July 28, 2025

Khaptad National Park is a serene and spiritually significant protected area located in the far-western region of Nepal. Spanning 225 square kilometers across four districts—Doti, Achham, Bajhang, and Bajura—the park offers peaceful forests, high plateaus, and rich biodiversity, combined with deep cultural heritage.

Known for its tranquil meadows and ancient monasteries, Khaptad is a lesser-visited sanctuary where nature and spirituality coexist harmoniously. Its remote location preserves a pristine environment with diverse wildlife and unique flora.

Location and Landscape

  • Districts: Doti, Achham, Bajhang, Bajura
  • Province: Sudurpashchim Province
  • Elevation: 1,350 to 3,300 meters

The park features broad grasslands, dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, and high-altitude meadows that attract migratory birds and mammals. Numerous sacred sites and temples add cultural depth to the natural beauty.

Wildlife Highlights

Mammals

  • Himalayan Black Bear
  • Musk Deer
  • Himalayan Goral
  • Barking Deer
  • Wild Boar

Birds (Over 280 species)

  • Himalayan Monal (Danphe)
  • Cheer Pheasant
  • Himalayan Griffon Vulture
  • Golden Eagle
  • Satyr Tragopan

Flora

  • Extensive rhododendron forests
  • Pine, oak, and fir trees
  • Alpine meadows with wildflowers

What Makes Khaptad Special

  1. Unique combination of spiritual sites and biodiversity
  2. Peaceful and less touristy, ideal for solitude and meditation
  3. Rich flora including large rhododendron forests
  4. Important bird habitat with many rare pheasant species
  5. Cultural significance with ancient temples and monastic sites

Things to Do in Khaptad National Park

  • Trekking and nature walks through meadows and forests
  • Birdwatching for rare Himalayan pheasants and raptors
  • Visiting monasteries and temples for cultural immersion
  • Photography of landscapes and wildlife
  • Experiencing local rural culture and traditional lifestyles

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (March to May) for rhododendron blossoms and mild weather
  • Autumn (September to November) for clear skies and good visibility
  • Winter is cold and less accessible; monsoon season is wet and landslide-prone

How to Get There

  • By road: Accessible from Dhangadhi or Mahendranagar via local roads and trails
  • Nearest airports: Dhangadhi Airport with onward road travel

Where to Stay

  • Basic guesthouses and homestays are available near park entry points
  • Accommodation is rustic and community-run, supporting eco-tourism initiatives

Khaptad National Park: At a Glance

CategoryHighlights
Signature SpeciesHimalayan Black Bear, Cheer Pheasant, Musk Deer, Himalayan Monal
LandscapeAlpine meadows, rhododendron forests, spiritual sites
Wildlife ExperienceQuiet, spiritual, and biodiversity-rich sanctuary
CultureAncient temples, local traditions, monastic heritage
Adventure TypeTrekking, birding, cultural exploration
Conservation FocusHabitat preservation and cultural heritage protection