By Ashish Lamichhane, B.Sc. Environment Science, Batch 2074, Amrit Science Campus
In the fourth year of our B.Sc. in Environmental Science at Amrit Science Campus, Batch 2074 embarked on a field visit to Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve—an experience that offered a blend of hands-on learning, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling adventures. This journey to one of Nepal’s most unique conservation areas not only deepened our academic knowledge but also left us with memories that will last a lifetime.
Journey through the Wilderness: The Road to Dhorpatan: The trip began with an exhilarating yet nerve-wracking drive from Burtibang to Dhorpatan, a remote region accessible via a rugged and dangerous road. The journey in our trusty jeeps, though challenging, was an adventure in itself. With narrow roads carved along the edge of steep hills and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, every twist and turn brought us closer to nature's raw beauty. The anticipation of what lay ahead fueled our excitement despite the difficult terrain.
Exploring Human-Wildlife Conflict in Local Communities
One of the most impactful aspects of our field visit was the time spent engaging with local communities who reside near the hunting reserve. As environmental science students, we were eager to understand the human-wildlife conflict prevalent in the region. The communities shared stories of frequent encounters with wildlife, particularly blue sheep and snow leopards, which often venture into village areas, threatening livestock. These interactions provided us with valuable insights into the challenges faced by locals and the need for sustainable conflict resolution strategies that balance conservation with livelihoods.
Through these conversations, we also learned how the reserve’s hunting practices, carefully regulated, have generated revenue that supports community development. Understanding the local perspectives on conservation helped us appreciate the complexities of wildlife management in such areas.
Trekking to Higher Altitudes: A Lesson in Biodiversity
Our exploration of Dhorpatan didn’t stop with community visits. We hiked to higher altitudes within the reserve, where the alpine ecosystems revealed their stunning biodiversity. The trek, though physically demanding, rewarded us with breathtaking views and the chance to observe diverse plant species and elusive wildlife in their natural habitats. Our hike was especially memorable as we encountered the iconic blue sheep, a key species in the reserve, and observed their behavior in the rugged, high-altitude landscape.
Stay at an Organic Resort: A Taste of Sustainable Living
After a day of trekking and fieldwork, we returned to the comfort of a locally-run organic resort, nestled in the serene hills of Dhorpatan. Staying at the resort was a refreshing experience, where we enjoyed farm-to-table meals made from locally sourced organic produce. It was inspiring to see how sustainable tourism practices are being embraced in the area, offering eco-friendly accommodations that support both conservation and the local economy. The resort also gave us time to reflect on our fieldwork amidst the peaceful surroundings.
Insightful Session with Dhorpatan Reserve Officers
One of the key highlights of our trip was an insightful session with an officer from the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve. During this session, we learned about the current status of the reserve, its diverse flora and fauna, and the conservation strategies being implemented to protect endangered species like the snow leopard and musk deer. The officer explained the unique model of regulated hunting in the reserve and how it contributes to both wildlife management and community welfare.
This interaction broadened our understanding of how such a complex conservation area is managed and the importance of striking a balance between conservation efforts and controlled hunting activities. It reinforced the need for a holistic approach to managing protected areas in Nepal.
A Journey of Learning and Reflection
Our field visit to Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve was more than just an academic requirement—it was an eye-opening experience that blended adventure, education, and personal growth. From navigating dangerous roads and hiking through pristine wilderness to learning about human-wildlife conflict and conservation strategies, the trip provided us with practical knowledge and a deep appreciation for Nepal’s rich biodiversity.
As we prepare to graduate as environmental scientists, this visit has left a lasting impact on us. It strengthened our resolve to work towards the conservation of Nepal’s natural heritage while ensuring that local communities benefit from sustainable development practices. For the students of Amrit Science Campus, Batch 2074, the journey to Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve will always remain a milestone in our academic and personal lives.
