Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve (Dhorpatan Sikhar Aarakshan)
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve (Dhorpatan Sikhar Aarakshan) is Nepal’s only legalized hunting reserve, located in the western Himalayas across Baglung, Myagdi, and Rukum districts. It is a unique protected area known for its alpine meadows (patans), wildlife, trekking routes, and remote Himalayan scenery.
Unlike national parks, Dhorpatan is managed for controlled hunting, conservation, and eco-tourism, making it a rare destination in Nepal.
Key Facts
- Location: Baglung, Myagdi & Rukum districts, Nepal
- Established: 1987 AD
- Area: About 1,325 sq. km
- Altitude: Ranges from 2,850 m to 5,500 m
- Type: Hunting reserve + conservation area
- Managed by: Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation
Wildlife & Biodiversity
Dhorpatan is rich in Himalayan wildlife:
🐐 Mammals
- Himalayan blue sheep (Bharal)
- Himalayan tahr
- Snow leopard (rare)
- Musk deer
- Himalayan black bear
🐦 Birds
- Himalayan monal (Danphe – national bird of Nepal)
- Koklass pheasant
- Blood pheasant
- Various alpine birds
Landscape & Natural Beauty
- Wide alpine grasslands (Patans)
- Snow-capped Himalayan peaks
- Deep river valleys and forests
- Seasonal grazing areas for yaks and sheep
- Remote and peaceful wilderness environment
👉 It is one of the least disturbed natural areas in Nepal.
Activities
- Trekking and wilderness exploration
- Wildlife observation and bird watching
- Photography of alpine landscapes
- Controlled hunting (with special permits only)
- Cultural interaction with Magar and other local communities
Access Route & Travel Experience
Dhorpatan is remote and requires a combination of road travel and trekking:
Typical route:
- Pokhara → Baglung → Burtibang → Dhorpatan
- From Burtibang, off-road jeep or trekking is required
Travel includes:
- Mountain roads
- Remote villages
- River valleys and forest trails
Distance from Pokhara International Airport
- Distance: Approximately 150–170 km
- By Road (Pokhara → Baglung → Burtibang): 6–9 hours
- From Burtibang to Dhorpatan: 4–8 hours (jeep/trek depending on route)
- Total Travel Time: Around 10–16 hours
👉 Route:
Pokhara Airport → Pokhara city → Baglung → Burtibang → Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve
Best Time to Visit
- March–May: Clear weather, wildlife activity
- September–November: Best trekking season
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Very cold and snowy
- Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Difficult access due to landslides
Why Visit Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve?
- Only hunting reserve in Nepal
- Rich Himalayan wildlife and biodiversity
- Remote and untouched landscapes
- Ideal for eco-tourism and adventure trekking
- Unique cultural and natural experience
Summary
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is a rare wilderness destination in Nepal, combining conservation, wildlife, and high-altitude Himalayan beauty. It is perfect for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventure.

