Why Is Khangchendzonga India’s Only ‘Good’ Rated Heritage Site?

In the latest global assessment by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Khangchendzonga National Park has earned a rare distinction: it is the only Indian natural World Heritage Site to receive a “Good” rating. This comes at a time when other Indian heritage sites like the Western Ghats, Sundarbans, and Manas Wildlife Sanctuary are listed with concerns or threats.

So what sets Khangchendzonga apart?

A Unique Heritage

• Recognised by UNESCO in 2016 as India’s first “mixed” World Heritage Site, the park is celebrated not only for its breathtaking biodiversity but also for its deep cultural significance.
• Covering 1,784 sq. km, the park stretches from dense subtropical forests to the summit of Mount Khangchendzonga (8,586 m), the third-highest peak in the world. It boasts:
• 280 glaciers and over 70 glacial lakes
• Home to rare species such as the snow leopard, red panda, clouded leopard, and Himalayan tahr
• Habitat for over 550 bird species, including the impeyan pheasant and satyr tragopan

A Sacred Landscape

For local communities, the park is much more than just wilderness,

• The Lepcha people call it Mayel Lyang – a hidden paradise gifted by their gods.
• Tibetan Buddhists regard it as a sacred beyul (hidden valley), and ancient monasteries like Tholung continue to preserve centuries-old spiritual traditions.
• This spiritual reverence has fostered a culture of natural respect and restraint, playing a vital role in conservation.

Why the “Good” Rating?

IUCN’s positive assessment of Khangchendzonga can be attributed to multiple factors,

• Low Human Impact: The park’s remote location limits urban or commercial pressure.
• Community Involvement: Forest rangers work in tandem with villagers to protect both biodiversity and livelihoods.
• Sustainable Development: Since its designation as a Biosphere Reserve in 2018, buffer zones allow sustainable farming and resource use.
• Cross-Border Conservation: Cooperation with Nepal’s Kanchenjunga Conservation Area ensures protection beyond boundaries.
• Resilience Against Disasters: Even during the 2024 glacial lake outburst flood, damage was minimised due to preemptive hazard mapping.

A Lesson for India

• Khangchendzonga is living proof that conservation and culture can go hand-in-hand.
• At a time when many protected sites in India are battling encroachment, pollution, and resource exploitation, the park serves as a model of ecological harmony and resilience.

Final Thought

• India, a land rich in biodiversity, needs to look at Khangchendzonga not just as a trophy but as a template for future conservation.
• With thoughtful planning, community engagement, and respect for tradition, other heritage sites can also aim for that coveted “Good” rating — and safeguard their legacy for generations to come.

Did you know?

• Khangchendzonga is one of only 12 sites worldwide to be recognised as both natural and cultural heritage.
• It is part of the Eastern Himalayas, a biodiversity hotspot home to over 10,000 plant species.