Highlights
- Breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, and Manaslu
- The rich biodiversity of the hunting reserve with diverse terrain and climates
- Chance to engage in controlled hunting
Dhorpatan Dolpo Trek is one of the most exclusive trek packages in Nepal to the southern flank of Dhaulagiri Mountain. The wildlife reserve allows controlled hunting and is a favorite destination for enthusiastic hunters. The reserve also preserves endangered species like Musk deer, red panda, and wolf.
This beautiful hunting reserve spreads over an area of 1325 sq. km in the districts of Rukkum, Baglung, and Myagdi. The rich biodiversity includes mixed hardwood forest and various dry climate vegetations. The trail is adorned with fir, pine, birch, rhododendron, hemlock, juniper, and oak trees. The trek is a nice calm walk through these forests enjoying the solitude and scenery. The hunting reserve houses fauna like red panda, blue sheep, cheer pheasant, Himalayan Tahr, Ghoral, black bear, and partridge. It is a haven for trekkers and nature lovers who enjoy the wildlife.
The elevation of the reserve ranges from 2850 m to 7000m at different points. We enjoy the excellent views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna throughout the trek. The villages surrounding the reserve and the people with traditional lifestyles add more to the appeal of the trek.
We begin our journey with a drive from Kathmandu to Beni. We pass through villages and fields as we drive along the Trishuli River and then the Marsyangdi River. As we cross the Seti River, we reach Pokhara and then the trail climbs uphill over zigzag roads towards Nau Danda. We pass through Nayapul and enjoy the exquisite views of Annapurna and Fishtail accompanied by terraced fields and traditional villages. Finally, we drive along Kali Gandaki to reach Beni. After 9 hours of driving, we spend the night in Beni at an elevation of 899 meters.
Accommodation: Overnight in a local lodge.
On this day, we drive for three hours to reach Darbang. Darbang is famous for manufacturing Khukuri, a traditional curved Nepali weapon. From here, we trek for 5 hours to reach Dharapani. We spend the night in Dharapani at an elevation of 1995 meters.
Accommodation: Overnight in a local lodge
The trek from Dharapani is a pleasant one with beautiful views of the surroundings. We explore the streams and gorges in the remote area. After 6-7 hours of walking, we spend the night in Lamsung at an elevation of 1160 meters.
Accommodation: Overnight in a local lodge
We start our day early and pass through several rhododendron and oak forests. The Himalayan vistas include Dhaulagiri, Gurju, Chure, and Putha among many others. We finally reach Jaljala where we spend the night at an elevation of 3386 meters.
Accommodation: Overnight in a local lodge
On this day, we descend to Khahare Khola and cross it. Then we continue along the bank of a stream and walk past thick forests. We finally reach Dhorpatan.
Accommodation: Overnight in a local lodge
Dhorpatan is a beautiful place in the midst of a forest. We explore Dhorpatan wildlife reserve with diverse flora and fauna. We can spot animals like Leopard, Thar, Black bear, Ghoral, barking deer and plants like rhododendrons, fir, juniper, birch, oaks, spruce, pine and many other species.
The inhabitants of the area are hill tribes and Tibetans who mainly depend on animal husbandry and farming. The settlements are famous for their wooden roofs, monastery, prayer flags and chortens. We enjoy the traditional lifestyles of the people as well.
After the excursion, we make our way towards Phagune Phedi. We ascend for a while with the beautiful views of mountains, forests, and landscape. We spend the night here at an elevation of 4493 meters.
Accommodation: Overnight in a local lodge
In the early morning, we hike to Phagune Hill, where you can revel in the breathtaking Himalayan vistas. As you absorb the natural beauty around you, take in the crisp mountain air and relish the tranquility of the surroundings. Following this experience, begin your descent towards the local lodges. The trek downhill allows you to witness the changing landscapes and appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the region. Ensure you pace yourself and take breaks to fully enjoy the journey.
Accommodation: Overnight in a Local available lodges
The trek from Phagune Phedi is easy as it passes through forests and streams on flat land. After six hours, we reach Gurjaghat at an elevation of 3000 meters where we spend the night at local lodges.
Accommodation: Overnight in a local lodge
The trail ascends as we begin our trek early in the morning. We have lunch and then the trail descends through forests and gorges. Finally, after six hours of walking throughout the day, we reach Patichaur at an elevation of 900 meters.
Accommodation: Overnight in a local lodge
On this day, we have a pleasant walk for about two hours. Then we ascend and descend through forests and gorges to reach Darbang. Once we get there, we travel to Beni which takes about three hours of scenic drive.
Accommodation: Overnight in a local lodge
The drive from Beni to Pokhara is a scenic one with tantalizing views of the mountains. After we reach Pokhara, we have ample time to explore the valley. We can visit the beautiful tourist sites or go boating in Phewa Lake. An evening stroll along the lakeside area is a must.
Accommodation: Breakfast, Private Transport, and Overnight in Hotel Shaara or similar.
From Pokhara, we drive to Kathmandu which takes about 6-7 hours. Once back in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel where you will have the day off to rest and reflect on your trip. You can visit the famous tourist hub, Thamel, in the evening.
