, but the absence of people during the lockdown means that wild animals have reclaimed their space.

Even with the restrictions on travel and scorching pre-monsoon heat of the plains of western Nepal, I cannot bring myself to stay indoors.

I am involved with the Khata Wildlife Corridor Homestay Management Committee, which means I used to organise jungle safaris and wildlife excursions, showing visitors what Bardia has to offer. But...