Shuklaphanta National Park was established as Wildlife Reserve in 1976 with an area of 155 sq km. In the year 1994, its area was extended to 305 sq km. Consequently, in 2004 a 243.5 sp km area was added as a buffer zone. Eventually, this wildlife reserve got its status as a National Park in 2016. The grasslands, waterholes, and wetlands formed by the floodplain of the Mahakali River are the main specialties of this National Park. This protected area is part of Terai-Duar savanna and grasslands ecoregion. Moreover, it is one of the best-conserved examples of floodplain grassland. It is also included in the Terai Arc Landscape.
The name ShuklaPhanta is derived from one of the dazzling open grassland found inside the protected area called “Phanta”. It is the largest patch of grassland in Nepal with an area of 16 sq km. Before 1976, the area was a favorite hunting spot for the royal class and was named Royal Shuklaphanta Hunting Reserve. The place is also said to be an ancient kingdom and has relics that are believed to be the fort during the Tharu King Singpal regime.
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