three grass root philosophies: maximum peoples’ participation, sustainability, and its role as a catalyst (facilitator) whereby the local people are involved in all aspects of the conservation and development processes, both as principal actors and prime beneficiaries. The Annapurna Conservation Area supports a high diversity of flora and fauna species. A total of 1,226 species of plants (including 38 orchid species and 9 Rhododendron species), 101 species of reptiles and 22 species of amphibians have been recorded in the ACA. The area harbors rare and endangered wildlife species such as the Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Tibetan Argali, Impeyan Pheasant and Tragopan Pheasant. The ACA provides a large protected area with the entire habitat gradient from sub tropical Sal forests to perennial snow in which to maintain the Biodiversity and integrity of the central Himalayas. Manasalu Conservation Area Manasalu conservation area is a recently opened trek taking you into the heart of the western Nepal Himalayas. From Gorkha, you trek up the wild Budhi Gandakhi river, through rough gorges slicing between Himachuli (7,890 m). The trails are steep but the sight of the peak of Manaslu (8,156 m) and the trek towards the Larkya La (5,153 m) is worth the effort. After the hike through the pass a steep descent into the Marsyangdi valley follows. Finally, a walk along the river through small villages and then across the river leads you to the magnificent Pokhara valley. See also Development Regions of Nepal (Former) List of zones of Nepal (Former) List of districts of Nepal Zones of Nepal Gandaki Province 2015 disestablishments in Nepal