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Khangchendzonga National Park: A UNESCO Crown of Sikkim Celebrates 9th Inscription Day with Conservation Spirit

Khangchendzonga National Park

Khangchendzonga National Park

Gyalshing, July 17, 2025:
Nine years ago, on July 17, 2016, the majestic Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP) earned a place on the world map as India’s first and only Mixed UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in the heart of Sikkim, KNP is not only a paradise of snow-clad peaks, alpine meadows, and vibrant forests, but also a sacred cultural landscape deeply rooted in the traditions of the Lepcha and Bhutia communities.

To mark this proud milestone, the KNP/KBR Gyalshing Division of the Forest and Environment Department, Government of Sikkim, celebrated the 9th Inscription Day with a strong focus on conservation, biodiversity, zero waste, and local community engagement.

Khangchendzonga National Park: A Day of Celebration and Conservation Talk

The event, held at Yuksom, was graced by Mr. Nandu Gurung, President of the Constituency Level Committee (CLC), as the Chief Guest. In his speech, he lauded the park’s management for promoting eco-tourism, waste management, and livelihood opportunities like birdwatcher and guide training.

KNP 9th Inscription Day: Key Highlights

Khangchendzonga National Park UNESCO Status: A Historic Recognition

Khangchendzonga National Park became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016, not only for its rich biodiversity but also for its cultural and spiritual significance. The nomination was supported by the Sikkim Government, local conservation groups, and indigenous communities who consider Mt. Khangchendzonga sacred.

The park was recognized under the “mixed category” — a rare honor that acknowledges both natural beauty and cultural heritage. It’s considered one of the few sites globally that showcase nature and spirituality living in harmony.

Area and Geography

Vegetation and Ecosystems

Khangchendzonga National Park covers several ecological zones:

Over 1,580 species of vascular plants and 422 medicinal plants are found here. Many orchids are endemic, and some are protected under CITES.

Wildlife Wonderland

Khangchendzonga National Park is home to:

The WWF team’s finding of 21 snow leopards is a proud achievement for such a small state with limited altitude habitats.

Culture and Spiritual Connection

The park is sacred to both Lepcha and Bhutia communities. For the Lepchas, the region is known as Mayel Lyang (hidden paradise). For Buddhists, it’s a part of the “beyul” tradition—hidden sacred landscapes that offer spiritual refuge.

Zero Waste & Sustainability

Sikkim is known for its green policies, and the Resource Recovery Centre (RRC) in Yuksom is leading by example. Talks during the event emphasized plastic-free living, eco-tourism, and the importance of youth participation in conservation.

Also Read: TTF Kolkata 2025: Sikkim Unveils Breathtaking Destinations That Will Leave You Speechless!

Why KNP Matters?

The 9th Inscription Day celebration was not just a birthday of sorts for the park—it was a reminder of our collective duty to protect this global heritage site. The collaborative efforts of the Forest Department, WWF, local villagers, monasteries, and youth volunteers are creating a powerful movement for sustainable conservation in the Himalayas.

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