Andket is recognized for being the biggest village in Akkar with a widely spread forest. In addition of its historical and cultural importance being the site of several historical events that go back to the “Mamlukes Age” and the “Ottomans”, this region, especially the 0.52 km2 of it declared as a Hima in 2012, represents an ecological importance due to its faunal and floral richness where different species of birds are found like woodcock, wood pigeon and lesser spotted eagle. Hosting an important diversity of trees and flowers as well as edible and medic- inal plants like thymes, sage and mints, this land is rich in resources that should be maintained and sustainably used.
It is part of Hima Upper Akkar that was established in 2009 and it includes several areas, in Aandket, KarmChbat and Qobayyat. This area extends in the North of Lebanon from Wadi Jhannam to Al Qammouaa, passing through Meshmesh and Fneidik, with an estimated area of 5270 hectares.
Upper Akkar Mountains are covered with forests of Lebanese Cedar trees, and Excelsa Juniperus, in addition to the presence of rocky slopes and grasslands for grazing. It is known to have the highest forest cover of 21% in comparison to 13% average in the whole country. This region is characterized by its high biodiversity (fauna and flora), by which there are at least 500 plant species, unique animal species such as the Persian squirrel and a huge number of birds (about 134 species) including the Syrian Serin that is globally threatened with extinction. This area is the first entry point for soaring bird migration into Lebanon.
Activities to be done:
The area of Upper Akkar is characterized by amazing natural scenes and archaeological sites of Roman castles, temples, and cemetery; making it an ideal area for:
-
Historical tourism
-
Eco-tourism
-
Picnics
-
Hiking
-
Bird and animal watching
-
Traditional Lebanese Cuisine.
Hima Andaket Guide: Download PDF file
