Myagdi, AUGUST 18
The number of domestic tourists visiting Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, which spans the Rukum East, Baglung, and Myagdi districts, has been steadily increasing in recent years. While the reserve is traditionally popular among foreign tourists seeking hunting experiences, the influx of domestic visitors has notably surged.
According to Conservation Officer Mandip Pangeni, the number of tourists doubled in the fiscal year 2080/81 compared to the previous year. In the fiscal year 2079/80, 7,645 tourists visited Dhorpatan, whereas this number climbed to 15,573 in 2080/81. Historical data shows a steady rise in domestic visitors, with 9,919 tourists in 2078/79, 6,703 in 2077/78, and 3,020 in 2076/77.
Domestic tourists are required to pay an entry fee of Rs 100 per person to visit the hunting reserve. Citizens from other SAARC countries pay Rs 1,500 per person, while tourists from other countries are charged Rs 3,000 per person.
The increase in domestic tourism is attributed to improved road transport, enhanced hotel and accommodation facilities, and greater publicity through social media, said Ram Bahadur Ghartimar, proprietor of Dhorpatan Community Homestay. Currently, there are 21 hotels and homestays in the Dhorpatan area, with a total capacity to accommodate 300 people daily.
Man Bahadur Pun, a hunting guide from Global Safari Kathmandu, mentioned that hunters from countries like Spain, the USA, Russia, Germany, France, and Belarus frequently visit the reserve.
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, covering an area of 1,325 square kilometers, is home to 32 species of mammals and 137 species of birds.
