National Parks in Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park, the world’s highest elevated protected area SNP with elevations ranging from 2800 to 8848.86 meters is one of the major tourist attractions in Nepal.

With 6 different bioclimatic zones encompassing 8 ecosystems and 8 vegetation types, Sagarmatha national park is enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage Site’s list in 1979.

Located in the Solukhumbu district of the mid-eastern Himalayan region of Nepal. The landscape feature is comprised of the world’s highest mountain peaks (Everest, Lhotse) along with glaciers, lateral moraines, high altitude wetlands (Gokyo lake system), rivers, alpine pastures, rivers, and green forests.

1074 vegetation species are recorded in the Park with Alpine meadows, Alpine scrubs, Rhododendrons, Birch, Fir, Chir Pine, Blue Pine, and Mountain Oak.

33 mammals, 208 birds, 5 amphibians, and 1 fish species of wildlife are found in Sagarmatha National Park. Some are rare and endangered species like Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, and Red Panda, along with Blue Sheep, Impeyan Pheasant, Bearded Vulture, Tibetan Snow Cock, and the Yellow-billed Chough.

Everest Base Camp and Everest Three Pass Trekking are the most popular tourist destinations in the park along with Gokyo Valley and other side hikes offering the best view of the world’s highest mountain peaks, along with Mountaineering and peak climbing activities.

Besides adventure activities, the cultural significance of Sagarmatha National Park is also important, as it is dominated by Sherpa culture and villages like Namche Bazaar and Khumjung. Tibetan Himalayan Buddhism is prevalent in the region, with Tengboche and Pangboche Monasteries decorated with prayer wheels, flags, Mani walls, Chhortens, and stupas.

Langtang National Park, the first Himalayan Protected area of Nepal, Stretches along with the north-central districts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Sindhupalchowk districts.

11 Bioclimatic zones of upper tropical, temperate, alpine, and Nival zones, landscape features of this national park range from mid-hills to snowcapped mountain peaks with the highest elevation at Langtang Lirung (7245m).

This national park consists of a glacial lake (Gosaikunda 4200m), rivers, valleys, glaciers, and moraines.

WIth 18 types of ecosystems the park is home to 14 vegetation types: estimated to be 3689 species of flora including Alpine scrubs, Alpine meadows, Trans Himalayan Steppe, Birch, Rhododendron, Fir, Larch, Mountain Oak, Blue Pine, Chir Pine, Laurel, and mixed broadleaf forests.

Rich in biodiversity, Langtang National Park inhabits 46 mammals, 345 birds, 11 herpetofauna, and 2 fish species. With some rare and endangered Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Red pandas, Impeyan Pheasant, Ibis Bill, White Winged Redstart, and Snow Partridge.

Trekking tours and mountaineering activities are the main attractions among tourists and travelers. The Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and the Tamang Heritage Trail are popular trekking destinations in the protected area, equipped with natural and cultural delights.

Breathtaking views of the Langtang mountain range from trekking peaks (Kyanjin RI &Tserko RI) along with diverse landscapes, green forested hills, and deep Himalayan valley are major highlights.

Himalayan Tibetan Buddhism influenced villages with the majority of inhabitants sharing ancestry with Tibetan refugees. Several Buddhist monuments like Gumba (Monastery), Mani Walls, Chhortens, Prayer Wheels, and colorful Prayer flags adorn the Langtang region.

Makalu Barun National Park is located in the districts of Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts with 10 different bioclimatic zones, 20 ecosystem types, and 12 vegetation types.

This protected area is home to the world’s 5th highest peak Mt.Makalu (8463m) along with Mt.Chamling (7319 m), Mt.Baruntse (7129m), and Mera Peak (6445m).

The landscape comprises of glaciers, high-altitude lakes, alpine pastures, forests, and river valleys. Makalu Barun National Park has unique biodiversity comprised of 3037 flora with 8 native species of flowering plants.

Alpine Scrub, Alpine Meadow, Birch, Rhododendron, Fir, Mountain Oak, Maple, Magnolia, Chir Pine, and Hill Sal are major vegetation found in this park.

Wildlife is comprised of 81 mammals, 421 birds, 14 reptile/amphibians, and 13 fish species, Out of which Snow leopard, Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Spiny Babbler, Impeyan Pheasant, and Slety Bellied Tesia are some major species.

Makalu Base Camp and Mera Peak are popular trekking destinations in the park along with chances of encountering some wildlife species. The trails are recently opened for tourists where camping is necessary.

Homestays are gaining popularity in the form of ecotourism offering tourists an opportunity to interact with the rural farming villages of Rai, Magar, Sherpa, Gurung, Limbu, Brahmin, and Chhetri ethnic communities.

With Hinduism and Buddhist traditional cultures coexisting in harmony, the cultural side of this national park is also interesting. Where tourists can explore and observe religious monuments and festivals of the rural communities.

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park was established as a wildlife and watershed reserve and in 2002 gazetted as a national park.

6 bioclimatic zones, 5 ecosystem types, and 4 vegetation types, this national park consists of mountain slopes, green forests, and streams that flow into Bagmati and Bishnumati rivers in the capital city Kathmandu.

Likewise, the biodiversity of Shivapuri National Pak is comprised of 2122 flora including Mountain Oak, Laurel, Chir Pine, Schima Castanopsis (Chilaune), and other broadleaf forests. Wildlife comprises 19 mammals, 311 birds, and 3 herpeto species.

Out of which Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Wild Boar, Golden Throated Barbet, Slender Billed Babbler, White Gorgetted Flycatcher, and Barred Cuckoo Dove are symbolic of the protected area. Day hiking is popular tourist activity in the National park, with options for short hiking trips from

Budhanilkantha or Sundarijal, exploring through the green forested trails followed by a view of Kathmandu valley and mountains on the northern horizon. Nagarkot, Shivapuri, and Chisapani hike along with trekking trails to Gosaikunda,

Langtang and Helambu cross this national Park. Budhanilkantha Temple and Sundarijal serve as a major pilgrimage site as well as entry points to the National Park.

Bardiya National Park is a protected area located in the Banke and Bardia and Surkhet districts of Nepal, initially established as a wildlife reserve in 1976 comprising landscapes of Karnali floodplains, Babai river valley, and the Siwalik Hills.

With Upper and lower tropical bioclimatic zones, this park has 7 types of ecosystems with 839 species of flora with major vegetation of Chir Pine, Hill Sal, Lower Tropical Sal, and mixed broad-leafed forests.

59 mammals, 407 birds, 52 amphibians/reptiles, and 124 fish species have been recorded in this national park, out of which 13 mammals, 5 birds, and 3 reptile species are under the rare and endangered list.

Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, One-horned Rhinoceros, Black Buck antelope, Bengal florican, White-backed Vulture, peacock, and the Bar-headed Geese are some significant wildlife species in the Bardiya National Park.

BNP has been successful in increasing the population of Blackbuck, whereas the number of along with Rhinoceros translocated from Chitwan National Park in 1986. Research on Nilgai, Gharial, Freshwater dolphin, and fisheries are being conducted timely.

The unique flora and fauna combination of the park has been able to attract a significant number of internal and external tourists seeking wildlife safaris and elephant safaris.

Shuklaphanta National Park was formerly a Hunting Reserve (1969) then declared a Wildlife Reserve in 1976 and finally gazetted as a National Park in 2017.

Located in far west Nepal, the landscape feature comprises of lower Siwalik Hills, open grassland, green lush forests, river beds, and tropical wetlands: made up of 3 bioclimatic zones, 3 ecosystem types, and 3 vegetation types.

Biodiversity is comprised of 700 flora, 56 mammals, 450 birds, 56 Reptiles, 15 Amphibians, and 24 fish species along with some rare and endangered wildlife species.

Chir Pine, Hill Sal, Tropical Sal, and Mixed Broadleaf forests make up the majority of vegetation in the national park: inhabiting Swamp Deer, Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, Hispid Hare, Bengal Florican, Back Capped Kingfisher, and Finns Weaver.

Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros were successfully translocated from Chitwan National Park and adapted to the newfound habitat.

Furthermore, this park is known for its efforts in saving the near-extinct Swamp Deer,

Shuklaphanta National Park serves as a corridor for the seasonal migration of wildlife species. As the latter part of the name” Phanta” translates to grassland, it is by far the largest continuous grassland in Nepal.

Elephant Safari, Jungle walks, and Bird watching are major activities in this national park, however, people interested in wildlife photography and studies will find this park intriguing.

Chitwan National Park, enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage Sites is located in the districts of Chitwan, Nawal Pur, Parsa, and Makawanpur in the plains of the Central South part of Nepal.

Two bioclimatic zones of lower upper tropical regions make up the national park encompassing 7 ecosystems and two vegetation types.

The Churia hills, Ox-Bow lakes, flood plains of Rapti, Narayani, and Reu rivers along with lakes of Lamital, Devital, and Beeshazar wetlands are major ecosystems in the park.

919 flora species including endangered species of Tree fern, Cycas, Screw pine, and several other orchids are found in the park.

Wildlife is composed of 43 mammals, 539 birds’ 56 amphibian/reptiles, and 124 species of fish in Chitwan National Park, Out of which 13 mammals, 6 birds, and 3 reptile species are rare and endangered.

Bengal Tiger, Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros, Asiatic Elephant, Black-necked Stork, Grey-headed Eagle, Brahmini Duck, Gharial, and Maskey Frog are symbolic of Chitwan National Park.

Chitwan National Park has played a key role in raising the population of Rhinoceros, offering translocation to other national parks and wildlife reserves. Besides, some rhinos are presented as gifts to various countries.

Besides Kathmandu and Pokhara, Chitwan National Park is one popular tourist attraction offering various wildlife activities like wildlife safari, canoeing, Elephant safari, Jeep safari, birdwatching, and jungle walks.

Elephant breeding center, Peacock Breeding center, and Gharial breeding center are also popular among visitors. Furthermore, Tharu local communities and their unique culture are worth exploring, where one can learn about the indigenous community up close.

Formerly a hunting area for the late royals, Parsa National Park was established as a wildlife reserve in 1984.

Located in the districts of Bara, Parsa, and Makwanpur of south-central Nepal near Chitwan National Park, this national park is composed of two bioclimatic zones, eight ecosystem types, and two vegetation types.

The park's landscape is mostly made up of gravel and conglomerate with porous earth. However, the biodiversity of the park is from a wider range, with 919 flora, 30 mammals, 500 birds, 13 reptiles/amphibians, and 8 fish species.

The major vegetation species are Sal, Cotton Silk, Pine, and Sabai grass, whereas the wildlife species are made up of Royal Bengal Tiger, Wild Asiatic Elephant, Gaur Bison, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Hyena, King Cobra, Banded Krait, Palm Civet, Crow Billed Drongo, Thick Billed Pigeon, Long-tailed Broadbill, Great Hornbill, White Backed Kingfisher, and Golden Backed Woodpecker

Parsa National Park’s major role in the conservation of wildlife includes patrolling, anti-poaching, and research programs out of which an orphanage center for abandoned wildlife animals is an example.

A small guest house is available along with a tea house providing snacks and tea including Nepali food for tourists and visitors. A view tower is established near the headquarter which offers views of various wild animals and birds.

Major tourism activities in Parsa National Park are Elephant safari, jungle walk, bird watching, and wildlife photography.

A short hike to Kailas Bhakta hill, where the Dugdeshwar Mahadev temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati is located, offers a kaleidoscopic view of the Terai landscape.

Khaptad National Park was established in 1984 covering an area of 225 sq km and 216 sq km as a buffer zone of Bajhang, Bajura, Achham, and Doti districts in Far Western Nepal.

The elevation of KNP ranges from 900 - 3300 meters, comprising a landscape of 22 moorlands, steep slopes, and streams along with green forested hills. Khaptad Daha (lake) is a significant water body in the park and serves as a major attraction.

Six types of ecosystems comprising Rhododendron, Fir, Oak, Chir Pine, and Hemlock forests inhabiting 567 different species of vegetation including flowering and non-flowering plants are recorded in Khaptad National Park.

Wildlife comprises 23 mammals, 287 birds, and 23 Herpeto species including some rare and endangered species. This includes Musk Deer, Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Wild Dog, Impeyan Pheasant, Peregrine Falcon, and White Rumped Vulture.

This national park is adorned with religious sites as well, Khaptad Baba ashram is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site in Khaptad National Park dedicated to Lord Shiva and is visited by devotees during the fool moon of July- August and during the Jestha Purnima (June-July). Sahashra Linga located at an elevation of 3200 m, Ganesh Temple,

Nagdhunga(stone resembling snake ) and Kedhardhunga are significant religious sites ideal for meditation and spiritual activities excluding animal sacrifice. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed malesuada faucibus ex nec ultricies. Donec mattis egestas nisi non pretium.

Shey Phoksundo National Park is a protected area in Nepal located in the Mugu and Dolpa districts of the far western region.

Elevation ranges from Aankhe(2130 m) to Kanjirowa Peak(6883 m), comprised of seven bioclimatic zones of temperate, alpine, and Nival, forming 21 ecosystems and 10 vegetation types.

The largest national park of Nepal is comprised of Trans Himalayan Landscape, glaciers, Shey Phoksundo Lake (3589m), diverse forests, rivers, and alpine meadows.

The deepest lake of Nepal, Shey Phoksundo (136.20 m), and the country’s highest waterfall (167m) along with tributaries of the Thuli Bheri and Langu rivers are major water bodies in the park.

Biodiversity is a major feature of this national park, where 1579 flora species including 30 native flowering and rare medicinal plants make up the vegetation.

Whereas 35 mammals, 208 birds, and three herpeto species of wildlife, where 19 mammals and 2 bird species are rare and endangered.

Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Wild Dog, Blue Sheep, and Musk Deer, Himalayan Griffon, White Breasted Deeper, Chir Pheasant, and Monal Pheasant are symbolic of Shey Phoksundo National Park.

This national park is also popular for its villages like RIngmo with the influence of Tibetan Buddhist culture and is decorated with colorful Gompas (monastery) and many other religious sites.

Shey Gompa, established in the 11th century and Thashung Gomba near the high altitude lake, are major tourist attractions.

Trekking tours are a popular form of tourism activities; however, a special permit is required for international tourists due to its inclusion in the Restricted Area category.

A flight to Dunai Airport is a convenient way to reach the national park followed by a trekking journey amidst the Trans Himalayan landscape decorated by rural villages.

Rara National Park, the smallest national park in Nepal is located in the districts of Mugu and Jumla.

Topographically, altitude ranges from 1800 meters to 4039(Chuchemara Peak) meters above sea level.

The National Park’s landscape is mostly of green forested hills like Ruma Kand(3731m) and Malika Kand(3444m) with beautiful mountain views reflecting on the biggest lake of Nepal: Rara (2990m) with an area of 10.8 sq km and 167 m deep,

11 types of ecosystem and 10 vegetation types ranging from Upper Tropical to Upper Alpine bioclimatic zones make up the Rara National Park ideal for Chir Pine, Walnut, Maple, Alder, Oak, Cypress, Spruce, Blue Pine, Fir, Birch, Rhododendron, Exotic Himalayan flowers and Alpine Scrub to flourish.

This Park’s rich biodiversity is made up of 51 mammals, 241 birds, 2 amphibians/reptiles, and 3 native species of fish. Some rare and endangered species like Snow leopard Red pandas and Musk deer.

Common wildlife like Himalayan Black Bear, Impeyan Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, Cheer Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant, White-crested pheasant, and Chukor Partridge are some major species found in the park.

Rara National Park is rising as a major tourist destination for both internal and international tourists since the development of infrastructures for food and accommodation and other commodities has been improved.

The best way to reach Rara Lake is by a scenic flight to Talcha Airstrip (2735m), followed by hiking for around 3 hours through the forested trail.

However, Jeep tours directly from Kathmandu are a more convenient and cost-effective method of reaching this beautiful destination. Besides, a direct Helicopter tour is available for travelers seeking a luxury package.

Major tourist activities include boating on the lake, a pony ride, and hiking to the Murma Hilltop (3630) with panoramic views of mountain peaks and Rara Lake.