Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is Nepal's only hunting reserve, established in 1987 covering 1,325 km² in the Dhaulagiri massif of western Nepal. The reserve is a unique area where licensed hunting of certain species (blue sheep, Himalayan tahr) is permitted under strict quotas. It also protects pristine alpine habitats and offers spectacular mountain landscapes.

The best time to visit is March–May and September–November. Winters are very cold with snow. Altitude ranges from 2,850 m to over 7,000 m.

By Plane

Pokhara Airport (PKR) is the nearest major airport. From Pokhara, 7–8 hours by road to the reserve headquarters.

By Train

No railway.

By Car / Road

From Pokhara, take a bus to Baglung (2 hours) then a local bus to Burtibang (3 hours), from where a jeep reaches the reserve.

On foot. Jeeps operate on some routes.

• Dhaulagiri Views – The mountain dominates the landscape.

• Blue Sheep (Bharal) – The main hunting species.

• Himalayan Tahr – Another licensed hunting species.

• Alpine meadows and forests – Pristine natural landscapes.

• Hunting – Requires a licence, professional guide, and payment of trophy fees.

• Wildlife viewing – Photography and observation of Himalayan wildlife.

• Trekking – Trails in remote alpine terrain.

Lodges serve basic meals.

Tea and boiled water. Purification tablets recommended.

• Budget: Basic lodges (Rs 500–1000).
• Mid-range: Hunting camp accommodation (arranged through licensed operators).

Supplies must be brought from Kathmandu or Pokhara.

• Baglung (50 km east) – Kali Gandaki valley town.
• Beni (60 km east) – Trekking gateway.
• Pokhara (150 km east) – Adventure capital.
• Rukum (north) – Remote hill district.