The Government of Nepal has taken significant strides in safeguarding its rich natural heritage through the establishment of national parks, wildlife reserves, and other protected areas. These initiatives are driven by a deep commitment to conserve and responsibly manage the country’s diverse wildlife and biodiversity. Leveraging the authority vested in it by the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act of 1973, Nepal has created a robust network of protected areas that stands as a testament to its dedication to conservation.

This network comprises 12 National Parks, 1 Wildlife Reserve, 1 Hunting Reserve, 6 Conservation Areas, and 13 Buffer Zones, collectively spanning the geographical breadth of Nepal. Encompassing a remarkable 23.39% of the nation’s total land area, these protected areas extend from the lush lowland Terai to the towering heights of the Himalayas. The diligent conservation efforts undertaken by the Government of Nepal have not only garnered worldwide recognition but have also earned the accolades of international societies dedicated to environmental preservation.

Central to Nepal’s conservation strategy is the concept of Buffer Zones. In accordance with the Buffer Zone Area Management Regulation of 1996 and the Buffer Zone Management Guideline, the government has delineated buffer zones around 13 protected areas, covering an expansive area exceeding 5602 square kilometers. These buffer zones are strategically situated across 83 Village Development Committees (VDCs) and two municipalities, spanning 27 districts, and are home to a population exceeding 0.9 million.

The establishment of buffer zones around protected areas serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it provides a protective barrier that helps mitigate the adverse impacts of human activities and environmental factors on the natural environment. Secondly, it acts as a bridge between the park and its neighboring communities, fostering a symbiotic relationship. Within the buffer zones, local communities can benefit from park revenue, with potential gains ranging from 30% to 50%. In return, these communities actively engage in and support park management activities.

The buffer zone management program places a strong emphasis on sustainable natural resource management. It encourages eco-friendly land use practices and promotes community participation in conservation efforts, ensuring the long-term sustainability of these protected areas. As an integral part of this approach, various tourism activities, such as jeep safaris, tower nights, elephant rides, boat rides, and jungle walks, are operated by local communities as part of a community tourism initiative. These activities have been seamlessly integrated into the buffer zone management framework, ensuring that local communities reap the benefits of tourism income.

In essence, buffer zones are not merely geographic entities; they represent a pivotal aspect of Nepal’s conservation philosophy. While the primary focus within protected areas remains the fulfillment of specific conservation objectives, buffer zones facilitate meaningful community engagement. They serve as a critical interface where the interests of nature preservation and human well-being converge, contributing to the holistic and sustainable management of Nepal’s precious natural resources.