New Park Created to Support Wildlife & Communities

In Nepal, a new national park has been established to safeguard ecosystems and bring conservation closer to the people who live alongside wildlife.

“The declaration of Chhayanath National Park will make it much easier for locals to access park services and for officials to manage wildlife protection effectively,” said park authorities.

Covering 906 square kilometres, Chhayanath National Park was separated from the Shey-Phoksundo area in Mugu district, making it the country’s youngest national park. The park includes a 177.37 km² buffer zone designed to reduce human-wildlife conflict and support sustainable livelihoods. For locals who previously had to walk seven to eight days to reach the old park offices, this move brings vital services closer to home while strengthening protection for rare Himalayan species.