Dhorpatan Trek - 19 Days Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve Trek

Trip Overview

The Dhorpatan Trek is one of the hidden jewels in Nepal and is not very well-known among trekking routes. It lies in the western part of the country and falls within the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, which is one of the most remote and wildest trekking spots in Nepal. The main feature of Dhorpatan Trek is the wilderness, beauty of nature, and biodiversity of the region.

A profound trek usually originating from Baglung or Darbang, Dhorpatan Trek meanders through the picturesque village with terraced fields and dense forests. En route, you come across several species of wildlife, such as Himalayan tahr, musk deer, blue sheep, and many birds make your journey exciting.

Your itinerary in Dhorpatan Trek will be truly enriched by arriving at Dhorpatan Village, which is a traditional village lying at an altitude of about 2,900 meters. It is here that one can immerse in the culture and hospitality of Magar and Thakali communities. Being a gateway to the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, the village offers a unique combination whereby one gets to observe the coexistence of traditional life with the unique wildlife and landscapes of the region-a truly unique cultural immersion.

The Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges slowly come into view as one walks further into the reserve. The trek gradually concludes at the 4,200-meter-high Dhorpatan Base Camp, affording views of surrounding peaks and valleys.

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only and exclusive area in Nepal, highly reputed as the country's only hunting reserve. Established as a hunting reserve in 1987, it covers an extensive area of approximately 1,325 square kilometers, thereby making it the largest hunting reserve in Nepal.

Following are the main features and aspects of Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve:

Location:

The Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is situated in the western part of Nepal, bordering districts such as Baglung, Rukum, and Myagdi. High Himalayan peaks, dense forests, and alpine meadows mark this reserve.

From a preserved area originally for flora and fauna, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is the only area that has permitted controlled and regulated hunting. The main aim here is to keep the balance of the ecosystem and preserve the biodiversity of the area.

Wildlife:

The different kinds of wildlife found in this reserve include the elusive Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, Himalayan ghoral, serow, and other ungulates. Dhorpatan is a haven for birdlife in different species of pheasants, partridges, and raptors.

Season and Permits for Hunting:

Normally, the hunting season, from autumn to early spring, is a time people come to Dhorpatan for hunting. Hunting here is highly regulated and requires a special permit issued by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation. The number of permits issued every year is limited to ensure hunting is exercised in a sustainable and responsible way.

Community Involvement

Most importantly, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve has a vital role in terms of management and conservation in the local communities. Revenue accrued from hunting permits often finds its way into reinvestment in various development projects in the community, hence creating a sustainable relationship that is mutually beneficial to both parties.

Tourism and Conservation:

Whereas Dhorpatan is basically famous for hunting, it also receives non-hunting tourists who come to explore its untouched landscapes, various flora, and distinctive cultural heritage. This kind of tourism allows the promotion of the local economy while raising the importance of wildlife conservation.

It needs to be noticed that in Dhorpatan, hunting is centrally regulated under ethical and sustainable principles that give assurance to the continuity of the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area.

Itinerary

Equipment list for Dhorpatan Trek

This checklist is designed to help you prepare for a trekking holiday in Nepal, with additional notes for those attempting to summit a trekking peak. It's reassuring to know that high-quality gear, including outdoor clothing and sleeping bags, can be conveniently rented in Kathmandu.

Most treks will be in lodges or teahouses, which offer basic rooms with two single beds and mattresses. These lodges, with their cozy rooms and provided blankets, ensure a comfortable stay, making your trek a more enjoyable experience. A good-quality three-season sleeping bag should suffice. However, for trekking peaks, you'll generally set up base camp with tents, necessitating a warmer sleeping bag, a liner to enhance its warmth, and a sleeping mattress.