Khaptad National Park

Khaptad National Park is one of Nepal's most distinctive protected areas, spanning four districts (Bajhang, Bajura, Achham, and Doti) in the far-western hills of Sudurpashchim Province. Unlike most Himalayan parks, Khaptad's defining landscape is a series of undulating sub-alpine meadows (patans) at 3,000 to 3,500 metres -- broad, rolling grasslands fringed by dense cedar and rhododendron forests. The park covers 225 square kilometres and protects an ecosystem with leopards, black bears, deer, wolves, and over 270 bird species. The meadows support rare medicinal herbs and wildflowers historically collected by the hermit-sage Khaptad Swami, who lived within the park's boundaries for decades until his death in 1996. His ashram and sacred sites within the park remain important Hindu pilgrimage destinations. The Triveni -- a confluence of three small rivers within the park -- is the most sacred point and attracts large numbers of pilgrims, especially during the Shivaratri festival. Several small lakes (dahals) dot the plateau, and views extend to the Api and Saipal Himalayan peaks on clear days. Access requires flights to Dhangadhi or Dipayal followed by road and foot travel. The most-used trekking routes enter from the Sanfebagar side in Achham district. Best visited from May to October when the meadows are green; snow makes access difficult in winter. An NP entry permit is required.