Overview

Dhorpatan is one of Nepal’s least visited places and the only hunting reserve in the country. Located in the Baglung district of western Nepal, it is one of the most underrated places in the region. This trek, which merges with Gurja Khani, is one of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences. The landscape consists of forests, marshlands, and flat meadows. The higher-elevation region remains covered in snow throughout the year. This trek lies within the Dhorpatan Valley and is one of the most picturesque ones. Moreover, the wildlife, vegetation, mountain views, and the friendly people of this region will make your trek unforgettable. If you want to hunt in the reserve, you need special permits.

Previously, the royal family of Nepal used to fly in a helicopter to hunt animals at the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve. Still, this region can’t be accessed by road. Yearly, only 100 tourists visit this place. People seeking a less-crowded trail can embark on the Dhorpatan Trek. This article features some in-depth facts, highlights, and the complete route overview of this majestic yet highly underrated trek.

Important Information:

  • Region: Dhorpatan, Dhaulagiri Range
  • Duration: 10-12 days
  • Trekking Duration (per day): 5-6 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 3700 meters
  • Walking Distance: ~90 km
  • Best Time: March to November

Why You’ll Love This Trek

  1. You can trek through Nepal’s one and only hunting reserve. During the trek, you can also enjoy the abundance of wildlife in this region.
  2. From Jaljala, you will witness 12 stunning peaks. Some famous peaks include Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machchapuchhre, Gurja, and Churen. Photography enthusiasts will be delighted by the views from Jaljala.
  3. Gaze around the brownish grasslands of Dhorpatan, one of the primary attractions of the region. It is one of the most unique and rare terrains in Nepal.
  4. Interact with and learn about the local Magar culture, traditions, and food.
  5. Elusive wildlife like the Snow Leopard, Musk deer, blue sheep, and a wide range of bird species can be seen from the trail.
  6. Explore the outskirts of Dhorpatan on a horse, a popular activity around this region.

Route Overview

  • Day 1: Fly or Drive to Pokhara– On the first day of the trek, you can either drive or fly to Pokhara. Flight is the most convenient way to get to Pokhara. However, if you are on a budget, then travel by bus. The bus journey can be completed in 7-8 hours. So, you will stay overnight at Pokhara on the first day.
  • Day 2: Pokhara to Dharapani– On the second day, your destination will be Dharapani. This ride is mostly bumpy due to the road conditions. Check the weather pattern and stay updated on the road conditions, as the road gets blocked by landslides occasionally.
  • Day 3: Dharapani to Lulang: Your jeep journey continues as you head towards Lulang on the third day. Once you reach Phalyagaon, your trek officially starts. A gentle descent will lead you to Dar Khola. Upon reaching Lulang, your third day’s trek is over.
  • Day 4: Lulang to Gurja Khani: You ascend uphill from Lulang through rhododendron forests on the fourth day. On the way, you can get beautiful views of Gurja Himal. You must cross the Gurja Pass, 3250m. You will spend the night at Gurja Khani in one of the homestays.

This is the mid-point of your trek.

  • Day 5: Gurja Khani to Gurja Ghat: It will take you around 8 hours to reach Gurja Ghat. On the way, you will cross three bridges over fast-flowing rivers. Along the way, you will catch a glimpse of Dhaulagiri Range.
  • Day 6: Gurja Ghat to Dhorpatan: This is one of the easiest trails of the entire trek. You can also explore the Tibetan Bonpo Monastery on the way. Dhorpatan is this day’s destination. As this part of the trek is mostly through a straight trail, you can leisurely complete it.
  • Day 7: Explore Dhorpatan: On the seventh day, explore the Dhorpatan protected area. If you have a permit, you can also hunt. Dhorpatan is a beautiful alpine valley with rivers and rocky terrain.
  • Day 8: Dhorpatan to Burtibang: You can descend from Dhorpatan to Burtibang. From here, you can take a bus ride to Pokhara, which usually takes 6 hours.
  • Day 9: Take a bus or a plane to get to Kathmandu from Pokhara on the last day of your trek.
Dhorpatan
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

 

Some Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the best time to travel?

The peak trekking season is the perfect time to visit this place. The prominent times are March to May and September to November.

What are the food and accommodation options?

You have to stay at community homestays throughout the trek. For food, you need to adjust to locally available foods, which are made freshly.

What are the permits required for this trek?

You don’t need any permits for this trek.

Can we hunt in the hunting reserve?

You can, but you must have a hunting permit issued by the government of Nepal.

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