Rhododendron, which means red tree, refers to some species' red flowers and woody growth. Rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal. It is commonly called as Laliguras or Guras.  Rhododendrons range in habit from evergreen  to deciduous and from low-growing ground covers to tall trees. In Nepal, there are around 30 species of rhododendron, with dozens of different sorts, sizes, and colors. Among the roughly thirty types of rhododendrons present on Nepal's slopes, the bush Arboretum (Lali Gurans tree in Asian countries) is the most celebrated and fascinating. The flower can be found growing across the entire length of an Asian country and is stunningly colored in shades of red, pink, and white. Its trees reach up to fifteen meters in height, making it the tallest in an Asian country. It also has the most important trunk, the largest blossoms, and hence the earliest and longest blooming period.

Geographically, Rhododendron is found 1200 m to 3600 m above sea level. Out of 77 districts in Nepal, Rhododendron is found in about 43 districts.  Blooming Rhododendron has been one of the major points of attraction for trekking in different parts of Nepal. Major trekking area of Nepal Featuring Rhododendron are Milke Danda Region, Langtang valley, Poon Hill, Ghandruk etc. Besides Rhododendron have huge medicinal value. The Phenolic acids obtained from its leaves and twigs have been reported to have anti-HIV, anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive activities, and also its leaves and flowers are utilized for treating illness, headache, diabetes, rheumatism, etc. Hence, it should be conserved and protected.

Note: The photos are from my hiking to Latarambeshwor Mahadev, Hetauda, Nepal

Sources: https://www.insidehimalayas.com/rhododendrons-in-nepal/#:~:text=R

https://www.vivaanadventure.com/rhododendron-national-flower-of-n