Sagarmatha National Park
Location: Solukhumbu District, Eastern Nepal
Key Attractions:
- Tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest (8,848m)
- Khumbu Glacier (world’s highest glacier)
- Gokyo Lakes (highest freshwater lake system)
- Vibrant Sherpa settlements
- Rare wildlife species such as snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, Himalayan black bear, red panda, musk deer, etc
Popular Activities: Trekking and mountaineering
When talking about the most touristic national parks of Nepal, one cannot simply miss most renowned and exotic of them all. Yes, Sagarmatha National Park, which boasts the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest and other renowned peaks like Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Pumori and Ama Dablam, is one of most popular national park in Nepal. This national park was established on 19th July 1976 and is spread across an area of 1,148 sq.km. In 1979, this national park was enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in. Buffer zone area of park is 275 sq.km. and has around 1,619 households.
Major ethnic group inside this national park is Sherpas and follow Buddhist religion. Over 20 villages in this national park with over 6,000 Sherpas. These settlements across of Sagarmatha National Park practice their unique culture and tradition. Sherpa communities contribute to natural resource management practices, which is major contributing factor to successful conservation of national park. Majority part of park is located in high altitude region, 69% of terrain in the park is barren. There is only 3% forested region and 28% is grazing land. Due to its incredible popularity, about 49,000 foreign tourists visit this national park every year. Nepal's most popular Everest region has trekking and peak climbing activities.
Chitwan National Park
Location: Southern Cental of Lowland Terai (Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Parsa and Makwanpur districts)
Key Attractions:
- Rare species of wildlife such as on-horned rhinoceros, gaur, royal Bengal tiger and wild elephant
- Elephant and crocodile breeding centre
- Adventure activities on Narayani and Rapti Rivers
- Opportunity to explore indigenous Tharu settlements
Popular Activities: Jeep safari, jungle walking, canoeing, bird watching and Tharu Cultural experience
Chitwan National Park is another major national park in Nepal that is located in lowland Terai and spreads across four major districts of the country. This national was established in 1973 and covers an area of 952 sq.km. Altitude point in the national parks ranges from 110 meters (360ft) to 850 meters (2,788ft). Three major rivers of the country, Nrayani, Reu and Rapti and several other lakes are water sources for the park. Chitwan National Park is mostly characterized by tropical and sub-tropical forests. The 70% area of park covered by sal forest and other vegetation include grassland, riverine forest, chine pine, khair, sisoo, simal, etc.
Biodiversity of this national park is quite vast, 68 species of mammals, 544 species of birds, 126 species of fish, 55 species of amphibians and reptiles and 60 species of colorful butterflies. This amazing national park is majorly renowned for protection of one-horned rhinoceros, royal Bengal tiger, gharial crocodile, Bengal florican, white-rumped vulture, slender-billed vulture, etc. Similarly, on cultural aspect, Tharum communities are prominent ethnic group of the region. These indigenous communities have unique culture and lifestyle. Visitors can take their time learning more about the local communities by taking part in cultural show and visiting Tharu Cultural Museum and Research Center. There are homestay service around the park where travelers have first-hand experience on Tharu culture, traditions and lifestyle.
Langtang National Park
Location: North Central Nepal (Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Sindhupalchowk districts)
Key Attractions:
Majestic Langtang Lirung (7,234m/ 23,734ft)
- Unique biodiversity, including red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bears, musk deer, etc
- Tamang cultural trail and ancient Buddhist monasteries
- Sacred Gosaikunda Lake that has significant value in both Hindu and Buddhist communities
Popular Activities: Trekking and mountaineering, cultural experience, wildlife observation and birdwatching
Langtang National Park is first-ever Himalayan national park of Nepal which was established in 1976. Majestic national park is spread across an area of 1,710 sq.km. and has 420 sq. km. as buffer zone. This beautiful national park is closest national park to capital city of Kathmandu. Majestic Himalayan ranges like Lantang Lirung, Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa Peak, Chimse Ridge and Ganja La Pass surround the park. Similarly, Lantang River cascades through Langtang Valley on the west end. Major activity inside this Himalayan national park is trekking. There are three major routes, Langtang Valley Trek, Helambu Trek and Gosaikunda Trek, attract hundreds of travelers each year. All of these trekking routes are well facilitated for travelers and sufficient lodges/teahouses and campgrounds are operated locally across the major routes.
Flora and fauna of Langtang National Park are renowned across the world. This national park houses 46 species of rare mammals such as red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, wild boar, musk deer, etc. Similarly, 70 species of butterflies and 345 species of birds, including rarest kind like impeyan pheasant, ibis bill, crimson horned pheasant, snow partridge, etc. Major inhabitants of Langtang Valley are Tamang, Bhotias and Yolmo people, who are believed to have descendants of Tibetan origin. These communities of national park have deep-rooted culture in both Bon and Tibetan Buddhism. Other inhabitants of national park along the buffer zone are Brahmins, Chhetri, Gurung and Newar communities.
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
Location: Northern Side of Kathmandu (Kathmandu, Sindhupalchowk, Dhading and Nuwakot districts)
Key Attractions:
- Breathtaking views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Lantang Ri and Everest
- Dense forest with rare species of wildlife, such as jungle cat, rhesus monkey, leopard, Himalayan black bear
- Major religious landmarks for Hindus and Buddhist
- Panoramic view of capital valley
Popular Activities: Hiking and short treks, mountain biking, birdwatching, nature photography and spiritual retreats
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which is situated on northern side of capital valley is at distance of 12km from center of Kathmandu. This national park was established in 2002 as night national park in the country. Closest national park from Kathmandu, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is main source of drinking water for capital valley. This national park is easily accessible from kathmandu, visitors are often attracted to major trekking and Day Hiking in the park, like Nagarkot, Gosaikunda, Helambu and Langtang Valley. Similarly, several religious sites inside the park for pilgrims of both Hindu and Buddhist religions. During the day of Nepali New Year celebration, pilgrims from Kathmandu and other regions of country flock to Bishnudwar and Bagdwar, which are located inside the park.
These religious landmarks are region from where sacred rivers of the valley Bishnumati and Bagmati originate. Norther side of park popular for incredible views of the Himalayan peaks and southern part offers clear views of Kathmandu Valley. On aspects of flora and fauna inside the park, total of 177 species of birds including 9 rare species, 102 species of butterflies, 129 species of butterflies, 24 species of mammals and overall 2,122 species of plants. Rare and threatened species animals that found inside the park are jungle cat, goral, common leopard, Himalayan black bear, barking deer, etc.
Shey Phoksundo National Park
Location: Mide Western Nepal (Dolpo and Mugu districts)
Key Attractions:
- Deepest lake and second-largest lake in Nepal, Shey Phoksundo Lake
- Endangered wildlife like Himalayan blue sheep, Tibetan wolf, musk deer, griffon vulture, etc
- Tibetan culture influenced culture, gompas and traditional villages
Popular Activities: Trekking and cultural exploration fo Bon Buddhism (roots with Animism and Buddhism)
Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is situated in trans-Himalayan region, largest national park in the country. This national park covers area of 3,555 sq.km. and has 1,349 sq.km. buffer zone. Established in 1984 in order to preserve unique trans-Himalayan ecosystem of the country. Climatic differences in the park, climate variation and diverse geographical features make it rich biodiversity to thrive inside park. Inside park, elevation ranges from Ankhe (2,130m/ 6,988ft) to summit of Kanjiroba Himal (6,883m/ 22,582ft). Similarly, deepest and largest lake of country, Shey Phoksundo Lake, this park has major rivers like Thuli Bheri River and Langu River.
Upper Dolpo people are major ethnic group of the park who practice ancient Tibetan Bon religion. There are about 9,000 people residing in the park and villages are highest settlements on the planet. Landscape throughout the region is decorated with chortens, monasteries and thangka paintings. Similarly, Shey Monastery which was built in 11th century and 900 years old Thasung Monastery are historical and religious landmarks of this park. Flora and fauna found inside park, which is extremely diverse. Shey Phoksundo National Park is home to 32 species of butterflies, 200 species of birds, including rare species Tibetian Partridge, wood snipe, crimson-eared rosefinch, etc. Similarly, shey phoksundo park provides habitat for endangered species of wildlife like: grey wolf, musk deer, snow leopard, jackal, Himalayan tahr, goral and great Tibetan sheep.
Khaptad National Park
Location: Far Western Nepal (Bajhang, Bajura, Doti and Achham districts)
Key Attractions:
- Serene Khaptad Lake (3,050m/ 10,010ft)
- Panoramic views of Mt Api and Mt Saipal
- Scenic natural beauty
- Rich biodiversity with 287 species of bird and 567 species of flora
Popular Activities: Wildlife experience, cultural exploration, camping and trekking
Khaptad National Park is scenic national park in far western region of Nepal. Established in 1984, this national park spread across an area of 225 sq.km. and has buffer zone of 216 sq.km. This park is mid-mountain park in western part of country. Late Khaptad Swami moved to the region to mediate and worship in 1940s. Spent 50 years as hermit and became renowned spiritual saint in the region, which is why park’s name is derived from his name. There is Khaptad Baba Ashram, which dedicated to his teaching near the par headquarters. Inside the park, sacred religious sites like Shiva Temple near the confluence of three rivers, Sahashra Linga, Ganesh Temple, Nagdhunga and Kedardhunga. There are no lodges and hotels inside the park, trekkers exploring the region need to be self-sufficient with tents, fuels and other essential supplies.
Flora and fauna found inside the park, classified into three categories: tropical, subtropical and temperate. So, national park is covered with forests of sal, pine, alder, fir, hemlock, spruce, oak, birch, rhododendron, etc. One of the best features of Khaptad National Park is 224 species of medicinal herbs and 135 species of flowers. Similarly, 266 species of birds in the region and migratory birds from all over the world join resident birds during peak seasons. Likewise, national park is home to 20 different species of mammals, including rare breed of barking deer, wild boar, goral, musk deer, leopard and yellow-throated marten.
Parsa National Park
Location: South Central Lowland of Terai (Makwanpur, Parsa and Bara districts)
Key Attractions:
- Home to endangered wildlife species of royal Bengal tiger, wild Asian elephant, leopard and sloth bear
- Sacred religious sites Digdeswor Mahadev and Kailash Bhata, which worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parbati
- Beautiful culture and traditions of the indigenous Tharu communities
Popular Activities: Jungle safari, jungle walk, jeep tour, cultural tour and canoe rides
Parsa National Park is the 12th national park of Nepal and is located in the southern lowland of Terai. This national park connected to Chitwan National Park which is another major national park of the country and UNESCO World Heritage Site on western side. Similarly, Nepal's national park shares border with Valmiki Tiger Reserve on southwestern part. Parsa National Park was initially established as preserve for Asian wild elephant in 1984 with an area of 499 sq.km. Then, in 2015, Bara district was gazetted and added to the park, making total area of 627 sq.km. and it status as wildlife reserve was changed to national park on 3rd July 2017. Almost 90% of forest inside national park consists of sal trees. There are chir pine trees that grow on the hilly side and forest of khair and silk cotton are on riverside.
Like Chitwan National Park, this national park preserves descent number of endangered wildlife species like Asian elephants, royal Bengal tiger, leopard, blue bull, hod deer, striped hyena, jungle cat, etc. Similarly, 500 species of resident and migratory birds in the national park. Some of rarest species of birdlife include white-breasted kingfisher, golden-backed woodpecker, paradise flycatcher, etc. Furthermore, variety of species of snakes like king cobra, common cobra, banded karit, python, etc. Regarding cultural aspects, Tharu communities of Parsa are indigenous and have long history of living in forests and understanding the local ecosystem. Travelers experience unique cultural traditions of Tharu people during cultural show, and perform traditional dances like Danda Nach Hoda Nach and Jhijhiya.
Bardiya National Park
Location: Southwest Nepal (Bardiya district)
Key Attractions:
- Lush forested trail with a tranquil atmosphere
- Home to wild Asian elephants, royal Bengal tiger, swamp deer, one-horned rhinoceros, etc
- This national park also houses rare eloped species such as Gangetic dolphin and gharial
- Exposure to the traditional Tharu communities
Popular Activities: Jungle safari, jeep safari, walking tours, rafting, wilderness camps and cultural tours
Bardiya National Park is largest national park of lowland Terai region and covers an area of 968 sq.km. This national park was established in 1976 to protect the endangered species of tiger and its prey species. It was initially named Karnali Wildlife Reserve and was renamed to Bardiya Wildlife Reserve in 1982. After it was given the status of national park in 1988, greater one-horned rhinoceros were translocated to Baridya from Chitwan National Park. Babai Valley, which is part of park, is good habitat environment for several wildlife species. Karnali River at the border is home to endangered species of gharial crocodile and marsh mugger. Similarly, gagnetic dolphin and large masher (game fish) thrive on the blue water. Moreover, royal Bengal tiger, wild elephant, swamp deer and black buck are other endangered species of wildlife inside Bardiya National Park.
This park is home to overall 30 different mammal species and 230 species of birds. Rare species of birds found inside the national park include Bengal florican, sarus crane and lesser florican. There are also many record species of lizards, snakes and fishes in the park. As for the cultural experience, Bardya region is home to the Danguara Tharu people, indigenous community of the region. Visitor at the park headquarters visit museum and join cultural program, which showcases rich culture, traditions and lifestyle of Tharu people.
Rara National Park
Location: North Western Nepal (Mugu and Jumla districts)
Key Attractions:
- Largest lake of Nepal, Rara Lake, also known as Mahendra Daha
- Scenic alpine meadows and forested trails
- Stunning mountain vistas of majestic peaks like Ruma Kand, Malika Kand, Mt Saipal and other surrounding peaks
- Endangered species of wildlife, such as Himalayan black bear, jackal, musk deer, yellow-throated marten, red panda, etc
Popular Activities: Boating, off-beaten treks, wildlife exploration and birdwatching.
Rara National Park is one of protected areas in the Himalayas and popular trekking destination for off-beaten experiences. This park was established in 1976 and has total area of 106 sq.km. with buffer zone of 198 sq.km. Rara National Park was gazetted in order to protect the largest lake in Nepal, Rara Lake, which has an area of 9.8 sq.km. and conserve the wildlife and birdlife of Humla-Jumla region. Rara Lake, known as Mahendra Daha/Tal, situated at an elevation of 2,975 meters (9,760ft) is the main attraction of this park. This turquoise lake is 167 meters (547 ft) deep and home to snow trout, only recorded fish of the lake. Overall elevation of national park ranges from 2,800m (9,186ft) to 4,039m (133,251ft). Majority of vegetation of the park is dominated by blue pine and several species of rhododendron flowers adorn the landscape.
Chuchemara Peak (4,039m/ 13,251ft) is highest point of the park and stunning views of Ruma Kand, Malika Kand and other surrounding peaks are clearly visible from northern side of the park. Rara National Park is home to endangered species of wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan black bear, jackal, otter, yellow-throated marten, common langur, etc. Similarly, 214 species of birds in the park, including important species like snow cock, coots, common teal, gulls and red-crested pochard. This national park is completely isolated, no accommodation facilities within the park. If you want to soak in the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of park, you need to self-sufficient.
Makalu Barun National Park
Location: Eastern Nepal (Solukhumbu and Sankhuwasabha districts)
Key Attractions:
- Mt Makalu (8,485m/ 27,838ft), fifth-highest mountain in the world
- Stunning glacial valleys and raw wilderness that aren’t affected by modernization
- Rich and unique biodiversity of Himalayan flora and fauna
- Great religious importance among the pilgrims in both Hindu and Buddhist religions
Popular Activities: Trekking, mountaineering, nature photography and cultural experience
Makalu Barun National Park was established in 1992. This national parks was established as eastern extension of Sagarmatha National Park. It covers area of 1,500 sq.km. and has buffer zone of 830 sq.km. This famous national park of Nepal has an elevation range from 435 meters (1,427ft) to more than 8,000 meters (26,246ft). That’s why Makalu Barun National Park is protected region of the world that has tropical forests as well as snow-capped mountains. Besides the fifth tallest mountain, Mt Makalu (8,485m/ 27,838ft), Mera Peak (6,654m/ 21,830ft), Baruntse (7,129m/ 23,389ft) and Chamlang (7,319m/ 24,012ft) are other majestic peaks of national park. On north side, this national park shares border with Qomolangma National Nature Preserve of Tibet and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area on eastern side.
Thanks to its incredible diversity, park houses around 25 species of beautiful rhododendron flowers, 19 types of bamboo, 47 types or orchids and 56 rare plant species. Similarly, Makalu Barun National Park is houses of 433 species of birds, 315 species of butterflies, 78 species of fish, 16 species of amphibians and 88 species of mammals. Rarest species wildlife found in the park are "Indian leopard, snow leopard, jungle cat, red fox, red panda, Himalayan goral, musk deer, Himalayan serow", etc. Major ethnic groups in national park are "Limbu, Sherpa, Gurung, Tamang, Magar, Newar, Yakkha, Brahmin and Chhetri". So, like biodiversity, incredible cultural diversity in the region. Arun Valley, which is deepest valley in the world, is part of this national park. Several religious sites inside national park like Salpa Pokhari, Dudh Pokhari, Panch Pokhari, Yekle Pokhari, etc which have significant prominence in Hindu and Buddhist religions.
Finally
Ace Vision Treks listed top ten touristic national parks of nepal, where travelers can explore the Nature and Culture. Nepal is unique country to explore the Himalayas. Let's experience Nepal’s beauty together!
