Despite being one of the smallest countries in the world, Nepal continues to contribute to the preservation of flora and fauna. 23% of its total land since 1973AD has been preserved under national park status. Nepal has been carrying out a successful tiger conservation program since the 1970s. As per the WWF, Nepal is the first country to double its national tiger population, with the Royal Bengal Tiger now covering its entire roaming lands. Similarly, numbers of the exquisite one-horned rhino have also marginally increased through the contribution of local authorities. As a diplomatic token, Nepal often gives a live rhino as a diplomatic gift to other countries.
The local “Tharu” community are reputed to have an innate resistance to Malaria [Department of Human Genetics, University of Sassari, Italy]. Tharus have a unique culture of living in the Chure foothills of Nepal. Native Tharus are another attraction whose great contribution to preserve wilds as well as go along with eco-friendly activities [ www.indigenousvoice.com]
The Northern Himalayan range, mid-hilly range and Southern flat terrain of the Terai include 21 different national parks (www.dnpwc.gov.np). Upper range national parks are reachable by trekking for at least a week, as included in our trekking program. They are also accessible by road for short visits.
Three wildlife reserves possess a suitable climate for the Bengal tiger, one horned rhino, wild boar, varieties of deer, crocodiles, birds and insects. Exploring the Gharial and elephant breeding centers, local museums and villages while enjoying nature can serve as the perfect escape from everyday society. These getaways are reachable through a drive or flight from Kathmandu valley and can be visited at any time of the year.
