In
this ecological awakening age hunting seems
quite contradictory but Nepal has been a favored
ground for hunters since 9th century. In the
Himalayan Kingdom, controlled hunting is allowed
with proper license and certain seasons of the
year. Hunting license is issued by the Department
of National Park and Wildlife Conservation in
Kathmandu and there are a few hunting outfitters
who can make arrangements.
The organized hunting parties
trek or fly (helicopter) into the high terrain
areas in quest of the Himalayan Tahr and the
Blue Sheep. Mid-elevation prizes include wild
goat and sheep; in the Terai lowlands deer are
sought. Hunting in Nepal is permitted only in
designated areas, and a licensed guide must
accompany hunting parties.
Dhorpatan Hunting 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.
Besides hunting, Dhorpatan is
also an attractive destination for the trekker
and wildlife enthusiast as protection has enabled
animal numbers to increase in this rarely visited
area.
Dhorpatan can be reached
from Pokhara within the 5 days of hike away
or there is also the option of flying to Dolpa.
The best time to visit Dhorpatan is February-April
and August-October. Accommodation here is on
tented camp which can be provided by the Rhino
Travel Agency or at one of the villages.
