National Parks of Nepal | Wildlife Reserve and Conservation Areas
How many National Parks are there in Nepal ?- Shey Phoksundo National Park
Which is the smallest national park of Nepal?
Which is the newest national park of Nepal?
How many wildlife reserves are there in Nepal?
How many conservation areas are there in Nepal?
Which is the largest conservation area of Nepal?
Which is the smallest conservation area of Nepal?
Which is the newest conservation area of Nepal?
How many hunting reserves are there in Nepal?
Differences Between National Park and Wildlife Reserve
IUCN, International Union for Conservation of Nature, categorizes national park and wildlife reserve as IUCN Category II and IUCN Category Ia respectively. National parks are usually established to preserve the flora and fauna of the area and other things of historical and geographical importance while wildlife reserves are solely motivated to protect a particular group of flora and fauna. Human activities like agriculture and organic farming, extracting timbers or collecting fruits, berries, honey etc. are allowed in wildlife reserve while it is not allowed in national parks. A wildlife reserve can be upgraded to a national park while vice versa is not possible.
Basic Information about National Parks, Wildlife Reserve, Conservation Areas and Hunting Reserve
Protected Areas in Nepal
Protected Areas of Nepal comprehends twelve national parks, six conservation areas, one wildlife reserve and a hunting reserve that covers most of the forested areas ranging from lowlands to the high snow-capped mountains, fringing a multitude of landscapes and taking care of a vast biodiversity present in the realm. In addition, numerous Ramsar sites (wetlands) have also been safeguarding innumerable floras and faunas. Here I am describing all those protected areas.
National Parks
There are 12 national parks in Nepal for the protection, conservation and preservation of floras and faunas found within the landscape. These areas lie in a varied stunning landscape such that a travel enthusiast can experience different climate, animals, plants and people around the area. From enjoying the hot sultry weather in the flat lands of Terai to the lively season in the hills to the chilling feel in the mountainous zone, tourists can go bundle on the bountiful range of activities that the places can offer, wildlife and greenery present around. Hence national parks of Nepal are worth visiting to trek through the verdant green forests and reach the remotest part in the Himalayas collecting beautiful memories for life.
Chitwan National Park
Established in 1973 AD, Chitwan National Park is the first national park of Nepal. It is situated in south central Nepal in the tropical lowlands of inner Terai sheathing the districts Chitwan, Makwanpur, Parsa and Nawalparasi into its territory, covering an area of 952.63 sq. km. Comprising the areas of Churia hills, Someshwor hills, Ox-bow lakes and the flood plains of Rapti, Reu and Narayani river, providing a unique experience to the visitors. The park has tropical and subtropical forests that include more than 50 types of grasses. Elephant grass is a renowned one since it can grow up to a height of 8 m. 50 mammal species, over 525 birds and 55 amphibians and reptiles are found in this arena. This place is a home to many endangered species like one-horned rhinoceros, royal bengal tiger, wild elephant, four horned antelope, python, golden monitor lizard, bengal florican, lesser florican, giant horn-bill, black stork, white stork etc. One horned Rhinoceros is known as the pride of the park and is an attraction for the animal lovers.
Chitwan National Park is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surreal view of the park features dense jungles and free flowing rivers and lakes with lots of faunas moving freely around. Activities like jungle treks, walks, canoeing, jeep safaris, elephant safaris, bird watching, traditional shows and cultural exposures are options for tourists to be done according to their personal interests. Roaming around the area, tourists can enjoy the green view and have an opportunity of watching endangered animals like one-horned rhinoceros which are the world's last remaining populations, bengal tiger and odd leopard walk alive and freely. The Elephant Breeding Center and Gharial Breeding Centre are the attractions for people who are fond of animals and want to know more about them. There are seven resorts within the park run by park concessionaires for tourists who want to live inside the park and enjoy the night view of the place too.
The appropriate timing to visit the park is from October to February since the average temperature is 25 degree celsius and most of the animals venture out. 100 km away from the capital of the country, Kathmandu, Chitwan has its nearest airport in Bharatpur. From the airport, one can either take a bus or rent a taxi to reach Sauraha where Chitwan National Park stands.
Sagarmatha National Park
Just after three years of its establishment, Sagarmatha National Park was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 AD owing to the numerous natural and cultural treasures of the region. Not only Sagarmatha but this park also includes other peaks that are above 6000 m height like Lhotse, Choyu, Nuptse, Pumori, Amadablam, Thamserku and Pumori which lures many of the mountaineers around the globe to visit the place. Hiking through the chilling temperature of the park is considered as one of the major adventurous activities. Trekking, mountaineering, camping around the area seem to be exciting and equally daring to the gutsy tourists. Also, the Sherpa community flourished in the area interwoven in the threads of Buddhism attracting tourists around Tengboche, Thame, Khumjung and Pangboche monasteries.
Sagarmatha National Park is situated in jagged and precipitous terrain and has no roads interconnected which makes it really difficult to visit the place. The nearest airport is in Lukla and the nearest city is Namche Bazaar and Khumjung. The best time to visit the place is from March to May and October to November since the weather is quite tolerable.
Bardiya National Park
The pristine paradise on the land of Bardiya district, Bardiya National Park spreads over an area of 968 sq. km in the lowland of Western Terai. The main aim of establishing this park was to protect the ecosystems present in the area, particularly conserving the number of tigers in the area. It was established in the year 1976 AD named as Karnali Wildlife Reserve in the initial times. After relocating 15000 households of Babai valley, the park was renamed as Bardiya Wildlife Reserve in 1982 AD increasing its territorial area to current size in 1984 AD and included in the list of national parks in 1988 AD. The divine lands of park is made up of wooden grasslands, dense forests and the riverine forests and is rich in biodiversity including endangered animals like royal bengal tiger, gharial crocodile, marsh mugger, gangetic dolphin, greater one-horned rhinoceros, wild elephant, swamp deer, and birds like bengal florican, lesser florican, sarus crane etc.This place is a home to more than 30 mammals and over 230 species of birds. Several species of snakes, lizards, fishes and migratory birds are found in this arena.
Tourists find Bardiya National Park tranquil and peaceful which lures them to visit it time and again. Jungle walks, jungle treks, river rafting, kayaking, fishing and camping around the shore of Bheri river gives tourists a lifetime experience. Also they can stay inside the area of the park where even tree houses are the options to live in. Elephant rides, jeep safari are for the wildlife lovers who want to spot a rare animal. Also, Karnali river is a home to gangetic dolphins. So, visitors can visit the areas nearby and take advantage of the place to witness a dolphin. Museums are also present in the area to explore the history of the place. Since the place is a native place of the Tharu tribe, tourists can know more about their culture and habits.
The park is located about 367 km away from Kathmandu where the nearest airport is situated in Nepalgunj. Buses or jeeps can then take tourists to the park area. The best time to visit the park is during the months of September to December and February to May.
Langtang National Park
It was established in 1976 AD and is considered as one of the most beautiful places in Nepal. It aims to preserve and promote the flora and fauna of the region. The 1710 sq. km of the park extends over the areas of Nuwakot, Rasuwa and Sindhupalchowk districts representing the meeting point of indo- Malayan and Palearctic realms, rich in biodiversity, cultural heritage and climatic zones. The park proudly flaunts numerous ecosystems that includes a diversified number of floras and faunas. The land mainly consists of sub-tropical vegetation characterized by sal, chirpine, rhododendron, Nepalese alder while the temperate zone is covered mainly by oak forest and silver fir, hemlock, larch are found in the sub-alpine zone. This place gives a feel of Switzerland due to the presence of alpine meadows. Red panda, musk deer, Himalayan tahr, Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, wild dog, ghoral, serow, wolves and foxes have found its habitat in the arena of the park. The park houses more than 250 species of birds that includes threatened species like yellow-rumped honeyguide, wood spine, red-headed vulture, greater spotted eagle, imperial eagle etc.
Langtang valley, Helambu and Gosaikunda lake are three main trek routes for tourists to enjoy the phenomenal beauty of the park in time ranging from 3 days to 3 weeks.Adventure word is justified as trekking becomes more difficult if one chooses to visit the remotest parts of the park such as east of Helambu, the toe of Langshisha glacier, upper valley from Kyanjin, Ganja La Pass in upper Langtang valley. Exploring trail side wilderness near Ghora Tabela and Kyanjin is an extraordinary experience. Cultural sites like Langtang village, Melamchi Ghyang, Tarkeghayang, Shemathang are also present in the area.
Langtang National Park is near the capital city of the country i.e. only 50 km away from Kathmandu and hence is easily reachable by bus or even trek. October, November, April and May are the months in which the place seems wonderful and the climate is tolerable.
Shey-Phoksundo National Park
Shey-Phoksundo National Park as established in the year 1984 AD lying in the Trans-Himalayan region of northwest Nepal in the districts Dolpa and Mugu, at an elevation ranging from 2130 m at Ankhe to 6883 m at the highest point of Kanjirowa Himal. It is the largest national park of Nepal occupying an area of 3555 sq. km. Unique Trans-Himalayan ecosystems with a diverse range of flora and fauna are present in the region. Rhododendron and caragana shrubs are found on the slope lands while in the high meadows, salix, juniper, white Himalayan birch, silver fir are dominant. In addition to this, blue pine, spruce, hemlock, cedar, poplar, bamboo are also found. 200 species of birds like Tibetan partridge, white-throated tit, wood accentor, crimson-eared rosefinch and some of the endangered species like snow leopard, grey wolf, musk deer, blue sheep,ghoral, great tibetan sheep, Himalayan black bear are found in the arena. This park is home to 6 species of reptiles and 29 species of butterfly including the highest flying butterfly in the world, Paralasa nepalaica.
The eye pleasing scenic beauty of Shey-Phoksundo National Park has been able to draw the attention of countless tourists every year. The deepest lake of Nepal, Phoksundo Lake is the cherry at the top contributing to the beauty with its unique turquoise color. Khung, Nmajung, Panjang, Suligad and Jugdual and Langu rivers are present in the area. One can go camping and trekking in the park to view all these beautiful captive sceneries. Tourists can also go on a cultural trip to Ringmo village, a typical Tibetan village. Shey Gompa and Thasung Gompa monasteries are also major attractions. Local accommodations are available in Dunai, Chhepka and Ringmo while trekking lodges are located in Suligad, Chhepka, Palam Ringmo and Toijem.
The park is 315 km away from Kathmandu and the nearest airport is Jhupal. The easiest way to reach the park is by air from Nepalgunj to Jhupal via air followed by a half day walk to the park entrance at Suligad. The period from April to November is the best time to visit the place.
Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park
The nearest park to the capital city, Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park covers an area of 159 sq. km stretching through the districts Kathmandu, Nuwakot and Sindhupalchowk established in 2002 AD. Lying in the mid hills of the northern fringe of Kathmandu valley, carrying a religious history related to god Shiva, this park serves as both the biodiversity conservation area and a place of religious interest. The park is situated in the transition zone between subtropical and temperate climates. This region is a home to various mammalian species such as Himalayan black bear, leopard, jungle cat, rhesus monkey, 177 species of birds (including 9 threatened species) and 129 species of mushroom.
Trekkers love this place as there are lots of trekking paths available namely, Panimuhan, Nagigumba, Kakani, Jhuje, Sundarijal. Trekking routes to Nagarkot, Gosaikunda, Helambu and Langtang National Park also pass through the park. Several religious sites are inside the park attracting tourists like Bagdwar, Bishnudwar where the sacred rivers Bagmati and Bishnumati originate. Likewise, heart warming views of high Himalayas and Kathmandu valley from northern and southern slopes of the park can be viewed by the visitors.
This park is situated just 12 km away from Kathmandu. Hence it is feasible to visit the place easily. Tourists can visit the park throughout the year but the best time is between March and June. A must visit time is during mid April when Nepali calendar turns new as locals celebrate it in a very cheerful way.
Makalu Barun National Park
This breathtaking national park is a true gem of Nepal lying at the foothills of Makalu range. Established in 1992 AD, this national park is situated on the lands of Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha covering an area of 1500 sq. km. Floras like 25 species of rhododendron, 47 species of orchids, 56 rare plants and faunas like snow leopard, wild boar, musk deer, red panda, Asiatic golden cat, Himalayan wolf, red fox, black bear, otter, flying squirrel are some of the species found in the park making it a tremendously rich in biodiversity. Presence of birds like rose-ringed parakeets, eagles, raptors, sunbirds, kingfisher, blue-napped pitta etc make the place an ornithologists' delight.
Makalu Barun National Park lies alongside of the Arun river carrying tropical forests on the land to icy mountain summits like Mt. Makalu (8,462 m; fifth highest in the world), Mt. Chamlang (7,319 m), Mt. Baruntse (7,129 m), Mera Peak (6,654 m). Hence trekking and hiking to those peaks in favourable time is really an enjoyable trip. Bird watching, butterfly spotting, rafting and boating trips are some of other activities that one can enjoy in this park. Camping at the foothills and watching the beautiful views of nature can give anyone goosebumps and chills of happiness.
This park is about 500 km away from Kathmandu. Tumlingtar is the nearest airport in the area from where jeeps can be hired to reach the destination or can walk to the destination. March to May and October to December are the most suitable times to visit the place.
Rara National Park
Located in the north western mountains, Rara National Park covers the districts Mugu and Jumla stretching over an area of 106 sq. km that makes it the smallest national park of Nepal. This park is famous for its heavy population of migratory birds in the months of chilling winter weather. Around 214 species of birds are found in this park including coots, snow cock, pheasants,grebes, mallard, common teal, red-crested pochard, gulls etc. Characterized by sub-alpine and high temperate vegetation, this park has the area bound by blue pine, rhododendron, black juniper, oak, birch etc. This park is a home to 20 different species of mammal including musk deer, himalayan black bear, leopard, jackal, Himalayan thar, yellow-throated marten, otter, wild dog, red panda etc.
Rara lake, the biggest lake of Nepal surrounded by magnificent coniferous forest, at an elevation of 2990 m is the main attraction for tourists. It never freezes that gives tourists an opportunity to camp near the lake all year long. Bird watching is another entertaining activity that one can enjoy inside the park. The snow capped summits Chuchemara peak (4039 m ), Ruma Kand (3731 m), Malika Kand (3444 m) gives you excellent views and chances to trek around the area.
The park is 350 km away from Kathmandu with Jumla having the nearest airport from here trekkers need to walk for a few days to reach the destination. The best time to visit the park is during the months of April, May, September, October.
Khaptad National Park
Khaptad National Park is the only mid-mountain national park in western Nepal stretching over the districts Bajhang, Bajura, Doti and Achham. Gazetted in 1984 AD, this national park covers an area of 225 sq. km. Not only the park is rich in natural wonders, but also in spiritual beliefs. The park houses 266 birds species like impeyan, pheasant, partridges, flycatchers, bulbuls, cuckoos, eagles etc and 20 different species of mammals like barking bear, wild boar, goral, Himalayan black bear, yellow-throated marten, rhesus and langur monkey, leopards, wild dogs, jackal, musk deer etc. The flora of the park consists of montane sal, pines, alder species, spruce, hemlock, fir, oak, birch, rhododendron etc. A wide variety of medicinal herbs, around 224, are found in the park.
This park offers the most unique experience in terms of contentment and enjoyment. Adventure junkies can go for treks, hiking and bird watching while reveries can indulge themselves in meditation and prayers in Khaptad Baba Ashram located near the park headquarters. In addition to this other religious places like Shiva temple in Tribeni confluence, Sahashra Linga at the highest point in the park, 3200 m above the sea level, Ganesh temple, Nagdhunga, Kedardhunga are present in the arena.
The park is located 450 km away fro Kathmandu. The nearest airport is at Dipayal from where a bus ride or a six hour trek leads you to the park entrance. The months between March and May, October and December provide best weather and temperature to visit the park.
Banke National Park
Serving as one of the newest parks of Nepal, Banke National Park stretches over an area of 550 sq. km surrounded by Bardiya National Park, Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. The park covers the districts Banke, Dang and Salyan and was established in 2010 AD. This park was established with an aim of preserving tigers and promoting wildlife conservation and tourism industries in Nepal. Sal forest, flood plain community, deciduous Riverine forest, savannahs and grasslands, mixed hardwood forest, Bhabar and foothills of Chure range are some of the ecosystems out of eight present in the park. Out of 124 types of plants, 34 species of mammals, more than 300 species of birds, 24 species of reptiles, 7 species of amphibians, 58 species of fish residing in the park mammals like tiger, striped hyena, four horned antelope, birds like giant hornbill, black stork, Bengal florican , lesser florican, reptiles like ghariyal crocodile and python are protected by the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973.
This Tiger Conservation Unit (TCU) Bardiya-Banke has beautiful views which can be seen either by trekking or hiking or jeep and animal safaris. Elephant tours, cycling and rafting can also be enjoyed in the park. The park is located about 530 km away from Kathmandu, Nepalgunj being the nearest airport. A jeep, taxi or bus can be hired to reach the place. October to April is the best time to hover around the park.
Parsa National Park
Parsa National Park is located in the south-central lowland of Terai covering the districts Chitwan, Parsa and Makwanpur. With an area of 627.39 sq km, this park is adjacent to Chitwan National Park in the west. Comprising mainly of tropical and subtropical forests, sal solely contributes 90% of flora in the region while khair, pine, silk cotton, sabai grass are also found in the place. Endangered species like Asian elephant, royal bengal tiger, sloth bear, jungle cat, blue bull, chital, hog deer, striped hyena, python, king cobra are found in the area along with more than 500 species of birds that include giant hornbill, white breast kingfisher, paradise flycatcher, racquet-tailed drongo, golden backed woodpecker.
This park is a good location for jungle safari as one can get the opportunity to witness various animals and plants. Trekking and hiking are also options to enjoy inside the park. Elephants in the Amlekhgunj area serve as an attraction for the tourists. Kailas Bhata is a place of religious importance inside the park where many devotees visit to take blessings from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. 105 km away from Kathmandu, this place has its nearest airport at Simara. October, November and December offer the best visit conditions to Parsa and enjoy the natural beauty.
Shukla Phanta National Park
Established in 1976 AD, Shukla Phanta National Park is situated in the extreme south-western section Terai in the lap of Kanchanpur district. Surrounded by Chaudhar river in the east, Mahakali river in the west, forest belts in the north and Uttar Pradesh of India in the south, this park covers an area of 305 sq. km. Composed of open grassland, forests, river beds and tropical wetlands, this park is a home to about 24 mammals, 350 birds and 14 species of fish. Bengal tiger, swamp deer, Indian leopard, elephant, great one-horned rhino, Bengal florican live in the arena. Sal forest and savannah are the basic vegetation type found in the park.
A jeep or a walking tour or an elephant rise around the national park can guide you to witness wildlife residing in the park. Bird watching in this region is also fascinating. Also, the local Tharu people and their culture can be explored. 720 km away from Kathmandu, this park is mostly on the Gangetic floodplain. The nearest airport is Dhangadi. The best time to visit the park is during the months of October to March.
Wildlife Reserve
There is one wildlife reserve in Nepal, namely, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve to safeguard the endangered animals residing in its region.
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Lying in the south eastern terai on the flood plains of Sapta Koshi river, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve covers an area of 175 sq. km sheathing through the districts Sunsari and Saptari. The reserve was declared in 1976 AD with an aim to preserve the habitat of wild buffalo, Arna (Bubalus arnee). It is the last surviving population of wild buffalo found here. Also, this reserve homes about 441 birds like ducks white tailed stonechat, striated marsh warbler, swamp partridge etc and 80 species of fishes. Hog deer, wild boar, blue bull, rock python, ghariyal crocodile, spotted deer are found in this reserve. The vegetation of the area is mainly composed of tall grasslands, small patches of khair-sissoo scrub forest and riverine forest. Bird watching gives the best experience to the tourists. Hiking and trekking can add more enjoyment. Daily bus service is available from Kathmandu to Kakarbhitta and Biratnagar from where entrance of the park is reached via bus.
Conservation Areas
There are six conservation areas in Nepal to protect natural ecosystems and use natural resources sustainably. They are generally large and most of the areas are in natural conditions. A proportion of natural resources is under sustainable natural resource management to promote social and economic benefits to local communities.
Annapurna Conservation Area
Categorized as IUCN Category: VI, Annapurna Conservation area stretches over the Annapurna Himalayan range covering an area of 7629 sq. km. which makes it the largest conservation area of Nepal. Lying across the districts Mustang, Kaski, Myagdi, Manang and Lamjung, this area is bounded by Marsyangi valley in the east, Kali Gandaki river in the west, alpine deserts of Mustang and Tibet in the north and Pokhara valley in the southern border. Trekking circuit from the mid hills to the foothills of the Himalaya, Annapurna Conservation Area is a hit among the tourists being the most visited conservation area. Some of the world's highest peaks like Annapurna and Machhapuchhre stand tall in this area. World's deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki Gorge and world's highest altitude lake, Tilicho are present in the region.
The conservation area is home to various floras and faunas like orchids, rhododendron; snow leopard, Tibetan argali, Tibetan wolf, Tibetan fox etc respectively. It is located near Pokhara which is easily accessible from the capital city, Kathmandu by air or bus. Bus or taxi can then take tourists to Jomsom which is the northern part of the conservation area.
Api Nampa Conservation Area
With a prime aim to conserve the multifariousness in the biosphere of Darchula district and harmonize conservation and development in an integrated way, Api Nampa Conservation Area was established on 12th of July, 2010. Named after two famous peaks Api and Nampa, this conservation land stretches over an area of 1903 sq. km. Bajhang and Bajura districts lie in the eastern side of the area while The Mahakali river flows along the western boundary. Mountain peaks found in this area include Api (7132 m), Nampa (6757 m), Jethi Buhari (6850 m) and Byas (6670). Trekking, hiking, camping are some of the activities that can be done in the area. Also, the holy places in Byas and temples in Dunhu and Marma are also an attraction for religious tourists.
The conservation area houses different kinds of animals and plants due to diverse climatic conditions. The documented faunal diversity includes 43 species of mammals, 263 species of birds, 69 species of fish and 64 species of insects. Mammals commonly seen in the conservation area are common langur, Himalayan musk deer, serow, Himlayan tahr, ghoral, grey wolf, Himalayan black bear etc. Various herpetofauna, butterflies and birds like impeyan pheasant, munal, snow cock, blood pheasant are also found in the region. This conservation area comprises basically sub tropical, temperate, sub alpine, alpine vegetation and forests that includes yarsagumba, jatamansi, talis patra, kutki etc.
Tourists can take a bus or flight to reach Dhangadi from where bus services are available to Darchula. Also, bus services are available from the capital city of India, New Delhi. The best period to visit Api Nampa region is between Mid-October to November and March to May.
Gaurishankar Conservation Area
Covering the land of Ramechhap, Dolakha and Sindhupalchowk districts, Gaurishankar Conservation Area was gazetted in 2010 AD. This conservation area lies between Sagarmatha and Langtang National Park in the north eastern end covering an area of 2179 sq. km. Multiple trekking trails are present in this area that include Tso Rolpa Lake trek, Cheese circuit, Eco Lodge Trek, Rolwaling Valley circuit, Jiri to Lukla trek and Tashi Labasta Pass Trek. The area also offers numerous peak climbing opportunities like Pharchmo, Chekigo, Ramdung, Yalung Ri. Canyoning, white water rafting, bungee jumping are some other adventurous activities that can be done in Bhotekoshi river.
Subtropical, temperate, subalpine, alpine and nival climates can be experienced in this region. Pine, oak, rhododendron, alnus, junipers make the area charismatic. Himalayan black bear, Himalayan tahr, snow leopard, red panda, Asian golden cat, masked palm civet, Assam macaque, Himalayan serow, Himalayan goral and Indian muntjac dwell in this region.
Rolwaling valley can be reached by bus via Kathmandu to Singati Bazaar or Chhetchhet. The best time when the visitors can experience the best inside this region is between March and May.
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
Named after Mount Kanchenjunga (8586 m) which is the second highest mountain in Nepal and third highest in the world, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area was designated as a conservation area in March 1998. This conservation land lies in the north east corner of Nepal in Taplejung stretching over an area of 2035 sq. km. As a part of WWF's Living Planet Campaign 2000, Kanchenjunga Conservation area is regarded as a Gift to the Earth. This area carries eleven peaks higher than 7000 m and glaciers. This tri-national peace park has Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim, India in the eastern side and Qomolangma National Nature Preserve, Tibet Autonomous Region, China in the north. This heavenly piece of land makes you witness the spectacular views of peaks like Kangbachen (7,902 m), Kumbakarna (7,710 m), Gimmigela Chuli (7,350 m), Drohmo Peak (6,881 m). Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek, Kanchenjunga South Trek, Milke Danda Trek are some of the trekking circuits tourists can walk on to have an adrenaline rush. Also, Pathivara Devi Temple, a sacred place attracts lots of religious tourists.
Subtropical evergreen forest, lower and upper temperate forests, subalpine and alpine zone vegetation are present in the area. Oaks, maple, wallichii, juniper, fir, willow, birch, rhododendrons, carex, poa, laurels are some of the greens found in the region. Not only this place is full of adventures, but also it is a location for diverse plant study. Botanists found 23 species of rhododendron in the area. This conservation area comprises mountain ecosystems and is home to Asian black bear, snow leopard, red panda, leopard etc.
A direct flight from Kathmandu to Suketar or a bus ride from Kathmandu to Birtamod from where tourists are taken to Taplejung bazaar. The suitable time to enjoy in this beautiful arena is from February to May and between August and November.
Krishnasaar Conservation Area
Established in 2009 AD, Krishnasaar Conservation Area is the youngest conservation area of Nepal. It is situated in mid western Nepal in Bardiya distrcit, covering an area of only 15.95 sq. km that makes it the smallest conservation area of Nepal as well. This area was declared with an aim of conserving the endangered Blackbuck (Antelope cervivapra), locally known as Krishnasaar. Filming, photography and blackbuck sightseeing are majot tourism activities in the area. While tourists make a visit to Bardiya National Park, they can also hover around this conservation area.
Manaslu Conservation area
Named after the eighth higest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu, Manaslu Conservation Area was declared as a conservation area in 1998 AD by the government of Nepal. It stretches over the lands of Gorkha and Manang covering an area of 1663 sq. km. Trekking and mountaineering can be done for enjoyment. The trek to this conservation area starts from Gorkha following the trail along Daraundi River (Budhi Gandaki River) before reaching Larke Pass (5,160 m) and crossing the areas of Annapurna Conservation Area. Village tours to visit the Buddhist monasteries like Rachen and Mu Gompas in Chhekampar and Shringi Gompa in Bihi give a different experience of tranquility.
The area is a home to 33 species of mammals like Himalayan serow, musk deer, snow leopard, red fox, brown bear, lynx, blue sheep, Himalayan marmot etc., 110 species of birds like snow partridge, chukar partridge, golden eagle, Himalayan griffon etc., 11 species of butterflies and 3 species of reptiles. There are about 2000 species of plants in the region.
Hunting Reserve
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only hunting reserve in Nepal established with an aim of preserving a representative high altitude ecosystem in west Nepal and allow sports hunting of blue sheep and other game animals.
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve
Lying in the western part of Nepa in the Dhaulagiri Himal Range, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve extends on the districts Myagdi, Rukum and Baglung. It was established in 1983 AD and gazetted in 1987 AD. It covers an area of 1325 sq. km. This reserve meets the needs of Nepalese and foreign hunters to hunt blue sheeps and other animals. Alpine, sub alpine and high temperate vegetation is found in this reserve. Common plants like fir, pine, birch, rhododendron, hemlock, oak, juniper, spruce grow in the area. Blue sheep are the main habitats of Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve along with leopard, serow, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, wolf, red panda, barking deer, wild boar etc.
The hunting reserve is divided into seven hunting blocks which are written below. with the species allowed to hunt in the respective blocks.
Southern Hunting Block:
- Fagune: Himalayan tahr and blue sheep
- Barse: Blue sheep
- Gustang: Himalayan tahr and blue sheep
- Surtibang: Hmalayan tahr
- Seng: Himalayan tahr and blue sheep
- Dogari: Himalayan tahr and blue sheep
- Sundaha: Himalayan tahr and blue sheep
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