Bardiya National Park is a protected area in southwestern Nepal, covering an area of 968 square kilometers. The park is renowned for its diverse range of vegetation, which provides a vital habitat for many animal species such as the Bengal tiger, the one-horned rhinoceros, and the Asian elephant.
The park's vegetation is dominated by sub-tropical forests of sal trees (Shorea robusta), which cover the majority of the park's lower-altitude areas. The forests also contain a variety of other tree species such as the Indian rosewood (Dalbergia sissoo) and the Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis). The sub-tropical forests provide vital habitat for many bird species such as the greater coucal, the red junglefowl, and the Indian pitta.
As the altitude increases, the vegetation becomes sparser, and the landscape transforms into deciduous forests and savannah grasslands. In these higher altitude areas, visitors can witness the park's unique vegetation, including many valuable medicinal plants such as:
The Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrata): This tree species is found in the park's deciduous forests and is used in traditional medicine to treat many ailments such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammation.
The Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis): This tree species is found in the park's sub-tropical forests and is used in traditional medicine to treat digestive disorders, respiratory ailments, and as a rejuvenating tonic.
The Khasi pomelo (Citrus grandis): This citrus fruit tree is found in the park's savannah grasslands and is used in traditional medicine to treat digestive disorders, hypertension, and as a natural diuretic.
The diverse range of vegetation in Bardiya National Park provides food and shelter for many animal species and also plays a crucial role in regulating the park's ecosystem. The forests help prevent soil erosion and maintain the park's water supply, while the savannah grasslands provide grazing land for many herbivorous animals such as the spotted deer and the wild boar.
Visitors to the park can witness the unique plant life and appreciate the vital role it plays in the park's ecosystem. Trekking through the park's diverse vegetation provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Babai River and the Churia Hills.
In conclusion, Bardiya National Park's botanical diversity is an essential part of the park's ecosystem and provides a vital habitat for many animal species. The park's unique plant species, such as the Indian frankincense, Indian gooseberry, and Khasi pomelo, are not only fascinating to witness but also have significant medicinal value.