National Flower of Nepal – Where Can You Find Rhododendron in Nepal

Nepal is a country of natural wonders, including the red, pink, and white blooms of fresh Rhododendron flowers you see blooming in spring. The Rhododendron flower is mainly found in the mountains of the country.

That said, it is also Nepal’s national flower. Instead of growing in smaller bushes, Rhododendrons bloom in trees, improving the aesthetic value of their surroundings. From the trekkers to the locals living around the blooming flowers, everyone is enthralled and freshened by the air and the beautiful aura spread by their blossoming glory.

There are so many things to know about the national flower of Nepal. In this article, we’ve mentioned everything that may make you curious about this unique element of Nepal. Make sure to read till the end!

Overview of Rhododendron Flower

Rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal, also known as the country of the Himalayas. From rich blue and white mountains, the flowers glow brightly amidst the sky and the peaks. This beautifies the natural glow of your visit to the mountainous regions of Nepal as well. Not many countries, like Nepal, have this flower in abundance because it usually grows in colder mountainous areas.

During your trek, you may pass by a passerby who has rested beneath the shadows of the beautiful tree in full bloom. There is more than just one color of Rhododendron. However, red is somewhat stereotyped as the natural color of the flower. You may see the petals of the same flower species in either white or pink. Regardless of the color, its characteristic of adding unmatched beauty to nature remains constant. Furthermore, 30 different species of Rhododendron were found in Nepal.

Where Can You Find the National Flower of Nepal?

Though a national flower, you won’t find Rhododendron just about anywhere and must go to specific locations to enjoy the views with these flowers. It is usually found in the mountainous parts of the country. That said, the following are some of the places in Nepal where you can best explore dense Rhododendron forests:

 Annapurna Conservation Area

The Annapurna Conservation Area is one of the best places to go if you want to enjoy the beauty of nature in Nepal, including trees and trees of Rhododendron. Along with this, you also get to experience the enthralling scenery of Mount Annapurna and trek to the famous Poon Hill or even Annapurna Base Camp.

 Langtang National Park

Langtang National Park is another great option if you want to experience the beauty of the flower species with your eyes. In addition to Rhododendrons, you can enjoy wildlife species and go on safari inside the national park.

 Makalu Barun National Park

The Makalu Barun National Park is another excellent location to explore Rhododendron forests. Likewise, you will enjoy wildlife and flora in the park while enjoying the view of Mount Makalu amid the red, white, or pink forests.

 Rara National Park

The Rara National Park is another location best known for giving visitors the best view with the most spectacular natural experience, including forests and trees of Rhododendron. You can see everything, from vast lakes to stunning flowers here.

 Kanchenjunga Conservation Area

If you love the mountains and want to find the beauty of the peaks in Nepal along with the beauty of Rhododendrons, then this is another best location for you. In addition, visitors can go through the natural aspects while trekking and engaging in other activities.

 Kathmandu Valley

The Kathmandu Valley is the location of Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu. Here, you will find a fantastic urban lifestyle and several places that are just as rich in natural aspects, including Rhododendrons. The Botanical Garden in Godavari, Lalitpur, is an asset to the city where you can find flowers. It is the best time to visit Nepal and enjoy the allure of Rhododendron.

Though it is best to visit Nepal throughout the year, most locations, especially the hills, have moderate climates all year round and do not push the weather to extremes. These will surely be the best times of the year, making your visit even better. The peak visiting seasons are just as preferable for visitors who want to enjoy the charm of the national flower.

Among all the other seasons open for visitors, spring is quite possibly the best one you can choose if you want to enjoy the allure of the mountains and the ever-beautiful Rhododendron flowers. The sky is clear, and the weather is just as mild. If you want to find pleasure in your surroundings, there is no better season to go anywhere in Nepal than spring.

Moreover, flower blooms are always better in spring. After being shed in harsher seasons like fall and winter, spring always brings about a distinct color and brightness in nature, which works best in the favor of visitors. Besides, the photos you’ll take during this journey will also be stunning!

Cultural Significance of Rhododendron in Nepal

As mentioned before, Rhododendron has cultural significance in Nepal. This is not limited to being an important symbol used to identify the Nepali community but also one that symbolizes the color crimson, the national color of the country, and uniqueness, which is another way of describing the Nepalese culture and traditional beliefs of the country. Moreover, this flower is used in festivals, rituals, religious practices, and even modern pop culture, referencing nationality and patriotism.

As delicate as it is, the Rhododendron holds much importance in Nepali culture. Hindu and Buddhist people best use this flower in spiritual healing and religious practices. From offering the flower to the god to simply wearing it in the hair, there is much more to it than just being a symbol of nationalism.

Its scent is just as good for healing yourself from within. You will indulge in this flower’s beauty and fragrance if you love nature. That being said, there is a good reason why this flower is used for spiritual rituals. Festivals like Dashain and Tihar, the biggest celebrations in the country, use this flower. It has become mandatory to use these flowers in any Nepalese celebration and festival all around the country, especially in the hills, where they hold the most cultural significance.

What More Significance Does Rhododendron Hold in Nepal?

Cultural significance is a major one, and Rhododendron has held several significant positions in Nepalese culture. From medical care to tourism, the importance of this flower has touched many other aspects.

The following are some such aspects:

 Tourism and economic impact

Tourism is one of the major parts of Nepal’s economy. While there are many sources of income, including the GDP and remittances from abroad, tourism plays just as big of a part. Rhododendron has also been a significant contributor to the country’s earnings. This flower is rarely seen in most other parts of the world. Many are curious about the beauty of this plant species. Others are curious about what a big bunch of this flower looks like.

While people are coming to Nepal from far and wide to explore the beauty of this flower, they are giving the Nepali economy the benefit of both worlds by helping them raise an economy and promoting tourism activities in the country. Similarly, there have been mentions of Rhododendrons in the writings of several European writers and botanists, all of whom had only good things to say about the flower. Therefore, the flower indicates Nepal’s botanical richness. It has contributed to the spread of the beauty of Nepal to countries far and wide.

 Medicinal Purpose

Rhododendron is an herb that grows in Nepal and has been used for medicinal benefits for several years. Since people in ancient times did not have access to the remedies we have today, they found them in all available. This includes the national flower of Nepal. This flower has several benefits besides healing common illnesses like inflammation and colds.

Ayurvedic herbs that you find in the global market are most likely to have elements of this flower. Nepalese medicines include the most properties of this flower. However, one more thing needs to be kept in mind for anyone looking to find medicinal benefits in this flower: it can be just as allergy-triggering. Many not habituated to this flower’s scent and properties may become sensitive to them and need cautionary advice.

 Skincare

In the past, people from the areas where this flower was most abundant used to dry its petals, crush them, and mix them with water to make facial masks. Rhododendron best works for skin conditions that are curable with mild treatments. This mask will likely make your skin glow and rejuvenate older cells into forming newer, fresher ones.

It has been a significant part of several cultures throughout the centuries. Even now, many skin care professionals have emphasized its benefits in your skincare regimen. Further, this paste can be used for both the face and body and won’t cause reactionary results (unless you have severe skin conditions).

 Ecological Advantage

Rhododendrons have been growing for centuries in Nepal. Hence, the bloom of this flower has positively impacted biodiversity here. From retaining water in the forests, especially the mountainous regions in Nepal, to enhancing the beauty of nature and conserving the soil, several benefits go beyond human beings, though indirectly associated with humans.

Furthermore, Rhododendrons can benefit endangered animals living in the forests of Nepal, where they grow. These animals and birds feed on the flower, aided by its edible properties. Since many herbs, including Rhododendrons, are common for providing health benefits, the magic of the properties also works on animals and birds.

 Art and Literature

Art and literature are two of the most endearing components of Nepalese culture. Art and literature have influenced many and touched lives from the oldest to the newest generations alive. You can see pictures of mountains painted behind Rhododendron flowers whenever you visit a museum or a place with paintings by Nepali artists. Likewise, in literature, there have been references to the flower, which has romanticized its beauty through national and romantic metaphors.

In modern times, you can see just as many contemporary artists using Rhododendrons as a reference to contemporary art forms. In poetry, you will hear a girl being compared to this flower, while in a different sort of poetry, you will hear a poet get emotional over the beauty of his country accompanied by the national flower. Indirectly, Rhododendron also enhances art’s beauty by giving painters a natural red pigment that can be used as paint.

Rhododendrons contribute to both handicraft and natural dyes. This flower has been used as a natural dye and stain from ancient to modern times.

How Did the Rhododendron Become the National Flower of Nepal?

There is a story about how the Rhododendron became Nepal’s national flower. It has yet to be discovered when and how the flower may have become the country’s national flower. It is a rare plant that is not found in as many regions worldwide as in Nepal.

The date and year when the flower became so significant nationally is also unknown. The flower is used as a symbol of beauty and national pride for many reasons, as mentioned above.

There have been many assumptions about the origin of the symbolism of Rhododendron till now. Strength and resilience are two things that have been common among Nepalese people since ancient times. The Nepalese history tells how the brave Gorkha soldier did not shy away from their responsibilities when the time had come in the past.

Instead, they took it to their strength, fought fearlessly, and remained resilient until they attained what they sought. Similarly, British rulers in the past also appreciated the courage and bravery of Nepalese soldiers. Nepalese people have carried this trait in them no matter where they’ve gone. However, this cannot be mistaken for them being ruthless and ignorant. Their bravery is only their strength and not their weakness.

When you visit Nepal, you will find yourself immersed in the hospitality of the Nepalese people.

They are very hospitable and kind to anyone who visits them. Nepalese people might be the most respectful and welcoming people you’ll meet worldwide. And these are not just mere exaggerations.

From delivering speeches to the tourists to caring for their needs, the Nepalese people know what it takes to win the visitors’ hearts. Like the people it represents, the Rhododendron has a solid body and grows on a tree, but it has warmth and softness that heal and aesthetically please those using or looking at it.

Rhododendrons were usually used in references to songs and dances by the Magar and Gurung communities since they are closer to the mountains while staying in the hills, just like the flowers.

You can also hear about this flower species in several community stories. Also, religious texts from Hindu and Buddhist sections are mentioned, proving their significance. Besides symbolizing resilience and strength, it has also become the symbol of compassion and care due to its mention in pop culture and religion. The love, as depicted by the mentions, is not only limited to romantic relationships but extends to love for god and the country.

 Royalty and Rhododendron

While discussing the history of the national flower, we cannot miss out on how Prithvi Narayan Shah, who had the vision of unifying Nepal and did just that, had a garden full of Rhododendrons.

Not only him, but many past royals have cherished the flower’s beauty. You don’t usually find this flower in random locations, which is also why Rhododendron is perceived to have a royal essence. And since the flower is found in rare yet diverse places in the country, it is just as much a representative of diversity in Nepali society.

 Use of Rhododendron in Official Symbols, Postage Stamps, and Recognition Across the Nation

The Rhododendron was in postage stamps during the 1960s, when writing letters was standard. The first stamp from the Nepal Postal Service showed the flower. The flower had already been recognized as a national symbol by that time.

But, having used it as a stamp sticker made it all the more recognizable among those who did not have as much reach of the country’s whereabouts and knowledge of the flower. In the old times, postage stamps played a significant role in helping people become familiar with the flower and the importance of nationality.

Unlike in modern times, the most reach to the media and the outer Nepalese people was the radio, which too was not accessible to everyone. Television entered the media arena in the country much later.

What, however, was accessible for all and came at a cheaper price were letters. Though a small element, when you look back now, the postage stamps played a significant role in letting the majority of the population in the country become known as the national flower. That was also the time when many people got to see that they even had a national flower.

As of now, you will see Rhododendrons in offices of government officials, national parliaments, tourism announcements and brochures, pottery, textiles, and jewelry. The brooch can be worn in the pocket of Daura Suruwal, Npal’sNepal’s national costume.

Many such brooches feature Rhododendrons, symbolizing national beauty and a blend of cultural elements in a single costume. If you visit flower festivals in Nepal, you will likely buy a bunch of Rhododendrons. Besides just using them as a temporary decoration, you can best use them in different ways, aforementioned.

Valuable Tips for Trekkers and Travelers While Exploring Locations with Rhododendron

Several tips are necessary for trekkers and travelers when exploring locations with Rhododendrons. Since most such areas are protected, you must avoid offending or harming the locals’ surroundings and sentiments. Being considerate about what surrounds you and who lives in the area you’re visiting is one of the most crucial things to remember as a trekker and a traveler.

The following are some valuable tips that you can use to get the best out of your exploration, especially when you are touring to find Rhododendron flowers:

 Photography Tips

Photographers most commonly visit the conservation areas in Nepal to photograph Rhododendrons. However, you cannot capture the flower’s genuine, authentic beauty unless you make an effort. It’s not hard to get the best shot, as the aesthetics of the Nepalese locations are effortlessly exceptional. Getting an excellent shot almost entirely depends on your skills as a photographer.

The following are some ways you can capture the best flower shots:

• Choose the best time of the day. Usually, golden hours or blue hours (sunset and sunrise hours) are the best to capture amazing pictures of the flower. Clicking pictures during midday may seem like a good idea on the surface level, given the lighting will be fruitful for your aesthetic needs. However, this is not the case in the Himalayas. You have to be careful about your surroundings, especially the lighting, which is best in the morning and afternoon.

• Selecting the best season for photography is just as important when you want to get the best picture of a Rhododendron. The beauty of the surroundings is only justified when you go to a location with this flower during springtime. During winter and summer, you may not get the best picture of the flower as there may not be adequate blossom, and the aesthetics may not be up to par.

• You cannot travel by road and come back and expect to get the best shots. You must trek and explore to find the best locations for the best shots. Trekking to the aforementioned national parks and conservation areas will help you capture the perfect pictures.

• Taking pictures up close will help you get the best ones, too. When you take photos from afar, capturing the essence, the flower, of the photo becomes topography. The focus is diversified to different elements in the surroundings aside from Rhododendrons. Taking a close-up shot will help you avoid this issue.

• Ensure that the contrasts and framing of the pictures are up to the mark. If you are not a professional photographer, it would be best to seek help from photographers to capture the best shot in the way necessary.

• To take the perfect picture, be considerate about maintaining the beauty of the surroundings. Plucking flowers and breaking the branches to get your ideal shot won’t be worth it. Plus, you are likely to be caught and get into trouble.

 Eco-Friendly Travel Strategies

You need to keep the location you’re traveling in safe and consistently beautiful. Causing any harm or disturbance in nature is likely to give some trekkers unnecessary convenience, and they might get into a problem if they are caught by authorities while doing an unwanted act.

The following are some ways you can follow eco-friendly travel tips while enjoying views of Rhododendrons:

• Don’t litter. This is one of the most problematic factors that naturally beautiful locations face when trekkers and travelers visit them. You don’t have to throw your garbage in these locations. You have a bag; make use of it. The litter is least likely to take up much space in your bag. Throwing it in a dustbin or saving it to throw later when you find a safe place for disposal is not only a choice but mandatory.

• Avoid using plastic and only buy eco-friendly gear. A small effect on your gears and non-biodegradable products can cause more significant issues in the future. It’s all about piling up such materials in nature, leading to an adverse effect on beauty. While you enjoy the beautiful red, white, and pink visuals, ensure nature is just as consistently safe in your presence.

• Don’t go beyond trails that have been marked safe for trekking. Crossing boundaries and going beyond a specific marked area ruins the soil and the plantation there. From trees to even Rhododendrons, trekkers need to ensure safety and beauty in nature by adhering to the rules of the areas they visit.

• Respect those who promote conservation in forest areas. Some locals have been assigned the duty to protect nature. Make sure to respect their efforts and contribute to them, if possible. But don’t degrade their efforts by doing something harmful to nature.

• Make sure you are not wasting water and buying from plastic water bottles. Instead, carry a water bottle and some water purification tablets. This way, you can get proper hydration without causing harm to the locations you visit while looking for Rhododendrons.

Travel with a guide.

When you are trekking or traveling alone in areas with Rhododendrons, you can cause harm to the environment and even the trees of the flower. It is for your convenience to find the best locations without wasting time and learn about the locality’s rules, so travel with a guide.

The following tips may be helpful while you’re at it:

• Many guides might promise you a good tour. You really cannot trust them all. It takes an experienced guide to travel with a floral enthusiast looking to explore Rhododendron forests and flowers. A knowledgeable guide will not only help you find the best places with the flowers but will also educate you on the properties of the flowers, which are all scientifically proven. This will make your trek or travel both educational and fun.

• You won’t only be trekking to find a flower, though it may seem to be worth it for many floral enthusiasts. Instead, with the help of a good guide, you can blend in, though temporarily, with the culture and lifestyle of the local communities, regardless of which location you’re visiting.

• Choose a guide who is fluent in your language, most specifically English. Local languages are tough to tackle for a foreigner visiting Nepal. You cannot risk your safety and fun for the price of finding the national flower through a guide’s help. Even the best local guides speak English well and are fluent in other languages. Make sure to check this before hiring them.

• You cannot depend on a less experienced guide in trekking for safe travel. If possible, do not hire those working independently. Hiring from trekking agencies is not only going to make your trek or travel safely but also reliable. An experienced guide will take you through the safest and most easily navigable trails.

• Many experienced guides who have been trekking and traveling with those looking to take pictures of Rhododendrons for years will also give helpful tips on taking the most beautiful photos. This can best benefit beginner photographers.

Challenges in Preserving and Conserving Rhododendron in Nepal

Though Rhododendrons are abundant in Nepal, the number of blooms and trees has significantly decreased compared to the past. Rhododendrons are found in rare locations, and since many trekkers and travelers have visited these locations in recent years, the flower species is nearly extinct.

The law and authorities of the country protect the presence of these flowers for a big reason. The flower is a source of pride for everyone with Nepali blood, and tourists have cherished the species just as much. It is, after all, unique and beautiful.

Sadly, even the authorities keeping the flowers on guard face several challenges when preserving and conserving them in Nepal. Some of the challenges are given below:

 Deforestation

Afforestation programs may be standard in several areas with Rhododendron flowers, but deforestation is just as expected. Some locals have been growing in population, further leading to environmental dangers. The population in and around the protected areas is more than it used to be. And, the tourism efforts in such places are always more significant than a year that has passed. Cutting down trees has also negatively impacted Rhododendron forests.

 Global warming

Among many things that are both controllable and uncontrollable, global warming is one significant factor in why the Rhododendron preservation tactics are failing or not working as well as they have been aimed at.

Global warming has made it hard for the flowers to flourish to their fullest potential, as the climate is not half as favorable as it used to be several years ago. Any older adult who has been in these local preservation areas for years may spot the difference and will tell you about the negative changes in the climate of the flower species.

 Invasive plants

The plants and flowers in a specific location are not always the only ones that remain there. Plants that uncommonly invade the areas where Rhododendrons are planted are likely to negatively affect the flower’s growth. Some may stunt the development of the national flower, while others may overpower the soil and keep the flowers from flourishing as they should.

 Economic demands

Nepal is best known for tourism, which has led to several tourism firms promoting activities that help grow the country’s economy. However, this does not mean that economic growth is equally favorable. The excess in tourism activities is now leading to dangerous environmental effects.

 Lack of resources

Nepal is a developing country. Hence, it does not have all the resources and funding required for just the development of the natural elements in the country. While there is a significant potential for the natural elements, including Rhododendrons, to keep flourishing with time, inadequacy has

made the country’s natural resources a victim of economic circumstances.

 Lack of awareness

Not everyone who visits locations with Rhododendrons knows how to preserve and protect the environment while considering the flower. Instead, people go about their day after exploration. Even those keeping the areas are not as educated as they should be regarding knowing what to do with all they have.

 The dire state of the political area

Nepal is not the politically soundest country you’ll visit. Though the hospitality, facilities, and locations are exceptional, you may not realize the political area’s impact on the country’s natural resources, including Rhododendrons. The flower, as beautiful as it is, is not promoted to countries outside and is not conserved as it should be. Most factors holding back potential revolve around the country’s political state.

Conclusion

Besides being a piece of art and a gift from Mother Nature, the Rhododendron flower also becomes the perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts and anyone keen on art and photography. Since it is used as a symbol of Nepali culture, you can find Rhododendrons in various settings, including political, social, and educational events all around the country. Likewise, the flower plays a role in Nepalese tradition within and globally.