Wildlife conservation areas and National Park permit

🏞️ National Parks of Nepal

Nepal boasts 12 national parks, each offering unique landscapes and ecosystems:

  1. Chitwan National Park – Established in 1973, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its rich wildlife, including the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros.

  2. Sagarmatha National Park – Home to Mount Everest, it offers breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.

  3. Langtang National Park – Known for its alpine meadows and the Langtang Valley trek.

  4. Makalu-Barun National Park – Features rugged terrain and a rich variety of plant and animal species.

  5. Rara National Park – The largest national park in Nepal, known for Rara Lake and diverse ecosystems.

  6. Shey-Phoksundo National Park – Famous for its turquoise lake and Tibetan culture.

  7. Khaptad National Park – Offers rolling hills and rich biodiversity.

  8. Banke National Park – A newer park focusing on preserving the Terai ecosystem.

  9. Bardiya National Park – Known for its tiger conservation efforts and riverine forests.

  10. Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park – Located near Kathmandu, it's a haven for birdwatchers and trekkers.

  11. Shuklaphanta National Park – Famous for its swamp deer and extensive grasslands.

  12. Parsa National Park – Established in 2017, it aims to protect the Terai ecosystem.

🐾 Wildlife Reserves

Nepal has 4 wildlife reserves dedicated to protecting specific species and habitats:

  1. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve – Famous for bird watching, especially the endangered wild buffalo.

  2. Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve – The only hunting reserve in Nepal, focusing on sustainable hunting practices.

  3. Gaurishankar Conservation Area – Named after the sacred Gaurishankar mountain, it protects diverse ecosystems.

  4. Krishnasar Conservation Area – A lesser-known area focusing on the conservation of the Krishnasar species.

 

🌿 Conservation Areas

These areas are managed by local communities to balance conservation and sustainable development:

  1. Annapurna Conservation Area – The largest in Nepal, offering diverse trekking routes.

  2. Manaslu Conservation Area – Known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.

  3. Kanchenjunga Conservation Area – Home to the third-highest mountain in the world.

  4. Api Nampa Conservation Area – Located in the far west, it offers pristine natural beauty.

  5. Gaurishankar Conservation Area – Also listed under wildlife reserves, emphasizing community-based conservation.

  6. Shukla Phanta Conservation Area – Focuses on protecting the swamp deer and its habitat.

 

🎫 Entry Permits & Fees

To enter these protected areas, visitors must obtain permits. Fees vary based on nationality and the specific area:

  • Chitwan National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 2,000 per day

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000 per day

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 150 per day

  • Sagarmatha National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 3,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

  • Langtang National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 3,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

  • Makalu-Barun National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 3,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

  • Rara National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 3,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

  • Shey-Phoksundo National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 3,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

  • Khaptad National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 3,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

  • Banke National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 3,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

  • Bardiya National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 3,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

  • Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 1,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 50

  • Shuklaphanta National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 3,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 10

  • Parsa National Park:

    • Foreigners: NPR 3,000

    • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500

    • Nepali Nationals: NPR 100

Note: Fees are subject to change. It's advisable to check the latest rates before planning your visit.

 

📝 How to Obtain Permits

Permits can be obtained at:

  • Kathmandu: Tourist Service Center, Bhrikutimandap

  • Pokhara: Tourist Service Center

  • Entry Points: Directly at the park entrances

It's recommended to carry a valid passport and a recent passport-sized photograph when applying for permits.

Disclaimer

The information provided here about Nepal’s national parks, wildlife reserves, conservation areas, and entry permits is intended for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the details accurate and up-to-date, fees, regulations, and permit requirements are subject to change by the Nepalese government or respective park authorities.

Travelers are strongly advised to verify all information through official sources, such as the Nepal Tourism Board or the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, before planning visits or making bookings. Car Rental Nepal is not responsible for any discrepancies, changes, or issues arising from the use of this information.