Top 8 Most Beautiful National Park in Nepal

Nepal is a beautiful homeland of diverse flora and fauna, several national parks, conservations areas which are ranging from the lowland Terai region to the high Himalayas. Nepal is occupied by 0.1 percent of the total global area. The country has established many protected areas since 1973 to preserve and protect nature and species. However, the establishment of the Department of National parks and wildlife conservation area (DNPWC) was in 1980 AD (2037 BS) with a motive to conserve, protect and manage the ecosystem, wildlife, and biodiversity of the country.

There are 1120 varieties of non-flowering plants, 5160 varieties of flowering plants, 844 birds,100 reptiles,181 mammals,43 amphibians, 645 species of butterfly, and 185 freshwater fish from the high Himalayan, Hilly to low Terai areas. Besides this, Nepal has established and managed 1 wildlife reserve,6 conservation areas, 10 Ramsar sites, 1 hunting reserve, and 12 national parks all over the country to conserve wildlife and vegetation.

Nepal’s government has been working to recognize the vast biodiversity and save many endangered wildlife and vegetation lately. The government has been making various agendas to establish many protected areas in several ecological zones of Nepal. Efforts made by the Nepal government are highly recognized and get an international platform nowadays.

1: Rara National Park

Rara National park is categorized in the list of popular trekking destinations of Nepal. The park was enlisted as a protected area in 1976. While in 2006, an area of 198 sq. km is declared as the buffer zone. Rara national park is considered to be the smallest national park in Nepal. The main attractive portion of the park is Rara lake. The lake is located at an altitude of 2900 m above sea level. Additionally, this lake is considered to be the largest lake in Nepal due to its surface of 10.8 sq. km and depth of 167m. In 2007, the lake is enlisted in the Ramsar site. The lake consists of the water from the source of several peaks such as Malika kand (3,444 m), Ruma Kand (3,731 m), and Chuchemara (4,039m). the water drains and mix into the Karnali river and Nijar Khola.

Location

Rara National Park is located in the far northwestern part of Nepal. It is spread in two districts namely Mugu and Jumla. Mugu district covers almost 90% of the national park areas whereas Jumla district occupies the rest of the 10%.

Climate

The climate changes according to the seasonal change. Similarly, during the month of monsoon season (June- September) it is very hard and challenging to crack the visit here. Followed by the summer season (April -June) the weather remains warm and pleasant. Likewise, the weather temperature dropped down during the month of the winter season (December -March), and also there occur many blockages at the high passes. So, the best time to visit the Rara National Park is during the months of November, September, October, April, and May.

Wildlife and settlement inside the Rara National Park

Rara national park is a sweet homeland to the 21 different species of mammals including Himalayan Tahr, yellow-throated marten, wild dog, rhesus macaque, otter, red panda, leopard, common langur, Himalayan black bear, jackal, and musk deer. Also, 272 species of birds such as snowcock, coots, and other various species of pheasants, mallard, red-crested pochard, gulls, and grebes are found here.

once the two villages- Rara and Chhapru were settled inside the park areas. later on, those villages are resettled in the Banke District after the park was officially established as a protected area. So, there is no settlement found within the boundaries of Rara National Park. local people here depend upon agriculture for their livelihood.

Things to do and place to visit

• Camping
• Hiking
• Jungle safari
• Wildlife and birds watching
• Trekking
• Exploring cultural activities
• Boating and many more activities.

2: Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

Shivapuri National park was established in 1976. Previously it was known as Shivapuri Wildlife Reserve. Shivapuri nagarjun National park covers an area of 159 sq. km in total that is 144 sq. km area is separated as a national park and an additional 15 sq. km is of Nagarjun Wildlife reserve. The park is a pivot area for water supplies to Kathmandu valley. Generally, it supplies the hundred thousand cubic liters of water daily.

Location

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is located in the northern part of the Kathmandu valley. It is only the national park that is attached to the capital city of the country. The National park has touched the four districts namely- Kathmandu, Sindhupalchowk, Nuwakot, and Dhading.

Climate

Shivapuri National Park is covered by the landscapes of the mid-hills. The climatic temperature of this area is mixed of subtropical and temperate during the summer season. The temperature can drop below up to 2 degrees Celsius and can rise up to 30 degrees Celsius in the winter season.

Wildlife and Vegetation

Shivapuri Nagarjuna National park is enriched with numerous vegetation and wildlife. Furthermore, the park is homeland to 2,122m plant species and includes four different types of forest. We can find several vegetation in the park such as Castanopsis Indica, Alnus nepalensis, Pinus roxburghii, Schim Wallichii, Qercus Semicarpifolia, Rhododendron, and Quercus Lanuginose.

Additionally, the National Park is alive with faunal diversity, 15 species of mammals, 9 threatened species such as clouded leopard, pangolin, Assamese monkey, leopard cat. Likewise, we can find 318 species of birds, 106 species of moth, and other animals like Himalayan Black Bear, Goral, Jungle Cat, common leopard, wild boar, sambar barking deer, and many more.

Local people at Buffer Zone

Shivapuri Area is covered by a sub-urban population. The buffer zone covers an area of 118.61 sq. km. We can find around 14,558 households and a population of 9,766 resides here. Mostly, Hinduism and Buddhism cultural tradition is followed by people residing in this zone. Visitors can explore the diversity of culture.

Things to do in Shivapuri National park

Shivapuri Nagarjun is popular among people who loved to do cycling and do short hiking. You can see the very beautiful species of birds with your eyes. Moreover, jungle walks, cycling, trekking, bird watching, and hiking can be done here.

Place to visit

Shivapuri Nagarjun offers mesmerizing biodiversity. We can get an opportunity to visit various pilgrimage and religious sites. Holy rivers such as Bagmati and Bishnumati which flow from the Shivapuri peak are included in this area. Another main place to visit at Shivapuri region are enlisted below:

• Jamacho
• Tarkeshwor
• Bagwar
• Bishnudwar
• Buddha Gupha
• Manichur Mahadev
• Kageshwori
• Sundarimai
• Baudeshwor
• Pachali bhairav
• Nagi Gumba

3: Shey- Phoksundo National Park

Shey- Phoksundo National Park was established in 1984. However, in 1998 the park covered the area of 1349 sq. km as a buffer zone including many private lands and forests. The main motive of this park is to preserve and protect wildlife, vegetation, and the Himalayan ecosystem.

 Local development communities and park management teams have together initiated the various development activities in order to manage and promote the natural and cultural resources.

Location

Shey-Phoksundo National park lies in the northwest part of Nepal in between the Trans- Himalayan region. It occupies an area of 355sq.km. among conservation and protected areas, She-phoksundo is the largest National Park of Nepal. The park is extended in two districts namely – Mugu and Dolpa. Similarly, the park headquarter is situated in Palam, Dolpa and the other official site can be checked at Chhepka, Kaigaun, and Rigmo.

Climate

The park covers both northern and southern aspects of the Himalayan Crest, as a result, a wild climatic temperature can be experienced. During the month of monsoon (July-September), most of the park anticipated a high amount of rain. Moreover, the Dhaulagiri and Kanjiroba ranges prevent the barriers like landslides and soil erosion from the Trans- Himalayan area. The climatic temperature above 2500m has frequent snowfall. Likewise, the weather gets frozen above 3000m elevation.

Wildlife and vegetation

Shey -phoksundo national park is a beautiful homeland to the 6 types of reptiles, 200 species of birds including Crimsion- eared rosefish, wood snipe, and Tibetan Partridge. Additionally, other wildlife such as Goral, leopard, jackal, Himalayan black bear, blue sheep, and 32 species of butterfly including the Paralasa Nepalacia (the highest-flying butterfly in the world) are found in this national park. The park covers less than 5% of the forest area which is covered by the serene beauty of flora and fauna.  Moreover, the park is home to vegetation such as caragana shrubs, juniper, rhododendron, silver fir, and white Himalayan.

Local people at Buffer Zone

Shey- Phoksundo national park also consists of homeland to local people. As the population of more than 12000 resides here and consists of almost 2374households. As per the research data the villages here are considered to be the highest settlement areas on the earth. Local people here practice Bon and follow an ancient religion with roots in Animism and Buddhism. The park covers an area of 1349 sq. km as a buffer zone since 1998.

Things to do and place to visit

Shey Phoksundo offers numerous religious sites and gompas to visit. Shey Gompa is one of the popular gompas here. Furthermore, the park consists of the Shey-Phoksundo Lake (the second largest and deepest lake in the world) due to wetland moisture, the area was declared as the Ramsar site in 2007. The Thasung -900 years old monastery and the monastery which was built nearly in the 11th century are the major famous historical and religious sites of this area.  there are certain restrictions to visit the area as the individual trekkers can’t make an entry to the inner- Dolpo areas however, they can get permission up to Rigmo or phoksundo lake but the permit is allowed to the inner- Dolpo areas if there are groups of trekkers.

4: Bardia National Park

Barida National Park of Northern part was established previously as Royal Hunting Reserve in 1969 and covers an area of 368 sq. km. Likewise, in 1976, National Parks and Wildlife Reserve Act (1973) declared the Royal Bardia Wildlife Reserve and provide full protection of wildlife and vegetation under the laws of Nepal.

Later on, in 1982 the Nepal Government expand the Bardia territory by settling the population of nearly 1500 from the Babai valley. Then the area expanded from 368 sq. km to 968 sq. km. After expansion, in 1988, the Park was upgraded and named Royal Bardia National Park. In the present era, after the end of monarchism in Nepal, the park is known as Bardia National Park.

Location

Bardia National Park is located in the Southwest part of Nepal. It is one of the largest national parks in the Terai region which is extended to an area of 968 sq. km. We can see cultivated land, forest, villages, and Mahendra Highway in its eastern part. Karnali river and its several tributaries on the southern part and Crest of Siwalik range on the northern part. Similarly, the park consists of a large number of rare species.

Climate

We can feel the three distinctive seasons here at Bardia National Park Area. The climate gets moderately dry with warm days and cold nights in the month of October to March. During the month of April to May- the temperature rises up to 45 degrees Celsius. This month our very best to visit the park, as we can track the tiger and other wildlife, as they came out finding the water sources. Likewise, from June to September the weather falls under monsoon in this sub-tropical zone.

Wildlife and Vegetation

Bardia National Park offers home to 642 species of animals, 125 species of fish, 839 varieties of plants, and 407 species of resident and migratory birds. Furthermore, it covers almost 70% of a balanced mixture of grassland, savannah, and riverine forest, rare species of rhino- one-horned rhino, blackbuck, swamp deer Gangetic dolphin, swamp deer, and wild elephant. Similarly, we can encounter the Bengal tigers in this protected area.

Things to do in Bardia National Park

• Jungle safari
• Jungle walks
• Cycling
• Dolphin watching
• Birds watching
• Boating
• Canoe ride
• Homestay
• Tiger Tracking
• Tharu cultural show

5:Makalu Barun National Park

Makalu Barun National park was established in 1992 with an objective to conserve the forests, wildlife, and vegetation. The park was previously listed as a conservation area. All the administrative works and managerial works of this park is done by the Department of National parks and wildlife conservation. This park is also known to be the extension of Sagarmatha National Park at the eastern side. It covers an area of 1500 sq. km and a buffer zone of 830 sq. km. The park ranges from the altitude level of 435 m to 8000 m above. The elevation is the main reason that the Makalu Barun National Park is listed as a protected area that includes tropical forests as well as snow-capped mountains. This National Park consists of many sacred Himalayan landscapes. The protected area includes the world’s 5th highest mountain namely Mount Makalu (8463m). Additionally, other popular mountains such as Mera Peak (6654m), Baruntse (7129m), and Chamlan (7319m) fall under the Makalu region.

location

Makalu Barun National Park is situated in the eastern part of Nepal. However, on the northern side the park shares the international border to Tibet’s National Nature preserve – Qomolangma. The Sagarmatha National park is bordered by the western part. likewise, the national park shares the border to Kanchenjunga Conservation Area to its eastern part and Saune Ridge towards its southern part. The park touches the two districts namely Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha.

Climate

The climatic region of the Makalu region is tending to be changeable due to its altitude differences. The climate remains very hot during the summer season (March to May), moderate in the winter season (October to February) at lower altitudes. Besides this, the climate remains very cold to a higher altitude. More than 70% of rainfall occurs during the month of June to September and during the month of April to May pre-monsoon rainfall occurs. This is the reason the climate of this region is tending to be mostly a monsoon type.

Wildlife and Vegetation

Makalu Barun National Park consists the numerous species of wildlife and vegetation. We can find the 47 different types of Orchids, 15 varieties of oak tree, 86 kinds of fodder trees, 25 species of rhododendron, 19 species of bamboos, 56 rare and endangered plants foster in different 27 forests.

Furthermore, the protected area has been home to the flora and fauna,315 species of butterfly, 43 species of reptiles, and 16 species of amphibians. Additionally, 78 species of fish, 88 species of mammals, and 433 species of birds are found inside this park.

local people at Buffer Zone

The buffer zone includes the 4 rural municipalities and almost 38,977 population resides in this area. Additionally, the buffer zone consists extra 94 communities. Basically, Sherpas, Bhotes, and Rais people live here. The main economy of the people is based on the tourism sector, farming, agriculture, and labor. local people often run several tea shops, hotels,s and lodges in the park and buffer area.

Things to do at Makalu Barun National Park

Makalu Barun is very popular in terms of trekking fields. The trek trail longed towards a rugged and off-beaten trail inside the protected areas. Trekkers’ choice Mera peak (6000m) falls under the Makalu region.  there are many things to do at Makalu Barun National Park such as:

• Birds watching
• Snow leopard tracking
• Explore Sherpa cultures
• Trekking
• Camping
• Explore numerous monasteries

Place to visit

• Makalu Base camp
• Barun valley
• Arun valley-world deepest valley
• Mera Base camp- off beaten trekking trail
• Salpa Pokhari- Sacred lake popular among Hindus
• Various lakes such as Panch Pokhari, barun Pokhari, Dudh Pokhari, Teen Pokhari, Yekle Pokhari

6: Khaptad National Park

Khaptad national park is situated in the Far- western region and is enlisted as the protected area. the park covers an area of 225 sq. km and ranges from 1400m to 3300m altitude. Furthermore, khaptad national park covers four districts- Achham, Bajhang, Bajura, and Doti. The park was established in 1984 with the motive to preserve and protect the wildlife and vegetation on the advice of Khaptad Baba- a holy priest of the region. There is the belief that khaptad baba migrate to the area in 1940 for mediation. Besides this, 216 sq. km was declared to be a buffer zone in 2006. The park is famous as a religious site for Hindus as the khaptad baba had spent his 50 years in solitude and later on became the renowned saint. The ashram is still located near the park’s headquarter.

Location

Khaptad national park is popular among adventure and nature lovers who love to collect memories and want to explore in the remote area so far. Although the park is located in the far western region of Nepal, it carried several hidden treasures. Visitors can explore new places and gain the wilderness experience. You can see the API and Saipal Himalayan ranges from the Khaptad National Park.

Climate

The climatic temperature during the summer season (June- September) ranges from 0 to 20 degrees Celsius. Likewise, the temperature dropped below 20 degrees Celsius during the month of winter (December-February) however, the temperature remains normal during the Autumn season (October-November) and Spring season (March-May).

Wildlife and vegetation in Khaptad National Park

Khaptad National park is the homeland of the 567 species of flora and fauna such as hemlock, oak, pine, rhododendron. Additionally, the green hills and several landscapes give a beautiful view. Khaptad national park is also filled with almost 224 species of medical herbs, 270 species of birds,23 species of mammals. Additionally, the birds like Impheyan pheasant, flycatchers, bulbuls, cuckoos, eagles, Peregrin, falcon, the white-rumped vultures, partridges etc. can be spotted in the park.

Things to do and place to visit in khaptad National Park

• Birds camping
• Meditation
• Visiting religious sites such as Khaptad Baba Ashram, Triveni Temple etc.
• Trekking
• Camping

7: Gauri Shankar Conservation Area

Gauri Shankar Conservation Area was established in 2010. The main objective of this conservation area is to conserve the prime habitat of endangered wildlife and vegetation. It covers an area of 2,179sq.km. It is extended with two other national parks namely- Sagarmatha National Park and Langtang National Park.

National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) has been managed all the departmental and managerial works of the conservation area, after the Government of Nepal handed over all kinds of activities in 2010.  Gauri Shankar Conservation Area has an off-beaten trekking trail because of which it is very popular among visitors who love to trek.

44.5% of the conservation area is covered by forests and bushes. Similarly, cultivation land consists 8.8%, glaciers covered 2.77%. The remaining area is covered by barren land. The majestic Mt. Gauri Shankar (7134m) lies here. This area is very famous, as we can visit different lakes, monasteries, temples, animals such as Tsho Rolpa lake, Gauri Shankar Himal. We can get to know the history behind such religious and historical places once we explore these places.

Location

Gauri Shankar conservation area is situated in the northeast corner of central Nepal. The headquarter of this conservation area is in Charikot which is just 131 km away from the capital city- Kathmandu.  It includes the 22 Villages Development Committees and covers three districts, Dolakha, Sindhupalchowk, and Ramechhap. All these areas hold their own natural beauty and importance.

Climate

Sub-tropical, temperate, sub-alpine, alpine, and Nival climatic zones can find in this region. The area ranges from the altitude of 968m to 7181m above sea level.

Wildlife and vegetation

Gauri Shankar Conservation Area is the homeland of 235 species of birds and 34 species of mammals. We can find endangered animals like the Himalayan Black bears, Himalayan Thar, and Snow Leopard. Furthermore, we can find 16 varieties of vegetation.

Local People at Buffer Zone

Local people at the buffer zone mainly depend upon Tourism, Quarrying, Farming, and Pastoralism for their livelihood. Different ethnic groups of people reside in the buffer zone. We can find the ethnic groups of Sherpa., Tamang, Magar, Gurung, Chhetri, Brahman, Thami, Dalit, Newari, Surel, and Sunuwar.

Things to do

 We can do the following mentioned things once we reached to Gauri Shankar Conservation Area. They are:

• Canoe ride
• Mountaineering
• Trekking
• Peak climbing- (Ramdung Peak- 6,273m, Chekigo Peak -6,257m, Yalung Ri Peak -5630m and Pharchamo peak-6,273m)
• Bungee jumping
• White water rafting
• Canyon swing

8: Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve was established in 1987 and covers an area of 1,325 sq. km. It is only one hunting reserve in Nepal where licensed hunting is allowed from the Department of the National Park and Wildlife Conservation. Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is surrounded by villages on all sides except the northern part. it is situated at an altitude of 2850m to 5500m. It also covers the part of Dhaulagiri Himal of western Nepal and touches the border of Rukum, Myagdi, and Baglung District. for easy hunting management purposes, the reserve is divided into several blocks. The majestic view of Mt Dhaulagiri, Mt Manaslu, Mt Annapurna can be seen from here.

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is very popular for exploring and collecting lifetime adventurous experiences besides mountaineering and trekking. The main purpose to establish the hunting reserve is to conserve numerous species and make a better ecosystem. Additionally, is also provides hunting sports facilities to hunting lovers.

Flora and Fauna

The reserve is filled with numerous plant species such as rhododendron, fir, juniper, hemlock, birch, pine. likewise, the pasture land covers more than 50% of the reserve area. The reserved area is also signalized by alpine, sub-alpine, and high temperate vegetation.

Climate and Hunting Season

During the month of the winter season, the temperature drops to a low, and a strong breeze of wind blow most of the time. However, the climate remains snowy cold during this season. Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is best to visit during the month of March, April, October, and November.

Hunting Blocks and Animals permitted for Hunting in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Department of the National Park and Wildlife Conservation has provided permission to the particular animals for hunting. we can find seven blocks altogether. Four blocks fall under the Southern part while the remaining three blocks fall in the Northern part. blocks are separated from each other to make the hunting easy and effective. we listed the blocks separately below:

Southern Hunting Block:

1. Falguna- Bluesheep and Himalayan Tahr
2. Barse- Bluesheep
3. Gutsang- Bluesheep and Himalayan Tahr
4. Surtibang- Himalayan Tahr

Northern Hunting Block:

1. Seng- Bluesheep and Himalayan Tahr
2. Dogadi- Bluesheep and Himalayan Tahr
3. Sundaha- Bluesheep and Himalayan Tahr

Things to do and place to visit in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is very famous and one of the best choices for trekkers. A mix of natural and cultural beauty of remote areas adds an extravagant experience. you can explore the culture and enroll with the local native people to explore things in your own way. furthermore, the mesmerizing views of Hill tribes and landscapes and Tibetan Refugees make an environment-friendly zone. you can find the unique taste of culture there. Additionally, the majestic view of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges area is the other main part to attract visitors to this zone.