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Parks & Reserves in Nepal |
Nepal has nine National Parks and four Wildlife Reserves.
About 15,000 square kilometers amounting to almost 18
percent of the total area is protected. This is an amazing
commitment to conservation. The Terai lowlands are defined
by a belt of well-watered floodplains stretching from
the Indian border northward to the first slopes of the
Bhabhar and the Siwalik Range. This is the richest habitat
in the land with tall grasslands interspersed with riverine
and hardwood Sal Forest. Here one can see wildlife such
as the swamp deer, musk deer, black buck, blue bull, the
Royal Bengal Tiger, gharial and marsh mugger crocodile
and the last of a breed of Asiatic wild buffalo. Parks
and Reserves are also rich in bird species with a variety
of babbles and orioles, koels and drongos, peacocks and
floricans, and a multitude of wintering wildfowl. |
| Parks & Reserves |
| PARKS |
WILDLIFE RESERVES |
| sn |
Parks |
sn |
Reserves |
| 1 |
Shey-Phoksundo National Park |
1 |
Kanchenjunga Conservation Area |
| 2 |
Sagarmatha National Park
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2 |
Annapurna Conservation Area |
| 3 |
Makalu Barun National Park |
3 |
Shukla Phant Wildlife Reserve |
| 4 |
Chitwan National Park |
4 |
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve |
| 5 |
Langtang National Park |
5 |
Koshi-Tappu Wildlife Reserve |
| 6 |
Shivapuri National Park |
6 |
Manaslu Conservation Area |
| 7 |
Rara National Park |
7 |
Parsa Wildlife Reserve |
| 8 |
Khaptad National Park |
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| 9 |
Bardia National Park |
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| Shey Phoksundo National Park |
Shey Phoksundo is Nepal's largest national park and covers
3,555 sq. km. Sitting astride the Dolpa and Mugu districts
of western Nepal, the park was established to protect
the trans-Himalayan ecosystem found only in few areas
of the Kingdom. The unique park includes the Kanjiroba
Himal, with many peaks of over 6,000 meters, as well as
the famous Shey Monastery, the Phoksundo Lake and the
Langu Gorge.
The flora of the area include pine, walnut, willow, oak,
poplar and cypress in the lower southern parts. In the
higher reaches, pine, spruce, juniper and birch pre-dominate.
The alpine areas are vegetated by berberries, wild rose
and caragana. The and trans-Himalayan mountains and grassy
alpine meadows to the north are almost devoid of trees
but have caragana and dwarf juniper.
The wildlife of Shey Phoksundo include a good popula-tion
of blue sheep and ghoral, musk deer, leopard, wild dog,
wolf, marmot, weasel, mouse hare, rhesus and langur monkeys.
The higher reaches and the haunt of the elusive snow leopard.
The adjoining Tibetan region is home to such rare animals
as the great Tibetan sheep, Tibetan wild ass, Tibetan
gazelle and antelope, and wild yak. Bird species of the
park include the Impeyan and cheer Pheasant, chough, raven,
Tibetan snow cock, Tibetan twit, brown dipper, Himalayan
griffon and lammergeier. The park is inhabited by people
of Tibetan descent who follow the pre-Buddist Bon religion
and some of the main villages are Ringmo, Pugmo, Salclang,
Kugun, and Tatgaun. On the august full moon all Dolpa
villagers converge on the Shey (Crystal) Mountain in a
festival to walk around the holy peak three times in as
many days.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry:
For Nepalese Nationals, Free
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 100/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1,000/-
Access:
The nearest airstrip is at Juphal, south of the park.
Visitors can also fly to Jumla from where it is a 10 day
hike to the Phoksundo and Shey areas. The best time to
visit this park is from April to November.
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National
Parks and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance
fees for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP
counter (Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in
Thamel, Kathmandu, or at the Park gate. For other National
Parks entrance fees are to be paid at the Park gate
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| Annapurna Conservation Area |
The Annapurna Conservation Area has been best trekking
areas in the world. It is also the most visited trekking
area in the country. The area spread around Kaski, Mustan,
Managand Lamjung districts of Central Nepal. Beginning
7 metres, the area reaches as high as 8,091 metres of
Mt. Annapurna.
Ghandruk is the first experience and further down is Gorepani
that provides fantastic panoramic view of the Annapurna
ranges. Equally eye catching are hills of rhododendrons
that blossom every spring. The turning point of the Annapurna
Circuit is Jomsom. The trek southeast from Jomsom, leads
to the scenic Tilicho Lake area at an altitude of 4,919
metres. In the Circuit route, is the famous Hindus religious
sites Muktinath Temple. The vegetation in this region
includes various species of orchids and rhododendron.
Wildlife includes around 100 different kinds of mammals
including rare snow leopards and blue sheep. The region
also boasts of around 478 species of reptiles includingmuli-coloured
Impheyan, Koklas and blood pheasants. In addition the
region is also home to 39 species of reptiles and 22 species
of amphibians. Best time to visit the park is between
October and November.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry:
For Nepalese Nationals, Free
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 2000/-
Access:
The best gateway to the region is Pokhara is Kaski district
of mid west Nepal. Pokhara is easily accessible by air
or by land from Kathmandu. Another gateway to Annapurna
is from Khudi of Lamjung or fly to Jomsom or Manang.
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National Parks
and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance fees
for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP counter
(Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in Thamel, Kathmandu,
or at the Park gate. For other National Parks entrance
fees are to be paid at the Park gate |
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| Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve |
Besides national parks and wildlife reserves Government
of Nepal has also set aside a hunting reserve at Dhorpatan
where controlled hunting of some species is allowed. Covering
an area of 1,325 sq. km., the reserve is situated on the
southern flanks of Mt. Dhaulangiri I (8,167 m.) in districts
of Rukum, Baglung and Myagdi in western Nepal.
The area's vegetation is characterised by well-developed
mixed-hardwood forest at lower elevation and many plant
species of drier climate to the north. Tree species include
fir, pine, birch, rhododendron, hemlock, oak, juniper
and spruce. As in many other protected environments of
Nepal, the reserve includes several villages inhabited
by hill tribes as well as people of Tibetan descent who
supplement farming with trade and animal husbandry. The
reserve is one of the prime habitats of blue sheep, a
highly prized trophy animal, which is the main target
of hunters. Other game species are ghoral, serow, Himalayan
tahr, black bear, pheasant and partridge. Endangered species
of the area include the red panda and cheer pheasant.
Controlled hunting is allowed with proper licence and
certain seasons of the year. Game licence is issued by
the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation
in Kathmandu and there are a few hunting outfitters who
can make arrangements for expeditions. Besides hunting,
Dhorpatan is also an attractive destination for the trekkers
and wildlife enthusiasts as protection has enabled animal
numbers to increase in this rarely visited area.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry:
For Nepalese Nationals, Rs.10/-
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 100/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1000/-
Access:
Visitors can hike from Pokhara, which takes about five
days, or fly to Dolpa. The best time to visit Dhorpatan
is spring and autumn.
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National Parks
and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance fees
for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP counter
(Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in Thamel, Kathmandu,
or at the Park gate. For other National Parks entrance
fees are to be paid at the Park gate
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| Kanchanjunga Conservation Area |
Kanchanjunga Conservation Area belt lies below Mt. Kanchanjunga.
The region with its alpine grasslands, rocky outcrops,
low river valleys, temperate and sub-tropical forests
is situated in Taplejung district that borders with the
Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. The Kanchanjunga Conservation
Area has been selected as one of the 200 Global eco regions
recognized by World Wildlife Fund. Ten species among Nepal’s
20 indigenous gmnosperms and 15among Nepal’s
28 endemic flowering plants are found in this region.
In addition, almost 30 varieties of rhododendron species
and 69 varieties of orchids are found here. The area is
splashed with colours every spring with wild displays
of rhododendrons, orchids, lilies, primula and other flowers.
Wildlife includes endangered snow leopard, Himalayan black
bear, musk deer, red panda, blue sheep and rhesus macaw.
About 202 species of different birds including Impheyan
pheasant, red-billed blue magpie, shy drongo are found
n the area. The region can be reached via Basantapu in
Dhankuta district or Birtamod in Jhapa district The area
can also be reached through Dharan, which is 40 kilometres
north from Biratnagar. Yet another option is to fly to
Biratnagar and then to Sukhetar in Taplejung district
from where the region can be trekked. Tourist facilities
are available in Dharan, Dhankuta and Biratnagar.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry:
For Nepalese Nationals, Free
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 100/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1000/-
Access:
Fly to Sukhetar from Biratnagar and trek from there onward.
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National
Parks and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance
fees for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP
counter (Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in
Thamel, Kathmandu, or at the Park gate. For other National
Parks entrance fees are to be paid at the Park gate.
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| Chitwan National Park |
Nepal's first and most famous national park is situated
in the Chitwan Doon or the lowlands of the Inner Terai.
Covering an area of 932 sq km. the park includes hilly
areas of the Siwalik Range covered by deciduous sal forest.
One fifth of the park is made up of the floodplains of
the Narayani, Rapti, and the Reu Rivers and is covered
by dense tall elephant grass interspersed with riverine
forests of silk cotton (kapok), acacia and sisam trees.
This ecologically diverse area is the last remaining home
in Nepal for more than 300 of the endangered Asian one-horned
rhinoceros and harbours one of the largest populations
of the elusive and rare Bengal tiger. Besides rhino and
tiger, Chitwan also supports a great variety of flora
and fauna. There are four species of deer, including the
spotted chittal, leopard, sloth bear, wild boar, rhesus
monkey, grey langur monkey, wild dog, small wild cats,
the white stockinged gaur (the world's largest wild cattle)
and many other smaller animals. The swampy areas and numerous
oxbow lakes of Chitwan provide a home for marsh crocodiles.
In a stretch of the Narayani river is found one of the
few remaining populations of the rare and endangered fish-only
eating gharial, or Gangetic crocodile. Here also is found
one of the world's four species of freshwater dolphins.
For the ornithologist and the amateur bird-watcher the
park offers excellent possibilities with more than 450
species recorded. Some of the resident specialities are
several species of woodpeckers, hornbills, Bengal florican,
and red-headed trogons. Winter birds such as waterfowl,
Brahminy duck, pintails and bareheaded geese, amongst
many other cold weather visitors are drawn by the sanctuary
of the park's rivers. In the summer the forest is alive
with nesting migrants such as the fabulous paradise flycatcher,
the Indian pitta and parakeets.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Day:
For Nepalese Nationals, Rs. 20/-
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 500/-
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National
Parks and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance
fees for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP
counter (Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in
Thamel, Kathmandu, or at the Park gate. For other National
Parks entrance fees are to be paid at the Park gate
Access:
Chitwan is easily accessible from Kathmandu, being well
connected by a national highway to Bharatpur and to
Sauraha. There are daily fights from October through
May to Meghauli airstrip just outside the park boundary.
Another exciting alternative is a two to three day raft
trip down the Trishuli river to Narayanghat or directly
into the western edge of the park.
Visitors can stay in one of the several lodges and camps
inside or outside the park. Visitors can actively participate
in exciting stalks through the forest looking for animals
signs. One unique Chitwan experience is elephant back
safaris in search of the one-horned rhinoceros, leopard,
deer, bear, monkey and crocodile. Few visitors can ever
forget the excitement of crashing through 20 feet high
elephant grass and sightseeing wildlife. Apart from
elephant safaris, the traveller will be happily occupied
for several days with nature walks, canoe rides down
the park rivers, and land-over drives through the forest.
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| Sagarmatha National Park |
Unique among natural heritage sites world-wide is the
Sagarmatha National Park, which includes Mt. Everest (8,848
m) and other high peaks such as Lhotse Shar, Cho Oyu,
Ama Dablam, Pumori, Kangtega, Gyachung Kang, Thamserku
and Kwangde. Located North-east of Kathmandu, Sagarmatha
National Park is 1,148 sq km. in area and consists of
the upper catchment areas of the Dudh Koshi, Bhote Koshi
and the Imja Khola rivers. Much of the park lies above
3,000m. Sagarmatha is rugged, with deep gorges, glaciers
and unnegotiable ice and rock faces. Locally known as
the 'Khumbu', it is the home of the famous Sherpa people.
The Sherpas make a living by farming barley and potatoes
and graze their yaks in high altitude pastures. Young
Sherpas have also made their name in mountaineering and
the trekking industry has of late become the community's
economic mainstay. In 1979 the park was declared a World
Heritage Site.
Trees such as rhododendron, birch, blue pine, juniper
and silver fir are found up to an altitude of 4,000 meters
above which they give way to scrub and alpine plants.
In late spring and summer, the hillsides around the villages
of Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, Thyangboche and Thame are
a riot of colours with several species of rhododendon
in bloom. Wildlife most likely to be seen in Sagarmatha
are the Himalaya tahr, ghoral, musk deer, pikka (mouse
hare) weasel and occasionally jackal. Other rarely seen
animals are Himalayan black bear, wolf, lynx and snow
leopard. Birds commonly seen are Impeyan pheasant, blood
pheasant, snow cock, snow pigeon, red billed and yellow
billed chough, Himalayan griffin vulture and lammergeier.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry:
For Nepalese Nationals, Free
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 100/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1,000/-
Access:
All of Khumbu is road-less, all travel and exploration
must be undertaken on foot. Quick access are by helicopter
at the Syangboche and via the Lukla airstrip from where
the park head-office at Namche Bazaar is a two-day walk.
Alternative approaches are from Jiri in the south-west
and through Arun Valley in the south-east. Namche is 10
to 12 days trek on both these approaches. The best time
to visit is in October and November and from March to
May when days are warm and clear. However night temperatures
can reach zero levels. A two to three-week stay in the
park is ideal and the best areas to visit are Gokyo Valley,
Lobuche-Kala Pattar-Base Camp, Chukung Valley and Thame
valley. Travellers should come with camping, food and
fuel support to enable them to move freely although room
and board are available in most villages. To enjoy the
visit thoroughly it is best to arrange services of guides
and porters with government registered outfitters in Kathmandu.
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National Parks
and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance fees
for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP counter
(Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in Thamel, Kathmandu,
or at the Park gate. For other National Parks entrance
fees are to be paid at the Park gate
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| Bardia National Park |
The Bardia National Park is situated on the eastern banks
of the Karnali river, about 400 kms. west of Kathmandu.
The park is 968 sq kms. in area and extends from the Churia
hills southward to the gentle slopes of the "Bhabhar'.
The higher grounds of the Churia have dry deciduous forest
of mostly hardwood sal. The porous slopes of the Bhabhar
support large open grasslands known locally as 'Phantas'.
These are some of the last remaining grasslands that once
covered much of the Gangetic plains.
The western end of the Bardia is bounded by numerous water-ways
of the Karnali which have created many large and small
gravel islands. These islands and much of the lower ground
area covered by a mosaic of grassland and riverine forest
of acacia, sisam and the large buttressed silk cotton
trees. In spring, the silk cotton blooms and the forest
comes alive with scarlet flowers.
Bardia is the home of a wide variety of animals, many
of which live in and around the Phantas. These open grasslands
such as Baghora and Lamkoili are the best places to view
animals. The most conspicuous of which is the spotted
deer. Other ungulates include black buck, hog deer, samber
deer, wild boar and barasingha or swamp deer. Two species
of monkeys, the langur and the rhesus macaque are also
present. The park is famous for its small herds of wild
elephants which are rarely seen. The park also boasts
a small population of the rare gharial, the marsh mugger
crocodile and the Gangetic dolphin. The island of the
Karnali river harbours the sub-continent's largest antelope
species, the nilgai or blue bull. The Karnali and Babai
rivers attract a large number of wintering waterfowl along
with resident species such as herons, kingfishers and
wall creepers. More than 350 bird species have been recorded
in Bardia, truly a bird watcher's paradise.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Day:
For Nepalese Nationals, Rs.20/-
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 500/-
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National Parks
and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance fees
for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP counter
(Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in Thamel, Kathmandu,
or at the Park gate. For other National Parks entrance
fees are to be paid at the Park gate
Access:
To reach Bardia, take the daily flight or public bus from
Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, from where it is a five hour drive
to the park office at Thakurdwara. This nature sanctuary
is best visit form October to April.
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| Langtang National Park |
Langtang is one of the most unspoiled national parks of
Nepal. Situated North of Kathmandu, it is the most easily
accessible highland sanctuary from the capital. Langtang
covers 1,710 sq. km. forming the upper catchment areas
of two of Nepal's largest river systems - the Trishuli
and Koshi. There is great latitudinal variation, starting
at 1,500 m. and ascending to the top of Mt. Langtang Lirung
at 7,234 m. As a result the park has immense ecological
diversity. Some of the most attractive areas of the park
include the Langtang Valley, the holy lakes at Gosainkunda,
and the forested hillsides above the village of Helambu.
The deep gorges of Bhote Koshi and Langtang Khola are
thickly forested with rhododendron, oak, maple and alder.
The stretch of forest around Ghoda Tabela in the lower
Langtang Valley and below Gosainkunda is inhabited by
the red panda, a rare and threatened symbol of a healthy
Himalayan ecosystem. Other animals, common to these forests
are wild boar, Himalayan black bear, ghoral, grey langur
monkey and leopard. The rare Himalayan hony guide has
been sighted here and the park is also the home for Impeyan,
Tragopan and kalij pheasants among others. Larch, a rare
deciduous conifer, is also found in the forest of lower
Langtang Valley. Further up, Himalayan tahr, musk deer
and snow leopard can be found. The upper Langtang Valley
is one of he few known breeding grounds of the ibils bills
besides the Tibetan snow cock and snow partridge.
Like other Himalayan nature parks, Langtang has to be
explored on foot. There are several possible trails to
choose from depending on preference and time available.
The langtang Valley is easily approached from Dhunche
town and park office, which is a day's drive from Kathmandu.
The upper reaches of Langtang can be reached in four days
of easy walking, however, it is advisable to spend a few
days around the forest at Ghoda Tabela to watch for the
red panda. Once above Langtang village and the monastery
at Kyangin, visitors can explore the high valley of Langshisa
Yala peak and Tsero, Ri. These and other villages of upper
Langtang are inhabited by people of Tibetan descent whereas
the villagers of Dhunche, Bharkhu and Syabru further down
are home to the Tamangs of Nepal's middle hills.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry:
For Nepalese Nationals, Free
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 100/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1,000/-
(Note: Entrance fee not required for children under 10
years).
Access:
The high pass out of Langtang, Gang la(5,132 m), can be
negotiated only by well prepared hikers with guides, food
and camping equipment. The Gosainkunda can also be reached
in a few days from Dhunche, making it possible to visit
both areas in the same outing.
Alternatively, trekkers can hike to Gosainkunda from Sundarijal
in the Kathmandu Valley via the picturesque villages of
Helambu. The richly forested route that climbs steeply
from here to Thare Pati and Gopte Cave is alive with birds
and flowering rhododendron and orchids in the spring.
Tourists can visit the Langtang National Park anytime
from March to November but it is best to avoid the monsoon
season because of rains and overflowing rivers. The nature
enthusiast on the other hand might find the rainy season
ideal because of the profusion of plant life.
Note:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National Parks
and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance fees
for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP counter
(Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in Thamel, Kathmandu,
or at the Park gate. For other National Parks entrance
fees are to be paid at the Park gate
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| Khaptad National Park |
Khaptad, Nepal's newest park area, is in the middle hills
of the Far-West of the country. The 225 sq kms. area of
the park is situated where the districts of Bajhang, Bajura,
Doti and Achham meet. Khaptad is plateau of grassland
and forest cover at an elevation of about 3,000 meters.
The mixed conifer and broad-leaf forests are an excellent
example of the vegetation that once covered much of west
Nepal's middle hills. The forest consists of a mixture
of tall fir, yew, rhododendron, oak, dense strands of
bamboo and smaller shrubs. This habitat provides good
cover for bear, leopard, barking and musk deer, as well
as birds like the Impeyan, koklas and kalij pheasants.
This park is special because it represents one of the
few remaining mid-mountain ecosystems in Nepal Himalaya.
At the north-eastern corner of the park, a small serene
lake and swampy area called Khapted Daha is religious
site where Hindu pilgrims come to worship Shiva on the
full moon of July-August each year. Here lived the ascetic,
the Khaptad Baba, who was known and revered throughout
Nepal.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry:
For Nepalese Nationals, Free
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 100/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1,000/-
Access:
The easiest access is to fly to Dipayal or Chainpur
or Sanfebagar or Kolti from where it is a few days hike
to the national park. It is also possible to drive to
Silgadi from Dhangadi. The best time to visit Khaptad
is in March and April and in October and November. Travellers
should hike with camping equipment, food and guides,
arranged through trekking agents in Kathmandu.
Note:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National
Parks and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance
fees for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP
counter (Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in
Thamel, Kathmandu, or at the Park gate. For other National
Parks entrance fees are to be paid at the Park gate.
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| Rara National Park |
Situated about 370 km. north-west of Kathmandu, Rara is
Nepal's smallest and most scenic national park covers
106 square km. Much of the park is at an altitude of about
3,000 meters forested by conifers. The park was established
in 1976 and protects some of the most beautiful alpine
and sub-alpine ecosystems of the Himalaya. The centrepiece
is the pristine Lake Rara, also Known as Mahendra Tal,
the biggest lake in Nepal. The lake is surrounded by richly
forested hills, Chuchemara Danda at 4,087 meters is the
best vantagepoint to get stunning views of the lake and
the thickly forested hillsides and the snow-capped peaks
around it. Other summits in the park area are Ruma kand
(3,731 m.) and Malika Kand (3,444 m.), situated to the
north of the lake.
Rara comes within the catchment area of the Karnali River,
one of the three main river systems of Nepal. The habitat
supports animals like the red panda, black bear, yellow-throated
martin, ghoral, serow and musk deer. There have also been
reported sightings of leopard and wolf. The lake attracts
migrant wildfowl like teals, pochards and mallards. Resident
birds include the Impeyan, kalij and blood pheasant as
well as others like the chukkor partridge.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry:
For Nepalese Nationals, Free
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 100/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1,000/-
Access:
The easiest way to get to Rara is by flying to Jumla
or Kolti from Kathmandu via Nepalgunj, followed by a
three-day hike to the park office at Hutu. The alternative
route is to take a bus from Nepalgunj to Surkhet, from
where it is a weeks' hike to the park. Visitors should
travel with camping gear and guides which will offer
them the flexibility to explore Rara where basic accommodation
is available only at the park office. The best time
to visit the region is from February to April and in
October and November.
Note:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National
Parks and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance
fees for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP
counter (Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in
Thamel, Kathmandu, or at the Park gate. For other National
Parks entrance fees are to be paid at the Park gate
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| Makalu Barun National Park |
The park and conservation area is situated in the Sankhuwasabha
and Solukhumbu districts, bordered by the Arun River on
the east, Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) National Park on the
west, the Nepal-Tibet border on the north and Saune Danda
(ridge) to the south. The Park covers 2,330 sq. kms.
This is the only protected area in Nepal with designation
of a Strict Nature Reserve. It has some of the richest
and most unique pockets of plants and animals in Nepal,
elsewhere lost to spreading human habitation. Stepping
up the slopes are a series of vegetation zones starting
with tropical sal forest below 1,000 m. elevation: subtropical
schima-castanopsis forest at 1,000-2000 m. fir, birch,
rhododendron forests in the sub-alpine(3,000-4,000 m);
and herbs, grasses and rhododendron/juniper shrubs in
the alpine pas trues (4,000-5,000 m). There are 47 varieties
of orchids, 67 species of bamboos, 15 oaks including Arkhoulo,
86 species of fodder trees and 48 species of primrose.
Over 400 species of birds have been sighted in the Makalu-Barun
area, including two species never before seen in Nepal
the spotted wrenbabbler and the olive ground warbler.
Wildlife includes the endangered red panda, musk deer,
Himalayan black bear, clouded leopard and possibly snow
leopard, in addition to more substantial populations of
ghoral, thar, wild boar, barking deer, Himalayan marmot
and weasel, common langur monkey and the serow. The Arun
river system contains 84 varieties of fish.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry:
For Nepalese Nationals, Free
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 100/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1,000/-
Access:
To reach Makalu-Barun National Park & Conservation
Area, take the daily flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, Phaplu,
Lamidanda, Bhojpur and Tumlingtar. Visitors choice to
fly any one air link airports then trek.
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National Parks
and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance fees
for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP counter
(Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in Thamel, Kathmandu,
or at the Park gate. For other National Parks entrance
fees are to be paid at the Park gate |
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| Sukla Phanta National Park |
This wildlife reserve is situated in the extreme south-west
of Nepal. The name of the park is derived from the largest
of these grasslands which is known as Sukla Phanta. The
park area is 155 sq kms. and would be 305 sq kms. after
the completion of its extension. Sukla Phanta's grassland
is one of the last remaining habitat for such threatened
animals as the hispid hare and the pygmy hog. Besides
these, Sukla Phanta is the stronghold for another endangered
animal, the barasingha, or swamp deer.
Other wildlife of the park included spotted deer, also
seen in large numbers, hog deer, nilgai, wild dog, jack-al,
porcupine and otter. The park and the adjoining for-est
is the territory of small number of tigers which because
of open terrain, are not uncommon to sight on the prowl.
Wild elephants have also been sighted in the park.
A stop at the Rani Tal is a must. This small lake attracts
birds and animals alike. Herons, ducks, storks, kingfishers
and egrets vie for food and swamp deer wallow at the edges.
From a nearby machan one can watch while thousands of
water fowl mingle on the lake surface while it is not
uncommon to see hundreds of swamp deer grazing at the
water-edge in the evening light. The experience is unique.
Other ways to view wildlife in the park is by driving
in landrovers near the lake and river and on nature walks
with trained trackers
Entry Fee Per Person Per Day:
For Nepalese Nationals, Rs. 20/-
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 500/-
(Note: Entrance fee not required for children under 10
years).
Access:
There are air links Kathmandu via Nepalgunj to the nearby
Mahendranagar airstrip. There is a bus service from
Nepalgunj and Kathmandu. The best time to visit from
October to April.
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| Parsa Wildlife Reserve |
Parsa Wildlife Reserve occupies parts of Chitwan, Makawanpur,
Parsa and Bara districts in central Nepal. The reserve
headquarters is situated at Adabar on the Hetauda-Birgunj
highway and the Reserve covers 499 sq. kms. and established
in 1984.
The dominant landscape of the reserve, the Churiya hills
ranging from 750m. to 950m. run east-west of the reserve.
The reserve has sub-tropical monsoon climate. The forest
is composed of tropical to subtropical forest types with
sal constituting 90% of the vegetation. In the Churiya
hills Chir pine grows and along the stream and rivers
Khair, Sissoo with silk cotton tree occur. Sabai grass
a commercially important grass species grows well in the
southern face of Churiya hill. The reserve supports a
good population of resident wild elephant, tiger, leopard,
sloth bear, gaur, blue bull, wild dog. Other common animals
are sambar, chital, hogdeer, barking deer, langur, striped
hyena, ratel, palm civet, jungle cat etc.
There are nearly 300 species of birds in the reserve.
Giant hombill, peafowl, red jungle fowl, flycatchers,
woodpeckers etc. are few other common birds found in the
reserve. Many kinds of snakes like king cobra, common
cobra, krait, rat snake, pythons are found in the reserve
due to hot tropical climate.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Day:
For Nepalese Nationals, Rs.20/-
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 500/-
Access:
Parsa wildlife reserve is easily accessible from Kathmandu,
being well connected by a national highway and daily flight
to Simra.
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National
Parks and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance
fees for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP
counter (Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in
Thamel, Kathmandu, or at the Park gate. For other National
Parks entrance fees are to be paid at the Park gate
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| Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve |
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve lies on the flood plains
of the Sapta-koshi in Saptari and Sunsari districts of
eastern Nepal. The Reserve covers 175 sq. kms and was
established in 1976.
Rapid and complete inundation of the reserve to depths
ranging from 10 to 300 cm. occurs during the monsoon.
The Sapta-Koshi river also changes its course from one
season to another. The vegetation is mainly tall Khar-pater
grassland with a few patches of Khair-sisso, scrub forest
and deciduous mixed riverine forest.
The reserve offers important habitat for a variety of
wildlife. The last surviving population (about 100 individuals)
of Wild Buffalo or Arna are found here. Other mammals
occurring here are hog deer, wild deer, spotted deer and
blue bull.
The reserve also assists the local economy by providing
fishing permits and allowing the collection of edible
fruits and ferns in season.
A total of 280 different species of birds have been recorded
in the reserve. These include 20 species of ducks, 2 species
of ibises, many stroks, egrets, herons and the endangered
swamp partridges and Bengal floricans. The endangered
Gharial, Crocodile and Gangetic dolphin have been recorded
in Koshi river.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Day :
For Nepalese Nationals, Rs. 20/-
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 500/-
Access:
Koshi Tappu is easily accessible from Kathmandu, being
well connected by a national highway. There are daily
flights from Kathmandu to Biratnagar and road connected
Biratnagar to national highway.
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National
Parks and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance
fees for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP
counter (Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in
Thamel, Kathmandu, or at the Park gate. For other National
Parks entrance fees are to be paid at the Park gate
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| Shivapuri National Park |
Popular as trekking, hiking and recreation area, the Shivapuri
National Park offers the nearest retreat away from the
hubbub of city life. The park was established as a Watershed
and Wildlife Reserve in 1976. the park was declared as
national ark in 2003 for the protection of its unique
natural adornments. Vegetation varieties in the park include
its 129 species of mushrooms while animals include 19
speces of mammals include beer, leopard, deer, wild boar,
wildcat and langur monkey. The park also boasts of 177
species of birds and 102 species of butterflies.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry:
For Nepalese Nationals, Rs.10/-
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 100/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1,000/-
(Note: Entrance fee not required for children under 10
years).
Access:
Only 12 kilometers away from Kathmandu, the gateway
to Shivapuri National Park is Budhailkanta which is
15 to 20 minutes drive away from the city. Another option
is via Sundarijal which is about 30 to 45 minutes drive
from Kathmandu. From both Budhanilkantha and Sundarjal,
the park equires tekking uphill. Yet another way to
reach Shivapuri is by driving till Kakani from where
the park is an hour’s trek away.
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| Manaslu Conservation Area |
The Manaslu area in Gorkha district is a classic setting
to experience pristine mountain nature and culture. With
proposed plans for conserving the heritages of the area,
it is also an ideal place for village tourism experience
that Nepal’s famous for. The conservation
area starts at 600 metres and is crowned by the eighth
highest peak in the world Mt. Manaslu at 8,163 metres.
The region is home to 29 species of mammals including
snow leopard, musk deer and Himalayan Tahr. There are
over 20 species of birds and three species of reptiles.
Vegetation includes 200 species of plants, more than 50
of which are useful for various purposes.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Day:
For Nepalese Nationals, Free
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1000/-
Access:
The entrance to Manaslu Conservation area is at Arughat
between Gorkha and Dhading. Arughat can be reached by
bus or car in about five to seven hours from Kathmandu.
Another entrance is at Daraundi in Gorkha from where the
normal route can be reached hiking via Sirdiwas.
N ote:
Entrance fee not required for children under 10 yearsPark
Entrance fees is regulated by Department of National Parks
and Wildlife Conservation (Phone: 4220850). Entrance fees
for mountain National Parks can be paid at ACAP counter
(Phone: 4222406) at Sanchaykosh building in Thamel, Kathmandu,
or at the Park gate. For other National Parks entrance
fees are to be paid at the Park gate
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