The short answer
Nepal has twelve national parks. The ones most visitors know are Chitwan and Bardia (Terai wildlife), Sagarmatha (Everest), Langtang (closest mountains to Kathmandu), Rara (the lake) and Shey Phoksundo (remote and dramatic). The others include Makalu Barun, Khaptad, Banke, Parsa, Shivapuri Nagarjun and Shuklaphanta.
Key facts
- Terai
- Chitwan, Bardia, Banke, Parsa, Shuklaphanta
- Mountain
- Sagarmatha, Langtang, Makalu Barun
- Far west
- Rara, Khaptad, Shey Phoksundo
- Near Kathmandu
- Shivapuri Nagarjun
How it works
- Pick the animalTigers and rhinos mean Terai; birds mean Koshi Tappu or Chitwan; snow leopards are rare and need remote treks.
- Pick the seasonTerai parks are best in the dry months; mountain parks in spring and autumn.
- Pick the accessSome parks are a drive from Kathmandu; others need flights and walking.
Insider tip
Add the Annapurna and Manaslu Conservation Areas, plus Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, and Nepal protects nearly a quarter of its land.
Avoid this
Do not treat all parks as equal visits. Terai parks need a safari plan, and mountain parks need time and permits.
Related questions
Which park is best for first-timers?
Chitwan, for access and variety.
Are there parks near Kathmandu?
Yes, Shivapuri Nagarjun is on the northern edge of the valley.
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