Nepal National Parks

add-banner

About Nepal National Parks

Nepal, a landlocked country in the Himalayas, is home to 12 national parks, which play a crucial role in conserving its stunning landscapes and biodiversity. Nepal National Parks encompass a variety of ecosystems, from subtropical forests and wetlands to alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks. These national parks in Nepal are vital for protecting the country’s wildlife, including some of the world’s most endangered species, while promoting eco-tourism and sustainable development.

Chitwan National Park, Nepal’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most famous national parks in Nepal. Located in the Terai lowlands, Chitwan is home to the endangered Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephant, and sloth bear. The park’s diverse habitats, including forests, grasslands, and riverine ecosystems, support over 500 bird species, making it a key destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Sagarmatha National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for being home to Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. The park’s alpine meadows, glaciers, and valleys provide habitats for species such as the endangered snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and red panda. Sagarmatha National Park is also culturally significant, as it is inhabited by the Sherpa people, who live in harmony with the natural environment.

Bardiya National Park, located in western Nepal, is another important park, offering refuge to species such as the Bengal tiger, rhinoceros, and gangetic dolphin. It is known for its dense forests and tranquil wilderness, attracting nature lovers and adventurers.

Despite their significance, Nepal National Parks face challenges such as poaching, habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, and human-wildlife conflict. Climate change also impacts ecosystems, particularly in mountainous regions, where glaciers are melting and habitats are shifting.

Ongoing conservation efforts, including anti-poaching measures and eco-tourism initiatives, are crucial for protecting national parks in Nepal and ensuring the long-term survival of its diverse wildlife and landscapes.

detail-img detail-img

Nepal National Parks

Sagarmatha National Park

Banke National Park

Bardiya National Park

Bardiya National Park

Explore Now
Chitwan National Park rhino

Chitwan National Park

Explore Now
Sagarmatha National Park

Khaptad National Park

Sagarmatha National Park

Langtang National Park

Sagarmatha National Park

Makalu Barun National Park

Sagarmatha National Park

Rara National Park

Sagarmatha National Park

Sagarmatha National Park

Sagarmatha National Park

Shey Phoksundo National Park

Sagarmatha National Park

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

Sagarmatha National Park

Shuklaphanta National Park

FAQ’s

1. How many national parks are there in Nepal?

Nepal is home to a total of 12 national parks. These national parks protect diverse ecosystems, including high-altitude mountains, dense forests, grasslands, and wetlands, and they are vital for the conservation of Nepal’s rich biodiversity.

Each national park offers unique opportunities for wildlife viewing, trekking, birdwatching, and cultural experiences, attracting visitors from around the world who come to explore Nepal’s natural beauty and wilderness.

2. What is the largest national park in Nepal?

The largest national park in Nepal is Shey Phoksundo National Park. Located in the remote Dolpa and Mugu districts of western Nepal, Shey Phoksundo National Park covers an area of approximately 3,555 square kilometers (about 1,373 square miles).

This vast and pristine wilderness is known for its stunning landscapes, including the deep Phoksundo Lake, alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and unique biodiversity. Shey Phoksundo National Park is home to rare wildlife species such as the snow leopard, blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer, as well as diverse flora and birdlife.

The park also holds cultural significance, with several Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and traditional settlements scattered throughout the region.

Shey Phoksundo National Park offers opportunities for trekking, wilderness exploration, and cultural immersion, providing visitors with a truly unforgettable experience amidst the remote and majestic landscapes of western Nepal.

3. What is the smallest national park in Nepal?

The smallest national park in Nepal is Rara National Park. Located in the Mugu and Jumla districts of western Nepal, Rara National Park covers an area of approximately 106 square kilometers (about 41 square miles).

Despite its relatively small size compared to other national parks in Nepal, Rara National Park is known for its stunning beauty, including the pristine Rara Lake, the largest lake in Nepal.

The park is surrounded by dense forests, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks, providing habitat for various wildlife species such as red pandas, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, and numerous bird species.

Rara National Park offers opportunities for trekking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the tranquil beauty of the Himalayan landscapes, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers visiting western Nepal.

4. What was the first national park in Nepal?

The first national park established in Nepal is Sagarmatha National Park. Designated as a protected area in 1976, Sagarmatha National Park is located in the northeastern region of Nepal, covering an area of approximately 1,148 square kilometers (about 443 square miles).

It is named after Sagarmatha, the Nepali name for Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, which is located within the park. Sagarmatha National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its high-altitude landscapes, including rugged mountains, glaciers, deep valleys, and alpine meadows.

The park is home to diverse wildlife species such as the snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan tahr, and numerous bird species. Sagarmatha National Park offers opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, and experiencing the unique culture and traditions of the Sherpa people who inhabit the region.