Nationals Parks and Protected Areas in Bhutan
Protecting Nature, Preserving Life
Bhutan, a small Himalayan kingdom, is renowned for its incredible natural beauty and rich biodiversity. The country is dedicated to environmental conservation, designating a significant portion of its land as national parks, nature reserves, and protected areas. These efforts ensure the preservation of Bhutan’s unique ecosystems and cultural heritage.
Bhutan’s protected areas are vital components of its broader environmental conservation strategy. The government actively promotes the preservation of biodiversity and maintains a carbon-negative status, making Bhutan unique in its conservation policies. Many of these parks also play an essential role in preserving the unique cultures and traditional ways of life within Bhutan’s rural communities.
In 1993 Royal Government of Bhutan notified nine protected areas, with four National Parks, four Wildlife Sanctuaries and one Strict Nature Reserve.
Here are some of the national parks and protected areas in Bhutan, each offering stunning landscapes and diverse biodiversity:
Jigme Dorji National Park
Overview: Named after the late Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, Jigme Dorji National Park is the second-largest national park in Bhutan. Covering an area of 4,316 square kilometers, the park is located in the north-western part of Bhutan and spans a vast area of mountains, ranging from 1,400 to over 7,000 meters in elevation. This park encompasses all three climate zones found in Bhutan, from subtropical forests at lower elevations to alpine meadows at higher altitudes.
Biodiversity: Jigme Dorji National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, containing a wide range of ecosystems. The park is home to an array of wildlife, including endangered species such as the snow leopard, takin (Bhutan’s national animal), and red panda. Other notable species found in the park include Bengal tigers and blue sheep. The park’s diverse habitats provide sanctuary to these species, ensuring their survival and conservation.
Significance: Gazetted as a wildlife sanctuary in 1974, Jigme Dorji National Park is one of the oldest protected areas in Bhutan. In 1993, the park was officially upgraded to national park status, following a nationwide revision of protected areas. Staff were deputed to functionally operate the park in 1995. Until the establishment of Wangchuck Centennial National Park, Jigme Dorji National Park was the largest national park in Bhutan, with a revised area of 4,319 square kilometers.
Conservation Efforts: The park plays a crucial role in Bhutan’s broader conservation efforts. Its protection is vital for maintaining the rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems found within its boundaries. Additionally, the park contributes to the preservation of Bhutan’s natural heritage and supports sustainable development initiatives within the region.
Wangchuck Centennial National Park
Overview: Wangchuck Centennial National Park is the largest national park in Bhutan, spanning an impressive 4,914 square kilometers across five districts. This park borders Tibet to the north and is connected to several other protected areas, forming a vast network of conservation zones. It was formally gazetted as a national park under Bhutan’s protected area system on June 10, 2008.
Location: The park is primarily located in central Bhutan, encompassing areas in the Trongsa and Zhemgang districts.
Biodiversity: Wangchuck Centennial National Park is dedicated to the preservation of Bhutan’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the takin (Bhutan’s national animal), Himalayan blue sheep, Himalayan musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and the elusive snow leopard. These species thrive within the park’s diverse habitats, ranging from subtropical forests to alpine meadows.
Significance: Established in 2008, Wangchuck Centennial National Park honors the Wangchuck dynasty and serves as a crucial habitat for numerous species. The park’s extensive network of conservation zones plays a vital role in maintaining Bhutan’s ecological balance and promoting sustainable development. It is the largest national park among the ten protected areas in Bhutan, highlighting its importance in the country’s conservation efforts.
Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
Overview: Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park is located in the central part of Bhutan, covering an area of approximately 1,730 square kilometers. Named after the fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, this park features a wide range of habitats, from lowland subtropical forests to high-altitude alpine meadows and glaciers.
Biodiversity: The park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a variety of species. It has recorded the presence of 39 mammals, 270 bird species, 139 species of butterflies, and 16 species of fish. The park is crucial for the conservation of several endangered species, including the Himalayan black bear, blue sheep, and snow leopard. Efforts are ongoing to establish the baseline for herpetofauna, fungal diversity, and the diversity of orchids and herbal plants.
Significance: As the third largest protected area in Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park plays a vital role in conserving the region’s biodiversity. The park is connected to other protected areas via biological corridors, enhancing the conservation of wildlife and maintaining ecological connectivity.
Conservation Efforts: The diverse habitats within the park contribute significantly to the preservation of Bhutan’s natural heritage. These efforts are critical for maintaining the ecological balance and supporting sustainable development initiatives in the region.
Royal Manas National Park
Nestled in the south-central part of Bhutan, Royal Manas National Park (RMNP) stands as a vital haven for biodiversity, earning the title of Bhutan’s “Amazon” due to its immense ecological significance. Spanning 1,057 square kilometers, the park lies on the border with India and is spread across three Dzongkhags (administrative districts): Zhemgang, Sarpang, and Pemagatshel.
Ecological Richness and Biodiversity: RMNP is one of the most biologically diverse regions in Bhutan and South Asia. The park’s varied landscapes, ranging from tropical forests to alpine meadows, provide a diverse habitat for a wealth of flora and fauna. It is home to over 558 species of plants, 65 mammal species, 489 bird species, 60 species of fish, and more than 180 species of butterflies. These remarkable figures highlight the park’s crucial role in preserving rare and endangered species.
Among its residents are some of Bhutan’s most iconic and endangered animals, such as the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, wild elephants, and the red panda. The park serves as a critical sanctuary for these species, many of which are threatened by habitat loss and poaching.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Royal Manas National Park is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, underscoring its global importance in preserving natural heritage. The park’s unique blend of ecosystems, including dense forests, grasslands, and wetlands, is a vital refuge for wildlife and an area of critical environmental significance.
Cultural and Historical Importance: The park also holds cultural value for the Bhutanese people, as it is a symbol of the country’s commitment to conservation and environmental preservation. Bhutan’s approach to sustainable development and conservation is demonstrated through initiatives like RMNP, where the preservation of natural resources is prioritized alongside the needs of local communities.
Conservation Efforts: Efforts to protect and maintain the park’s biodiversity are ongoing, with various conservation programs focusing on anti-poaching, habitat restoration, and community involvement. The Bhutanese government, in partnership with local communities and international organizations, continues to work towards safeguarding the park’s ecosystems while ensuring the sustainable use of its resources.
Conclusion: Royal Manas National Park is not only a natural treasure for Bhutan but also a crucial part of global conservation efforts. Its unparalleled biodiversity, protected status, and ecological importance make it one of the most vital national parks in the region, helping to preserve both rare species and Bhutan’s unique natural heritage for generations to come.
Phrumsengla National Park
Overview: Phrumsengla National Park, located in the northern part of Bhutan, is renowned for its pristine forests and diverse wildlife. Spanning an area of 905 square kilometers, the park is a haven for numerous endangered species and boasts a rich cultural heritage. The park was initially known as the Thrumsingla National Park.
Biodiversity: The park is home to a variety of endangered species, including the red panda and clouded leopard. Its vast expanses of cool temperate broadleaved forests and old fir growth are some of the last remaining stands in the entire Himalayas. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna, contributing to its status as a biodiversity hotspot.
Cultural Heritage: Phrumsengla National Park is not only important for its natural beauty and biodiversity but also for its cultural significance. Within the park’s boundaries, there are several ancient temples and monasteries that reflect Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.
Significance: Gazetted in 1998, Phrumsengla National Park plays an integral role in preserving Bhutan’s natural heritage and biodiversity. The park’s pristine forests and diverse wildlife are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of the region. Bhutan’s commitment to conservation and sustainable development is evident through its proactive policies and initiatives, ensuring the country’s ecological well-being for future generations.
Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary
Overview: Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the northeastern part of Bhutan, spanning an area of 1,520 square kilometers. The sanctuary extends across the districts of Trashiyangtse, Lhuntse, and Mongar, with an additional 420 square kilometers of buffer zones.
Location: The sanctuary is located in the northeastern part of Bhutan, encompassing diverse ecosystems.
Biodiversity: Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its rich flora and fauna. It is home to several endangered species, including the elusive snow leopard and the vulnerable red panda. The sanctuary is also a crucial habitat for the black-necked crane, which migrates to the area during the winter months. In addition to these species, the sanctuary supports a wide variety of other wildlife.
Significance: Known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife, Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary plays an essential role in the conservation of Bhutan’s natural heritage. The sanctuary is rich in cultural heritage, with several ancient temples and monasteries located within its boundaries.
Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS)
Overview: Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS) is the smallest among the protected areas in Bhutan, covering an area of just 269 square kilometers. It was established as Phibsoo Reserved Forests in 1974 and was upgraded to a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1993. The first conservation management plan for PWS was approved in 2012, and in 2014, PWS separated from the Sarpang Forest Division to become a fully independent office.
Location: PWS is situated in the foothills of south-central Bhutan, between 26°42’ to 26º51’ latitude and 089º56’ to 090°12’ longitude. The sanctuary’s elevation ranges from 200 meters to 1,600 meters above mean sea level. It stretches from the right flank of the Punatsangchhu (Sunkosh) River in the west to Singye village in the east, with the Dhanishri ridge bordering the north edge. The entire southern boundary shares the Indo-Bhutan international border with the Ripu-Chirang Reserved Forest. PWS covers Nichula and Singye gewogs under Dagana and Sarpang dzongkhags, with its headquarters located at Shariphu in Singye gewog. The sanctuary has 94 households in Nichula and 13 households in Singye Gewog.
Ecosystems and Biodiversity: PWS falls within the Indo-Malayan biogeographic realm and features a sub-tropical forest ecosystem. The area can be categorized into Sub-tropical Semi Evergreen Forest, Sub-tropical Moist Deciduous Forest, and Subtropical Moist Evergreen. Approximately 1,259 acres of plantations were created between 1960 and 1975. Despite being the smallest park in the country, PWS boasts one of the richest biodiversity profiles. It is home to all eight cat species found in Bhutan, along with the Asiatic elephant, gaur, and the endangered golden langur. PWS is the only natural habitat for spotted deer (Chital) and wild sal and agarwood forests in the country. Recently, PWS has proven to be a potential habitat for the globally endangered White-bellied heron along the Phibsoo and Longa rivers. The sanctuary has over 300 acres of pristine subtropical rangeland, providing a prime habitat for the pygmy hog and hispid hare. To date, about 637 species of flowering plants, 28 species of mammals, and 132 species of birds have been recorded, with the potential for discovering more flora and fauna over time.
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
Overview: Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary (SWS) is located in the easternmost part of Bhutan, near the Indian border, under Trashigang District. Established in 2003, the sanctuary covers an area of 740.60 square kilometers, including a core zone of 146.08 square kilometers (19.37%).
Location: The sanctuary encompasses parts of Merak, Sakteng (Trashigang), and Lauri Gewog (Samdrupjongkhar). It is connected by a biological corridor to the southern part of Bhutan, forming part of the Bhutan Biological Conservation Complex (B2C2).
Biodiversity: SWS is renowned for its rich flora and fauna, representing the diverse eastern Himalayan terrestrial ecosystems, including alpine meadows, temperate forests, and warm broadleaf forests. The sanctuary’s altitude ranges from 1,700 to 4,100 meters above sea level. It is home to 35 out of the 46 species of rhododendrons found in Bhutan, earning it the nickname “Paradise of Rhododendrons.” The forest also contains 203 tree species, including herbs, shrubs, and small trees. The sanctuary is famous for its faunal diversity, harboring globally threatened and endangered species such as the red panda, Himalayan serow, wild dog, goral, common leopard, capped langur, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and jungle cat. To date, 20 species of mammals and 147 species of birds have been recorded.
Cultural Significance: The sanctuary is also known for its unique “yeti” folklore and is situated in one of the remotest parts of the country, where limited developmental programs have been implemented. The highlanders living in the park area are semi-nomadic and use large areas as grazing land for their cattle. Livestock rearing is the main source of income for Merak and Sakteng, generating 83% of household income. Very few people living in the lower areas depend on subsistence farming.
Significance: The sanctuary’s significance lies in its diverse ecosystems and rich cultural heritage. It plays a crucial role in preserving the biodiversity of the eastern Himalayas and maintaining the ecological balance of the region.
Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary
Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary is Bhutan’s smallest protected area, encompassing 334.73 square kilometres (129.24 sq. mi) within the Samdrup Jongkhar District, along the southern border with Assam. The sanctuary’s elevations range from 400 metres (1,300 ft) to 2,200 metres (7,200 ft).
Despite its small size, this sanctuary, formerly known as Khaling Wildlife Sanctuary, is a crucial habitat for a variety of tropical wildlife, including elephants and gaur (Bos gaurus). There is also potential for it to shelter rare species like the pygmy hog (Porcula salvania) and the hispid hare (Caprolagus hispidus), known to inhabit the neighboring Khaling Reserve in Assam, forming a trans-border reserve with the sanctuary.
In addition to its ecological significance, Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary is celebrated for its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, offering a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can explore subtropical forests, lush river valleys, and mountainous terrains, which house a vibrant array of flora and fauna, including majestic elephants, regal tigers, playful primates, and elusive leopards.
The sanctuary is deeply committed to conservation efforts, actively working to protect endangered species and their habitats. Local communities are intricately connected to the land, and their cultural traditions and practices contribute to the region’s natural heritage.
Whether trekking through dense forests, observing the myriad wildlife, or immersing in local culture, Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.
Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve
Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve (JKSNR), named in honor of the current King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, is a pristine and untouched wilderness area located in the Haa District of western Bhutan. Spanning an impressive 609.51 square kilometers (235.33 sq. mi), this reserve is the only strict nature reserve among Bhutan’s ten protected areas.
Key Highlights:
- Elevation Range: The reserve’s altitudes range from 1,400 meters (4,600 ft) to 4,800 meters (15,700 ft), encompassing a variety of ecosystems from broadleaf forests to alpine meadows.
- Biodiversity: JKSNR is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Tibetan snowcock, red panda, snow leopard, and rufous-necked hornbills. It also boasts the only endemic white poppy in Bhutan.
- Water Sources: The reserve serves as a vital water source for rivers and streams that are crucial for the livelihoods of nearby residents.
- Conservation Efforts: JKSNR is dedicated to preserving its unique ecosystems and biodiversity through various conservation initiatives, including anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration projects.
Cultural and Environmental Significance: The reserve is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also a place of cultural importance. The local communities living around the reserve have deep connections with the land, and their traditions and practices are intertwined with the natural heritage of the region.
Motithang Takin Preserve
Motithang Takin Preserve is perched on a hilltop overlooking the Thimphu valley, just 5 km from the core town area of Thimphu and situated below the Sangaygang View Point. This preserve, home to the national animal of Bhutan—the takin—provides visitors with a unique opportunity to see these remarkable creatures up close. Bhutan, a haven for wildlife, designated this area as a preserve after discovering that the takins, originally kept in a mini-zoo, preferred not to wander into the surrounding forest even when set free.
The preserve boasts a spacious area covered with pine forest, allowing the takins to move freely and live in a protected environment. Upon parking, visitors will find a prominent signboard and gate marking the entrance to the preserve. A short 5-10 minute hike from the roadside leads to the admission fee counter and a small shop offering Bhutanese handicrafts and brochures.
Takins, a large species native to the eastern Himalayas, have four subspecies: the Mishmi takin, the golden takin, the Tibetan takin, and the Bhutan takin.
Phobjikha Valley (RSPN)
Phobjikha Valley is a stunning U-shaped glacial valley located at an average altitude of 3,000 meters in the Wangdue Phodrang district of Bhutan. The valley’s coordinates range from 90°05’5″ to 90°17’30″N and from 27°22’16” to 27°31’27″E. The Nakay Chhu (black river) and Chhu Karp (white river) converge at Chakze, draining the valley.
Spanning approximately 162 square kilometers, Phobjikha Valley encompasses the entire area of Gangtey and Phobjikha and parts of Bjena and Athang geogs. It is situated about 146 miles northwest of Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, and is accessible via a road that crosses the Lowala Pass. The journey from Thimphu to Phobjikha takes around 4–5 hours by car.
Characteristic Features:
- High-Altitude Wetland: Phobjikha Valley is a high-altitude wetland located above 3,000 meters.
- Black-Necked Crane Habitat: The valley serves as a wintering ground (late October to early March) for the globally threatened black-necked crane (Grus nigricollis). These cranes return to their breeding grounds on the Tibetan-Qinghai plateau during the summer. The Black-Necked Crane Information Centre at Phobjikha recorded approximately 304 cranes in January 2011, with a total count of 368 cranes as of January 4, 2011, according to the RSPN website.
- Biological Corridor: Phobjikha Valley acts as a biological corridor between Jigme Dorji National Park and Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park. It is one of Bhutan’s six conservation areas and a potential candidate for Ramsar site designation.
- Potato Cultivation: The valley is renowned for its potato cultivation, producing around 80% of Bhutan’s total potato yield. Over 85% of the local population is engaged in potato farming.
- Cultural Significance: Phobjikha is home to Gangtey Goemba, Bhutan’s oldest monastery, built in the 16th century.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN) manages and conserves the valley’s natural resources. RSPN has been actively involved in the area for the past 23 years and has established a Black-Necked Crane Information Centre to monitor the cranes. According to RSPN studies, Phobjikha is home to 498 households spread across 49 settlements. Major livelihood activities in the valley include potato cultivation, timber and fuelwood collection, tourism, and the harvesting of non-timber forest products (NTFPs).
Biological Corridors in Bhutan
Established in 1999, Bhutan’s Biological Corridors were presented as a Gift to the Earth. Initially, there were 12 corridors, covering a total area of 3,660 km², interlinking all nine of Bhutan’s protected areas. With the creation of Wangchuck Centennial National Park in 2008, three of these corridors were integrated into the new park.
Bhutan’s approach to Biological Corridors reflects an ambitious and innovative vision, setting a benchmark unmatched by any other nation. These corridors are designed as a cost-effective and reliable strategy to conserve meta-populations of wide-ranging species, facilitate gene flow for all species, and enable species to adapt to climate change. As such, Bhutan is recognized as a global leader in ecological conservation through the use of Biological Corridors.