Makalu-
Barun National park (2,330 sq km)
The park spreads over the districts
of Sankhuwasabha and Solukhumbu in northeast Nepal. One of the prime
attractions for visitors to the park is experience the unique Himalayan bio
diversity. The vegetation range from sub tropical forests to sub alpine and
alpine as the altitude increases. The park boasts of 47 species of orchids, 67
species of medicinal herbs, 25 of Nepal’s 30 varieties of rhododendron, 19
bamboo species, 15 oak species, 48 species of primrose and 86 species of fodder
trees. The park also offers bird-watching opportunities with its 400 species of
birds, including the rare spotted wren babbler and the olive ground warbler.
Wildlife include the endangered red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear,
clouded leopard tops, ghoral, tahr, wild boar, barking deer, Himalayan marmot,
weasel, langur monkey and serow. River Arun that flows through the park has 84
varieties of fish including salmon.
- Activities: Trekking, mountaineering
- Accommodation: Camping
- Access: Fly to Tumlingtar from Kathmandu (1 hr) and then a six-day walk
- Best Season: Oct-Nov and Mar-Apr; Apr-May (hot at lower elevations), Jun-Sep (monsoon) Park headquarter: Seduwa, Tel: 029-560136
