Langtang National Park
Langtang National Park, declared in 1976, is situated in north-central Nepal covering 1710 sq. km., which extends parts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Sindhupalchowk districts. The park encompasses Gosainkunda and associated lakes, which were declared wetlands of international importance in 2007 under the Ramsar Convention. The park represents a gathering point between indo-Malayan and Palearctic Realms and holds rich biodiversity. LNP represents some Elevational gradients including complex topography and geology have resulted in rich biodiversity. In 1998 a region of 420 sq. km. in and around the park was declared as a buffer zone. Buffer zone management could be a venture between the park office and therefore the local communities. The local communities have a choice making role within the management of such areas. Additionally, the parkland and wildlife conservation act, 1973 had made a provision of ploughing back 30-50% of the park’s revenue into community development and conservation of the buffer zone.
Major Flora and Fauna:
LNP and its buffer zone accommodate sub-tropical to the alpine zone, rich in floral and faunal diversity. The sub-tropical vegetation is characterized by the sal, Chilaune, Chirpine, and Nepalese alder. The climatic zone is roofed mainly by Rhododendron, Oak, Silver fir, Hemlock, and Larch forest within the lower sub-alpine zone. Nepalese larch, the sole deciduous conifer within the region is found during this park and some places elsewhere. Throughout the buffer zones, different species of Rhododendrons from a vibrant understory. Juniper and Rhododendron shrubs slowly dissolve into the expansive alpine grassland meadows. Langtang expansive high altitude meadows provide summer habitat for the deer and Himalayan Tahr. the park is additionally well-known for its procyonid, Himalayan Black Bear, ounce, Clouded Leopard, Wild dog, Goral, Serow and over 250 species of birds.
How To Get The Park:
The most common part to reach the park headquarters, Dhunche from Kathmandu could be a bus ride of about 5 – 7 hours.
Acclimatization and safety precautions:
High altitude sickness (HAS) is life-threatening if elevation is gained too rapidly without proper acclimatization. Over-exertion and dehydration contribute to HAS. Drink a minimum of 3 – 4 liters of water each day besides tea and occasional which act as diuretics. Watch the health of your companions and porter. Medical doctor’s advice against ascending over 400m each day once above 3000m. elevation. Alternatively, one can spend an additional night at 300m . and 3500 m. before ascending further. The symptoms of HAS are headache, difficulty in sleeping breathlessness loss of appetite and general fatigue. If someone develops these symptoms, stop ascending immediately. If symptoms persist, the sole proven cure is to descend to a lower elevation. Carrying a comprehensive aid kit is advisable as there are to medical facilities outside Dhunche. The Langtang-Helambu trails are rocky and slippery if it rain or frost. be careful with falling rocks while crossing Landslides but don’t stop. Never hike alone. Hiring local guides is strongly recommended on the Ganja La (5120 m.) trek and on Laurebina La pass (4600 m.) during winter. Emergency radio facilities are available at the army posts at Ghoda Tabela and Langtang. Telephone facilities are available at Singh Gompa and at major settlements in Helambu.
Conserve forest:
The use of firewood is prohibited. Don’t light campfires, cook with kerosene or gas and take sufficient warm clothing. Choose lodges that use alternatives to fuelwood for cooking and heating. kerosene/gas is bought at Dhunche, Syabrubesi, Thulo Syabru, Lama Hotel, Kutumsang, and Mealmchighyang. The purpose of the depots is to encourage private hotel/lodge owner’s to use kerosene/gas as an alternate source of energy and help conserve the alpine vegetation.
Park Regulations to follow or things to remember:
An entry fee of Rs. 300 (Foreigners). Rs. 1500 (SAARC Nationals), Rs. 100 (Nepali) visitor and Rs. 25 for tourist porter should be paid at the designated ticket counter. Valid entry permits are available from the National Parks ticket counter at the Nepal Tourism Board, Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu or park entrance gate at Dhunche, Kutumsang, Timbu, and Tempathan. The entry permit is non-refundable, non-transferable and is for one entry only. Entering the park without a permit is unlawful. Park personnel may provoke the permit, so visitors are requested to stay the permit with them. Get special permits for documentary filming from the Department of National parks and wildlife conservation (DNPWC). Documentary filming fee of US$ 1500 (Foreigners), Rs. 50,000 (SAARC National) and Rs. 10,000 (Nepali) should be paid at DNPWC. a further 25% should be paid while using a drone for documentary/filming. The drone (UAV) fee is the same because of the documentary/filming fee while using it for other purposes. Don’t remove or damage plants and animals. All flora and fauna are fully protected and must not be disturbed. Rubbish must be placed out, buried or disposed off in designated areas. No one should walk within the park between sunset and sunrise. Do respect the cultural and non-secular sites. Visitors should be self-sufficient in fuel supply (kerosene/LP gas). Camping inside the park should be made only within the designated areas. Carry out nonbiodegradable items like batteries, plastic bags, and bottles. Never trek alone, hire a neighborhood guide if you can’t find a companion.
