Nepal is a small nation in South Asia, which is situated between India and China. Among the diverse landscapes that are present are the Himalayas, the Terai region, and the Inner Terai, just to mention a few. The country also has a number of Popular national parks that are preserved to help in the conservation of wildlife and natural resources. Some of the recreational activities that are offered in these national parks include hiking, trekking, and wildlife watching.
Besides the protection of the natural resources in the country, the national parks in Nepal are vital to the tourism business of the country since they attract tourists worldwide. The popular national parks in Nepal include Chitwan National Park, Sagarmatha National Park, and Bardia National Park, among others. These parks contain a variety of wildlife such as Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and one-horned rhinoceros, not to mention several threatened and endangered species.
The most popular national parks in Nepal:
Chitwan National Park:
Chitwan National Park is a very popular national park in Nepal. What is more interesting is that there are sightings of animals in this region besides the strange nature of the environment. The park is home to rare species owing to the high mountain passes, broad savannah plots, thick jungles, and flowing rivers and lakes. There are too many opportunities to see, and one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, Gharial crocodiles, sloth bears, and even leopards are free to roam.
Moreover, the region harbors different species of birds and exotic flora and fauna. The animal populations have also been able to recover in the last three decades due to the intensive anti-poaching and conservation programs. It is a park often compared to the Serengeti, and it is a haven of wildlife for the enthusiast of wildlife. It is situated in the Nepal Terai. The Chitwan National Park shelters a large diversity of wildlife, including Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and one-horned rhinoceros. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most favorable tourist attraction in Nepal.
Sagarmatha National Park:
Sagarmatha is nothing less than extraordinary. Mount Everest, the fabled tallest peak in the world, is located within this protected region. Famous creatures like the snow leopard, lynx, bears, hares, and the Himalayan thar live in the rugged Himalayan mountain terrain alongside this behemoth.
The absence of roads in the park’s neighboring area only adds to its isolation and unspoiled beauty. For its spiritual importance, it is renowned. Many Sherpas call this place home, and others make pilgrimages to its landmarks.
The mountain itself holds great significance for the locals. They refer to the peak as Chomolungma, which means the Mother Goddess of the World, and think that spirits dwell there. Regardless of the purpose of your stay, this beautifully landscaped park is truly amazing. It is one of the most popular national parks in Nepal.
Bardia National Park:
One of the most unspoiled regions in the nation, this national park in Nepal is home to dense forests, grasslands, and riverine forests. Numerous animals, including one-horned rhinos, elephants, tigers, deer, and the rare giant dolphin, can be found in the area. Over 400 bird varieties, including peacocks, are visible to visitors. The native Tharu clan calls the park home, even though a large portion of the region is still uninhabited. Beautiful displays of waterlilies and lotus flowers line the park’s waterways.
Langtang National Park:
The Himalayan mountain range’s Langtang region is home to a diversity of ecosystems and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can also take in the starry night sky. Alpine mountain ranges and crystal-clear lakes can be found in the high-altitude scenery. But the devastating avalanche of 2015 destroyed Langtang village, and many remains were never found. Although reports of Yeti sightings are unconfirmed, the park is home to red pandas, black bears, monkeys, and several spiritual places.
Annapurna Conservation Area:
The Himalayas in Nepal have a conservation area, which is known as the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is famous for its spectacular mountainous landscape, diverse flora and fauna, and unique cultural heritage. There are many native communities in the area, such as Gurungs and Thakalis, and the area hosts many trekking paths, the most famous of which is the Annapurna Circuit.
Over 100 mammals, including snow leopards and Himalayan tahr, as well as ecosystems, such as subtropical forests or high-altitude desert landscapes, are found in the conservation region. It is also home to more than 450 species of birds, many of which are endemic. Conservation area is a popular ecotourism and trekking spot that offers tourists the opportunity to experience the beauty and cultural diversity of the natural Himalayas.
Rara National Park:
Rara Lake is the largest and clearest lake in Nepal, based on its location, which is the Rara National Park located in the far north-west region of the country. There are many rare animals in the park, such as red panda, black bear, and musk deer. The park is also a paradise for bird watchers as more than 200 species of birds have been found there.
The visitor can hike to the nearby peaks to have spectacular views of the Himalayas, go boating on the lake, besides enjoy the forest and meadows nearby. Some of the ethnic groups, such as the Thakuri, Rana, and the Botes, who have their unique cultures and practices, reside in the park. Rara National Park is an essential place to go for people who value nature and are seeking adventure. It is also referred to as one of the most frequented national parks by trekkers in Nepal.
Khaptad National Park:
A tranquil retreat for the body, a spiritual park in Nepal’s far west named after Khaptad Baba. Visitors are welcome to tour the ashram, pilgrimage sites, and historic Hindu towns. Whereas they are not allowed to consume alcohol, smoke, or butcher animals. It is the perfect vacation spot thanks to the beautiful scenery, which includes verdant hills and views of the Himalayas, as well as the pleasant summer weather.
Shey-Phoksundo National Park:
The magnificent Phoksundo Lake and a variety of wildlife, including Tibetan yaks, blue sheep, and snow leopards. Besides this, Shey Phoksundo National Park is the biggest national park in Nepal. It provides a distinctive cultural experience because it contains villages and religious places where Bon Buddhism is practiced. The Paralasa Nepalaica butterfly, the highest soaring species in the world, might even be spotted by lucky tourists.
Makalu-Barun National Park:
This far-flung national park is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity and soaring mountains. The fifth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Makalu, dominates the skyline next to other summits that rise above 7,000 meters. More than 40 different varieties of orchids can be found in Makalu Barun National Park. As well as with elusive creatures like the snow leopard, red panda, various species of deer, and the Himalayan black bear.
Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park:
This breathtaking park, which is close to Kathmandu, is a popular getaway in nature. Numerous hiking paths with views of the mountains, green hills, and pure water springs can be found there. The park’s name is connected to religious scripture and Lord Shiva. It is home to over 2,000 floral species, as well as 100 different kinds of mushrooms, and 16 endemic plants, in addition to being rich in therapeutic plants. Black bears, monkeys, and leopards are among the varied wildlife.
