Nepal

Landlocked between India and Tibet, Nepal has a unique natural and cultural landscape. From the sub tropical jungles to the icy peaks of the Himalayas, a diverse flora and fauna, gushing rivers and emerald lakes, Nepal has the trappings of an unforgettable holiday. A rich culture with many famous Hindu and Buddhist shrines, ethnic groups, ancient cities and quaint villages, it offers an ideal getaway for the young and old alike.

The near otherworldly Himalayan kingdom can trace its history back to the 7th century and the arrival of Kirati sheepherders. Today, misty temples perch on rugged ridges, monasteries peer over deep valleys, faded by centuries, and Kathmandu's Old City brims with ancient Buddhist temples and ornate palaces.

Best Time to Visit: For nature, wildlife and culture tours, the best period is March to mid-June and October to December. January to March is very cold in the higher reaches but good snow views ensure a regular trickle of tourists during this time also. For trekking the best time is Spring, summer and Autumn coinciding with March to May and October. The Mansarovar Yatra is conducted from May-October. But the best time is from June to August.

Nepal is fast becoming a major tourist destination. It is a wonderful amalgamation of temples, nature, culture and wildlife. Most international tour packages are now recommending this destination to nature & wildlife lovers. Despite being a miniscule-sized country, it never fails to elicit awe amongst the first-time visitors. After you have hopped through the temples and visited the lakes, you must reserve some time to visit some famous national parks.

Nepal tourism brings before you a heavenly experience in these famous wildlife corners. Here is a look at some of the best national parks in Nepal:

Royal Chitwan National Park: It is an old park which is the country’s biggest wildlife pride. Stretching for over 900 sq km, Chitwan National Park is extremely popular amongst the tourists. It is the place where you can spot an eclectic variety of birds and beasts, ranging from the harmless deer to the harmful crocodiles. From the barking deer to the ‘biting’ tiger (in case you get too close), you can gape and gaze at the unspoiled personality of nature. Mongooses and otters also love to play havoc at this place and there is no dearth of the Gangetic dolphin. Chitwan is one of the reasons for ever-growing popularity of Nepal tourism from India.

Annapurna Conservation Area: Annapurna is a big jungle sprawling for over 7,600 sq km. It is home to a wide variety of flora, and is hence a botanist’s paradise. While you can spot almost any kind of plant and flower in here, you are also likely to bump into chirping birds, grazing blue sheep and athletic snow leopards.

Kanchanjunga Conservation Area: One impressive thing about Nepal tourism is that it places great emphasis on protecting its natural jewels. So, cases of poaching and other illegal practices are almost unheard of. Kanchanjunga Conservation Area is another shining testimonial to the country’s beautiful flora & fauna. Flowers love to take birth at this park and several mountain animals like the Himalayan goats and leopards are permanent residents of this corner.

Sagarmatha National Park: Many international tour packages include this park in their itinerary. Apart from playing host to countless birds & animals, Sagarmatha National Park is also the home for the mighty Mount Everest. It is also an extremely rugged region nestled in some hostile mountainous locales.