Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is a protected area located in the western part of Nepal. It was established in 1987 as a hunting reserve, but it has since been converted into a conservation area for the protection of the region’s flora and fauna. The reserve covers an area of approximately 1,325 km² and is situated at an altitude of 2,850 meters to 5,500 meters above sea level.
The hunting reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the endangered snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and blue sheep. It is also home to various bird species such as the Himalayan monal pheasant, blood pheasant, and koklass pheasant. The reserve is the only hunting reserve in Nepal that allows trophy hunting under a government-managed system.
The reserve is also a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, who come to experience trekking, camping, and hunting. Dhorpatan is renowned for its natural beauty and offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. The reserve is situated in the Dhaulagiri Himalayan range, which is the seventh-highest mountain range in the world, and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and forests.
The reserve is managed by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation of the Nepalese Government. The hunting activities in the reserve are strictly controlled and managed by the government, with hunting permits issued only to licensed hunters. The hunting season in Dhorpatan runs from September to May, with the best time to visit the reserve being from October to November and from April to May.
The reserve is also an important source of income for the local communities, who are actively involved in the management and conservation of the area. The reserve provides opportunities for local people to work as guides, porters, and cooks, and also supports the development of community-based tourism projects. The revenue generated from hunting permits is also used to fund conservation and development projects in the local area.
However, the reserve also faces several challenges, including poaching, illegal logging, and overgrazing by domestic animals. The Nepalese government, in collaboration with local communities and conservation organizations, is taking steps to address these issues and protect the reserve’s natural resources.
In conclusion, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is a unique conservation area that offers visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region and participate in sustainable hunting activities. The reserve is a vital habitat for a diverse range of wildlife and provides important economic benefits to local communities. However, it is important to ensure that the reserve is managed sustainably to protect its natural resources for future generations.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be met by your tour guide who will transfer you to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day resting and exploring the city.
Today, you will fly to Pokhara, a picturesque city located in the western part of Nepal. You will spend the day exploring the city and preparing for your trip to Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve
After breakfast, you will drive to Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve. The drive will take you through scenic routes, offering stunning views of the Himalayan ranges. You will reach Dhorpatan in the evening, where you will stay overnight at a local lodge.
You will spend the next three days hunting in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve. You will be accompanied by experienced local guides who will take you to the best hunting spots in the reserve. You will have the opportunity to hunt for a variety of game species, including the Himalayan tahr, musk deer, blue sheep, and Himalayan black bear. The hunting season in Dhorpatan runs from September to May, with the best time to visit the reserve being from October to November and from April to May.
After breakfast, you will drive back to Pokhara and take a flight back to Kathmandu, where you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.