Nepal National Park Information
##( NATIONAL PARKS ) INTRODUCTION
Nepal is a land of extreme contrasts in climate and geography, It has a unique topography ranging from lowlands with sub-tropical jungles to arctic conditions in the Himalayan highlands. Within a mere 150 kilometers the land rises from near sea level in the south to over 8,000 meters in the North. This, together with the monsoon rainfall along the south facing slopes, has resulted in compacting virtually all climate zones found on planet Earth. As a result, Nepal has been endowed with a great diversity of life-zones providing a home for a large variety of plants, birds and animals.
The Terai lowlands are defined by a belt of well-watered floodplains stretching from Th. 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 mugger crocodiles, and the last of a breed of Asiatic wild buffalo. This area is also rich in birdlike with a variety of babbles and orioles, koels and drongos, peacocks and floricans, and a multitude of wintering wildfowl. There are five protected areas in Nepal-Koshi Tappu and Parsa in the east, Sukla Phanta and Dhorpatan for hunting in the west and Shivapuri in the. mid-mountain region. The Churia, also known as the. siwalik, is the southern most range of the Himalaya. No where do they rise above 1,220 meters, This range is famous for fossil deposits of Pleistocene mammals, among them 10 species of elephants, 6 rhinoceros, hippopotamus, saber-toothed cats, various antelopes and primates such as the orang-utan, long extinct in the subcontinent, Situated north of the Churia are broad, low valleys of the inner Terai know as the Doons. These valleys are not unlike the outer plains with tall elephant grass, swamps and ox-bow lakes where the last of the one-homed rhinoceros survive, Royal Chitwan National Park in the Inner Terai of central Nepal is the first and best protected area s in the kingdom. Once one of the most famous big game hunting areas in Asia. Chitwan now offers protection to a large array of mammals such as the. one-horned rhinoceros, tiger, leopard, sloth bear and the gaur (wild bison) as well as more than 400 species of birds.
Higher in the north between 2,000 and 3,500 meters lies the Mahabharat Range with its oak crowned crests. The hills of this midland are covered by a moist temperate forest of deodar, oak, maple and birch in which are found deer, ghoral serow, leopard and monkey, The gorgeous multi-colored lmpeyan pheasant (Nepal's national bird) is also found here with other endangered birds like the koklas and Cheer Pheasants. Protected areas in this zone include Khapted National Park in the Far-West, Dhorpatan Hunting reserve, Northwest of Pokhara and Shivapuri Wildlife Sanctuary near Kathmandu.
Higher still, nearer the snowline, are the alpine mountain flanks which are the haunt of snow leopard, which preys on blue sheep and the. Himalayan tahr, Rarely seen are the wolf. black and brown bears and lynx. The Sherpas, Manabga, and Dolpa-bas are some of those who farm and graze their livestock on the high mountain pastures. Langtang, Sagarmatha (Everest). Shey-Phoksundo and Rara National Parks are the protected high altitude areas of Nepal.
His Majesty's Government of Nepal has set aside more than 13,000 sq.kms of protected areas that include as many bio geographic regions as possible to assure conservation of the maximum numbers of wildlife species. These nature sanctuaries attract wildlife enthusiasts and tourists from the world, over, and each park and reserve has its own attraction.
Langtang National Park
LOCATION
Situated in the Central Himalaya, Langtang National Park is the nearest park to Kathmandu. The area extends from 32 km north of Kathmandu to the Nepal-Chine(Tibet) border.
ESTABLISHMENT
Langtang was designated as the first Himalayan National Park in 1970-71, and was gazetted in March 1976.
While the main reason for the park is to preserve the natural environment, an equally important goal is to allow local people to follow traditional land use practices that are compatible with resource protection.
HOW TO GET THERE
Public bus or taxi reach Dhunche (Park H.Q.) via Trisuli Bazaar from Kathmandu (approx. 7-8 hrs. ) A seasonal road reaches Syabrubensi.
Alternative routes from Kathmandu are public bus to Sundarijal or Melamchighat . From either point, trek through Helambu to Gosainkunda via Laurebina pass or cross Ganja La pass 95122 m) to reach Langtang Valley .
SEASONS
From mid-October to mid December and from mid-February until mid -April the weather is usually clear but cold at higher elevation. From mid-April to mid-June, it is warm but often cloudy with thunder showers; spring flowers are at their best. Summer monsoon lasts until the beginning of October . During the winter months daytime temperatures are low and snow may occur even at low levels.
THE PARK
Langtang National Park encloses the catchments of two major river systems' one draining west into the Trisuli River and the other east to the Sun Koshi River.
Some of the best example of graded climatic conditions in the Central Himalaya are fond here. The complex topography and geology together with the varied climatic patterns have enabled a wide, spectrum of vegetation types. These include small areas of subtropical forest (below 1000 m.) Oaks, chirpine, maple, fir, blue pine, hemlock spruce and various species of rhododendron make up the main forest species. Above these alpine scrub and grass give way to rocks and snow.
The variations in altitude and topography along with the existing forest cover (approx. 25% of the total area) provide habitat for a wide range of animals including wild dog red panda, pika, muntjac, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan tahr, ghoral, serow, rhesus monkey and common languor The Trisuli-Bhote Koshi River forms an important route for birds on spring and autumn migrations between India and Tibet.
About 45 villages are situated within the park boundaries , but are not under park jurisdiction, In total about 3000 households depend on park resources, primarily, for wood and pasture lands.
Culturally the area is mixed, the home of several ethnic groups . The majority of people are Tamang, an ancient Nepalese race. The Tamangs, traditionally farmers and cattle breeders, are especially well known for their weaving. Their religion is related to the Bon and the pre-Buddhist doctrines of Tibet. Today this religion has merged with the newer teachings of Tibetan Buddhism.
The Helambu area, immediately north of Kathmandu, has many scenic villages inhabited by Sherpas and Tamangs who emigrated from Tibet.
Over the centuries the dependence of people on natural resources has influenced the. environment. Their settlements, cultivation patterns, livestock grazing , and daily use of resources which, in combination with the diversity of flora and fauna and views to the Ganesh Himal, make Langtang an attractive national park.
PLACES OF INTEREST
The Langtang Valley, which is reached from the road end at Dhunche or Sybrubensi, offers an opportunity to explore villages and gompas (monasteries) as well as glaciers, with magnificent views of the mountains.
Permission from the lamas must be gained before visiting us gompas and a small donation is expected.
The Langtang Valley is the most visited part of the park and for those who do not wish to camp, accommodation in lodges is available.
Gosainkunda, an area of high altitude lakes, is reached either from Dhunche or from Sundarijal in the eastern part of Kathmandu Valley. Thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit these lakes during Janai Purnima festivals in the month of August. Gosainkunda lake is believed to have been created by Lord Shiva.
Simple lodging is now available along the routes from Sundarijal and Dhunche to Gosainkunda. National Park fuel regulations are strictly enforced so fuel and camping gear must be carried.
Outstanding views to Langtang Lirung (7234 m) , Himal Chuli (7864 m) are visible from the trail. The route from Dhunche passes a Buddhist monastery, Sing Gompa.
An alternative route from the Langtang Valley to Kathmandu crosses the Ganja La pass (5106 m.) This pass is difficult and dangerous when snow covered. It is generally open from April to November, but unusual weather can alter its condition at any time. Essentials for crossing the Ganja La are a tent, alpine equipment, food and fuel as well as guide who knows the trail.
The Helambu circuit , from Sundarijal to Tharepati, barely enters the national park but is nevertheless and interesting route passing through several Bhotia villages and without ascending to more than 3400 m. From this trail it is possible to connect with Gosainkunda and eastern parts of the park (Panch Pokhari).
MAIN TREKKING ROUTES
Langtang Valley Trek:
FROM---------------------TO---------HOURS---ALT.
(M.)
Kathmandu (car/bus)----- Trisuli ------- 4-6 ----548
Trisuli (car/bus) ----------Dhunche-------2-4 --1950
Dhunche ------------------Bharku --------2-3 --1860
Bharku --------------------Syabru --------3-5 ---2130
Syabru -------------------Chongong ----5-7 ---2380
Chongong ----------------Ghora Tabela- 2-4---3000
Ghora Tabela -------------Langtang -----2-3 ---3500
Langtang ------------------Kyanjin -------2-3 ---3800
FROM KYANJIN TO HELAMBU VIA GANJA LA
Kyanjin---------- :
Negegang--------- 2-4---------4000
Negegang --------Ganja La -----------4-8 --------5106
Ganja La ---------- Base Camp --------3-5 -------4400
Base Camp --------keldang ------------2-3 --------4270
Keldang ------------Dukpu -------------2-3 --------4020
Dukpu --------------Tharkegyang ------3-5 --------2560
and out to Melanchighat
DHUNCHE TO GOSAINKUNDA, EXITING VIA HELAMBU
Dhunche Trail Junction 1-2 1950
Train Junction Sing Gompa 3-4 3350
Sing Gompa Gosainkunda 3-4 4380
Gosainkunda Lauribina Pass 1-2 4610
Lauribina Pass Gopte-Ghopte 2-4 3260
Goopte-Ghopte Tharepati 3-4 3505
Tharepati Melachigaon 2-3 2560
The Melamchigaon trail joins the Helambu circuit either via Tarkegyang or directly to Kathmandu via Pati Bhanjyang.
NOTE: All walking hours listed are estimated A guide should be used.
PARK FACILITIES
The park Headquarters is at Dhunche. All visitors must stop here to pay an Entrance Fee.
Adults : 650.00
Children (under 10 years) :Free
Be sure to keep your Entry Permit as it might be checked later by the park guards.
Further information and advice is available at the park HQ. and Entrance Station.
There is a park sub-office in Shermathang on the south/eastern boundary in the Helambu area.
The Park has two lodges in Langtang Valley: at Ghora Tabela and Kyanjin.Both are run on a concession basis.
There is a radio at the Park headquarters at Dhunche and at the guard post in Ghora Tabela. Helicopter evacuation is possible, but not reliable, and is only arranged at the patient's expense.
SOME IMPORTANT POINTS
Local customs should be respected and shorts for woman are not acceptable attire.
Only local people are allowed to cut limited wood for fuel. Visitors are required to use kerosene or similar liquid of gas fuel, purchased in Dhunche or outside the park. Please make sure your porters also use kerosene.
mountain sickness can affect anyone, and must be taken seriously. To allow your body to become acclimatized to high altitudes, do not ascend more than 300 m. per day above 3000 m.
There are no medical facilities in the park. Carry a comprehensive first aid kit including medicines for intestinal problems and chest infections.
Bring sufficient warm clothing so that you do not have to rely on fires for warmth.
##SAGARMATHA NATIONAL PARK
INTRODUCTION
Sagarmatha National Park covers an area of 1148 square kilometers in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The Park includes the highest peak in the world. Mt. Sagarmatha (Everest 8848 m.) and several other well known peaks such as Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Thamerku, Kwangde, Kangtaiga and Gyachyung Kang.
As Mr. Sagarmatha and the surrounding areas is of major significance not only to Nepal but to the rest of the world. its status as a national park since 1976 is intended to safeguard its unique cultural , physical and scientific values through positive management based on sound conservation principles.
HOW TO GET TO THE PARK
The most common ways to get to the park are:
- Flight to Lukla, followed by two days' walk
-Bus to Jiri and trek for two weeks
- Flight to Tumlingtar, trek for 10-11 days.
CLIMATE
The summer climate is cool and wet and winter is cold and dry. Almost all of the annual precipitation, averaging less than 1,000 mm., falls during the summer monsoon, from end of May to September .Climatically, the best time to visit the park is between October and May, except for December to February when , daytime temperatures often drop below 0¼ C and there is heavy snowfall.
GEOLOGY
According to the continental -drift theory, the Himalaya were uplifted at the end of the Mesozoic Era, some 60 millions years, ago, The resulting young mountains of this region are still rising, and the net growth is a few centimeters per century.
LOCAL INHABITANTS
The park is populated by approximately 3,000 of the famed Sherpa people, originating from Tibet in the late 15th or early 16th century A.D. Their lives are interwoven with the teaching of Buddhism. The main settlements are Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, Khunde, Thame, Thyangboche, Pangboche and Phortse, Tere are also temporary settlements in the upper valleys where the Sherpas graze their livestock during the summer season.
The economy of the Khumbu Sherpa community has traditionally been agriculture, livestock herding and trade with Tibet. With the coming of international mountaineering expeditions in the 1950s, the region also attracted larger numbers of foreign trekkers. Today the Sherpa economy is becoming increasingly dependent on tourism.
ACCOMMODATIONS
There are trekker lodges with food available in places like Namche Bazaar, Thyangboche Pheriche and Lobuche, and along most of the main trekking routes.
VEGETATION
Vegetation in the park various from pine and hemlock forests at lower altitudes, fir, juniper, birch and rhododendron woods at mid-elevations, scrub and alpine plant communities higher up, and bare rock and snow above tree line, The famed bloom of rhododendrons occurs during the spring (April and May) although much of the. flora is most colorful during the monsoon season (June to August) .
WILD ANIMALS
The wild animals most likely to be seen in the park are the Himalayan tahr, goral, serow, musk deer and Himalayan black bear. Other mammals are weasels, martens. Himalayan mouse hare (Pika), jackals and languor.
BIRDS
The park provides a habit for at least 118 species of birds . The most common birds to be seen are the Impeyen pheasant (the national bird of Nepal), blood pheasant, cheer pheasant, jungle crow, red billed and yellow billed coughs and snow pigeon. Fairly common birds are the Himalayan griffon, lammergier, snow partridge, skylark and other.
TREKKING ROUTES AND DURATION
Although the most popular trekking route has been towards Kala Pathar, treks towards Chhukung and Gokyo valleys are worthwhile alternatives. If you are intending to trek to Kala Pathar, allow at least nine days from Lukla and five more days to return . For the Gokyo lake trek, allow seven days to go up and return from Namche Bazaar or Khumjung/ Khunde. At least fourteen days are essential if you intend to trek to both Kala Pathar and Gokyo Lake.
(FROM--TO) (HOURS/ DAYS, TO REACH BY FOOT)
(Lukla --) (2 days)
(Namche --Thyangboche) (5 hours)
(Namche--Khumjung) (2hours)
(Khumjung-- Thyanhgboche) (4 hours)
(Thyangboche --Pangboche) (2 hours)
(Pangboche-- Pheriche) (3 hours)
(Pheriche-- Lobuche) (5 hours)
(Lobche-- Gorakchhep) (3 hours)
(Gorakchhep --Kala Pather) (3 hours)
(Pheriche --Dingboche) (1 hours)
(Dingboche --Chhuking) (4 hours)
(Namche--Thame) (5 hours)
It is not advisable to try to climb and peak or cross a high pass without proper equipment and Sherpa guide, particularly if you have no previous experience in climbing. It is illegal to climb any peak over 6,600 meters above sea level without a permit from the Ministry of Tourism and below 6,600 meters from the Nepal Mountaineering Association, which are based in Kathmandu.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR TREKKERS
Ascending too quickly to high altitude can anyone regardless of physical fitness. Symptoms may take 12 to 24 hours to develop . They include headache, insomnia, reduced output of urine, nausea, vomiting, breathlessness that persists at rest, dizziness and confused thinking . Further deterioration can be fatal.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. To prevent altitude sickness, ascend slowly.
2. THE BEST TREATMENT for any of the above symptoms is to return to lower part evacuation can be requested by radio, but the patient is obliged to cover the cost of the charter from Kathmandu and return. Do not rely entirely on helicopter rescue.
There are park radio sets at the park entrance station ( Jorsalle), Park Headquarters ( Namche Bazaar), Khunde Hospital, Thangboche Park Lodge and Pheriche Trekker's Aid Post. There are hospitals or trekker health posts at Namche, Khunde, & Pheriche.
In extreme cases helicopter evacuation can be sought by radio, but the patient is obliged to cover the cost of the charter from Kathmandu & return. Do not rely entirely on helicopter rescue.
##DHORPATAN HUNTING RESERVE
LOCATION
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve lies in Rukum, Myagdi and Baglung Districts in the Dhaulagiri Himal range in West Nepal. Putha, Churen and Gurja Himal extend over the northern boundary of the reserve.
ESTABLISHMENT
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve was established in 1983 and was gazetted in 1987. Management objectives of the reserve allow sports hunting and preserve a representative high altitude ecosystem in West Nepal.
HOW TO GET THERE
Public bus service is available from Kathmandu to Tansen-Tamgash Gulmi from where the reserve HQ. is a three day walk via Burtibang.
Flight service reaches Baglung from Kathmandu and Pokhara. The reserve HQ. can be reached in 4 days walk from Balewa, Baglung.
A public bus can be taken to Baglung from Pokhara followed by a 4 day walk via Baglung Beni-Darbang-Lumsum and Jaljala to reach Dhorpatan.
A helicopter charter may be available on request from Kathmandu.
THE RESERVE
The reserve extends over an area of 1325 sq. km. and is the only hunting reserve in the country to meet the sports hunting needs of Nepalese and foreign hunters of blue sheep and other game animals. The higher elevations remain snow-capped throughout the year. Altitudes vary from 3000 m. to more than 7000 m. The flat meadows above tree line (4000 m.), locally known as Patan, is divided into six blocks for hunting management purposes.
The reserve is surrounded by villages on all sides except the north. Local people depend on the reserve to meet their requirements for wood, fuelwood, fodder, and pasture. The refugee camp near the reserve headquarters has put more human pressure in the forest. Every year livestock grazing activities begin from February and last until October. More than 80,000 livestock enter the reserve.
The majority of people belong to the Mongoloid race, including Magar. Thakali, and Gurung, Amalgamation of different ethnic groups has resulted in a mixed pattern of cultures.
VEGETATION
The reserve is characterized by alpine, sub-alpine and high temperate vegetation. Common plant species include fir, pine, birch, rhododendron, hemlock, oak, juniper and spruce, Pasturelands occupy more than 50% of the total area of the reserve at higher elevations.
WILDLIFE
The reserve is one of the prime habitats for blue sheep, a highly coveted trophy. Other animals found are : leopard, goral, serow, Himalayan tahr, Himalayan black bears, barking deer, wild boar, rhesus macaque, languor, and mouse hare.
Pheasants and partridge are common and their viable population in the reserve permits controlled hunting.
A hunting license is issued by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife conservation.
ENDANGERED ANIMALS in the reserve include:
Musk deer
Wolf
Red panda
Cheer pheasant
Danphe
SEASONS
The monsoon lasts until the beginning of October. Day time temperatures are very low during winter due to strong winds. Higher elevations remain covered by cloud in the morning, later cleared by the wind. Snow may occur even at low elevation until early April, however, it soon melts. The best time to visit the reserve is March-April.
PLACES OF INTEREST
Dhorbaraha, a Hindu religious place on the banks or Uttarganga River near Dhorpatan, is in Fagune bloc. E very year on the day of "Janai Purnima" in August, a religious fair is held here which is attended by many local devotees. The magnificent view of Dhaulagiri Himal from Barse. Dogari and Gustung blocs are exceptional. Snag and Sundaha bloc are rich in wild animals.
SOME IMPORTANT POINTS
Local people are allowed to collect limited quantities of fuelwood for their use. Visitors are requested to be self-sufficient with fuel before entering the reserve. Since no medical facilities are available in the reserves, it is suggested that visitors carry a comprehensive first-aid kit including medicines for intestinal disorders. Two hotels/lodges catering simple Nepali foods are located at Chhyantung near Dhorpatan.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Reserve Headquarters, Dhorpatan, or
Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation
Babar Mahal. Kathmandu, Nepal
P.O.Box 860
Phone : 2-20912, 2-27926
Fax : 977-1-227675, 977-1-410073
##MUSTANG CONSERVATION AREA
In March 1992, the 'forbidden' kingdom of Mustang was opened to the outside world. Now, for the first time in recent history, foreign travelers are able to visit La Manthang, the seat of an ancient kingdom dating back to the 15th century. The Kingdom of La is situated along the north central border of Nepal north of the main range of the Himalayan in the upper reaches of Mustang District . Lo and the area directly to its south, called Baragaon, which both fall within Upper Mustang, can be claimed as one of the most outstanding areas of the Himalaya.
The people of Upper Mustang are called Bhotias, and those from Lo are called Lobas.They speak various dialects of Tibetan. Historically, their art and culture flourished due to contact with traders, monks and religious masters passing between Tibet and India, or between Ladakh and Bhutan.
The climate and geography of Upper Mustang are nearly identical to those of Western Tibet and as such, they are dramatically different from the temperate and tropical areas of the south side of the Himalayas. The dry, wind swept ecology of this Trans-Himalayan region is extremely fragile, Fuel wood is virtually non-existent, water is scare, the agricultural land yields insufficient food grains, and the marginal, and grasslands support only limited numbers of livestock and wildlife . With the influx of tourists, the already pressured desert environment risks further degradation.
In addition, although the culture has flourished in contact with other religious and cultural center of the Himalays, its sudden exposure to other worlds beyond its high plateau may create a negative impact on the society.
In order to keep the destructive environmental and cultural impact of tourism in Upper Mustang to an absolute minimum, the Ministry of Tourism has decided to develop the area as a model eco-tourism area.
The Ministry of Tourism, has proposed that part of the revenue generated from trekking royalties to Upper Mustang ($ 700 for 10 days and $ 70 for each additional day) be earmarked for use in UMCDP to sponsor environmental and cultural preservation efforts and community development works. An Upper Mustang Development Fund is also being established with the financial support of the Ministry of Tourism and the American Himalayan Foundation.
LETTER OF GUARANTEE
(The Ministry of Tourism has developed a 'Letter of Guarantee' to be signed and followed by a trekkers prior to their departure for Upper Mustang.)
We, a team of (number of persons)_________
trekkers, have accepted to go to trek to (name of place) __________ from (dates) ______ to _____ under the following conditions :
01. We agree to go through a registered trekking agency.
02. We agree to take an Environment Officer along with us on our trip.
03. We shall not undertake any activity forbidden by the Environment Officer.
04. The Environment Officer will report to concerned officials in case problems arise during the trek.
05. We shall register our names in police check posts and other check posts along the route.
06. We shall not enter any restricted area, and we shall follow prescribed routes.
07. Until and unless an emergency arises, we shall not split into sub-groups in order to take different trekking routes.
08. We shall do nothing to destroy the cultural heritage and the natural environment.
09. We shall keep the trekking route and environment clean.
10. We shall keep the trekking route and environment clean.
11. We agree to carry back all non-burnable and non-biodegradable garbage.
S.No. Trekker Name Passport No. Nationality Signature
____ _________ _________ _________ ________
____ _________ _________ _________ ________
____ _________ _________ _________ ________
____ _________ _________ _________ ________
MINIMUM IMPACT CODE
As visitors and friends, you are asked to help conserve the sanctity and beauty of the Upper mustang region for the generations to come. Here are a few tips on ways to "step gently" in this fragile area.
TRAVEL ECOLOGICALLY
In Jomsom and Upper Mustang, it is possible to rent horses and ponies, which are traditionally used for transportation and as pack animals. In fact , the people of Upper Mustang are not fully habituated to accommodating porters. To maintain tradition, and to minimize the environmental burden created by porters, it is recommended that ponies be used instead .
SAVE FUEL
Fuel is a scarce commodity in Upper Mustang Many travel for over a day to collect firewood, thorny Taklang bushes. and then spend another day returning others spend hours collecting goat and sheep pellets. In order not to further aggravate the problem of fuel gathering , it is forbidden for groups to buy firewood from the communities in Upper Mustang. All groups to Upper Mustang must demonstrate that they are self -sufficient in fuel before departing Jomsom. (Note that kerosene may not be readily available in Jomsom until the establishment of a fuel depot).
During the trek, make sure your staff uses kerosene or gas for cooking. Do mot make open fires. Limit hot showers. Bring adequate clothing for yourself, and ensure that your trekking staff is also warmly clothed.
DO NOT POLLUTE
In order to minimize pollution, burn all paper products, including toilet paper, cigarette butts, nonplastic and non-foil wrappers. Carry out all non-burnable rubbish like bottles, plastics, cans, and batteries. These may be disposed of in Jomsom Vegetables and food scraps should be properly buried or fed to stock animals.
Use available toilet facilities, and make sure that your trekking agency carries along a toilet tent. Supervise your trekking staff to make sure that they cover toilet pits On the trail, make sure that you are at least 50 meters away from any water source when relieving yourself. When bathing, use only biodegradable soaps, and wash away from streams, as they are the only source of drinking water.
PROTECT WILDLIFE
Due to the limited carrying capacity of the desert environment, wildlife densities in Upper Mustang are very low. Nevertheless, in addition to the many species naturally found on the Tibetan Plateau, Upper Mustang is host to rare species such as Argali sheep, wild ass (kyang). and snow leopard.
It is illegal to interfere with wildlife or their habitat in any manner, or to purchase any item made of rare or endangered animal parts. Please respect the fragile ecology of the area by avoiding walking on vegetation or collecting plants and flowers.
RESPECT THE CULTURE
Upper Mustang is replete with religious sites such as gompas(monasteries), chortens(structures for worship) abandoned caves. and reliquaries of ruined monasteries. These sites are a remarkable showcase for a culture that is ancient, yet alive.
In order to assure the security of monuments and structures, it is essential that most of these areas, and especially the abandoned caves, be off-limits to trekkers and their staff.
Local residents may wish gompas to be off-limits to tourist, or accessible for a small fee or donation. As the local people are the custodians of their culture, trekkers are asked to abide by their wishes.
Please do not remove any religious artifacts from the area.
Respect local customs in your dress and behavior. Women should not wear shorts or revealing shirts. Men should always wear shirts. Avoid outward displays of affection. Nudity is highly prohibited.
Ask permission to take photographs and respect people's right to privacy.
Do not give anything to beggars unless they are legitimate religious mendicants.
Encourage young Nepalis to be proud of their culture.
Above all remember that your vacation has a great impact on the natural environment and on the people who live off its resources. By assisting in these small ways, you will help the land and people of Nepal.
NEPAL IS HERE TO CHANGE YOU,
NOT FOR YOU TO CHANGE NEPAL.
##ROYAL CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK
THE PARK
Royal Chitwan National Park stands today as a successful testimony of nature conservation in South Asia. This is the first national park of Nepal established in 1973 to preserve a unique ecosystem significantly valuable to the whole world. The park covering a pristine area of 932 sq. km. is situated in the subtropical inner Terai lowlands of southern central part of Nepal. The park has gained much wider recognition in the world when UNESCO included this area on the list of World Heritage Site in 1984.
Formerly, the Chitwan valley was well known for big game and was exclusively managed as a hunting reserve for the Rana Prime Ministers and their guests until 1950. In 1963, the area south of Rapti was demarcated as a rhinoceros sanctuary. In 1970, His late Majesty King Mahendra had approved in principle the creation of Royal Chitwan National Park.
PHYSICAL FEATURES
The park consists of churia hills, ox-bow lakes, flood plains of Rapti, Reu and Narayani rivers. The Churia hill rises gradually towards the east from 150 m to over 800 m. The lower but most rugged Someshwor hills occupy most of the western portion of the park. The flood plains of Chitwan are rich alluvial. The park boundaries have been delineated by the Narayani and Rapti rivers in the north and west, and the Reu river and Someshwor hills in the south and south-west. It shares its eastern border with Parsa Wildlife Reserve.
SEASONS
The park is under the tropical monsoon climate with relatively high humidity. The winter, spring and monsoon are the three main seasons. The cool winter season occurs from October to February. The spring begins in March and is soon followed by summer that ends in early June. The summer days are typically hot with 30o c on average day temperature. The monsoon usually begins at the end of June and continues until September. The mean annual rainfall is about 2150 mm and during this time of the year rivers are flooded and most of the roads are virtually closed.
VEGETATION
The Chitwan valley is characterized by tropical to subtropical forest. 70% of park vegetation is predominantly Sal ( Shorea robusta ) forest, a moist deciduous climax vegetation type of the Terai region. The remaining vegetation types include grassland (20%), riverine forest (7%) and Sal with Chirpine ( Pinus roxburghii ) (3%), the latter occurring at the top of the Churia range. The riverine forests mainly consists of khair, sissoo and simal. The simal is with spiny bark when young and develops buttress at the bottom in older stage. The grasslands form a diverse and complex community with over 50 species. The Sacchrum species, often called elephant-grass can reach 8 m, in height. The shorter grasses such as Imperata is useful for thatch roofs.
ANIMALS
There are more than 43 species of mammals in the park. The park is specially renowned for the protection of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, tiger, gharial crocodile along with many other common species of wild animals. The estimated population of endangered species of animals such as gaur, wild elephant, four horned antelope, striped hyena, pangolin, gangetic dolphin, monitor lizard, & python, etc.
Some of the other animals found in the park are samber, chital, hog deer, barking deer, sloth bear, common leopard, ratel, palm civet, wilddog, languor, rhesus monkey, etc.
There are over 450 species of birds in the park. Among the endangered birds found in the park are Bengal florican, giant hornbill, lesser florican, black stork and white stork, Few of the common birds seen are peafowl, red jungle fowl, and different species of egrets, herons, kingfishers, flycatchers and woodpeckers. The best time for bird watching is March and December.
More than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles occur in the park and some of which are marsh crocodile, cobra, green pit viper and various species of frogs and tortoises.
The park is actively engaged in the scientific studies of several species of wild flora and fauna.
PLACE OF INTEREST
PLACES DISTANCE IN KM. FROM PARK HQ, KASARA
Kasara Darbar, Park HQ. 0
Gharial Breeding Center, Kasara 1
Bikram Baba (religious site) 1
Lamital 2.5
Devital 25
Chitwan Hatisar, Sauraha 19
Elephant Breeding Center 3 (from Saurha)
HOW TO GET THERE
The park is accessible by car or bus on the Kathmandu-Mugling-Narayanghat Highway and or through Mahendra Rajmarg Highway from Hetauda. It is about 6 hour's drive form Kathmandu to Narayanghat. Local buses are available to Tadi Bazar which is about an hour drive form Narayanghat. A 6 km walk or bullockcart ride brings the visitors to Sauraha, the park entrance. Also air services from Kathmandu to Meghauli and Bharatpur air fields are available. Local buses are available form Narayanghat to Park HQ. Kasara.
PARK FACILITIES
Display Center, Kasara
Library at Kasara Sauraha
Visitor Center, Sauraha
Machans (View tower)
ACTIVITIES
Elephant ride
Canoeing
Guided jungle walk
PARK REGULATIONS
(PARK FEES ), ( FOREIGNER ) , ( NEPALI )
( Park entrance), ( NRs..650.00 ), ( NRs..10.00 )
( Elephant ride for about 2 hrs.), (NRs..650.00 ), (NRs..100.00 )
( Fishing permit ), ( NRs...300.00 ), ( NRs...20.00 )
( Camping per night per person) , (NRs...300.00 ), ( NRs...20.00 )
( Guide fee ), (NRs...20.00 ), ( NRs...20.00 )
( Gharial Conservation Project ), ( NRs...15.00 )
( Children under 5 years ---.free
-Flora and fauna are fully protected and must not be disturbed.
-Rubbish must be buried or disposed of in a place designated off it.
-Movement within the park between the hours of sun set and sun rise is prohibited.
FOR MORE INFORMATION :
Contact Park HQ. Kasara, Visitor Center at Sauraha or Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Babar Mahal, Kathmandu, Nepal.
P.O. Box 860.
Telephone : 220850, 220912
##KOSHI TAPPU WILDLIFE RESERVE
LOCATION :
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve lies on the flood plain of the Sapta-Koshi in Saptri and Sunsari Districts of eastern Nepal. The area is defined by the eastern and western embankments of the river.
ESTABLISHMENT
Koshi Tappu Reserve, gazetted in 1976, was established mainly to preserve habitat for the remaining population of wild buffalo in Nepal.
HOW TO GET THERE :
Buses leave daily from Kathmandu for Kaakar-Bhitta and Biratnagar. Visitors need to get off just before Laukhi and walk 3 km to the Reserve Headquarters at Kusaha. The road to Kusaha is marked by a signboard on the main road.
Royal Nepal Airline Corporation also operates a daily air service between Kathmandu and Biratnagar. Visitors flying to Biratnagar will need to travel by bus to the reserve entrance shortly after Lauki.
SEASONS:
The region of Nepal experiences three distinct seasons. Summer lasting from February through May is intensely hot with minimal precipitation. Shade temperatures can reach 40o c. The monsoon commences late May or early June with frequent and violent thunderstorms. Rainfall is greatest during July but high humidity and temperatures are experienced throughout the season. Winter lasts from October through January with unclouded skies and moderate temperatures.
THE RESERVE :
Koshi Tappu is a rectangular shaped reserve, approximately 10 km wide and 10km long, stretching northward form the Nepal/India border along the Sapta-Koshi River. The Sapta Koshi is one of the three main tributaries of the Ganges.
Because of its destructiveness during monsoon floods and attempt has been made to control the waters by constructing 7-10 m high embankments parallel to the river. These prevent lateral spread of the enormous monsoon flow. Control gates at the Koshi Barrage on the border with India act as a dam and also contain the river.
Rapid and complete inundation of the reserve to depths ranging from 10 to 300 cm. occurs during the monsoon. The river also changes its main course from one season to another.
The vegetation is mainly tall khar-pater grassland with a few pater grassland with a few patches of khair-sissoo (Acacia catechu-Dalbergia sissoo) 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 (Bubalus arnee arnee) are found here. They are distinguished from domestic animals by their much bigger horns. Other mammals occurring here are hog deer, wild boar, spotted deer, and blue bull.
The reserve also assists the local economy be 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 twenty species of ducks, two species of ibises, many storks, egrets, herons and the endangered swamp partridge and Bengal florican. The Koshi Barrage is extremely important as a resting place for migratory birds and many species recorded there are not seen elsewhere in Nepal.
The endangered Gharial crocodile and Gangetic dolphin have been recorded in the Koshi river.
Local villagers are permitted to collect grasses from within the reserve in January each year. These are used for thatching roofs and building house walls. Because of intensive agriculture the grasses can no longer be found outside the reserve. An estimated us $ 250.00 worth thatch grass was removed during January 1987.
PLACES OF INTEREST :
The best time to visit Koshi Tappu is between October and March when many migratory and resident birds can be seen at the barrage and on the main river channel. Several Himalayan peaks, including Makalu (8475 m) the worlds fifth highest mountain, can be seen during this period of cooler clear weather.
The trail along the eastern embankment of a the reserve provides places to observe birds, and at dusk and dawn some of the resident animals.
The government Hattisar (elephant stable) at Koshi Tappu has the distinction of biding one of the few facilities in Asia where elephants breed regularly. His Majesty's Government maintains eight female elephants. A semi-wild male, named Ganesh Maharaj by locals, frequently visit and mates with the females, producing a total of nine youngsters so far. Ganesh Maharaj, named after the Hindu God, is considered sacred by local people. Visitors can arrange elephant rides into the reserve from the Reserve Headquarters.
Baraha Chhetra, located 5 km north of Chatara, is the site of an annual religious festival and is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists.
RESERVE FACILITIES
The Reserve Headquarters and entrance building are at Kusaha. All visitors must stop here to pay an entrance fee.
(PARK FEES ), ( FOREIGNER ) , ( NEPALI )
( Park entrance), ( NRs..650.00 ), ( NRs..10.00 )
( Elephant ride per hour.), (NRs..650.00 ), (NRs..100.00 )
( Fishing permit ), ( NRs...300.00 ), ( NRs...20.00 )
( Camping per night per person) , (NRs...300.00 ), ( NRs...20.00 )
(Motor vehicle drive ), (NRs.100.00 ), (NRs. 100.00 )
( Children under 5 years )---.free
Entry permits should be kept in case they need to be checked by the Reserve Guards.
A small lodge at Kusaha is available for use by tourists and there is a small canteen where snacks and cold drinks can be purchased.
SOME IMPORTANT POINTS
The guardpost in the reserve maintains a small medical unit but visitors are advised to carry a comprehensive first-aid kit including medicines for intestinal problems. Anti malaria prophylaxes are recommended.
For further information, please
contact:
Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation
P.O. Box 860
Babar Mahal, Kathmandu
Phone: 2-20912
##SHEY-PHOKSUNDO NATIONAL PARK
THE PARK
Shey-Phoksundo National Park is situated in he mountain region of Western Nepal, covering parts of Dolpa and Mugu Districts. Gazetted in 1984, it is the largest national park in the country with an area of 3555 sq. km. The main objectives of the park are to preserve the unique trans.- Himalayan ecosystem with its typical Tibetan type of flora and fauna, and to protect endangered species such as the snow leopard and musk deer.
PHYSICAL FEATURES
Much of the park lies north of the Great Himalayan Range. Kanjiroba Himal lies at the southern edge of the trans.-Himalayan region of the Tibetan plateau. The high Dolpa plateau in the north-east of the park is drained by the Langu (Namlang) River. The southern catchment of the park is drained by the Jugdula and Suligad Rivers, which flow south and drain into the Bheri River. Nepal's second largest lake, Phoksundo, lies at 3660 m. in the upper reaches of Suligad.
VEGETATION
The vegetation found in the park is divers due to the influence of two different micro-climates. The southern river valleys along Suligad contain luxuriant forests mainly comprising blue pine, spruce, cypress, poplar, deodar, fir and birch. The Jugdula River valley consists mostly of Quercus species. The trans.-Himalayan area has a near-desert type vegetation comprising mainly dwarf juniper and caragana shrubs.
WILD ANIMALS
The park provides prime habitat for snow leopard and blue sheep. The blue sheep are mainly concentrated around Shey Gomba and Dolphu. Other common animals found in the park are; goral, Himalayan tahr, serow, leopard, wolf, jackal, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan weasel, Himalayan mouse hare, yellow-throated marten, and languor and rhesus monkeys.
The park is equally rich in birds. The commonly seen birds are Impeyan pheasant (danphe). blood pheasant, cheer pheasant, red and yellow-billed choughs, raven jungle crow, show partridge and many others.
SEASONS
Spring season (March-May) usually has fine weather although high passes still remain covered with the winter snow. Being located behind the main Himalayan range, the park is little affected by monsoon rain from June until September and weather usually remains clear. The alpine flowers are at their best color during the months. The winter temperatures drop below 0 C. Occasional heavy snowfall in mid-winter closes the trails for several days.
LOCAL COMMUNITIES
There are several settlements in the park, totaling an approximate population of 2000. The peoples' lifestyle and culture are still strongly reminiscent of Tibet. Local inhabitants believe in the Buddhist religion but the community of Phoksundo area practices Bon, a pre-Buddhist sect. Almost all villages have their own communal gompas.
The local economy is heavily based on agriculture, growing mainly potatoes, buckwheat, mustard, beans and some barley. Animal husbandry is a main source of food and wool for weaving clothes. Trading is done with Tibet, exchanging food grains for salt and wool.
PLACES OF INTEREST
Shey are is interesting for religions and wildlife. Phoksundo Lake also known as Ringmo Lake, is the most interesting site of the park. The lake is drained by a waterfall from a height of nearly 150 m. making it the highest waterfall in the country.
There are a few Buddhist monasteries near the lake in Ringmo and Pugmo villages.
HOW TO GET THERE
The easiest and shortest route to reach the park is to fly to Jufal airstrip in Dolpa from Nepalgunj or Pokhara. From there , it is an easy one day walk to reach the park guardpost at Suligad and three days walk to reach park HQ. at Sumduwa.
Alternate routes are to fly to Jumla and trek about one week to the park. An adventurous route begins in Dhorpatan crossing several high passes before reaching Dunai, the District HQ. of Dolpa.
TREKKING ROUTES
The permitted trekking routes and the distance in average walking hours are as following :
(FROM--TO ), (DISTANCE)
Jufal to Suligad post , 5 hours
Suligad post to Ankhe post , 8 hours
Ankhe to Sumduwa , 8 hours
Sumduwa to Phoksundo , 4 hours
Sumduwa to Pugma , 2 hours
Pugma to Toijam , 2 days
Trekking beyond the southern end of Phoksundo Lake, towards the northern part of the park is prohibited.
PARK REGULATION
All visitors must pay a park entry fee at Ankhe- guard post of park HQ or at National Parks' ticketing counter at the Dep. of Immigration in Kathmandu.
Adults RS. 650/-
Children (below 10 years) Free
Be sure to keep your entry permit as it might be checked later by park personnel.
Flora and fauna are fully protected and must not be disturbed.
Visitors should be self-sufficient in fuel supply entering the park. Use of firewood is strictly prohibited.
Rubbish must be buried or disposed of in a designated place.
Movement in the park between sunset and sunrise is prohibited.
##PARSA WILDLIFE RESERVE
Parsa Wildlife Reserve was established in 1984 with an area of 499 sq. km. It occupies part of Chitwan, Makwanpur, Parsa and Bara Districts in Central Nepal. The reserve headquarter is situated at Adhabar on the Heatauda-Birgunj highway (22 km.south to Hetauda and 20 km. north to Birgunj).
PHYSICAL FEATURES
The dominant landscape of the reserve, the Churia hills ranging from 750 m. to 950 m., run east-west. The soil is primarily composed of gravel and conglomerates making it very susceptible to erosion. The hills present a very rugged face with numerous gullies and dry stream beds. As the foothills are very porous, water flows underground and surfaces at a distance of about 15 km. from the hills, base.
SEASONS
The reserve has a subtropical monsoon climate with relatively high humidity. The main season are winter (October-December), spring (January-March), summer (April-June) and monsoon (July-September). Summer days are characteristically hot with average temperatures ranging form 30o-35o C.
VEGETATION
The forest is composed of tropical and subtropical forest types with sal (Shorea robusta) forest constituting 90% of the vegetation. In the Churia hills, chir pine (Pinus roxburghii) grows and along the streams and river khair (Acacia catechu), sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo) and silk cotton tree (Bombaxceiba) occur. Sabai grass (Enlaliopsisbinata), a commercially important grass species, grows well on the southern face of the Churia hills.
ANIMALS
The reserve supports a good population of resident wild elephant (Elephas maxinuts), tiger (Pantheratigris), leopard (Panthera pardus), sloth bear (Melursus ursinnus) garu (Bos gaurus), blue bull (Boselaphus tragocamelus), and wild dog (Cuon alpinus). Other common animals are sambar (Cervus unicolor), chital (Zxis asis), hog deer (Axis porcinus), barking deer (Muntiacus muntjac), languor (Presbytes entellus), rhesus macaques, striped hyena (Hyena hyena), ratel, palm civet, and jungle cat.
There are nearly 300 species of birds in the reserve. Giant hornbill, one of the endangered species, is found in certain forest patches. Peafowl, red jungle fowl, flycatchers, and woodpeckers are a few of the other common birds found in the reserve.
Many kinds of snake like king cobra, common cobra, krait, rat snake, and python are found in the reserve due to the hot tropical climate.
HOW TO GET THERE
The reserve is accessible by bus via the Kathmandu. Birgunj highway or the Mahendra Rajmarg highway. The reserve headquarters is an 8 hour drive from Kathmandu. Simara airport is 7 km away from the reserve headquarters. It take only 15 minutes of reach Simara form Kathmandu by plane.
PLACES OF INTEREST
Kailash (Bhata)--a religious place and scenic viewing spot on a hilltop is 29 km. away from Adhabar (the Reserve head quarter )
RESERVE REGULATIONS
(RESERVE FEES ) , (FOREIGNERS ), ( NEPALI )
( Entrance Fee ) , ( Rs. 650.00 ) , ( Rs.10.00 )
(Camping Fee per night per person ) , ( Rs.300.00 ) , (Rs.20.00 )
( Vehicle Fee ) , (Rs.100.00) , (Rs.100.00)
( Elephant ride per hour per person ) , ( Rs. 650.00 ) , (Rs.100.00 )
Children below 10 yrs. free entrance.
Flora and fauna of the reserve are fully protected and must not be disturbed.
Rubbish must be buried or disposed of in a designated place.
Movement within the reserve is prohibited before sunrise and after sunset.
TAKE NOTHING FROM THE RESERVE BUT PHOTOGRAPHS AND LEAVE NOTHING IN THE RESERVE BUT FOOTPRINTS.
HELP PRESERVE THE PARKS AND RESERVES OF NEPAL
##RARA NATIONAL PARK
INTRODUCTIONS
Rara National Parks is located in north-west Nepal about 371 km air distance from Kathmandu. The park headquarters is about 32 km. north to Jumla. Most of the park including Lake Rara lies in Mugu District, with a small area in Jumla District of Karnali Zone. This is the smallest park in Nepal (106 sq. km.) with the country's biggest lake (10.8 sq. km.) at an elevation of 2990 m. The lake is oval-shaped with an east-west axis, and has a maximum length of 5 km and a width of 3 km. The maximum depth of the lake is 167 m. The park was gazetted in 1967 to conserve the unique beauty of Lake Rara and to protect a representative sample of flora and fauna of the Humla-Jumla region.
PHYSICAL FEATURES
The elevation of the park ranges from 1800 m to 4048 m; Chuchemara Lekh is the highest point. The lake is in a deep basin, the northern and eastern rims of which form part of the park boundary. The lake drains to Mugu Karnali River via Nija Khola. The lakeside pasture in the south gives way to the steep slopes of Gurchi Lekh, its crest culminating at Chuchemara in a horse-shoe shaped opening to the south drained by the Jiun River. On the west, river valleys cut through a ridge which form the natural boundary to the park.
VEGETATION
The park contains mainly coniferous forest. The area around the lake is dominated by blue pine (Pinus excelsa) upto 3200 m,; Rhododendron (Rhododendron arboretum), black juniper (Juniperus wallichiana), west Himalayan spruce (picea smithina), oak (Quercus semecarpefolia), and Himalayan cypress (Cupressus torulosa), are other associated species. Above this elevation the vegetation is replaced by a mixed coniferous forest of pine, spruce and fir, At about 3350 m., pine and spruce give way to fir, oak and birch forest. Other deciduous tree species found in the park are Indian horse-chestnut (Aesculus indica), walnut (Junglans regia) and Himalayan popular (Populus ciliata).
WILDLIFE
A small portion of the park serves as an ideal habitat for musk deer. Himalayan black bear (Selenarctos thibetanus) leopard (Panthera pardus), musk deer (Moschus moschiferous), goral (Nemorhaedus goral), jackal (Canis aureus), Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus), yellow throated marten (Martes flavigula), wild dog (Cuon alpinus), wild boar (Sus scrofa), common languor (Presbytes entillus), rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta), and common otter (Lutra lutra), are other species found in the park. Snow in the lake. The resident Gallinaceous birds and migrant waterfowls are of interest to park visitors. Coots (Fulica atra) are plentiful in the lake, many staying year-round. Great-crested grebe (Podiceps cristatus), black-necked grebe (Podiceps nigricollis), red-crested pochard (Netta rufina), mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), common teal (Anas crecca), merganser (Mergus merganser), and gulls are seen during winter. Other common birds in the park are snow cock (Tetraogallus himalayenis), chukor partridge (Alectoris chukor), Impeyan pheasant (Lophophorus impejanus), kalij pheasant (Lophura leuco,elana), and blood pheasant (Ithaginis cruentus).
SEASON
Summer is pleasant, however, the winter brings cold temperatures and heavy snowfall (up to one meter). The best time to visit is October to December or March to May. The winter is quite severe with ground frost occurring form October.
December through March is the time of snowfall with the temperature dropping to below freezing point. High passes remain closed by heavy snowfall during this time. The month of April brings the warmer weather and monsoon season is June to August.
LOCAL SETTLEMENTS
There are no settlements inside the park. Residents of two villages, Rara and Chhapru, were moved out in 1976 and resettle in Bardia District. Villages around the park are Jyari, Pina, Topla, Tuma, Ruma and Murma. The local economy is based on agriculture, primarily potatoes, buckwheat, beans, barley and wheat. Hindus dominate the community composition.
PLACES OF INTEREST
Lake Rara is the most beautiful and interesting site in the park. Bird lovers enjoy winter with the migratory birds. Hundreds of varieties of ground flowers form a colorful carpet in summer. Conventional currents do not allow the lake to freeze in winter. Chuchemara Peak (4048 ma) on the southern side of lake presents a magnificent scene with the gleaming blue water within a basin of well forested hills. Other summits are Ruma Kand (3731 m.) and Malika Kand (3444 m.) to the north of the lake. From these peaks one can enjoy the view of the lack, peaks to the south and beautiful Mugu Karnali River valley to the north.
HOW TO GET THERE
Rara National Park can be visited either from Jumla (2.5 days trek) or from Surkhet (10 days trek.)
TREK ROUTES ARE:
Jumla-Cherechaur-Danphe Pass-Nyaurighat-Chautha-Bhulbhule (entry point)-Jhyari-Rara and return.
Surkhet-Ratalagna- Dhungeswor - Dulludanda - Ghumnekhli- Bajhangeneta - Haude Pass - Kalikath Takula - Jubethat - Khala - Ranchuli - Nagma - Chiuri Narakot - Dhapa - Ludku - Sinja - Okharpata - Gorusinh - Majhgatta - Rara.
PARK REGULATIONS
All visitors must pay a park entry fee at Bhulbhule guard post or at park HQ or National Parks' ticketing counter at the Dept. of Immigration in Kathmandu.
Adult Rs : 650.00
Children below 10 years : Free
Be sure to keep your entry ticket with you as it might be checked by the park personnel.
Flora and fauna are fully protected and must not be disturbed.
Visitors entering the park should be self-sufficient in fuel supply (kerosene). Use of firewood is strictly prohibited.
Camping inside the park except in designated areas is strictly prohibited.
Movement inside the park before sunrise and after sunset is prohibited.
##ROYAL BARDIA NATIONAL PARK
LOCATION
Covering an area of 968 sq. km., Royal Bardia National Park is situated in the mid-Far Western Terai, east of the Karnali River.
ESTABLISHMENT
Originally set aside in 1968 as a Royal Hunting Reserve, the area was gazetted in 1967 as Royal Karnali Wildlife Reserve with an area of 368 sq. km., It was renamed as Royal Bardia Wildlife Reserve in 1982 and extended to include the Babai River valley in 1984. National Park status was gazetted in 1988. The main objectives of the park are to conserve a representative ecosystem of the mid-Western Terai, particularly the tiger ad its prey species.
HOW TO GET THERE
The park can only be entered by road. There are regular flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj, from where public buses serve the far Western Terai. To reach the park headquarters at Thakurdwara, it is necessary to alight at Motipur and walk 8 km. north of Lihalpur on the Nepalgunj-Surkhet road, and drive west along the fair weather road inside the park to reach Thakurdwara. This usually takes 3-4 hrs. by 4 WD vehicle. The Mahendra Rajmarg is the main highway which crosses the park.
SEASONS
As with the rest of Nepal. the park's climate is affected by the summer monsoon. The best times to visit are between October and early April when weather is warm and dry. From April onwards the temperatures rise, peaking at around 45o c. in May and premonsoon thunderstorms are continue until late September. During this time most roads and rivers become impassable.
THE PARK
Royal Bardia National Park is the largest and most undisturbed wilderness area in the Terai, providing excellent habitat for the following endangered species.
ENDANGERED ANIMALS : Rhinoceros , Wild elephant , Tiger , Swamp deer , Black buck , Gharial crocodile , Marsh mugger crocodile , Gangetic dolphin
ENDANGERED BIRDS : Bengal florican , Sliver-eared mesia , Sarus crane , Lesser florican
More than 30 different mammals, over 250 species of birds, and many snakes, lizards and fish have been recorded in the park's forests, grasslands and river habitats. The more commonly seen are :
MAMMALS: Languor Monkey, Rhesus monkey, Common leopard, Jungle cat, Fishing cat, Large and small Indian civets, Palm civet, Hyena, Wild dog, Jackal, Sloth bear, Otter, Porcupine, Bandicoots, Blue bull (Nilgi), Sambar deer, Hog deer, Barking deer, Wild boar
BIRDS :Flycatchers , Babblers , Sunbirds, Drongols (7 species), Eurasian thicknee ruddy , Shelduck, Warblers, Bulbuls (5 species) , Woodpeckers ( 10 species), Barbets (4 species), Bee-eaters (4 species), Kingfishers (4 species) , Parakeets (4 species), Doves (5 species), Pigeons (3 species), Red-wattled lapwing, Common peafowl, Red jungle fowl , Merganser duck, Black-necked stork, White-necked stork, Painted stork, Egrets (4 species), Herons (5 species), Cormorants
The Geruwa, a branch of the Karnali River, forms the park's western boundary, while the crest of the Churia range (Siwalik Hills) demarcates the northern limits. Along the southern edge a forest road forms the boundary; in the east it is formed by the Nepalgunj-Surkhet road. Part of the very scenic Babair River valley is included within the park. The approximately 1500 people who lived in this valley have been resettled else where in Bardia District. Since agriculture creased in the Babai valley, the regeneration of natural vegetation is increasing rapidly, making it an area of prime habitat for wildlife.
About 70% of the park is covered with dominantly sal (Shorea robusta) forest with the balance of mixture of grassland, savanna and riverine forest. The altitudes vary from 152 meters on the Terai 1441 meters at Sukarmala on the crest of the Churia range.
PLACES OF INTEREST
Within the park are several open grassland areas (phanta) where game viewing is excellent. Blackbuck, found in a wild state only in Bardia, are frequently seen in Khairi Panditpur about 30 km south-east of the park HQ. Many forest roads throughout the park also offer excellent game viewing.
The great one-horned rhinoceros was reintroduced to Bardia from Royal Chitwan National Park in 1986. Indications of the success of this translocation became obvious when a rhino calf was born early in 1988. The rhino are usually seen in the western part of the park. In 1991, 25 great one-horned rhinos were also translocated to Babai valley from Royal Chitwan National Park.
The Karnali River, one of Nepal's largest, borders the western edge of the park, providing excellent fishing for mahseer, a large game fish. The endangered Gangetic dolphin is also frequently seen.
Sukarmala, the highest point on the crest of the Churia range, can be reached on foot form Karnali, Chisapani or Khairbhatti. From here there are excellent views north toward the Surkhet valley and south over the Terai. Another high point, Telpani, can be reached from Danawatal.
PARK FACILITIES
The park HQ. is at Tharkurdwara. There is also a sub-headquarters at the eastern entrance to the park at East Chisapani. All visitors entering the park must stop and pay an entrance fee.
Adults : NRs.650.00
Children (under 10 years) : Free
Be sure to keep your permit as it might be checked later by park guards.
As there are no medical facilities so it is advisable to carry a comprehensive first aid kit including medicines for intestinal problems. There is a radio at the park headquarters for use in emergencies.
If you are travelling by your own vehicle make sure that you have ample amount of fuel, as there are no filling stations in the park area.
Tourist accommodations within the park are at a tented camp on the banks of the Karnali River, or at lodge just outside the park at Chitkaiya, near the park HQ.
##KHAPTAD NATIONAL PARK
LOCATION
Khaptad National Park is located in the mid-mountain region of Far-Western Nepal at an air distance of 446 km. from Kathmandu. The core area is situated at the cross point of Bajhang, Bajura, Doti and Achham Districts of Seti Zone. The Park HQ. at Khaptad is about 50 km. and 32 km. walking distance respectively from Silgadhi town (Doti) and Chainpur town (Bajhang).
FEATURES
The park covers a unique ecosystem of the mid-mountain region of Western Nepal and is situated at around 3000 m. elevation. The upland is a rolling plateau with grasslands intermixed with oak and coniferous forests.
CLIMATE
The summer is cool and wet, whereas, the winter is cold and dry. The monsoon begins in June and ends in September with rainfall averaging less than 1000 mm. Occasional snowfall I winter with chilling wind is another characteristic.
FLORA
There is a great variety of vegetation type ranging from sub-tropical forest in the lower altitudes (Jhingrana and Chaikot of Dopti) to temperate forests on the Khaptad plateau. The most common tree species are chirpine (Pinus roxburghii), spruce (Picea smithiana), fir (Abies spectabilis), maple (Acer pictum), birch (Betula utilis), alder (Alnus nepalensis), and rhododendron (Rhododendron spp.) Dense bamboo stands (nigalo) and wide varieties of medicinal herbs occur in the park.
FAUNA
The most common fauna in the park are leopard (Panthera pards). Himalayan yellow-throated marten (Martes flavigula), Himalayan black bear (Sus scrofa), jackal (Canis aureus), musk deer (Mochus moschiferus), goral (nemorhaedus goral), Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus), wolf (Canis lupus), and common languor (Presbytis entellus).
The common bird species include the Impeyan pheasant (danphe), Nepal's national bird (Lophophorus impejanus), chukor partridge (Alectoris graeca), Kalij pheasant (Lophuralleucomelana), Monal (Tragopan satyara), red and yellow-billed blue magpie (Cissa erythrorhyncapa & c. flavirostris), nutcracker (Nucifraga caryooatactes), flycatchers (Muscicapa & Muscicapella spp.), thrushes (Garrulax spp. & Zoothera spp.), Himalayan griffin ( Gyps himalayansis), cuckoos (Cuculus spp.), forktails (Enicurus spp.), tits (Parus spp.), forktails (Enicurus spp.), wagtails (motacilla spp.), and eagles (Aquila spp.), A wide variety of colorful butterflies, moths, and insects are also important features of the Khaptad ecosystem.
RELIGIOUS ZONE
A meditation zone has been set aside at the core of the park, containing religious sites and the ashram of Khapatad Swami, a renowned spiritual saint. The important religious sites are Tribeni, Sahashra Linga and the ashram. The religious center is considered as a place for meditation and tranquillity. Therefore, smoking, chewing tobacco, and consumption of alcohol is prohibited. Similarly slaughtering of animal or killing any animals or birds are also prohibited.
ACCESS AND COMMUNICATION
The various access routes to reach the park are :
1 Plane flight to Bajhang (Chainpur) from either Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, or Dhangadhi followed by a two-day walk.
2 Plane flight to Doti (Dipaya) from places mentioned above, and a three-day walk.
3 Plane flight to Bajura (Kolti) from above mentioned places and a four-day walk.
4 Plane flight to Accham (Sanphebagar) from above places and a two-day walk.
5 There is a fair weather motorable road from Dhangadhi to Dipayal via Bhasu Lekh. From Dipayal is a three-day walk to reach the park HQ. at Khaptad.
Trekking in Khaptad National Park is very interesting. Porters are usually available at the trek starting points with some exceptions. Trekkers should be self-sufficient with tents, fuel and food as there are no commercial lodges available inside the park.
Climatically the best times to visit the park are during spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November). The temperature during these times range from 10o to 20o C.
PARK REGULATIONS
Flora fauna of the park are fully protected and must not be disturbed.
Visitors should be self-sufficient in every way, especially in fuel, before entering the park.
Rubbish should be buried or disposed of in designate places.
An entry fee as per park rules should be paid at the entrance gates.
No one should walk within the park after sunset or before sunrise.
No one should stay overnight or use alcoholic beverages, eat meat, smoke or violate the peace of the meditation area in any way.
##ROYAL SUKLAPHANTA WILDLIFE RESERVE
THE RESERVE
The Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve is situated in the southern part of Far-West Nepal in Kanchanpur District. The reserve lies between 80o 25' east longitude and 28o 35' north laltude.
The reserve had been a famous hunting area for many years, and was declared a Royal Hunting Reserve in 1969. The reserve was gazetted in 1973 as Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve. It covers an area of 155 sq. km. 305 sq. m. after completion of an extension.
PHYSICAL FEATURES
The riverine flood plain of the reserve comprises hill wash and alluvial deposits. Sal (Shorea robusta) is the dominant tree species. Extensive grasslands (locally called phanta) provide an ideal habitat for swamp deer (Cervus duvauceli). The species is endangered and is found in herds of thousands in the reserve.
SEASONS
The reserve has typically four seasons, viz., winter, spring, summer and monsoon. The months of December and January are fairly cold and misty with occasional frost. Temperatures during the winter range from 10o to 12o C, gradually rising up to 22o to 25o C in February and March. In the pre-monsoon period (April-June) the temperatures range form 30o to 32o C. reaching as high as 42o C with increasing humidity.
VEGETATION
Predominant sal (Shorea robusta) forest is associated with asna (Terminalia alata), semal (Bombaxceiba), and karma (Adina Cordifolia). Khair, (Acacia catechu) and sissoo (Dolbergia sisso) forest is found along the river side. The main grass species of the phantas are Imperata cylindrica and Saccharum heteropogon which are extensively used by the local people for thatching.
WILD ANIMALS
The reserve provides prime habitat form swamp deer (Cervus duvauceli). An estimated population of 2000 to 2500 is found in the reserve. Other wild animals in the reserve are wild elephant Elephas maximus, tiger (Panthera tigris), hispid hare (Caprolagus hispidus), blue bull (Boselaphus tragocamelus), leopard (Panthera pardus), chital (Zxis axis), hog deer (Zxis porcinus), and wild boar (Sus scrofa).
A total 268 species of birds has been recorded in the reserve. Many grassland birds along with the rare Bengal florican be seen in the phantas. Marsh mugger crocodile, Indian python, monitor lizard and snakes like cobra, krait, and rat snake are recorded in the reserve.
RESERVE REGULATIONS
Movement inside the reserve is restricted between sunrise and sunset.
Flora and fauna are totally protected and must not be disturbed.
Rubbish must be buried or disposed of in a designated place.
(RESERVE FEES ) , (FOREIGNERS ), ( NEPALI )
( Entrance Fee ) , ( Rs. 650.00 ) , ( Rs.10.00 )
(Camping Fee per night per person ) , ( Rs.300.00 ) , (Rs.20.00 )
( Vehicle Fee ) , (Rs.100.00) , (Rs.100.00)
( Elephant ride per hour per person ) , ( Rs. 650.00 ) , (Rs.100.00 )
Children below 10 yrs. free entrance.
PLACES OF INTEREST
The extensive open grasslands of Suklaphanta are worth visiting for a breathtaking view of the largest herd of swamp deer in the world and other grassland birds including Bengal florican.
Wetlands such as Ranital, Sikarital and others in the extension area like Kalikitch Lake, Lalpanital and Taratal, support a healthy population of many kinds of waterfowl, reptiles and other wildlife.
Ranital, 18 km. from the reserve HQ., is a beautiful lake for viewing waterfowl, with machans (viewing towers).
HOW TO GET THERE
The reserve is accessible by road as well as by air. The reserve will be easily accessible by road from any parts of Nepal with the completion of the far-wetern sector of East-West Highway. There is once a week flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi which is 51 km. far from the park headquarters. There is regular public bus service from Dhangadhi to Mahendranagar taking 3 hours drive and the reserve headquarters is 8 km south-west of Mahendranagar. The reserve can be reached by East-West Highway through Nepalgunj-Dhangadhi-Mahendranagar.
RESERVE FACILITIES
A small information center is maintained at the reserve HQ. at Majhgaon.
A privately owned jungle lodge provides accommodations and other activities in the reserve.
##MAKALU-BARUN NATIONAL PARK AND CONSERVATION AREA
High in the heart of the eastern Himalayan, seven valleys radiate form Mt. Makalu, the world's fifth highest peak. These valleys, particularly the Barun valley, treasure some of the last remaining pristine forest and alpine meadows of Nepal. From the bottom of the Arun valley, at just 435 m above sea level, the Himalayan rise to the snow-capped tip of Makalu- 8463 m. within a 40 km distance. Within this wide range of altitudes and climates, the Makalu-Barun area contains some of the richest and most diverse pockets of plants and animals in Nepal, elsewhere lost to spreading human habitation.
Nestled in the lower reaches of these valleys are communities of Rai, Sherpa, and Shingsawa (Bhotia) farmers. Though economically poor and isolated, they ratain a rich cultural heritage. They hold the key to the preservation of the unique biological and cultural treasures of the Makalu-Barun area.
The Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area was established in 1992 as Nepal's eighth national park and the first to include and adjacent inhabited conservation area as a buffer. A new park management approach encourages local people to become actively involved in protecting the forests and natural resources upon which their live depend, and in conserving their own rich cultural heritage. Traditional resource management systems, such as community controlled grazing and forest guardianship, are being strengthened and low level technologies introduced where appropriate. Working in collaboration with an American NGO, Woodlands Mountain Institute, His Majesty's Government, Nepal is striving to improve local living standards through infrastructure, educational and income-generating activities.
Covering 2,330 sq. km. Makalu-Barun is a vital component of the greater Mount Everest ecosystem which includes Nepal's 1,148 sq. km Sagarmatha (Mount Everest) National Park to the west and the 35,000 sq. km Comolangma Nature Preserve in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north.
THE NATIONAL PARK
Most of the Makalu-Barun National Park is a remove wildness, with just two small settlements and seasonal herding in high pastures. Historically, few foreigners have visited the area except for the occasional climbing expedition.
The incredibly steep topography and abundant monsoon rains (1000 to 4000 mm per year) of the eastern Himalayan support unusually diverse bioclimatic zones and a rich storehouse of medicinal and useful plants. Alpine pastures above 4000 m contain the religiously important dwarf rhododendron and juniper, aromatic herbs and delicate wildflowers. Subalpine forests of fir, birch and rhododendron, and temperate stands of oak, maple and magnolia thrive between 2-4000 m. Luxuriant orchids drape the chestnut and pine forests of the subtropical zone (1-2000 m.) and sal forests reach their northernmost limit within Nepal along the banks of the Arun (below 1000 m).
STRICT NATURE RESERVE
The inaccessible lower Barun valley, a glacier-fed tributary to the Arun river, and its tributary the Saldima, flow through the most pristine area in the Park and thus have been designated as a Strict Nature Reserve-the first in Nepal. Here natural ecosystems and processes will be protected in an undisturbed state for scientific study, environmental monitoring, education, and the maintenance of genetic resources.
THE CONSERVATION AREA
Some 32.000 people of ethnically divers backgrounds live in the Conservation Area. The majority belong to various tribes of Rais and practice an ancient religion which reinforces harmony with nature. Shingsawas and Sherpas. Bhotia peoples originally from Tibet, live at higher elevations and carry on Buddhist traditions. A handful of other hill tribes including Gurung, Tamang, Magar, Newar, Brahmins, Chhetris and occupational castes live in the lower elevations.
These peoples live in isolated villages much as they have for centuries. As farmers, herders and seasonal traders, their livelihoods depend heavily upon forest resources for animal fodder, fuel, food, housing materials, fertilizers, medicine and other creative uses; clothing spun from allo (nettles), paper made form lokta (daphne bark), and countless items made from bamboo including furniture, containers, baskets, musical instruments, raincoats, and aqueducts.
While culturally rich most people of the Makalu-Barun area are economically very poor. Subsistence farming does not produce enough food for the entire year. Many seasonally migrate to other areas to supplement their income through trade or wage-earning jobs.
A WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
The Makalu-Barun area is little known to most tourists due to its relative inaccessibility. But those few hundred trekkers and mountaineers who visit each year come away with an unforgettable experience.
For the naturalist, there are spectacular displays of wildflowers and exotic plants. More than 3,00 species of flowering plants, with hundreds of orchid varieties, 48 primroses, and 25 of Nepal's 30 rhododendrons splash the hillsides with color. The forests shelter abundant wildlife, including the endangered red panda and musk deer as well as the ghoral, Himalayan tarh and leopard. Ornithologists have identified 400 bird species, at least 16 of which are extremely rare.
Most trekkers and mountaineers visit the Makalu-Barun area during October-November and March-April when high passes are less likely to be snowed over. Lower elevations are temperate throughout winter and hot during April and May. Heavy monsoon rains occur throughout the region from June through September, with occasional showers during April-May. For the hardy botanist, the monsoon season is bursting with life. including the pasty leech.
MAIN TREKKING ROUTES
The chief destination of trekkers and mountaineers is Makalu Base Camp. Other notable peaks of the Kumbhakarna Himal are Chamlang, Baruntes, and Nepau. Mera Peak is a popular trekking peak.
TREK ROUTE SUMMARY
(Destination ) ( Minimum days from Kathmandu ) ( Difficulty ) ( Food/Loading Availability)
(Makalu Base Camp ) ( 19-21 ) ( Moderate-difficult ) ( None beyond Tashigaon)
(Makalu Base Camp--Sherpini Col.--Panch Pokhari ) ( 20-22 ) ( Difficult, requires mountaineering skills, equipment, good guide) ( none)
( Inkhu--Mera La-- Panch Pokhari , exit Luklar) ( 17-19 ) ( Moderate-difficult ) ( None)
( Inkhu--Mera La-- Panch Pokhari , exit Tumlingtar) ( 22-23 ) ( Moderate-difficult ) ( None )
( Inkhu-Mera La-Panch Pokhari exit Amphu Laptsa or Mingbo La-Khumbu) ( 18-20 ) ( Difficult, requires Mountaineering skills, equipment, good guide) ( None)
( Tumlingtar-Solu Khumbu via Salpa La ) ( 7-8 ) ( Moderate-easy ) ( Yes)
( Mera Peak ) ( Add 3-4 days to Mera La- Panch Pokhari ) ( Difficult, requires mountaineering skills, equipment, good guide.) ( None )
TREK DESCRIPTIONS
Makalu Base Camp/Sherpini Col: From Tumlingtar, two trails lead to Seduwa: one through Khandbari to Num the crossing the Arun river. The other traces the Arun's western banks through lush forests.
Most groups spend two nights acclimatizing at Tashigaon (2060 m). the last settlement. Entering the National Park, the trail climbs to a campsite at Khongma (3500 m), then crosses Shipton La and Keke La passes (4,200 m) and descends into the upper Barun valley. Trekkers overnight at Mumbuk (3500 m), Nghe of Yangle Kharka (3600 m), before reaching Shersong (4700 m), the highest camp. The return follows the same trails. Food and lodging are available only along the Khandbari-Num Tashigaon route.
Experienced mountaineers may attempt to cross Sherpini Col. (6,100 m), from Shersong, entering the Panch Pokhari (Five Lakes) area and exiting either via the Inkhu valley, then crosses Mera La (5,382 m), and enters the upper Hongu Valley and Panch Pokhari. The high passes mentioned above give access to Shersong or Khumbu. Mera Peak (6,654 m) is a popular but challenging three day ascent accessible via Inkhu valley, Climbers must obtain a trekking peak permit.
The Salpa La (3,400 m) route connects Tumlingtar to Kharikhola in Solu, gateway to Khumbu.
HOW TO GET THERE
There are daily flights from Kathmandu to: Tumlingtar, Biratnagar (a 6-7 hr drive by bus to Hile and 3 day trek to Tumlingtar), and Lukla; and less frequent service to Phaplu (Solu), an attentive entry to the Inkhu valley.
PARK FACILITIES
The Makalu-Barun National and Conservation Area Temporary Headquarters is located I Khandbari, with Sector Offices I Seduwa and Khanegaon (Tamku), Visitor information is available at all Park offices. A kerosene depot at Tashigaon sells kerosene to trekking groups. Coupons for kerosene can be purchased at the Seduwa Sector Office.
NATIONAL PARK REGULATIONS
1 All foreign visitors to the Makalu-Barun National Park and Conservation Area, with the exception of Indian nationals, must purchase a trekking permit as well as pay a national park fee of Rs. 650/- at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Entry permits are non refundable and non-transferable. The park fee receipt must be shown at Park offices.
2 All foreigners and staff are required to use kerosene or gas for cooking and heating in the National Park. No wood or vegetation cutting or burning is allowed in the National Park. Use of kerosene rather than fuelwood in the Conservation Area is encouraged.
3 All non-burnable and non-biodegradable refuse (i.e., tins, plastics, glass, batteries, etc.) shall be carried out of the National and deposited at appropriate locations. Please contact the Makalu-Barun staff posted at Park offices for details.
4 Fishing and hunting are prohibited. The collection of animals, birds, plants, and other materials for scientific research purposes requires official permission from the Department of National and Wildlife Conservation. No endangered species may be caught or harmed in any way.
All relevant regulations will be enforced by Makalu-Barun personnel who patrol the National Park and Conservation Area. Offenders will be subject to fines and other penalties according to national park laws.
##KING MAHENDRA TRUST FOR NATURE CONSERVATION
The King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation (KMTNC) is an autonomous, non profit making and non governmental organization dedicated to conserving , preserving and managing nature and nature resources with a view to improve the quality of human life. The KMTNC was created because of the realization that the relationship between nature conservation and economic development are mutually dependent. The KMTNC is a legal entity governed by the KMTNC Act (2039) promulgated in the Kingdom of Nepal by notification in the Nepal Gazette on Kartik 3, 2039 Bikram Samvat (October 1982) : Volume 32. No. 32 )Law # 12).
The KMTNC is named after the late King Mahendra without whose timely intervention most of the existing protected areas of Nepal would have been destroyed. The present Patron of the KMTNC is His Majesty King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev. . His Royal Highness Prince Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah has been the Chairman since the very beginning . The KMTNC operates under a Governing Board of Trustees comprising prominent persons from diverse fields which includes four non Nepalese members.
The KMTNC does not received any annual budgetary support from His Majesty's Government of Nepal . It is funded entirely by charitable donations from in-Country as well as foreign sources. (Donations to the KMTNC are tax deductible).
The KMTNC has taken up the challenge of striking a balance between the conservation of nature and support of human needs in a country which is ecologically fragile and economically underdeveloped. Furthermore, the KMTNC is striving to demonstrate that non governmental agencies are viable in third world countries and that good ecology is good economies and vice versa.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE KMTNC
Resources generated by the KMTNC are to be utilised or invested in the following sectors:
1. Applied ecological research to formulate sound management plans.
2. Implementation of soil and water conservation programs.
3. Afforestation and reforestation.
4. Development and management of National parks and Wildlife Reserves.
5. Conversation of flora and fauna.
6. Propagation of endangered species.
7. Development and distribution of small and cost effective alternate sources of energy to minimize fuelwood consumption.
8.Conservation education.
9. Restoration of Nepal's ancient monuments, temples and monasteries in parks and reserves and other protected areas.
10. Involvement of local people in the conservation of Nepal's natural and cultural heritage.
11. Supporting Nepal's National Conservation Strategy along the guidelines provided by the World Conservation Strategy.
12. Assisting and complementing the efforts of His Majesty's Government of Nepal and foreign agencies engaged in the field of nature conservation.
Ongoing projects of the KMTNC
THE ANNAPURNA CONSERVATION AREA PROJECT
A unique blend of good ecology with good economies and conservation with development, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), established in 1966, covers an area of over 7,000 sq. km. with a wealth of biological diversity.
As the catchment of one of he major river systems in the Himalayas the Annapurna basin is not only of aesthetic value to foreign visitors but also vital to the conservation of soil, water and resources of Nepal. Traditional subsistence activities in the Annapurna Conservation Area are woven into a framework of conservation activities such as forest conservation , community development, conservation education, community health and sanitation, environment friendly tourism management, sound resources management, alternative energy projects, research and training Besides, the users fee levied on visitors is used for ACAP's development and conservation activities in the region.
jointly funded by the World Wildlife Fund, the KMTNC's United Kingdom Chapter, SNV, TRAS and other organizations, ACAP is the most challenging project of the KMTNC , in its involvement as well as its management . Its headquarters, are located in picturesque Ghandurk on the way to the Annapurna Sanctuary.
THE NEPAL CONSERVATION RESEARCH AND TRAINING CENTER (NCRTC) established in 1989, aims to provides a center for applied research in wildlife management and ecology as well as a training center for the development of human resources in area of parks and natural resources management.
The Center has, to date, conducted a number of research projects on the tiger (Panthera tigirs), greater one horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis), Chittal (Axai axis), Hog deer (Axis porcinus), sambar deer (Cervus unicolor), barking deer(Muntiacus munjack ), common palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) and the sloth bear (Melarsus ursinus). Research works have also been extended to the Royal Bardiya National Park where 38 translocated rhinos are being monitored as part of the KMTNC's Species Diversification Program.
The Center also conducts training courses for foresters, wildlife personnel, extension workers, University students and local farmers besides its research activities. Buffer Zone Reforestation programs are carried out to ensure sufficient supplies of fodder and fuelwood for the local people. The Centre's herbarium serves as a plant information center for researchers, nature lovers and conservationists.
HELP SAVE OUR ENVIRONMENT
NEPAL-masterpiece of many-splendor Creation. So rich in terms of natural wealth yet so poor and underdeveloped. Lurking behind the facade of the world's highest mountains and an amazing spectrum of diverse flora and fauna is the threat of destruction.
The country's forests are being depleted at the alarming rate of three percent every year. Eighty-seven percent of the population uses wood for fuel and cooking .
Thirty to seventy-five tons of soil are lost for every hectare of forest cleared. Approximately 400,000 hectares of natural habitat, including prize virgin forests, are cleared annually to meet the needs of both the local inhabitants and the flourishing tourist industry, resulting in devastating floods and landslides.
In a country where over ninety percent of the population lives off the land, only twenty percent of the area is ecologically suited to farming. Two-thirds of the population live in a climatically hostile, rugged and mountainous terrain which produces only one-third of the food required.
Agricultural production cannot keep pace with one of the highest birth rates in the world-a staggering two point three percent. Infant mortality is 118 per 1000 live births.
Literacy is twenty-six percent.
Some of the world's most endangered species such as the greater one-horned rhinoceros (rhinoceros unicornis) Bengal tiger(Panthera tigris), asiatic elephant (Elephas maximas) gangetic dolphin (Platinista Gangeticaa), sarus crane (Grus antigone), blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur) and the elusive snow leopard (panthera uncia) are fighting a losing battle for survival.
Population is on the rise with the phenomenal increase in vehicular traffic, factories, tourists. We could be the last generation to witness a species rich Nepal. the fate of Nepal hangs in the balance. Can we save it ?
How can You Help? Nature conservation connects us all. Keep aware of conservation and environmental issues. Support worthwhile conservation efforts. A contribution from you, in cash or kind, could play a vital part in the KMTNC's conservation efforts. You can contact the KMTNC chapter nearest to you regarding further information or making of donations at the following addresses:
The Member Secretary
King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation
P.o.Box 3712, Kathmandu, NEPAL
Tel: 526 571 ., Fax:977 526 570
Hon. Russell E. Train, Chairman
World Wildlife Fund-USA 1250 Twenty-Fourth Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037-1175. USA
Tel: 1-202-293-4800., Fax: 1-202-223-6971/1-202-293-9211
Field Marshal Sir John Chapple, GCB CBE, Chairman
King Mahendra UK Trust for Nature Conservation
26 Little Chester Street, London SWIX 7AP. UNITED KINGDOM
Tel: 44-071-823-2545., fax: 44-071-259-5438
Dr. Jiro Kawakita, Vice-Chairman
King Mahendra Japan Trust for Nature Conservation
Room 111,3-5-7 Yoyogi, Tokyo 151, JAPAN
Tel: 81 03 5350 8458 , Fax: 81 03 5350 8459
Ms. Barbara Wilbrink
King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation-The Netherlands
Bank Mees &Hope,P.O.Box 749,3000 AS, Rotterdam
THE NETHERLANDS
Tel: 31 010 452 6729 , Fax: 31 010 453 1555
Maurice Herzog, Chairman
Association "Roi" Mahendra Pour la preservation du patrimoine
Naturel du Nepal, 109 Faubough Street, Paris 75008, FRANCE
Tel: 33 1 4622 4867, Fax: 33 1 4720 3352
Dr. Susanne von der Heide, Secretary General
King Mahendr Stiftung fur Naturschutz in Nepal, Deutsches
Komittee zoologischer Garten AG,Rieler Strasse 173, 5000 Koeln 60
DEUTSCHLAND
Tel: 49 221 16021 , Fax: 49 221 137651
Mr. Zeke O'Connor, Chairman
The King Mahendra Trust (Canada) for Nature Conservation Inc.
Suite 1708, Islington, Ontario M9A 4M9, CANADA
Tel: 1 416 620 5204, Fax: 1 416 620 5209
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