Banke National Park, located in the mid-western region of Nepal, is a rich sanctuary renowned for its diverse wildlife and lush landscapes. Spanning over 550 square kilometers, it is home to rare species like the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros, offering exceptional opportunities for eco-tourism and wildlife conservation.
Banke National Park, established in 2010 for tiger conservation, is taking initiatives to expand its grassland areas to support the growing tiger population. As Nepal’s youngest national park, efforts are being made to increase the habitat and prey availability for tigers by expanding the Karaunti grassland by an additional 50 hectares.
According to Chief Conservation Officer Birendra Kandel, the park currently has 400 hectares of grassland, which serves as a crucial habitat for the park’s 25 tigers. “We are planning to increase the Karaunti grassland area by 40 to 50 hectares to make it easier for tigers to find prey. This expansion aligns with our goal of ensuring the survival and sustenance of the tiger population,” Kandel explained.
Challenges of Tiger Conservation
As the tiger population grows, conservation challenges have intensified. Kandel emphasized the need to increase the number of prey species, including deer, spotted deer (chital), wild boar (bandel), and ratuwal (jungle fowl). These species are essential for the tigers’ diet, as an average tiger consumes approximately 15 to 40 kilograms of meat per hunt, which can sustain them for up to a week.
The increasing tiger population also necessitates measures to enhance their safety, control human interference in the park, and maintain ecological balance.
Infrastructure for Tigers’ Habitat
The park has also installed three solar-powered waterholes and constructed a watchtower in the Karaunti grassland to provide a sustainable habitat for the tigers. These facilities ensure a consistent water supply and support effective monitoring of wildlife activities.

Rise in Tiger Population
Tiger monitoring in Banke began in 2008 when no tigers were recorded in the area. By 2013, four tigers were documented, and by 2018, the number had risen to 21. The current population stands at 25, reflecting the park’s significant success in conservation efforts.
Banke National Park: A Biodiversity Hotspot
Spanning 550 square kilometers across Banke, Dang, and Salyan districts, Banke National Park was established as part of Nepal’s commitment to the international community to conserve tiger habitats and biological corridors. Its eastern boundary is marked by the Shivkhola River, while the western boundary stretches to the Kohalpur-Surkhet Highway. The park is connected to Bardiya National Park in the west, forming a critical habitat corridor for large wildlife species.
The park is home to a remarkable diversity of ecosystems, with eight unique ecosystems, 124 plant species, 35 mammal species, over 300 bird species, 58 fish species, 22 reptile species, and six amphibian species. Among them, 11 mammal species and 50 bird species are listed as rare or endangered.
Buffer Zone and Ecological Importance
In addition to the core area, a buffer zone spanning 343 square kilometers has been declared, covering parts of Banke, Dang, and Salyan. This zone fosters community participation in conservation while providing habitat connectivity for wildlife. Its strategic link to Bardiya National Park further enhances its significance as a critical refuge for large animals like tigers.
Banke National Park continues to play a pivotal role in Nepal’s tiger conservation journey, contributing to the global efforts of preserving these magnificent big cats. Banke National Park stands as a vital natural treasure in Nepal, offering a unique blend of biodiversity, scenic beauty, and conservation efforts.
With its rich wildlife, including endangered species, and diverse ecosystems, it has become a key destination for eco-tourism and wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s continued protection and development are crucial for preserving its ecological integrity while promoting sustainable tourism. Banke National Park not only contributes to Nepal’s environmental conservation but also boosts local economies through tourism.