Universally, trees have been recognized as an important component of
urban landscapes for millennia because they provide a wide range of benefits to
society. Although the planting of trees has been an integral and important part of
human settlements in Nepal, the concept of urban forestry is poorly understood and
often neglected. This paper investigates urban peoples’ perceptions towards urban
forests as well as the perceived benefits related to the use and existence of urban
forests in Lalitpur, Nepal. A survey was conducted among residents and visitors to
an urban park. Most respondents held positive attitudes towards urban forests and
were aware of the benefits provided. Despite involvement of various agents from
both government and non-governmental organizations in promoting urban forests,
greenery was declining in the city. The loss and degradation of urban forests
adversely affected the ecosystems because the city is suffering from water, air and
soil pollution. In recent years, the local government has promoted urban greenery;
however, there are no accompanying legislation or regulations governing urban
forestry. Therefore, concrete scientific and professional knowledge is required in
order to manage the forestry in the city