Geography of Nepal Overview

Topography: Diverse landscape with mountains, hills, and plains.
- Himalayas: Home to eight of the world's fourteen highest peaks, including Mount Everest (8,848 m).
- Hills: Predominantly found in the central and western regions, characterized by rugged terrain.
- Terai Plains: Lowland area in the southern region, fertile and agriculturally productive.
Climatic Zones: Four main zones influenced by elevation:
- Tropical: Terai region, warm and humid.
- Subtropical: Hills, moderate temperatures.
- Temperate: Higher hills, cooler climate.
- Alpine: Himalayas, cold with permanent snow.

Chitwan National Park:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Known for biodiversity, including rhinos, tigers, and various bird species.
Sagarmatha National Park:
- Contains Mount Everest and other peaks.
- Important for conservation and trekking tourism.
Langtang National Park:
- Rich in flora and fauna, popular for trekking.
- Features Langtang Valley and glaciers.
Bardiya National Park:
- Largest in the Terai region.
- Home to Bengal tigers, elephants, and gharials.

Major Rivers:
- Karnali River: Longest river in Nepal; flows through remote areas, popular for white-water rafting.
- Ganges River System: Originates from the Himalayas; includes major tributaries like the Koshi, Gandaki, and Bagmati.
River Basins:
- Koshi Basin: Fertile plains; significant for agriculture.
- Gandaki Basin: Known for its deep gorges and diverse ecosystems.
Significance:
- Rivers are essential for irrigation, transport, and hydroelectric power generation.
- Cultural and religious importance, especially the Bagmati River near Kathmandu, which is considered sacred.

Topography includes mountains, hills, and plains, creating a diverse landscape.
The Himalayas house eight of the world’s fourteen highest peaks, with Mount Everest standing at 8,848 meters.
Central and western regions are characterized by rugged hills, contributing to varied terrain.
Terai Plains in the southern region are fertile and agriculturally productive, supporting extensive farming.
Four main climatic zones:
- Tropical in the Terai, characterized by warm and humid conditions.
- Subtropical in the hills, featuring moderate temperatures.
- Temperate climate found in higher hills, with cooler weather.
- Alpine zone in the Himalayas, recognized for cold conditions and permanent snow.

Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, noted for its rich biodiversity, including rhinos, tigers, and various bird species.
Sagarmatha National Park, encompassing Mount Everest, is crucial for conservation efforts and trekking tourism.
Langtang National Park is recognized for its abundant flora and fauna, making it a popular trekking destination, with features like Langtang Valley and glaciers.
Bardiya National Park, the largest in the Terai region, serves as a habitat for Bengal tigers, elephants, and gharials.

Major rivers in Nepal include the Karnali River, the longest, known for white-water rafting experiences in remote areas.
The Ganges River System originates from the Himalayas, with significant tributaries such as Koshi, Gandaki, and Bagmati.
River basins like the Koshi Basin are fertile and vital to agriculture.
The Gandaki Basin is noted for deep gorges and diverse ecosystems.
Rivers play an essential role in irrigation, transport, and hydroelectric power generation.
The Bagmati River, close to Kathmandu, holds cultural and religious significance, being considered sacred.

Himalayas:
- Hosts 8 of the 14 tallest peaks globally, including the iconic Mount Everest.
- Geographically split into three primary ranges: the Great Himalayas, the Lesser Himalayas, and the Siwalik Hills.
Terai Region:
- Consists of fertile lowland plains positioned south of the Mahabharat range, vital for extensive agricultural activities.
- Dense population is supported by its agricultural richness.
Hilly Region:
- Features both mid-hills and valleys, recognized for its terraced farming practices.
- Major urban centers such as Kathmandu are situated within this region.
Climate Zones:
- Displays a wide range of climatic conditions from tropical in the Terai to alpine within the Himalayas.
- Monsoon winds significantly contribute to heavy rainfall during summer months.

Chitwan National Park:
- Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its vast biodiversity.
- Provides habitat for endangered species including Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinoceroses.
Sagarmatha National Park:
- Also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, encompasses Mount Everest.
- Well-known for its trekking paths, attracting adventure enthusiasts from around the world.
Langtang National Park:
- Celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.
- Popular among trekkers, particularly for routes leading to the picturesque Langtang Valley.
Bardia National Park:
- Less frequented by tourists, famous for diverse wildlife and unique ecological systems.
- Serves as a habitat for tigers, elephants, and numerous bird species.

Karnali River:
- The longest river in Nepal, originating from the Tibetan Plateau.
- Crucial for hydroelectric projects and offers opportunities for rafting adventures.
Gandak River:
- Flows from Nepal into India, plays a significant role in irrigation.
- Holds cultural and historical importance for both regions it traverses.
Bagmati River:
- Sacred river that flows through Kathmandu, revered by Hindus for its religious significance.
- Currently facing severe pollution challenges, contrasting with its spiritual status.
Marsyangdi River:
- Known for thrilling white-water rafting experiences.
- Originates in the Annapurna range and serves as a vital resource for hydropower generation.