Kangchendzonga National Park was known as Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve and is a famous national park which is present in the north-eastern Indian state of Sikkim and its name has been obtained from the name of a peak called Kanchenjunga`. This Indian mountain possesses an altitude of 8, 586 metres above sea level and is known as the third-highest peak in the entire world. The national park occupies an area measuring nearly 849.5 square kilometres and includes some glaciers like the Zemu glacier and was erected on 26th August, 1977 and was known as a `biosphere reserve`. The national park is also home to many `Lepcha` tribals who are settled in the park.
Flora of Kangchendzonga National Park
Temperate mixed and deciduous forests comprising Willow, Birch, Maple, Fir and Oak are a few of the different types of flora of Kangchendzonga National Park. However, there also survives many other species of plants like herbs, Alpine Grasses, medicinal plants and shrubs in this national park.
Fauna of Kangchendzonga National Park
Himalayan Blue Sheep, Sloth Bear, Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, Russell`s Viper, Tibetan Wild Ass, Wild Dog, Snow Leopard, Rat Snake, Indian Civet, Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear are some of the mammals residing in this park. According to a recent research study, the Asiatic Wild Dog has become quite rare in the Khangchendzonga National Park.
Nearly 550 species of birds are present here consisting of Sunbird, Osprey, Green Pigeon, Tibetan Snowcock, Blood Pheasant, Asian Emerald Cuckoo, Impeyan Pheasant, Eagle, Satyr Tragopan, Lammergeier, Snow Pigeon, Himalayan Griffon, etc.
The period between the months of April till May is said to be ideal season for paying visit to this beautiful national park of Sikkim. During the chilly winters, travellers might experience heavy snowfall and during the time between May till the middle of October, monsoon showers might greet them. However, prior to visiting the Khangchendzonga National Park, Indian tourists must derive an Inner-Line Permit from the State Home Department as a universal rule. One must be equipped with the permission of the State Chief Wildlife Warden as well, which is compulsory for all its visitors.
