Sherpa Khumbiyila Adventure

BackThe Langtang Region

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The Langtang Natonal Park covers an area of 1,710 sq. km. It was designated in 1970-71 and gazette in 1976. This park is situated in Central Himalayas and is the nearest park i.e. 19 miles north of Kathmandu. The area extends from 32 km north of Kathmandu to Nepal - China (Tibet) border.

Langtang National Park encloses the catchments of the two major river systems, one draining west to the Trisuli River and the other west to the Sunkoshi River. Some of the best climatic conditions of the central Himalayas are experienced in this area.

Though cold at higher altitude, the weather during mid-October to mid-December and from mid-February to mid-April is pleasant. In the month between mid-April and mid-June, the weather becomes warmer but very often cloudy and one ca experience repetitive thundershower. Spring flowers are at their best in these months. Summer monsoon lasts until the end of October. Though the day time temperature may be relatively low during the winter months, one could witness snow even in the low altitudes.

Because of wide variation in climatic condition and complex topography, various forms of flora and fauna are found here. The small area of the sub- tropical forest below1, 000m, temperate oak, pine forest, alpine shrub and grasses are some of the vegetation one could expect in this National Park. Oaks, chir pine, maple, fir, blue pine, hemlock, spruce and various species of rhododendron are the main forest species found here. Approximately 25% of the total areas covered by the national park are forests.

Various kind of climatic condition, complex topography and wide spectrum of existing topography makes home for a wide range of animals in the park. Wild Dogs, Red Panda, Pika, Muntjack, Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Thar, Ghoral, Serow, Rhesus Monkey and Common Langur are some the commonly seen animals here. During the spring and autumn season, which is the migrating season for the birds, Trisuli and Bhote River in this area serves as an important route.

In harmony with the diverse climatic condition, various forms of flora and fauna, National Park is home for about 45 villages. Population of the Langtang National Park could be approximately 4, 500 people within 846 household. In total about 3,000 household which equals to 16, 200 people are dependent on the resources offered by the park. The park consists of people from several ethnic groups, making it all the more interesting culturally. Over the centuries, this ethnic group has been influencing the natural environment as they have lived in harmony with vegetation, animals and birds within the boundaries of the park. The majority of the people living here are Tamangs, who are traditionally the farmers and cattle bearers or even weavers. Their religion is based on pre- Buddhist doctrines of Tibet.

With the magnificent view of the mountains, Langtang valley offers a spectacular view of glaciers and an opportunity to explore the village situated in and around the park along with the gompas (The Buddhist monasteries). To visit the monasteries, the permission from the monks is required.

The valley is the most visited part of the park and a number of accommodations are available for those who wouldn't want to camp. Outstanding views of Langtang Lirung (7, 234m.), Himal Chuli (7, 864m.) and Manaslu (8, 156m.) are visible from the trail. The route from Dhunche passes a Buddhist monastery, Sing Gompa.

The season for Langtang trek is almost the same as for the rest of the trek in Nepal. Trek in April would prove fruitful. Spring is the season of the rhododendron and all the kings of colorful flowers. The valley is covered with wild flowers during the summer and a good monsoon trek too can be experienced.

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