Langtang
is one of the most unspoiled national parks of Nepal.
Situated North of Kathmandu, it is the most easily accessible
highland sanctuary from the capital. Langtang covers
1,710 sq. km. forming the upper catchment areas of two
of Nepal's largest river systems - the Trishuli and
Koshi. There is great latitudinal variation, starting
at 1,500 m. and ascending to the top of Mt. Langtang
Lirung at 7,234 m. As a result the park has immense
ecological diversity. Some of the most attractive areas
of the park include the Langtang Valley, the holy lakes
at Gosainkunda, and the forested hillsides above the
village of Helambu.
The
deep gorges of Bhote Koshi and Langtang Khola are thickly
forested with rhododendron, oak, maple and alder. The
stretch of forest around Ghoda Tabela in the lower Langtang
Valley and below Gosainkunda is inhabited by the red
panda, a rare and threatened symbol of a healthy Himalayan
ecosystem. Other animals, common to these forests are
wild boar, Himalayan black bear, ghoral, grey langur
monkey and leopard. The rare Himalayan hony guide has
been sighted here and the park is also the home for
Impeyan, Tragopan and kalij pheasants among others.
Larch, a rare deciduous conifer, is also found in the
forest of lower Langtang Valley. Further up, Himalayan
tahr, musk deer and snow leopard can be found. The upper
Langtang Valley is one of he few known breeding grounds
of the ibils bills besides the Tibetan snow cock and
snow partridge.
Like
other Himalayan nature parks, Langtang has to be explored
on foot. There are several possible trails to choose
from depending on preference and time available. The
langtang Valley is easily approached from Dhunche town
and park office, which is a day's drive from Kathmandu.
The upper reaches of Langtang can be reached in four
days of easy walking, however, it is advisable to spend
a few days around the forest at Ghoda Tabela to watch
for the red panda. Once above Langtang village and the
monastery at Kyangin, visitors can explore the high
valley of Langshisa Yala peak and Tsero, Ri. These and
other villages of upper Langtang are inhabited by people
of Tibetan descent whereas the villagers of Dhunche,
Bharkhu and Syabru further down are home to the Tamangs
of Nepal's middle hills.
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