Home to some of the most gigantic and challenging mountains on Earth, Nepal, a land-locked country located in South Asia, is a place that has nature and adrenaline packed into one. It has a wide array of trekking routes, picturesque landscapes and distinct cultures. For lovers of the great outdoors, Nepal is a dreamland that can't be missed.

Many naturalists consider Nepal as a treasure trove, thanks to its extreme variations in altitudes and climates. The country is so rich in flora that the hills and mountainsides are carpeted with colorful flowering plants during spring. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) lists Chitwan National Park, the first national park in Nepal, as a Natural World Heritage Site. The park is known for its protection of One-Horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tigers and Gharial Crocodiles. 

In this article, we look at the greener side of the aisle and introduce you to the two lovely plants that are most popular in the country.

Rhododendron

Over 30 species of rhododendron grow in Nepal, but the most popular one is Rhododendron Arboreum, also called Lali Gurans in Nepali. The bright red flower is recognized as the national flower of the country. Growing throughout the length of Nepal, the beloved flower usually blooms in March and April, heralding the advent of spring.

Nepalis also use the juice of the Lali Gurans to dissolve fish bones stuck in the throat. The flower is also popular for its health benefits and the locals believe that its juice can cure dysentery. Many poems and popular songs have been written to praise the beauty and benefits of the Lali Gurans in Nepali language. Women love to put the flower in their hair to enhance their beauty.  

Some best places to see the lovely flower while trekking include the Langtang National Park, Upper Tamur River Valley and Pulchowki hills in the southern part of the Kathmandu Valley.

Marigold

Marigold, a plant considered auspicious in Nepal, plays a significant role in the country's ceremonies. During Tihar, a five-day-long Hindu festival known as the festival of flowers and lights, millions of these golden-yellow flowers are collected and made into garlands to decorate temples and homes. On the second day of Tihar, dogs are garlanded with marigold flowers to endorse their loyalty toward humans. On the day after, cows are worshiped with marigold garlands as they are considered sacred by Hindus.

Marigold is easy to grow. It not only brings brightness to the landscape but is also beneficial for insects such as butterflies and bees. It thrives in sunny places with well-drained soil.

About 'Plants & Nations' 

"Plants & Nations" is a series of articles and pictures about common plants in the world. It serves as a guide to beautiful plants from different countries. 

For more articles of the series, you can check:

Plants & Nations: Uganda

Plants & Nations: The Netherlands

Plants & Nations: Kyrgyzstan

(Top image via VCG)

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com.)