The vertically rising landscape for Nepal, ranging from the towering Himalayan peaks to the lush tropical jungles, features a vibrant tapestry of ecosystems that shelters a wide variety of birds and wildlife. Its intact habitat for some of the endangered wildlife, and the diversity within a short travelling distance makes it one of the dream destinations for animal and bird lovers. Favorite breeding conditions, abundant food resources, and a high percentage of protected land make it home for animals and birds migrating from the high Himalayas and India as well. From the tropical lowland jungles to the alpine grassland, the country supports a rich wildlife species that captivates both armature bird watchers and professional photographers.
In this blog, I will explore the unique wildlife species of Nepal with the best wildlife tour of Nepal. Additionally, I will discuss how sustainable tourism not only enriches your experience but also plays a crucial role in the effective conservation of these remarkable species.
Some of the endangered animals of Nepal
Red Panda ( Ailurus fulgens )
Red Pandas are an endangered species facing the threat of habitat loss, poaching, and haphazard development. They are found in protected areas like Langtang National Park, Sagarmatha National Park, Kanchanjunga Conservation Area, and Makalu Barun National Park, primarily at altitudes between 2,500 and 4,000 meters.
Snow Leopard ( Uncia uncia )
The Himalayan region of Nepal is home to about 397 snow leopards, which is a significant portion of the global snow leopard numbers. Its habitat spans over 13,000 sq km of the Nepalese Himalayas, especially in the western landscape of the country.
Bengal Tiger ( Panthera tigris tigris )
Nepal is a successful conservation story for the Royal Bengal Tiger. There are over 300 Tigers in its three major national parks: Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park, and Suklaphanta National Park.
One-horned Rhinoceros ( Rhinoceros unicornis )
The population of rhinos in Nepal has been steadily increasing, but the species is still considered vulnerable and faces threats from habitat loss and poaching. There are about 752 rhinos in protected areas like Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park, Suklaphanta National Park, and Parsa National Park.
Gharial Crocodile (Gavialis gangeticus)
The Gharial crocodile is a critically endangered, fish-eating reptile native to Nepal. There are about 200 individuals in the wild. Since Nepal is a key conservation stronghold for the species, successful captive breeding centers have been established in Kasara, Chitwan National Park.
Other endangered species found in Nepal are the Bison (Bos gaurus) Himalayan black bear (Ursus thibetanus laniger) Pangolin (disambiguation) Swamp Deer ( Cervus duvauceli ) Himalayan Musk Deer ( Moschus leucogaster ) Ganges River Dolphin ( Platanista gangetica ) Asiatic Elephant ( Elephas maximus ) Brown Bear ( Ursus arctos )
Wildlife Tour of Nepal
Picture walking the pristine jungle trails, binoculars in hand, poising for that perfect glimpse of a hornbill, and waiting quietly for the Tiger to come out of its hiding, and relaxing in a plush accommodation with the sound of the jungle. Nepal wildlife tour is an intimate encounter with nature, perfect for wildlife photographers or bird watchers looking to tick off rare species of birds.
In the Nepal wildlife tour, we drive through National parks recognized by WWF and UN for successful conservation of many endangered species, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, Asian single-horned Rhinos, Gharial crocodiles, and more. You can travel through three major national parks: Suklaphanta, Bardia, and Chitwan National Park with a comfortable ride without wasting much of your time. The wildlife tour package is tailored to immerse visitors fully in the wild with activities like walking, jeep safari, and canoe ride with a local wildlife expert.
Whether you’re an experienced naturalist, wildlife photographer, or simply someone looking to chill in nature’s lap, Nepal’s wildlife tours offer an unforgettable blend of adventure, education, and relaxation.
Red Panda Tour in Nepal
Sandakpur Rural Municipality in the eastern Himalayan foothills is a recognized destination for Red Panda tracking. They have been launching habitat restoration and specialized breeding campaigns in collaboration with the Red Panda Network since 2020.
Sandakpur Red Panda tour is a scenic road trip or a short guided trek in the arena of Kanchenjunga, the second-highest mountain in the world. The gentle, elusive creature can be spotted among the trees, often playing or foraging for food as we walk past the lush forests and high-altitude meadows.
Saving the Red Panda in Sandakphu Rising above the plains of Nepal, the Sandakpur region is gaining recognition for its dedicated red panda conservation efforts. This gentle, elusive creature benefits from a combination of habitat restoration, a specialized breeding centre, and—perhaps most importantly—community involvement facilitated by the Red Panda Network. It’s a heartening example of how local engagement and science can combine to protect wildlife on the edge of extinction. Being part of sustainable tourism encourages local communities to take conservation initiatives, and its success stories enhance the experience, making it a memorable adventure for nature and wildlife lovers.
Special birds of Nepal
With about 10% of the world’s bird species, Nepal is a heaven for birdwatchers. About 900 species of birds make the country’s diverse landscape their home. Several birds are especially notable, including the country’s only endemic species, its national bird, and several rare and endangered pheasants and wetland birds.
Spiny Babbler (Turdoides nipalensis) is the only bird species found exclusively in Nepal. Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus) is the national bird of Nepal. Several globally threatened bird species are protected in Nepal. Some of the notable birds found in Nepal are: Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis), Cheer Pheasant (Catreus wallichii), Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus), Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis), Ibisbill (Ibidorhyncha struthersii), Rufous-necked Hornbill (Aceros nipalensis), Wallcreeper (Tichodroma muraria), and Satyr Tragopan (Tragopan satyra).
Nepal’s kaleidoscope of birds, from vibrant sunbirds to stately eagles, leaves Bird lovers spellbound. Its unique geographic junction provides fascinating backgrounds for a bird-watching trek or jungle safari. The diverse ecosystems provide a habitat for a wide variety of avian species, making it a paradise for both amateur and seasoned birdwatchers. Whether you’re hiking along scenic trails or enjoying a safari, the enchanting backdrop enhances the joy of spotting rare birds, making it a dream destination for both bird watchers and photographers alike.
Langtang National Park is the most popular for a bird-watching trek. A 10-day to two-week trek in the Langtang National Park presents a tapestry of more than 300 species of birds from the subtropical region to the alpine Himalayan landscape.
For those looking for a more relaxed bird watching tour, a combination of safari in Nepal’s popular national parks, combined with easy explorations of bird hotspots around Pokhara and Kathmandu, offers an unforgettable experience.
Final Thoughts
A wildlife tour in Nepal not only offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the endangered species in their natural habitat, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the Himalayan serenity. From the majestic Bengal Tiger prowling through its dense tropical jungle to the colorful Pheasants scratching the high ground, each encounter enriches the travel experiences and fosters a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation. Your journey not only creates lasting memories but also contributes to the sustainable tourism set to aid the preservation of their habitats. Ultimately, a wildlife tour in Nepal is a chance to engage with the natural world in a meaningful way, which fosters in you a profound sense of wonder and responsibility towards the environment.
