Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

• Type: National Park
• Established: 2002
• Location: Northern fringe of Kathmandu valley, about 12 km away from the center of the capital city
• Area:
  • Park: 159.00 sq km
  • Buffer Zone: 118.61 sq km

Description

• Background:
  • Originally managed under the Shivapuri Watershed Development Board
  • Declared as Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve before becoming a national park in 2002
• Flora and Fauna:
  • Transition zone between subtropical and temperate climates
  • Vegetation includes pine, oak, rhododendron, etc., based on altitude and aspect
  • Mammals: Himalayan Black bear, leopard, jungle cat, rhesus monkey
  • Birds: 177 species, including 9 threatened species
  • Butterflies: 102 species, with rare and endangered species
  • Mushrooms: 129 species
• Water Resources:
  • Significant source of drinking water for Kathmandu Valley
  • Supplies about 30 million liters of water daily from rivers like the Bagmati and Bishnumati, and smaller streams
• Places of Interest:
  • Easily accessible from Kathmandu
  • Popular for trekking; routes to Nagarkot, Gosaikunda, Helambu, and Langtang National Park pass through the park
  • Religious sites for Hindus and Buddhists within the park
  • Pilgrimage sites: Baghdwar and Bishnudwar, where the sacred rivers Bagmati and Bishnumati originate
  • Breathtaking views of the high Himalayas from northern aspects of the park
  • Panoramic views of Kathmandu valley from southern slopes of the park

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park serves as a vital natural resource, providing not only recreational opportunities but also playing a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Kathmandu Valley.