Khaptad National Park
In Nepali: खप्तड राष्ट्रिय निकुञ्ज · Also known as: Khaptad Baba · खप्तड
Khaptad is a plateau at around 3,000 m where four districts meet. Its 22 patans (grassland meadows) are dotted with forest of oak, fir and rhododendron, and in summer carpeted with wildflowers, many used in traditional medicine. The park was established in 1984.
The hermit Khaptad Baba lived here for some fifty years and his ashram remains a pilgrimage site; the Ganga Dashahara fair around Jeth Purnima draws thousands to the Tribeni area. Treks of 5–7 days approach from Silgadhi (Doti) or Chainpur (Bajhang), with basic facilities.
What to see and do
Walk across the rolling patans between forest patches, visit the Khaptad Baba ashram and the Tribeni area with its temples, and find Khaptad Daha lake and viewpoints over the Saipal and Api ranges. In summer, the meadows are covered with wildflowers; the park is also home to leopards, Himalayan black bears and many birds.
Good to know
Park entry permits apply. There are no regular lodges on the plateau — camp or stay in simple huts, and carry supplies. Fog and rain are frequent in the monsoon. Guides from Silgadhi, Jhingrana or Chainpur know the routes.
Quick answers
- Where is Khaptad National Park?
- Khaptad National Park is in Doti district, Sudurpashchim Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Khaptad National Park?
- About 3,000 m (9,843 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Khaptad National Park?
- For a 7-day trip from Dhangadhi, about NPR 37,000 (≈ US$275) per person on a budget, or NPR 56,000 (≈ US$415) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 19,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Khaptad National Park?
- Plan 5 nights there for the trek; with travel from Dhangadhi and back, about 7 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Khaptad National Park?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 1,000 / US$7 to enter Khaptad National Park (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Khaptad National Park?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Khaptad National Park?
- April–June for flowers; September–November
- How do I get to Khaptad National Park?
- Drive from Dhangadhi to Silgadhi or Jhingrana, then trek. It is about 74 km (straight line) from Dhangadhi.
- What is Khaptad National Park called in Nepali?
- खप्तड राष्ट्रिय निकुञ्ज
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