Chapter 1: Tapovana: Indigenous Source for Learning and Living (Experiences from Nepal)¹

The concepts of Tapovana are rooted in the spiritual values given by the people to their natural surroundings in appreciation of miraculous benefits in terms of ecosystem services. Some of the natural landscapes have become notable when the well-known hermits spent their spiritual life, such as in Shivapuri and Khaptad. In the present contexts, Tapovana concepts have contributed for conservation programs in the protected areas and heritage sites. In fact, such sites have also received importance because of shrines that existed there. In Nepal, protected areas and ecotourism are complementary to each other resulting in multiplier effects for win-win situation. At present, the modern form of Tapovana satisfies spiritual and physical needs of visitors. Its applications prevail in conventional education and sustainable development.