Nestled in the far western region of Nepal lies a hidden gem that remains unseen by many – the magnificent Khaptad National Park. Spanning 225 square kilometers across the districts of Bajhang, Bajura, Doti, and Achham, Khaptad National Park is a lush green paradise filled with captivating vistas.
Overview to Khaptad National Park
In this beautifully shot 4K video, we follow a group of friends as they embark on an epic 960 km road trip from Kathmandu to capture the splendor of Khaptad National Park first-hand. Their journey takes us through winding mountain roads, dusty highways, quaint villages and finally to the entrance of the national park itself.
We live vicariously through their lens as they traverse meadows filled with grazing cattle, ascend winding forest paths to emerge at sparkling lakes, and visit ancient temples tucked amidst this Himalayan haven. Their contagious excitement transports us to the farthest corner of Nepal and leaves us yearning to visit Khaptad National Park too.
Come, let’s explore the highlights of Khaptad National Park and why it should be on every traveler’s bucket list!
Khaptad National Park Highlights
Scenic Landscapes
The landscapes within Khaptad National Park seem almost unreal. Lush green pastures open up to reveal grazing cattle, their neck bells tinkling gently. Colorful wildflowers blanket the grasslands while songbirds flit between the trees. Meandering rivers slice through forested hills. And sparkling blue lakes reflect the majestic Himalayan peaks in the distance.
It’s like a painting come to life – no wonder the locals believe Khaptad to be heaven on earth! One glimpse of its grandeur and your heart will be stolen too.
Temples & Spiritual Significance
Khaptad National Park holds deep religious importance. Hindus consider it to be the abode of Hindu deities and demons. Several prominent temples dot its landscape, drawing in devotees from the surrounding districts.
The majestic Sahasralinga temples sits perched atop a hill at over 3000 meters above sea level. Pilgrims flock here annually to worship its ‘thousand lingas’ on the auspicious day of Ganga Dussehra.
The Triveni temple near the army barrack sees similar gatherings on the same day. And the iconic Khaptad Daha – a serene lake – is considered highly sacred. Locals believe it’s waters are filled with divine powers.
Diverse Flora & Fauna
Khaptad National Park shelters an abundance of floral and faunal diversity. Over 23 species of mammals including the endangered red panda have been recorded here. Exotic Himalayan birds like the Impeyan pheasant and yellow-rumped honeyguide are also spotted frequently.
And that’s not all – the elusive musk deer, Asiatic black bear, clouded leopard and even a few snow leopards wander these quiet forests too. The variety of plants and herbs growing here are unparalleled as well.
With its habitats still somewhat untouched, Khaptad National Park remains a hotspot for nature and wildlife lovers.
The Legacy of Khaptad Baba
Local legends speak of saint Khaptad Baba, an enlightened sage who chose the remoteness of Khaptad to immerse himself in deep meditation during the 1940s. His spiritual presence soon attracted followers from far and wide. Even the rulers of Nepal are said to have walked for days to meet this mystic Baba.
Khaptad Baba was also instrumental in establishing Khaptad as a protected National Park. His herbal remedies, teachings on yoga and life philosophies remain influential till today. Most visitors still trek up to his ashram to pay homage and find their inner peace.
Journeying to Far Western Nepal
For city dwellers, visiting Khaptad National Park seems like an impossible dream. After all, located about 900km away from Kathmandu, it sits tucked far away in Sudur Paschim – Nepal’s Far Western region.
Poor infrastructure development has also limited tourists here. But slowly things are improving. And the 4K video shows us that the long arduous road trip is well worth it!
We follow our hosts 1200km long journey through 3 days as they drive West and into the Terai plains. The golden afternoon light filtering through Sal forests makes it apparent the adventure has just begun. Stopping at small villages along the way, they give us a glimpse into life here through their lens.
Crossing the bridge over the mighty Karnali river signifies entering the Far West. The landscape changes dramatically to rugged hills and remote settlements as they push ahead towards Doti district. Their perseverance finally culminates at Zhigrana – the gateway to Khaptad National Park.
And as the first swaying meadows materialize, we too share their contagious excitement of having finally reached. Their palpable elation assures us the long road trip was absolutely worth it for this view!
Into the Forests of Khaptad
The entry checkpoint at Silghadi near Doti’s Zhigrana marks the official entrance of Khaptad National Park. Paying a small fee, our hosts enter and are immediately enveloped by Sal forests. Chirping birds welcome them as they begin the ascent towards Khaptad’s core area.
We wander spellbound with them as the path winds through moss-covered trees, crosses bubbling streams and reveals flower-strewn clearings. The music of nature is interspersed by the tinkle of cowbells in the distance. A glimpse of the sprawling pastures ahead builds the anticipation.
Taking a well-deserved break for lunch at the Beechpani resting point, they gear up to cover the last stretch. And what awaits them is truly spectacular.
The Meadows of Khaptad
Emerging from the shadows of the forest, the green undulating meadows leave them speechless. This is the postcard view that personifies Khaptad National Park.
Dotted with grazing cattle, seasonal flowers nodding in the breeze and awash in golden light – the meadows look straight out of a fairytale. Our travelers roam the pastures aimlessly for hours, stopping only to admire the animals or chat with the friendly herders.
As the sun dips lower, we reach the army barrack, their home for the next few days.
Over the next days we explore the must-visit sights of Khaptad National Park alongside them.
Our infectious curiosity takes us on a steep 1-hour hike through the woods to emerge at the stunning Khaptad Lake. Encircled by hills, its crystal clear waters exude a sense of calm. Locals consider it blessed and offer prayers on its banks.
Later, another short hike up revealed the sprawling meadows of Khaptad Dahpatan. With wildflowers in full bloom and Mt. Saipal framed gloriously in the distance, its beauty was surreal.
Our lenses also captured intimate moments like sharing a meal with the friendly caretaker Hari Bahadur Rawal. And stumbling upon an impromptu worship ceremony at the remote hilltop Sahasralinga temple only seemed to underscore how special Khaptad National Park is.
Before bidding adieu, we make sure to pay respects to the legendary Khaptad Baba at his ashram. We feel the same serenity pervading his simple dwelling from their footage. It becomes abundantly clear why Khaptad Baba chose this site to gain higher wisdom.
Final Words
As the closing footage fades out, I’m filled with the same intoxication for Khaptad National Park as our hosts. Their extraordinary 4K footage managed to virtually transport me to its farthest corner for a few minutes.
But like them, I too have returned with a small part of my soul still wandering its sacred forests. Their glowing recommendation to visit, complemented by the park’s wealth of natural and cultural treasures has convinced me.
A visit to the mysterious Khaptad National Park is now firmly on my bucket list!
Hopefully, after this glimpse, it will be on yours too…
FAQs about Khaptad National Park
Where is Khaptad National Park located?
Khaptad National Park is situated in the Far Western region of Nepal, about 900km from Kathmandu. It spans four districts – Bajhang, Bajura, Doti and Achham.
When is the best time to visit Khaptad National Park?
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are considered the ideal seasons. The meadows are lush green and wildflowers bloom during spring while clear skies in autumn ensure good views.
What is the entry fee for Khaptad National Park?
The entry fee is NPR 100 (approx $1) per person for Nepali nationals. It is slightly higher for foreign nationals.
What are the options to stay within Khaptad National Park?
Accommodation options are simple homestays, local guest houses or the barracks near the army outpost. Remember to carry your own sleeping bag as nights tend to get very cold.
Apart from trekking, what other activities can be enjoyed in Khaptad National Park?
Khaptad is ideal for nature walks, bird watching, stargazing, interacting with locals, temple hopping and just sitting back to soak in the splendid views that surround you.
