Source::Nepal News
The Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, spanning the Rukum East, Baglung, and Myagdi districts, has seen a significant increase in domestic tourist arrivals in recent years. Traditionally favored by international tourists for hunting, the reserve is now drawing more domestic visitors as well.
According to Conservation Officer Mandip Pangeni, the number of tourists in the fiscal year 2080/081 doubled compared to the previous year. In 2079/080, 7,645 tourists visited the reserve, while the figure soared to 15,573 in 2080/081. Previous years also showed a steady increase, with 9,919 domestic tourists in 2078/079, 6,703 in 2077/078, and 3,020 in 2076/077.
Domestic tourists pay an entry fee of Rs. 100 per person, while citizens from other SAARC countries are charged Rs. 1,500, and those from other nations pay Rs. 3,000.
Ram Bahadur Ghartimar, owner of Dhorpatan Community Homestay, attributed the rise in domestic visitors to improved road access, better hotel and accommodation facilities, and increased publicity through social media. The Dhorpatan area currently has 21 hotels and homestays, with a daily capacity to accommodate 300 guests.
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 for hunting.
Covering 1,325 square kilometers, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is home to 32 species of mammals and 137 species of birds.
Picture Credit: Himalayan Wander Walk
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