All you need to know about 12 National Parks of Nepal before a visit

The Chitwan National Park

The Chitwan National Park, covering an area of 952.63 square kilometers in the subtropical Inner Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal, is the first national park of the country that was established in the year 1973 and later recognized as the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. With elevations ranging from 100m in river valleys to 815m in Sivalik Hills, sharing borders with Parsa National Park and Valmiki National Park, it is undoubtedly one of the most popular national parks in Nepal.

Also known as the “heart of the jungle” the park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, spectacular scenery, and opportunities for several adventurous activities, including jungle safaris, canoe rides, river rafting, and Tharu cultural tours offering a blend of thrilling adventures, rich biodiversity, and cultural experiences, making it a top destination for nature and wildlife lovers. It is one of the last remaining habitats of giant mammals, the one-horned Asiatic rhino, along with the Bengal Tiger and Gharial crocodile, offering memorable holidays to do with your family, friends, and loved ones.

Highlights

• Location: Terai Lowlands
• Established: 1973
• Area: 952.63 square kilometers
• Wildlife: Elusive one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, over 500 species of avians, gharials, and numerous wildlives.
• Activities: Serene jungle walks, canoe rides, white water river rafting, bird watching, visiting elephant breeding center, enjoying Tharu cultural dance, lifestyle, and traditions, wildlife observation, etc.
• Highlights: Nepal’s first national park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to endangered one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal Tigers, gharials, Tharu people and their culture, Elephant Breeding Center, rivers of Rapti and Narayani, more than 500 species of birds, and so on.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March.

The Sagarmatha National Park

Established in 1976 and named after the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest, i.e., Sagarmatha, locally, the Sagarmatha National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular National Parks of Nepal in the Everest/Khumbu region. Encompassing an area of 1,148 square kilometers, the national park is renowned for incredible mountain views and dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance, with notable Buddhist monuments like Tengboche Monastery and the infamous Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar Trekking Trail.

Highlights

• Location: Solukhumbu District
• Established: 1976
• Area: 1,148 square kilometers
• Wildlife: Rare snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan tahrs, musk deer, a wide variety of bird species, and many more.
• Activities: hiking, climbing, trekking, and expeditions; scenic mountain flights; helicopter tours; strolling around the banks of the stunning Dudh Koshi River; immersing in the cultural and traditional festivals of the Himalayan locals, especially that of the Sherpas; taking blessings in the largest monastery of the region called Tengboche; and many more.
• Highlights: Mount Everest (8,848m), the world’s tallest peak, UNESCO World Heritage Site, thriving Sherpa communities, amazing mountain passes, alpine lakes, Buddhist culture, monasteries, Mani walls, Gompas, etc.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn.

Bardiya National Park

Officially established as the Royal Bardia National Park of Nepal in 1988, Bardiya National Park, located 367 km from the capital city, Kathmandu, is one of the country’s largest and unspoiled national parks in the Bardiya District. Boarded by the Siwalik Hills in the north and the Nepalgunj-Surkhet highway to the south, spread over 986 square kilometers, the national park is an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a more isolated experience with nature and its grandeur.

The park is characterized by lush forests, grasslands, and riverine habitats along the Karnali River inhabited by notable wild animals like Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, elephants, and over 250 species of birds, often also referred to as mini Chitwan National Park, which is less crowded. The park, along with Banke National Park, forms the Tiger Conservation Unit Bardia-Banke, offering thrilling birdwatching, jungle safaris, and cultural interaction with the Tharu community in a more serene environment promising a smoother, authentic wilderness experience.

Highlights

• Location: Western Nepal, Bardiya District
• Established: 1988
• Area: 986 square kilometers
• Wildlife: Elusive Bengal Tigers, wild elephants, river dolphins, etc.
• Activities: Jungle safaris, Nature walks, bird watching, River rafting, canoeing, Tharu Cultural Immersion, and wildlife observation.
• Highlights: Rich wildlife, birdwatching paradise, pristine landscapes, enriching cultural encounters with the Tharu community, less crowded and untouched, exciting river activities, and so on.
• Best Time to Visit: November to March.

Shivapuri National Park

Located in the mid-hills of the country on the northern fringe of the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, the Shivapuri National Park covers 159 square kilometers in area and is one of the best short trekking, hiking, rock climbing, and bird-watching destinations. Named for Shivapuri Peak, one of the highest peaks near Kathmandu at 2,732 meters above sea level, the national park stretches up to the Dhading District to the west and shares a region with the three largest districts in the nation: Kathmandu, Nuwakot, and Sindhupalchowk.

The lush protected area was established as the Watershed and Wildlife Reserve in 1976 and was declared the National Park of Nepal only in 2002, still serving as the main water source for Kathmandu City. For nature and hiking lovers, it offers much happening trekking to Shivpuri Peak and routes to Baghdwar (the origin of the Bagmati River), where the Nagi Gompa adds much to the spiritual aspects. Home to over 500 plant species, 300 bird species, and wildlife like leopards, deer, and Himalayan black bears, the national park is a perfect nature escape from Kathmandu in a short amount of time.

Highlights

• Location: Near Kathmandu, Mid-Hills, Nepal
• Established: 2002
• Area: 159 square kilometers
• Wildlife: Leopards, deer, Himalayan black bears, over 300 bird species, and others.
• Activities: short hiking, trekking, mountain biking, bird watching, nature walks, picnics, etc.
• Highlights: Easy day hikes, walks, bird watching, Nagi Gompa, bird watching, panoramic views of the snow-capped mountain ranges, ideal for a quick escape from the city, and a water source for the Kathmandu Valley
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though spring and autumn are best.

Makalu Barun National Park

Spread over the districts of Sankhuwasbha and Solukhumbu in the northwest of Nepal as part of the greater Mount Everest ecosystem, the Makalu Barun National Park is a pristine protected area of the country. Covering an area of 1,500 square kilometers, the park is famous for its towering peaks perched above the sky, including Mount Makalu (8,481 m), the world’s fifth-highest mountain, and other snow-capped, rugged summits. The park falls under the sacred Himalayan landscape of Nepal and is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna where the vegetation ranges from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, boasting 48 species of orchids, 87 species of medicinal herbs, 25 types of rhododendron, 15 species of oak, and many more.

This national park in Nepal also boasts 400 species of birds, including the rare spotted red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, and wren babbler on your lucky day. Through the national park flows the Arun River, which is comparatively less explored, making it an ideal trek, climb, and wildlife-watching destination for individuals seeking solitude, wilderness, and awe-inspiring mountain views.

Highlights

• Location: Eastern Nepal
• Established: 1992
• Area: 1,500 square kilometers
• Wildlife: red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, wren babbler, and over 400 species of birds.
• Activities: Himalayan trekking, peak climbing, local cultural immersion, wildlife exploration, photography, bird watching, snow leopard tracking, etc.
• Highlights: Hike, trek, and climb the untouched and dramatic Himalayan landscape; less frequented peak of Nepal; wide range of Himalayan flora and fauna; Mt. Makalu; remote trekking route, spiritual journey to Shiva Dhara, photography, and so on.
• Best Time to Visit: October to November and March to May

The Rara National Park

Featuring the country’s largest lake, Rara Lake, at 2,990 m above sea level, otherwise also called the fairy from heaven in Nepal, the Rara National Park is the smallest national park of the nation in the Himalayas. Covering an area of just 106 square kilometers in the Mugu and Jumla Districts, this national park in Nepal was established in 1976, where the altitude ranges from 2,800 m to 4,039 m at Chuchemara Peak. Surrounded by alpine coniferous vegetation, the national park protects the unique beauty of the pristine Rara Lake and its 500 different kinds of flowers, 20 species of mammals, 214 species of birds, and only the snow trout in the lake.

Highlights

• Location: Northwestern Nepal
• Established: 1976
• Area: 106 square kilometers
• Wildlife: red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, wren babbler, and over 400 species of birds.
• Activities: Trekking, boating, and hiking by nearby peaks such as Chuchemera, Ruma Kandh, Malika Kandh, and Murma Top. Sightseeing around the National Park, jungle safari, camping, horse riding, cycling, and many more.
• Highlights: Rara Lake, serene natural setting, scenic beauty, trekking, climbing, and hiking opportunities, Sinja and Thakuri cultural encounters, rich biodiversity, and stunning peaks of Chuchemera, Ruma Kandh, Malika Kandh, and Murma Top
• Best Time to Visit: April to May and September to October.

Parsa National Park

Stretched over parts of Chitwan, Makawanpur, Parsa, and Bara Districts of Nepal, the Parsa National Park is the youngest national park in the country, In 2017, it was initially established in 1984 as a wildlife reserve. Located in south-central Nepal, spanning 627 square kilometers, the national park is an extension of the Terai Arc landscape surrounded by a buffer zone whose boundaries are heavily influenced by the East Rapti River, Sivalik Hills, and Chitwan National Park.

Renowned for its tropical and subtropical forests, dominated by Chir pine trees, grasslands, and wetlands, the reserve is a good habitat for animals like wild elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and gaurs, and over 500 species of birds, including reptiles like pythons and gharials. Therefore, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the national park in Serenity is the best destination for jeep safaris, bird watching, and nature walks offering an unmatchable wildlife experience.

Highlights

• Location: Southern Nepal, near Chitwan
• Established: 2017
• Area: 627 square kilometers
• Wildlife: elephants, deer, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, pythons, gharials, over 500 species of birds, etc.
• Activities: jungle safari, boating, rafting, elephant ride, nature walk, cultural tour, wildlife excursion, photography, bird watching, etc.
• Highlights: varieties of flora and fauna, Tharu culture, Churia Hills, Mathiya New Bridge, Ganga Island, Archaeological Museum, Birgunj Ghantaghar, and so on.
• Best Time to Visit: October to April.

Shuklaphanta National Park

Named after its expansive Sukalaphanta grasslands, the Shuklaphanta National Park, located in the far-western lowland Terai region of Nepal, covering 305 square kilometers, is known for having the country’s largest herd of swamp deer and notable numbers of Bengal tigers. It actually is the nation’s second-largest wildlife reserve in Terai, with vast open grasslands, riverbeds, and wetlands from an elevation of 174 m to 1,386 m, bordered by the Mahakali River in the west and south.

Previously managed as a hunting reserve, this national park of Nepal now further shelters blue bulls, wild boars, leopards, jackals, langurs, and rhesus monkeys, including bird species like cranes, swamp francolins, and flycatchers, followed by reptiles like marsh muggers, crocodiles, cobras, and pythons. Established in the year 1976 with 243.50 square kilometers separated as a buffer zone only, hence the Shuklaphanta National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts in serene and less commercialized nature, offering top-notch off-the-beaten-path safaris and bird-watching experiences.

Highlights

• Location: Far western Nepal
• Established: 1976
• Area: 305 square kilometers
• Wildlife: swamp deer, Bengal tigers, blue bulls, wild boars, leopards, jackals, langurs, rhesus monkeys, marsh muggers, crocodiles, cobras, pythons, and many more.
• Activities: jungle safari, exploring the Tharu culture, their food, and day-to-day life; trekking; jeep safari; bird watching and exploration of raw wilderness; elephant ride, etc.
• Highlights: widely spread grasslands, dense population of swamp deer, witnessing Bengal Tiger, elephants, thrilling Dodharachadani Suspension Bridge (the roaring Mahakali River and bridge), the serenity of Rani Tal, Ghodaghodi Tal, and others.
• Best Time to Visit: November to April.

Banke National Park

Banke National Park in the Lumbini Province is one of the 12 national parks in Nepal. Established in 2010 as the country’s tenth national park, recognized as the “Gift of the Earth,” this national park spans over 550 square kilometers in the midwestern development region. Sharing a border with the Bardia National Park, representing the Tiger Conservation Unit (TCU) Bardia-Banke and the forests of India, is hence the most critical part of the Terai Arc landscape.

The park is a natural habitat of 124 plants, 34 mammals, 300 birds, 24 reptiles, 7 amphibians, and about 58 types of fish in about 8 types of ecosystems featuring beautiful forests of Sal, grasslands, and riverine habitats. Additionally, it also houses big mammals like Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, striped hyenas, and more than 300 species of birds, crafting a peaceful destination for nature lovers, wildlife aspirants, and birdwatchers alike.

Highlights

• Location: Western Nepal
• Established: 2010
• Area: 550 square kilometers
• Wildlife: Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, striped hyenas, four-horned antelopes, more than 300 species of birds, and others.
• Activities: homestay experience, jungle safari, hiking, discovering the unique culture of Bharmin, Chhetri, Tamang, Tharu, Gurung, boating, cycling, various outdoor adventures, photography, art classes, and so on.
• Highlights: Tigers consecration area, serene wildlife experience, green valley of Surkhet, Ghanata Ghar (Clock Tower), Bheri suspension bridge, religious landmark Deutibajai Temple, Kakrebihar, and others.
• BestTime to Visit: November to April.

Khaptad National Park

Named after the hermit who lived and meditated in the ancient time, the Khaptad National Park is a spiritual and natural gem of Nepal. Famous for its rolling hills, verdant grasslands, and thick forests of rhododendron and oak, the park was established in the year 1984 and is located in the far-western region of the country. Covering a 225 square kilometer area, the national park is spread over 4 districts (Bajhang, Bajura, Doti, and Achham) and sports a variety of wild animals and plants like leopards, butterflies, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, and about 270 bird species.

The entire Nepal National Park holds significant cultural and spiritual importance, offering a fantastic blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquility. Visitors can explore Khaptad Baba Ashram, Triveni (a sacred pilgrimage site), and mesmerizing meadows, which are just the right spots to meditate. Every year, a festival is held at Khaptad Lake, usually during August and September, while you reach the highest point, Sahashar Linga.

Highlights

• Location: Far western Nepal
• Established: 1984
• Area: 225 square kilometer area
• Wildlife: leopards, butterflies, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, barking deer, wild boar, goral, yellow-throated marten, rhesus monkey, over 270 species of birds, and so on.
• Activities: trekking, hiking, bird watching, wildlife observation, mountain viewing, jeep/jungle safaris, meditation, and others.
• Highlights: Saipal Himal, unique rolling meadows, religious Khaptad Baba’s Ashram, Nagadhunga, Kedardhunga, Ganesh temple, etc.
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to November.

Shey-Phoksundo National Park

Standing out as the largest and only trans-Himalayan national park in Nepal, the Shey-Phoksunda National Park covers an area of 3,555 square kilometers in the Dolpa and Mugu districts in the Mid-Western Region. Established in 1984 in the remote, the park is famed for its dramatic landscapes characterized by snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and alpine ecosystems. Named after the turquoise Shey-Poksunda Lake at an altitude of 3,611 m above sea level amidst the rugged beauty of the Himalayas, the national park shelters rare wildlife such as snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, and over 200 species of birds.

Preserving the unique allure of the trans-Himalayan region, this national park of Nepal is culturally extremely significant, housing numerous ancient Bon and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries such as Shey Gompa. Tucked in the untouched wilderness in the high altitude, hence it is the unrivaled destination of all time for trekkers, spirituality-seeking individuals, and those keen to experience Nepal’s high-altitude beauty, Shey Phoksundo National Park caters to all.

Highlights

• Location: Northwestern Nepal, Dolpo Region
• Established: 1984
• Area: 3,555 square kilometers
• Wildlife: Snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, over 200 species of birds, and so on.
• Activities: High-altitude hiking, trekking, climbing, Upper Dolpo Trek, helicopter tour, visit Shey Gompa, spiritual retreat to Thasung Monastery, unwind around the serene alpine lake of Shey-Phoksundo Lake, explore the remote and unspoiled trans-Himalayan region of Nepal and its wilderness.
• Highlights: Shey-Phoksundo Lake, Shey Gompa, Thasung Monastery, Buddhist culture and traditions, Kong Ma La Pass, and others.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn.

Langtang National Park

Last but not least, the Langtang National Park. Introduced as the first Himalayan Nepal National Park and the fourth protected area, it was established in 1976 and covers an area of 1,710 square kilometers in the districts of Nuwakot, Rasuwa, and Sindhulpalchok. Located in the central Himalayas of Nepal, bordered by the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli Rivers, the park features stunning Himalayan landscapes, glacial lakes like Gosaikunda, the Langtang Valley, lush forests, alpine meadows rich in biodiversity, and cultural heritages dominated by the Dorje Lakpa range and Langtang Lirung summit.

Trekkers are offered cultural highlights like Kyanjin Gompa, Tamang and Sherpa villages, and the Gosaikunda Lake with significant cultural and religious values while they can also encounter rare wildlife such as red pandas, snow leopards, and the Himalayan black bear, and wide variety of avians, all watched over by the gigantic Himalayan ranges; hence it is considered a trekker’s paradise. Though in proximity to the Kathmandu Valley, the capital city of Nepal, the national park is largely untouched by massive tourism and allows serene trails, jaw-dropping views, and a fantastic fusion of nature and culture; hence, it is the best alternative to the tourist influx at Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Everest Base Camp treks close to Kathmandu.

Here are some of the best trekking routes of the Langtang National Park of Nepal that you might want to visit in 2025 and 2026, where we at Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks are offering group discounted prices, ensuring the best of the best experience and smooth logistical management without any compromise in quality and safety:

• Langtang Valley Trek - 10 Days
• Ganesh Himal Singla Pass Trek - 14 Days
• Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari Trek - 15 Days
• Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trek - 16 Days
• Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda Lake Trek - 14 Days
• Helambu Trek - 9 Days
• Gosaikunda Helambu Trek - 9 Day
• Langtang Valley and Tamang Heritage Trek - 15 Days

Highlights

• Location: North-central Nepal, near Kathmandu
• Established: 1976
• Area: 1,710 square kilometers
• Wildlife: Red pandas, snow leopards, the Himalayan black bear, and a wide variety of avians
• Activities: High-altitude hiking, mountaineering, trekking, first-hand Tamang and Sherpa cultural experience, Visit Kyanjin Gompa and Gosaikunda Lake, which consist of cultural, historical, and spiritual importance; deeper cultural immersion in the Langtang Valley; take in the serene beauty of mythical Himalayan ranges such as Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and others; and take a side trip to Kyanjin Ri, etc.
• Highlights: The Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda Lake, Kyanjin Gompa, Kyanjin Ri, Tamang, and Sherpa villages, culture and traditions, lush forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, rich biodiversity of the national park in tranquillity, and others.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).

Conclusion

Nepal National Parks are a testament to the country's incredible natural and cultural abundance, with several natural gifts waiting to be explored. Bursting at the seams with biodiversity, from the lush jungles of the Terai to the towering peaks of the Himalayas, each national park offers unique experiences. Whether you’re a trekker, wildlife enthusiast, cultural explorer, or simply nature lover, these parks promise you an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.

Vital for conserving Nepal’s unique ecosystem and fostering sustainable tourism, besides being the treasures for visitors, Nepal’s national parks are waiting to be discovered—pack your bags and get ready to explore the wild wonders of the country. Travel responsibly to leave an everlasting impression, contribute to preserving the beauty, and uplift the living standards of the locals. Visit Nepal National Parks for an amazing holiday!