Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, 175 sq. kms, lies on the flood plains of Koshi River. The rectangular shaped Reserve is enclosed within the east and west embankments of the Koshi Barrage and is therefore, subjected to seasonal flooding during monsoon. This Reserve, established mainly to preserve the habitats for the last remnant population of wild water buffalo in Nepal, was gazetted in 1976. In addition, the Reserve is home to larger ungulates such as Gaur, Nilgai, Hog Deer, wild Pig, and medium sized predators such as fishing Cat, jungle Cat, and Civets. The Koshi River also supports sparse population of endangered species such as the gangetic Dolphins and gharial Crocodiles.
The Koshi Barrage, the border of east Nepal and India, was completed by the Koshi Project, an undertaking of the government of India, in 1964 to contain the monsoon floods as it became more devastating. The Barrage was also made to irrigate farmlands and thus it created an abundant marsh and littoral habitat making it Nepal’s most important wetland. At an elevation of 75m, the Koshi Barrage is one of the lowest areas in Nepal with 14 species of birds, not found anywhere else in Nepal, recorded here. Because of its great importance as a wetland, the Government of Nepal acceded to the Ramsar Convention in 1987 and thus, Koshi Tappu is included in the list of Wetlands in International Importance.
Because of the open access to the Koshi Barrage area from India, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is equally threatened with wildlife-related damages. Also, herders from both India and Nepal have set their base over here for cross-breeding their domestic herds with the wild buffalo for vigor and fodder. Today, feral cattle in the Reserve outnumber wild buffaloes. Both feral and wild buffaloes raid crops by wandering as far as 10 kms from the reserve boundary into the farmlands. The high incidents of crop raiding and the ensuing conflict is a cumulative action of over 100 wild buffaloes, some 500 feral water buffaloes and over 7,000 cattle.

Bardia National Park

The Bardia National Park is the largest and most undisturbed wild area of the Terai region of the Nepal Himalayas. Similar to Chitwan park, but with a drier climate and a more remote location, Bardia encompasses 1,000-sq-kms of riverine grassland and sal forests. The Terai or lowland hills and valleys of southern Nepal, nowhere over 1,000 feet in elevation, extend all along the Indian border. The Terai once supported a healthy wildlife population in a habitat of 25-foot high elephant grass and dense hardwood forests, but had very few people, due to virulent malarial mosquitos. Bardia was a hunting reserve of Nepal's Rana rulers from 1846 to 1950. In Nepal, wildlife lost whatever protection the hunting reserve conveyed when the Rana rule ended in the 1950's. A well-meaning malaria eradication program in the 1950's and 1960's opened the terai for settlement, and transformed about 75% of the native Terai to agricultural land. Wildlife populations declined with the combination of increased settlement and widespread poaching. Bardia was declared a wildlife reserve in 1976, first measuring 134 sq miles and expanded in 1985 to 374 sq miles.
Today's Bardia National Park is bordered to the south by the Babai River, to the north by the Shiwalik or Churia Hills, to the west by the Girwa River (a tributary of the Karnali), and to the east by a section of the East-West Highway which bisects the park. The Terai is only in the southwest corner of the park. Much of Bardia is on the southern slopes of the Shiwalik Range where the hills rise to over 4,000 feet. From the base of these hills, the park slopes gently over highly porous ground for several miles to the rivers of the Gangetic plain. At Chisopani Gorge, the swift-flowing Karnali River emerges from the Shiwalik Range onto the broad plain and flows purposefully through the semi-tropical jungle. Where the river braids out, small riverine forested islands form. Wildlife frequent these oases - maybe you'll be as lucky as we once were to spot a wild Elephant swimming trunk-deep across the river to reach the island.
What makes a visit to Nepal's Bardia National Park particularly special is not just its large and intact habitat area and its isolated location, but also the presence here of one of the last known herds of wild Elephants in South Asia. The herd, numbering less than two dozen, roams these remote jungles in western Nepal. The largest of the herd is affectionately called “Thulo Hati”, which means "Big Elephant" in the Nepali language. Seeing these wild Elephants greyish-white bulk rising above the morning mists and hearing them trumpet across the jungle clearing is one of the most remarkable wildlife experiences to be had on our planet. Bardia also boasts the greatest number of deer species in Nepal. The six deer species found in the park are: Chital or spotted Deer with its ubiquitous white spots on a brown coat; Hog Deer; similar to but smaller than Chital; Sambhar, the largest Deer on Indian subcontinent with a shaggy coat and thick antlers; Swamp Deer; Barasingha; and reddish-colored Barking Deer, the park's smallest Deer. Other large mammals are: Gaur, the largest wild oxen in world; wild Boar, an omnivorous black-coated creature with large tusks; the agile sloth Bear, a shaggy black bear with a distinctive white "V" on its chest; Blue Bull or Nilgai, the largest Antelope on the Indian subcontinent; and Himalayan Tahr. Serow and Goral, two goat-Antelope members, are also found. Small mammals include: Langur Monkey, Rhesus Macaque, Jackal, three species of cats (jungle, leopard, and fishing); yellow-throated Marten; Mongoose; and Indian Otter. Two species of crocodiles swim in the Karnali, Girwa, and Babai Rivers - the blunt-snouted Marsh Mugger and the fish-eating gharial with its long thin snout. These creatures share the water with the fresh-water Gangetic Dolphin. The Karnali also supports the great mahseer, which weigh up to 90 lbs, an angler's prize catch. Birds are the park's most conspicuous fauna with over 300 resident and migratory species. Avid bird-watchers will want to visit the park in November or from February to April when migrants arrive, depart or pass through.
To view the wild Elephants, you ride on the backs of specially-trained elephants, each guided by a driver. As you sit in a padded wooden platform on the Elephant's back with your camera ready, your Mahout steers the Elephant through tall grass. Mists rise off the nearby river, and you spot a mother Rhino leading her baby down to the river for a drink. Monkeys chatter and birds call in the nearby trees, signaling that an elusive Bengal Tiger is stalking Deer through the high grass. It's a very special experience - a unique experience out at Bardia - unlike any other wildlife setting in Nepal.

Khaptad National Park

Khaptad is Nepal's newest national park, receiving its designation only in 1985. It consists of 225 sq. km of forest and grassland, and lies on a plateau where the districts of Bhajhang, Bajura, Doti and Achham meet. The forest comprise a mixture of tall fir, yew, rhododendron and oak along with dense stands of bamboo and numerous shrubs, and represents one of the last remaining such areas in the lower Himalaya. The vegetation provides a natural habitat for healthy population of wildlife, including the musk and barking deer, bears various birds including the impedance pleasant. One flower. Known as Bheeg and resembling a white rose, grows in several parts of the park. It is said to be so poisonous that single sniff from close up can be lethal !
Khaptad Swami among Nepalis, Khaptad is best known as a holy site and is closely associated with a widely revert ascetic who lived here for Mandu years and who was known simply as the 'Khaptad Swami'. The origins and background of Khaptad Swami, who died in 1996 at the grand old reported age of 110, are shrouded in mystery. Some speculate that he was a doctor from India who renounced his worldly life in favor of a purely spiritual existence in a remote part if the holy Himalaya. In any event, he never divulged either his name or anything of his own life to anyone-including to King Birendra who went to consult him several occasions. He was undoubtedly a good, learned and widely read man who also had a good command of English. He lived in a cave on the eastern side of the park to where pilgrims traveled from far and wide to see him and receive his counsel and blessings. It is said that Khaptad Swami was instrumental in persuading the King to give National Park status to Khaptad. About 1 km from the Swami's cave is the small Bhagawan Shanker Mandir with a Dharmalala. Nearby is the small pond, or Pokhari, whose water is said to be lethally contaminated by the Bheeg and other toxic flowers growing around it. Symptoms of poisoning are believed to begin with joint pain, lethargy, nausea and vomiting. Some people carry lemons and chills with them as an antidote when walking through the area, through it is interesting to remember that strings of lemons and chills are also widely used elsewhere to ward off evil sprits. Fencing now surrounds the pond. The Khaptad Mela [Festival] takes place in September / October and attracts several thousand pilgrims from throughout Nepal for whom this pilgrimage is believed to be especially meritorious. Celebrations include the pouring of milk over the Linga of the Bhagawan Shanker Mandir and, reminiscent of Diwalii, the lighting of ghee lamps at night. Visiting Khaptad very few westerners ever visit Khaptad. The best time to visit is from April to September. The monsoon is relatively weak in West Nepal. At other times, snow makes travel to and through most areas impractical.

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Located on the southern slopes of Mount Dhaulagiri in the Baglung District of the Mid-Western Region of Nepal, the small village of Dhorpatan is best known for being the headquarters of the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve - a sanctuary for animals where a limited amount of hunting is permitted. A landing strip for light aircraft is available to visitors who choose this method to reach the village, however many visitors enjoy trekking through this very scenic region of Nepal and it is around a four day walk from the town of Balewa in the Baglung District to Dhorpatan.

The residents of Dhorpatan make their living primarily through the manufacture of traditional handicrafts and farming with animals. The terrain around Dhorpatan consists of more than 50 percent of pasturelands, as well as alpine and sub-alpine vegetation. Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of fir, pine and oak trees, as well as the different species of rhododendron growing wild in the area and providing shelter for a variety of animals and birds. During the summer months, herds of up to 80,000 livestock are brought from other areas in the Mid-Western Region of Nepal to graze on the lush pastures around Dhorpatan.

Tea Garden of Ilam

Situated between the alleviation ranging from 140m to 3,636m above the sea level, Illam is one of the untouched destinations for tourists. Famous for tea production, Illam is a small hill town with pristine landscapes of sloped tea gardens, mountain streams, dense natural forests, holy sites and a unique culture. It offers a brisk walk in the tea garden, tranquil picnic and sightseeing stops, short treks along gentle slops, or a trudge into the nearby woods. The best time to visit time Illam is between October - December or from April - February. However, the subtropical climate of Illam ensures good weather throughout the year. Illam district is bordered by Jhapa in the south, West Bengal of Indial in the east, Panchthar in the north and Morang and Dhankutta districts in the west. The district lies to the south of Mahabharat range and west of the Shangrila range. The district is ragarded as one of the richest districts in Nepal in terms of its cultural diversity, natural landscape, and flourishing cash crops sector. Besides, it is also popularly known as the place of botanical and anthropological research. Brahmins and Chhetris are the dominant ethnic groups living in the area. One can find a Lepcha museum at Antu. No doubt, Illam reflects rich cultural and social heritages of people living in harmony.

Shree Antu (2,328m) offers spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset over the estern himalayas. Situated at a distance of 3 hr. drive from Illam Bazaar, Shree Antu aslo offers home-stay facilities. Similarly, Maipokhari is another attraction of this trek. Popularly recognized as a religious and historical spot, Maipokhari (2,121m), a pristine lake surrounded by dense forest of fir, juniper, birch, pine and a variety of flora and fauna is considered as the sacred abode of Goddess Bhagawati.In the same way, Kanyam and Fikkal hold good recognision for making Illam famous for tea production across the country. Likewise, Siddhi Thumka (1,800m) has also gained its fame for offering excellent views of sunrise and sunset from its height. It is about 3 hrs. trek from Illam Bazaar. Chhintapu (3,353m) is another attraction of Illam. It is the second highest peak in Illam district. It is also rich in terms of floral and faunal diversity. It is the home of 11 varieties of rhododendron, rare berbs, endangered species of animals like the musk deer and red panda. Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world can also be clearly viewed from Chhintapu. The temples and pilgrimage sites such as Gajur Mukhi, Sanu Pathibhara and Mai beni have also added additional decoration to Illam. Similarly, Mangmaling and Sandakpur are also the names to be pronounced when we talk of Illam tourism.

This small but beautiful destination can be reached directly from Kathmandu by bus. We can also use aeroplane up to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu and take bus or car from there. Besides, Illam can also be reached via. Pashupatinagar, the Nepal- India boarder of Illam district.

Panoramic place Nagarkot

Nagarkot is the place where once Manjushree Bodhisatto stood and watched the lake in the Kathmandu Valley. Nagarkot is at the eastern periphery of the Kathmandu Valley. The hilltop called Nagarkot at more than 2,000 meters above the sea level is the second highest peak in the Kathmandu Valley. After an hour long exciting and winding drive you will be above to feel the cool breeze of air blowing endlessly into your face, and see the widest range of Himalayas including Mount Everest with our bare eyes from here. It is also one of the best spots to visit for unmatched sunrise and sunset views.And if awesome view is your first preference to visit Nagarkot,then, Peaceful cottage and cafe dumont ,nagarkot ought to be your first port of residence.

Between October and March a trip to Nagarkot will nearly always be rewarded with a view, but you will be very lucky to catch more than a glimpse through the monsoon clouds between June and September. During the summer, sweaty valley residents escape the heat for the resort's cool mountain air; in winter they rush up if there's even a chance of being able to throw a tiny snowball. It can get very cold at Nagarkot in autumn and winter, so if you're staying overnight come prepared with warm clothing.

you could watch the sunrise without having to get up from your bed. Just pull the curtain off have a coffee and relax. Lot of accommodation around this area have bed & breakfast. And they do have outside eating ar

Rara Lake in Mugu District

Rara Lake is the largest lake of Nepal, situated in Mugu district in the far western region of Nepal, near district-headquarter Gam Ghadi and Talcha airport and about 3/4 days of walking from Jumla.

The length of the lake is 5 kilometers and it is 2 kilometers wide. The surface is around 8 square kilometer, the perimeter 9 kilometer, the altitude around 3060 meter and the depth is 167 meter.

Rara is an unique spot in Nepal. The lake is situated in the Rara National Park and because of its remote location and the violence/threat of the Maoists the lake has been visited by only few tourist in the last couple of years. Only in the second half of 2006 the situation improved and foreign visitors do not need to pay the high fee of around $100 per person to the Maoists anymore.

There are hardly any facilities for tourists. Accommodations consists of primitive beds (mostly in very basic dormitories) and basic meals. You won't find any showers/bathrooms and toilets are scares and very basic.