July 28, 2025

Nepal’s wetlands, often overlooked in conversations about Himalayan biodiversity, are among the country’s most vital ecosystems. These freshwater habitats are cradles of life for countless species of birds, amphibians, fish, and aquatic plants—and serve as critical waypoints for migratory birds traveling thousands of kilometers along the Central Asian Flyway. Beyond their ecological importance, wetlands also sustain local communities through fishing, agriculture, water purification, and tourism.

Types and Locations of Wetlands in Nepal

Nepal’s wetlands vary widely in size, altitude, and biodiversity. They include natural lakes, oxbow lakes, rivers, swamps, marshes, floodplains, ponds, and man-made reservoirs. Notable examples include:

  • Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve (Terai): A Ramsar Site and birdwatcher’s paradise, home to more than 500 bird species.
  • Ghodaghodi Lake Complex (Far-Western Nepal): A sacred and ecological haven, also a Ramsar Site.
  • Beeshazari and Associated Lakes (Chitwan): Near Chitwan National Park, supports aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity.
  • Jagadishpur Reservoir (Kapilvastu): A man-made lake recognized under the Ramsar Convention.
  • Rara Lake (Mugu): Nepal’s largest lake and a high-altitude biodiversity hub.
  • Phoksundo Lake (Dolpo): A glacial lake within Shey Phoksundo National Park, rich in endemic species.
  • Taudaha Lake (Kathmandu Valley): A small but culturally significant lake hosting migratory birds in winter.

Wetlands as Avian Highways

Nepal’s wetlands play a critical role for migratory birds using the Central Asian Flyway, which stretches from Siberia to the Indian Ocean. Each year, thousands of birds make stopovers in Nepal to rest, feed, or breed.

Key migratory species include:

  • Common Teal
  • Northern Pintail
  • Ferruginous Duck
  • Northern Shoveler
  • Bar-headed Goose
  • Black-tailed Godwit
  • Eurasian Curlew
  • Sarus Crane (also a resident breeder)

Some globally threatened species, such as the Lesser Adjutant Stork, Baer’s Pochard, and Indian Skimmer, are also occasionally recorded in these wetlands.

Aquatic Biodiversity

Wetlands in Nepal support a wide array of aquatic life beyond birds:

  • Fish species: including Golden Mahseer, Catfish, and several endemic varieties.
  • Amphibians and reptiles: such as frogs, turtles, and water snakes.
  • Aquatic vegetation: including reeds, water hyacinth, lotus, and submerged grasses crucial for oxygen and shelter.

These diverse ecosystems form complex food webs that help stabilize broader ecological processes in the region.

Cultural and Economic Importance

Wetlands are not only ecological treasures but also cultural landmarks. Many, like Ghodaghodi and Taudaha, are sacred to local communities. Wetland-based livelihoods include:

  • Fishing and aquaculture
  • Rice farming and irrigation
  • Harvesting of wetland plants for medicine and handicrafts
  • Ecotourism and birdwatching

Threats to Wetlands

Despite their value, Nepal’s wetlands face multiple threats:

  • Encroachment and land conversion for agriculture and urban development
  • Pollution from domestic and industrial sources
  • Overfishing and invasive species
  • Unregulated tourism and infrastructure development
  • Climate change, altering water levels and migratory bird patterns

Conservation Efforts

Nepal has made important strides in wetland conservation:

  • Ramsar Sites: Nepal has designated 10 wetlands as Ramsar Sites of international importance.
  • Community-based conservation: Local wetland user groups manage and monitor areas sustainably.
  • Protected areas: Many key wetlands are within or adjacent to national parks and wildlife reserves.
  • Policy frameworks: Including the National Wetlands Policy and integration into the National Biodiversity Strategy.

How Travelers Can Help

  • Choose eco-conscious tours and support local guides
  • Visit wetlands during appropriate birdwatching seasons (mainly winter for migratory birds)
  • Respect wildlife and keep a distance from nesting or feeding sites
  • Avoid plastic and littering
  • Learn about the cultural importance of these ecosystems