Exploring Nepal’s Wildlife: An Adventure into the Wild

Into the depths of nature

Nepal is the land of paradise, residing in the Himalayan region, with tremendous geographic diversity and life forms. They extend from the low-lying plain to the highest mountain peak in the world.

Owing to its diverse geography, the country boasts an incredible array of wildlife, from the majestic Bengal tiger and the one-horned rhinoceros to the rare and unique spiny babbler and red panda. Wildlife reserves and national parks are located in some of the most scenic and breath-taking landscapes in the world, including the Himalayan mountain range and lush tropical forests.

With a strong emphasis on eco-tourism and wildlife preservation, Nepal offers visitors a chance to experience its incredible wildlife while minimising their impact on the environment and supporting local communities.

Every year, Nepal attracts many tourists to explore its unique and fascinating wildlife. If you are a person who is into nature and cultural diversity, then Nepal is the best place for you to immerse yourself in a wildlife expedition.

Here are a few destinations that you must not miss

Chitwan National Park

Located in the Terai region of Nepal, Chitwan National Park is one of the best places to go for wildlife viewing. The park protects several endangered species, including the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, and Asian elephant. Visitors can go on elephant safaris, jeep safaris, or canoe rides to explore the park and discover wildlife.

Parsa wildlife reserve

Parsa Wildlife Reserve is a birdwatcher's paradise, with different varieties of flora and fauna in the alpine region. It provides habitat for over 500 species of birds. Asian elephants, sloth bears, royal Bengal tigers, and leopards are a few of the endangered species that are found in the reserve. The view tower called Machan, near the headquarters, provides excellent views of birds, leopards,Bengal tigers, and so on. If you are a bird lover, then Parsa Wildlife Reserve should be on your travel itinerary.

Dorphatan hunting reserve

Dorphatan hunting reserve is a sanctuary for endangered species such as blue sheep and red pandas. It is the only place where hunting is licenced in Nepal, and hunting is allowed for only a certain wild species to maintain their population. Dorphatan is an attractive destination for trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Inhabited by various indigenous ethnic groups, including Tibetan descendants, you can engage yourself in their cultural diversity.

KoshiTappu Wildlife Reserve:

The KoshiTappu Wildlife Reserve, located in eastern Nepal, is recognised for its varied bird species. More than 400 bird species nest in the reserve, including numerous rare and endangered species. Visitors can go on bird-watching tours and explore the reserve on foot or by boat.

Shuklapanta wildlife reserve

Nestled in the far western Terai region, Shuklapanta is the second-largest wildlife reserve in Nepal and the perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking challenges. The reserve protects threatened animals such as the high-speed hare, pygmy hog, snow leopard, Bengal tigers, rhinos, crocodiles, wild elephants, and swamp deer. With large untamed lands, Shukltapanta Wildlife Reserve features extensive biodiversity, ranging from open grasslands and wetlands to lush, pristine subtropical forests. Jungle safaris,elephant rides, hiking, and canoeing are a few options to explore the endless beauty of this reserve.

Bardia National Park

Bardia National Park is located in the western part of Nepal and is less developed than Chitwan National Park, making it an excellent destination for those seeking a more remote and off-the-beaten-path wildlife experience. The park is home to several endangered species, including the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, and Asiatic elephant.

Annapurna Conservation Area

The Annapurna Conservation Area, located in central Nepal, is inhabited by a number of rare and endangered species, including the Himalayan musk deer and snow leopard. Tourists can explore the area and discover wildlife on guided trekking expeditions.

A trip to Nepal's national parks and wildlife reserves is a truly unforgettable experience that will leave visitors in awe of its natural beauty and cultural diversity.

The unique wildlife in Nepal

Of the diverse range of wildlife in Nepal, some are rare and seldom found in other areas. A journey to Nepal will give you a chance to experience the remarkable wildlife.

Spiny Babbler

The spiny babbler (also known as KandeBhyakur in Nepali) is a bird species that is only found in the mid-hills of Nepal. It is a critically endangered species, with a global population estimated to be less than 250 individuals. The spiny babbler is found in ShivapuriNagarjun National Park, Langtang National Park, and Manaslu Conservation Area in Nepal.

Grey Langur

The grey langur (also known as Hanuman langur) is a primate species that is found in the forests of Nepal. They are common in Nepal and are often seen in national parks and wildlife reserves.

Hispid Hare

The hispid hare is a small mammal species that is only found in the grasslands of Nepal and India. It is a vulnerable species, with a global population estimated to be less than 10,000 individuals. The hispid hare is found in the Chitwan National Park and Parsa Wildlife Reserve in Nepal.

Cheer Pheasant

The cheer pheasant is a bird species that is only found in the Himalayan region of Nepal. They are found in the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Annapurna Conservation Area, and Kanchenjunga Conservation Area in Nepal.

Red Panda

The red panda found in the forests of Nepal and other Himalayan countries is a vulnerable species, with only around 2,500 adults in the wild. It is known for its distinctive red fur,bushy tail, and cat-like face. The red panda is found in many national parks and wildlife reserves in Nepal, including Langtang National Park, Makalu Barun National Park, Sagarmatha National Park, and SheyPhoksundo National Park.

Indian Rhinoceros

The Indian rhinoceros (also known as the greater one-horned rhinoceros) is only found in the grasslands and forests of Nepal and India. Their global population is less than 3,500 individuals. The Indian rhinoceros is found in Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park in Nepal.

What's different in Nepal?

Nepal is a country with rich and diverse wildlife that is worth visiting for many reasons. Nepal's wildlife parks have several special features that set them apart from those in other countries. Here are some of the key features:

Unique and Endangered Species

Nepal is home to many unique and endangered species that are not found anywhere else in the world. For example, the spiny babbler, red panda, and cheer pheasant are only found in Nepal. Seeing these rare and unique animals in their natural habitat can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Himalayan Mountains

Nepal is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest. The Himalayan Mountains provide a unique habitat for many wildlife species.

Tropical Forests

In addition to the Himalayan mountains, Nepal also has dense tropical forests with a variety of flora and fauna. These forests provide habitat for endangered species like the Bengal tiger and the one-horned rhinoceros.

Cultural Diversity

Nepal is a country with an immense cultural heritage. Many national parks and wildlife reserves are located in areas that are home to indigenous communities with unique customs, traditions, and lifestyles. This cultural diversity adds a unique dimension to wildlife viewing experiences in Nepal.

Nepal has made significant efforts to protect its wildlife, including establishing protected areas such as national parks and wildlife reserves. Nepal's unique combination of Himalayan mountains, tropical forests, cultural diversity, eco-tourism focus, and wildlife conservation efforts make its national parks and wildlife reserves truly special and worth a visit for anyone interested in wildlife and nature.