Nestled in the remote mid-western region of Nepal, Khaptad National Park is a stunningly beautiful protected area and an ideal destination for nature lovers. Set at an altitude of 3,300 to 4,400 meters, this park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The park also features several interesting attractions, such as ancient monasteries, sacred sites, and a beautiful lake. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Khaptad National Park Nepal.
1. Explore the Flora and Fauna
Khaptad National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The park is also home to a variety of endangered species, such as the Himalayan musk deer, snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan black bear. You can explore the park’s diverse ecosystem on foot, or you can take a safari tour and get up close and personal with the wildlife.
2. Visit the Khaptad Baba Ashram
The Khaptad Baba Ashram is a holy site within the park that is dedicated to the renowned sage Khaptad Baba. This ashram is a popular pilgrimage site and is visited by thousands of devotees each year. You can explore the ashram and its many shrines, and take part in the daily rituals and ceremonies.
3. Trek to Khaptad Lake
Khaptad Lake is one of the most beautiful attractions in the park. It is a high-altitude lake surrounded by lush meadows, thick forests, and snow-capped mountains. You can trek to the lake and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Visit the Ancient Monasteries
Khaptad National Park is home to several ancient monasteries that are worth visiting. The most famous of these is the Khaptad Gumba, which was built in the 18th century and is believed to have been the home of Khaptad Baba. Other monasteries in the park include the Thumke Gumba and the Chhairo Gumba.
5. Go Bird Watching
Khaptad National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, as it is home to a wide variety of bird species. The park is home to over 200 species of birds, including the Himalayan vulture, white-throated tit, and the great hornbill. You can go bird watching and spot these birds in their natural habitat.
6. Visit the Hot Springs
The park is also home to several hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. The hot springs are a popular attraction and are visited by many tourists each year. You can take a dip in the hot springs and relax in the warm waters.
7. Take a Jeep Safari
You can take a jeep safari and explore the park from a different perspective. The jeep safari will take you to some of the most remote areas of the park, and you will get to see some of the park’s most stunning landscapes.
8. Go Fishing
Khaptad National Park is home to several rivers and streams, and you can go fishing in them. The park is home to a variety of fish species, such as brown trout, mahseer, and snow trout. You can also go fly fishing in the park’s rivers and streams.
9. Visit the Local Villages
The park is home to several small villages, and you can visit them and get a glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle. The people of these villages are friendly and welcoming, and you can learn about their traditions and customs.
10. Go Camping
Khaptad National Park is an ideal destination for camping. You can set up camp in the park and spend the night under the stars. You can also go on overnight hikes and explore the park’s many trails.
Khaptad National Park is a stunningly beautiful protected area and an ideal destination for nature lovers. You can explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna, visit ancient monasteries, go bird watching, take a jeep safari, fish in the park’s rivers and streams, and go camping. There are so many things to do in Khaptad National Park Nepal, and you are sure to have an unforgettable experience.