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, Free
- For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
- For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 1000/-
- (Note: Entrance fee not required for children under
10 years).
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. |