A newly published book, ‘Plants of Kathmandu Valley: A Pictorial Guide’, offers a visually rich and scientifically detailed reference for plant enthusiasts, botanists, conservationists, and nature lovers interested in the diverse flora of Nepal’s capital region.
Authored by Man B. Rokaya, Shalik R. Sigdel, Saroj K. Kasaju, and La Dorche Sherpa, the book provides a comprehensive catalog of 885 species of flowering plants, belonging to 491 genera and 120 families. With meticulously curated content, the guide offers valuable insights into the botanical characteristics, ecological significance, and uses of various plant species representing subtropical to cool upper temperature climatic zones.
The book is the result of over 12 years of extensive field research (covering all ten segments of the valley and its periphery) and is the first in a two-volume series. It is structured into three chapters. The first chapter provides background information on Kathmandu Valley’s geography, history, climate, and cultural significance. The second chapter offers an overview of vegetation and biodiversity, while the third chapter details various plant species, including their scientific names, synonyms, vernacular names (ranging from Nepali, Newari and Bhotiya to Sunuwar, Tamang, Gurung and more), physical characteristics, flowering and fruiting periods, habitats, distribution, and economic as well as medicinal and other uses.
Plant species in the book are systematically arranged in alphabetical order, first by family and then by species, ensuring easy reference. Each entry begins with the accepted Latin name, highlighted in bold, followed by synonyms, if applicable, presented in italics. To provide a comprehensive understanding, the book incorporates information from reliable published sources to list the vernacular names of each species.
One of its most striking features is the inclusion of high-quality, well-labeled photographs, making plant identification easier even for beginners. The book serves as a practical guide to understanding and appreciating the valley’s flora, bridging the gap between scientific research and general interest.
Beyond being a field guide, the book underscores the importance of plant conservation, especially in the face of rapid urbanization. By documenting the region’s flora, the authors highlight the urgency of preserving native plant species and their natural habitats. The book not only raises awareness but also serves as a valuable resource for researchers and conservationists working in Nepal’s unique biodiversity.
The authors bring extensive expertise to this work. Rokaya is associated with the Institute of Botany and Global Change Research Institute, Czech Academy of Sciences. Sigdel is with the Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, while Kasaju and Sherpa are Kathmandu-based botanists. Kasaju is recognised for his discovery of Thunbergia kasajuana .
The book was partially funded by the Kathmandu Centre for Research and Education (KCRE) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences-Tribhuvan University. It was published by B. Timsina and B. M. Sharma, and is priced at Rs 3,100.
With its engaging visuals and scientific precision, Plants of Kathmandu Valley: A Pictorial Guide is an essential addition to the library of colleges and higher secondary schools as well as to anyone passionate about Nepal’s rich botanical heritage.
