Khaptad

[rabin1202006]

Khaptad is often touted as the paradise in far-western Nepal. Khaptad is a land of grasslands and forests with diverse geographical features from high mountains to deep gorges and mid-elevation plateaus. The place inherits its name from Khaptad Swami, a Hindu sage who lived in the area for many years. The government has gazetted 225 sq km of the area as Khaptad National Park to conserve wildlife and biodiversity in the area. A 5 km area inside the park has been separated for meditation and tranquility where consumption of meat, alcohol and tobacco is prohibited. Khaptad Lake is a place of religious significance and draws hundreds of people on the full moon day of July-August every year. The park is home to different wildlife species, including bear, leopard, common langur, musk deer and different species of birds. The area is a fertile land for different medicinal herbs and other rare vegetation. Khaptad can be reached by taking a flight to Dipayal, Chainpur in Bajhang, Kolti in Bajura and Sanfebagar in Achham.