Archive · 28 Nov 2025
Khangchendzonga Park Recognized as Best Managed Protected Area
The Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim, India, has been recognized as the best-managed protected area in the world by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
This park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its rich biodiversity, including snow leopards, red pandas, and over 550 species of birds.
It covers a large area and includes the world's third-highest peak, Mount Kanchenjunga.
The IUCN praised the park for its excellent management, community involvement, and sustainable tourism practices.
This recognition is a big achievement for Sikkim and highlights the state's commitment to conservation.
Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim recognized as 'Best Managed Protected Area' by IUCN in 2025.
Park spans 1,784 square kilometres and includes Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak.
Rich biodiversity with species like snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, red pandas, and over 550 bird species.
Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 2016 under the mixed heritage category.
IUCN's World Heritage Outlook assesses the park's conservation prospects, threats, and protection effectiveness.
- Who
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
- What
- Recognized Khangchendzonga National Park as the 'Best Managed Protected Area'
- When
- 2025 (IUCN recognition), 2016 (UNESCO recognition)
- Where
- Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim, India
- Why
- For its exemplary management effectiveness, community participation, and eco-friendly tourism practices
- Park Name
- Khangchendzonga National Park
- Location
- Sikkim, India
- Area
- 1,784 square kilometres
- UNESCO Recognition
- 2016 (Mixed Heritage Category)
- IUCN Recognition
- 2025 (Best Managed Protected Area)
- Key Species
- Snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, red panda, barking deer, Dhole (Asiatic wild dog)
- Bird Species
- 550 species, including blood pheasant, satyr tragopan, Himalayan griffon, Asian emerald cuckoo
- IUCN World Heritage Outlook
- Launched in 2014, provides global assessment of natural and mixed heritage sites