Important Information

Region
Dhaulagiri Region Treks
Duration
15 Days
Max Altitude 3700m
Best Season March - November
Activity Per Day
5-6 hrs
Grade
Level 3
Group Size
2 - 20 people
Transportation Flight - Jeep

Dhorpatan Trek is one of the favorite least traveled destinations for trekkers. This trek mostly lies within the valley of Dhorpatan, the only Hunting Reserve in Nepal that linked with three districts of Rukum, Baglun, and Myagdi in the Dhaulagiri region of western Nepal. Hunting is popular in this particular area and it required a special permit which is issued from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation in Kathmandu. Hunting is legally allowed under proper license but with limited operation per year. Trekking to this untouched valley will provide you an opportunity to views mighty western Mountains and witness rare wildlife such as Blue Sheep, Ghoral, Himalayan Thar, and different species of Pheasants including Nepal’s national bird Danphe (Lophophorus).

Dhorpatan was accessible only via Helicopter ride when the Royal families used to hunt wildlife in the past. But anyone can reach it easily by taking the road halfway and walking the rest of the trail. This is truly an off-the-beaten-path trek that isn’t too difficult. It is suitable for average trekkers and athletics. Mountains like Putha Hiunchuli (7,246 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Churen Himal (7,385 m), and Gurja Himal (7,193 m) can be seen during this trek. Dhorpatan trek is the perfect choice for both avid trekkers and wildlife fanatics. Trial en route the settlement of Tibetan refugees, Magar villages, scenic passes, sub-alpine forest, and pleasant meadow. Farming and animal husbandry are the main occupations of locals here. Trek full of observations like culture, vegetation, wildlife, and lifestyles of people. This trek is a semi camping and homestay Trek. The best times to trek are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to mid-November).

Dhorpatan Trek Route:

Dhorpatan Trek starts from Kathmandu by driving to Dharapani via Pokhara and Beni. The total distance of driving on paved and dirt roads is 325-kilo meters approximately. From Dharapani trek begins by taking an anticlockwise route. The route leads to Dhorpatan valley via Lamsung and Jaljala Pass at 3,430 meters. Then after spending a full day in Dhorpatan, you will trek to Gurjaghat passing the Phagune Phedi and Jungle camp which is located within the Dhorpatan wildlife conservation. Your last day trek brings you to Darbang and drives to Singa Tatopani for an overnight stay. Enjoy the hot spring and drive to Kathmandu via Beni and Pokhara.

Outline Itinerary ( 15 Days )

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m)

Arrival in Kathmandu-Transfer to Hotel, Welcome assistance by Himalayan Wander Walkers' representative at the Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to hotel, rest at the hotel, and briefing about the trip.

Overnight accommodation is set with BB Plan.

Day 2

Sightseeing and Trek preparation

Today after breakfast we will start the city tour to most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. These landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites; including the historic Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swyambhunath), and the world's largest Buddhists stupa, Bouddhanath. Briefing regarding the trek with two-way question-answer with the trip leader (The Guide).

Overnight accommodation is in the same hotel as the BB Plan.

Day 3

Drive to Pokhara by tourist bus or private vehicle (850 m), 7-8 hours

Our trekking guide will pick you from your hotel and transfer you to the Tourist Bus station around 6:30 am and the bus will depart from Kathmandu after 7:00 am. It takes 6 -7 hours to reach Pokhara.

Overnight accommodation with a BB Plan is arranged.

Day 4

Drive to Dharapani (1560m), 6-7 Hours

Today you will have breakfast at your hotel and drive to Dharapani into the Kali Gandaki Valley and up the tributary Myagdi Khola valley as far as Darbang situated at an altitude of approximately 1100 meters. Drive further to Dharapani where the first camp of the trip is set.

Stay overnight at tented Camp.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 5

Dharapani to Lamsung (2,160 m), 6 - 7 Hours

On the following day, we will have a pleasant walk. The wonderful view along the trail will make you always refreshed to walk further. This remote area with streams and gorges will be a wonderful place to explore. The beautiful landscape added beauty.

Stay overnight at tented Camp.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 6

Lamsung to Jaljala (3,430 m), 7 Hours

Commencing our trek, we can see mixed forests of Rhododendron & Oaks. We can also view the scenery of beautiful forests, high mountains including Dhaulagiri Himal, Gurja Himal, Churen Himal, Putha Himal, etc which can be observed on the way of Lamsung to Jaljala where we will stay for our overnight.

Stay overnight at tented Camp.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 7

Jaljala to Dhorpatan (2860 m), 7 Hours

The trail descends up to Khahare Khola. After crossing it, the trails move ahead on the bank of the stream and through mixed forest to reach Dhorpatan. Dhorpatan is a fantastic place in the middle of the jungle. Overnight stay in Dhorpatan is an adventurous and memorable stay.

Stay overnight at tented Camp.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 8

Explore Dhorpatan and trek to Phagune Phedi (4493 m), 3-4 Hours

Today is the day for exploration around Dhorpatan Wildlife Reserve.  We can see different types of animals like Leopard, Ghoral, Himalayan Tahr, black bear, barking deer & other many animals. Bird’s species and plant species include fir, pine, birch, rhododendron, hemlock, Juniper, spruce & up to 36 species of flora can be observed. The reserve includes several villages, people by hill tribes as well as people of Tibetan descent who supplement farming with trade and animal husbandry. We can also see Monastery, Chortens, and the local market. Wooden roofs are another attraction of trekkers. We can also learn the typical lifestyle of people in this place. After observing the wildlife of Dhorpatan we trek forward towards Phagune Phedi. The trail ascends steeply up enjoying the beautiful scenery of the mountains, green jungle, and landscape.

Stay overnight at tented Camp.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 9

Morning hike to Phagune Phedi and trek back to Jungle camp, 7 Hours

Early in the morning hike to Phagune danda, observe the beautiful views of the Himalayan ranges, jungle, and landscape. And trek back descending to Jungle camp.

Stay overnight at tented Camp.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 10

Jungle Camp to Gurjaghat (3,000 m), 6 Hours

The trail today is an easy walk. We have to walk through flat land through mixed jungle and streams. The walk is really pleasant so you won’t feel tiresome today. After walking for about six hours from jungle camp we reach Gurjaghat where we will spend our overnight.

Stay overnight at tented Camp.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 11

Gurjaghat to Patichaur, 6 Hours

We have both ascending and descending walks today. The trail from Gurjaghat is ascending at the beginning hour whereas we begin to descend through the jungle and gorges after we have lunch. After about six hours' walk, we reach Patichaur, our destination for the day.

Stay overnight at tented Camp.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 12

Trek from Patichaur to Darbang (1150 m) and drive to Beni, 3 Hours

Today is the last day of our trek. Moving forward to Darbang from Patichaur, we will have a pleasant walk for about two hours. The trail's head ascending and descending through light jungle and gorges. After arriving Darbang, we drive towards Beni which will take about three hours. On the way, we can see forests, green hills, rivers, streams, and other beautiful things.

Stay overnight at Lodge.

Meal: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

Day 13

Drive to Pokhara and Sightseeing around

After breakfast, you will be driving toward Pokhara via Beni for about 4 hours. Along the way, we can some amazing views of the Mountains shining brightly on a clear sunny day. We can even add some sightseeing tours in Pokhara in the evening time. We can also relax by boating for one hour in the famous Phewa Lake. Overnight stay in Pokhara

Overnight accommodation is set with BB Plan.

Day 14

Drive to Kathmandu

After breakfast, you will return back to Kathmandu which is of 6/7 hours drive. You have the option to extend your trip to continue onto Chitwan jungle safari, rafting adventure, Kathmandu valley shopping tour, and scenic Everest flight, mountain biking, and other activities.

Overnight accommodation is set with BB Plan.

Day 15

Final Departure

We are saying goodbye as your journey to Nepal comes to an end today. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 3-4 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Himalayan Wander walkers will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

 

 

Include

Airport Arrivals and departure transport by car (We will collect you from the Kathmandu international airport) and transfer to Hotel.
Half-day sightseeing in Kathmandu (Boudhanath and Pasupatinath) with city guide and necessary transport.
3 nights’ accommodation (2 persons per room) in Kathmandu and 2 Nights in Pokhara with breakfast.
All land transportations (a private car/ sharing bus)
Full Camping trek with all meals and hot drinks during the trek serve by Cook and staff. Tented accommodation with dining, table, chairs, toilet tent, and shower tent. Salary, insurance, food, accommodation for guides, and porters. Supporters’ staff, cook, porters.
All required permits for Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve and TIMs Card.
Group First Aid Kit.
Himalayan Wander Walkers Company Duffle Bag for luggage

Exclude

Meals & drinks during the trek and in Kathmandu (unless stated otherwise under ‘The trip cost includes’)
Personal trekking equipment
Travel/medical insurance
Emergency rescue evacuation
Phone calls
Internet
International air ticket
Tips for your trekking guide & porters at the end of the trek
If you’re forced to extend your trek due to bad weather or natural disaster circumstances, we are not liable to pay any compensation or otherwise be responsible for any expenses you may incur
Anything not mentioned in the ‘includes section’
Nepal entry visa Fee.

Important Information

CHECKLISTS FOR DHORPATAN TREK

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • One other picture ID, such as driver’s license (in case of emergency and for use as a substitute of passport or in case of loss of your passport) Photocopy of passport page to carry in a wallet
  • Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
  • Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of emergencies)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, traveler's cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators then your cell phone will  work in Nepal.)

Guiding, Food, and Lodging
Trekking in Nepal, all trekking supplies - Teahouse trekking means staying and eating in local lodges. We stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. The rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow, blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We eat at teahouses and, although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, the menu is not extensive. They offer a variety of potatoes, rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. Beers and local spirits are often available, but that will be at your own cost. A variety of cereals, bread, and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There are also snacks available such as basic biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks and in some areas, you will find fresh fruit in season. It is normal to meet your porter in the teahouse where you will stay overnight. So, pack your necessary things in your own day pack.

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES 

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.

Note regarding itineraries
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan; their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers has led till now. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is successful.

Frequently Asked Question

Although trekking gear is available in Nepal you are advised to bring your own gear.
Trekking or running shoes Camp shoes or thongs Socks (polypropylene)
Down or fiber-filled jacket Jumper or piled jacket Hiking shorts Waterproof jackets, poncho or umbrella Hiking pants T-shirts or blouses Underwear Sun hat
Rucksack Self Inflating Sleeping Mattress (optional) Water bottle Torch, batteries, and bulbs