Nepal · Wildlife

14-Day Blue Sheep Hunting Expedition in Dhorpatan Reserve

14 Days Hard pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Pursue the Himalayan Blue Sheep (Bharal) in its native high-altitude habitat
02 Access the remote and pristine Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal's only hunting reserve
03 Take on a classic spot-and-stalk hunt across rugged Himalayan terrain
04 Enjoy scenic helicopter flights into remote hunting blocks with sweeping mountain views
05 Experience the raw, majestic beauty of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges
06 Test your skill, endurance, and spirit in a demanding mountain hunting expedition

This 14-day expedition is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for the serious and discerning mountain hunter, taking you into the rugged, untouched wilderness of the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, the only one of its kind in Nepal, in pursuit of the magnificent Himalayan Blue Sheep (Bharal). This is a classic spot-and-stalk hunt set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges, with scenic helicopter access into remote hunting blocks. Designed for experienced hunters, the journey combines high-altitude trekking, wilderness camp life, and the raw, majestic beauty of the Himalayas far from tourist trails.

This is a classic spot-and-stalk hunt set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges, with scenic helicopter access into remote hunting blocks.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 14 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Hard

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Nepalganj, Pokhara, Kathmandu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival and Preparation in Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This stage of the journey is crucial for final trip briefings, gear checks, and completing all necessary government paperwork and permits.

Day 02

Fly to the Regional Hub

Take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to a regional airport such as Pokhara or Nepalgunj. After checking into your hotel, make the final preparations for the helicopter flight into the mountains.

Day 03

Helicopter to Base Camp

Board a chartered helicopter for a spectacular flight into your designated hunting block within Dhorpatan. Once there, the crew will set up the base camp. In the afternoon, take a short walk to begin acclimatizing to the high altitude.

Day 04

Hunting Days in Dhorpatan

These six full days are dedicated to the hunt. Each day begins early, with treks to vantage points to glass for Blue Sheep. This is a physically demanding spot-and-stalk hunt across rugged terrain at high altitudes, typically between 3,500 m and 5,500 m. Your guide and spotters will work tirelessly to locate a mature ram.

Day 05

Contingency Hunting Day

This crucial buffer day is built into the itinerary to account for any weather delays or to provide an additional day of hunting if required.

Day 06

Helicopter Flight Out

After a final morning in the mountains, the helicopter will pick you up from base camp and fly you back to the regional airport. From there, transfer to your hotel.

Day 07

Return to Kathmandu

Take a domestic flight from the regional airport back to Kathmandu. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 08

Final Departure

You will be transferred to the airport for your final international departure.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Fees to enter the National Park and hunting area.
Skilled, licensed English-speaking hunting guide, along with a full team of local helpers.
Local transportation.
Government taxes and service charge.

What's Not Included

International airfare to and from Kathmandu, Nepal.
Nepal entry visa.
Your personal hunting rifle, ammunition, and gear.
Trophy fees (if applicable, based on animal size/class).

What to bring

Gun & Bullets: A gun that shoots straight, such as a .270, .30-06, or 7mm Magnum, works best. Bring 40-60 good bullets.
Viewing Tools: You must have good eye-glasses (10x42), a spotting scope, and a laser rangefinder.
Clothes: Wear many layers. This means soft shirts that pull sweat away from your body, warm middle layers such as fleece or down, and an outer coat that keeps out water and wind.
Shoes: Wear hiking boots that are already broken in. They should be strong, waterproof, and provide good ankle support.
Bag: A comfortable small backpack (30-40 liters) to carry the things you need each day.
Your Own Stuff: Sunblock, lip balm, sun-glasses, your own small first-aid kit, water cleaning pills or a filter, and any health pills you take.

Know before you go

Extreme Physical & Mental Fitness is Required: This is not a typical tour. You must be in excellent physical condition, capable of trekking for 6-8 hours a day in steep, rugged, high-altitude terrain (above 3,500 m / 11,500 ft) with a daypack. A pre-trip physical training regimen is mandatory.
Altitude Sickness is a Real Risk: The itinerary is designed for acclimatization, but you must be aware of the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Your guide is trained to monitor this, but personal health is your responsibility.
Remote & Basic Conditions: You will be staying in tented camps with basic facilities for over a week. There is no electricity, Wi-Fi, mobile service, or showers. This is a true wilderness experience.
Weather is a Major Factor: High Himalayan weather is unpredictable. Helicopter flights and hunting schedules are entirely dependent on safe weather conditions. The itinerary must remain flexible.
Mandatory Evacuation Insurance: You must have a specialized insurance policy that covers helicopter evacuation up to 6,000 meters. Proof of this insurance is required before the trip begins.
Ethical & Regulated Hunt: This is a legal hunt sanctioned by the Government of Nepal. You are expected to adhere to all regulations and practice ethical, fair-chase hunting at all times. All firearm import/export procedures must be strictly followed.