Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve Tour – Overview
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is Nepal’s only legal hunting reserve and one of the most unique protected areas in the Himalayas. Established in 1983 and officially gazetted in 1987, this reserve was created to control illegal hunting and protect rare wildlife species. It spreads across three western districts of Nepal—Baglung, Myagdi, and Rukum.
Covering an area of around 1,325 square kilometers, Dhorpatan is a hidden Himalayan wilderness that combines adventure, wildlife exploration, and cultural discovery. Unlike other national parks in Nepal, this area is specially designated for controlled and regulated hunting under strict government permission, making it a rare conservation model in the world.
Natural Beauty and Landscape
Dhorpatan offers an incredible mix of landscapes ranging from dense forests, alpine meadows, river valleys, and high mountain terrain. The local marshy grasslands are called “Dhor,” which gives the region its name.
The reserve provides breathtaking views of surrounding Himalayan peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Gurja Himal, Churen Himal, and other western mountain ranges. During clear weather, the scenery looks untouched and extremely peaceful, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Wildlife in Dhorpatan
Dhorpatan is a biodiversity-rich region with a wide variety of animals and birds. Some of the major wildlife species found here include:
- Blue Sheep (Bharal)
- Himalayan Tahr
- Musk Deer
- Goral
- Himalayan Black Bear
- Snow Leopard (rare and endangered)
The reserve is also home to more than 137 species of birds, including Himalayan Monal (Nepal’s national bird), pheasants, eagles, and vultures.
This makes Dhorpatan not only a hunting reserve but also a paradise for wildlife researchers, photographers, and bird watchers.
Cultural Experience
The trekking route to Dhorpatan passes through traditional villages inhabited mainly by Magar and Tibetan-influenced communities. These communities are known for their warm hospitality, traditional lifestyle, and deep connection with nature.
Visitors can experience authentic rural life, local food, farming practices, and cultural traditions that have remained unchanged for generations.
One of the important religious sites in the region is Dhorbaraha Temple, located near the Uttarganga River, which holds spiritual importance for local Hindu communities.
Dhorpatan Hunting Experience
Dhorpatan is Nepal’s only legal hunting reserve, where regulated hunting is allowed under strict government control and licensing. Only designated species such as blue sheep and Himalayan tahr can be hunted in specific zones.
However, most visitors come here for trekking, wildlife observation, photography, and cultural exploration rather than hunting.
The experience usually begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Beni, followed by trekking through remote mountain villages and forests before reaching the reserve.
Tour Facts
- Starting Point: Kathmandu (1,400 m)
- Trek Starting Point: Beni (899 m)
- Ending Point: Dhorpatan (2,860 m)
- Maximum Altitude: 3,850 m
- Total Duration: 13 Days
- Trek Distance: Approx. 90 km
- Accommodation: Camping / Basic lodges
- Transportation: Jeep / Bus
- Best Season: Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
- Permits: Dhorpatan Entry Permit + Special Hunting Permit (if applicable)
