DHORPATAN
HUNTING RESERVE
Besides national parks and wildlife reserves His Majesty's Government
of Nepal has also set aside a hunting reserve at Dhorpatan where
controlled hunting of some species is allowed. Covering an area
of 1,325 sq. km., the reserve is situated on the southern flanks
of Mt. Dhaulangiri I (8,167 m.) in districts of Rukum, Baglung
and Myagdi in western Nepal.
The
area's vegetation is characterised by well-developed mixed-hardwood
forest at lower elevation and many plant species of drier climate
to the north. Tree species include fir, pine, birch, rhododendron,
hemlock, oak, juniper and spruce. As in many other protected environments
of Nepal, the reserve includes several villages inhabited by hill
tribes as well as people of Tibetan descent who supplement farming
with trade and animal husbandry. The reserve is one of the prime
habitats of blue sheep, a highly prized trophy animal, which is
the main target of hunters. Other game species are ghoral, serow,
Himalayan tahr, black bear, pheasant and partridge. Endangered
species of the area include the red panda and cheer pheasant.
Controlled hunting is allowed with proper licence and certain
seasons of the year. Game licence is issued by the Department
of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation in Kathmandu and there
are a few hunting outfitters who can make arrangements for expeditions.
Besides hunting, Dhorpatan is also an attractive destination for
the trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts as protection has enabled
animal numbers to increase in this rarely visited area.
Entry
Fee Per Person Per Entry
For Nepalese Nationals, Rs. 20/-
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 500/-
(Note Entrance fee not required for children under 10 years).
Filming Permit Fee (Documentary Films)
For Nepalese Nationals, Rs. 5,000/-
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 25,000/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, US $ 1,000/-
Helicopter Landing in Protected Area, Rs. 2,000/- per landing
Access
Visitors
can hike from Pokhara, which takes about five days, or fly to
Dolpa. The best time to visit Dhorpatan is spring and autumn.
