The Dhorpatan Ski Expedition offers an unparalleled winter adventure in the heart of the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, a remote and pristine region of Nepal that remains largely untouched by mainstream tourism. This 12-day expedition is designed for those seeking both the thrill of skiing in high-altitude terrain and the cultural richness of Nepal's rural communities.
Geographical and Cultural Context: Located in the western part of Nepal, the Dhorpatan Hunting Res...
The Dhorpatan Ski Expedition offers an unparalleled winter adventure in the heart of the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, a remote and pristine region of Nepal that remains largely untouched by mainstream tourism. This 12-day expedition is designed for those seeking both the thrill of skiing in high-altitude terrain and the cultural richness of Nepal's rural communities.
Geographical and Cultural Context: Located in the western part of Nepal, the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve spans over 1,325 square kilometers and is the only hunting reserve in the country. It lies at elevations ranging from 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) to 7,000 meters (22,965 feet), offering a unique combination of diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to alpine meadows. The region is home to the indigenous Magar community, who have lived in harmony with the land for centuries. Their traditional stone-built villages, rich cultural heritage, and deep connection to the environment add a significant cultural dimension to this expedition.
Expedition Highlights: The expedition begins in Kathmandu, where you'll meet your experienced guides and prepare for the journey ahead. A short flight takes you to Pokhara, a city renowned for its proximity to the Annapurna range. From there, a scenic drive brings you to Dhorpatan, where the real adventure begins.
Over the next several days, you'll ski across varied terrains that challenge your skills and reward you with breathtaking views. The slopes range from gentle inclines perfect for acclimatization to steep descents that test even the most seasoned skiers. Each day is carefully planned to allow for gradual acclimatization, ensuring that you can safely enjoy the high-altitude environment.
Skiing Experience: At elevations reaching up to 4,500 meters (14,764 feet), the Dhorpatan Ski Expedition offers skiing experiences that are both exhilarating and diverse. You'll cover a total distance of approximately 60-100 kilometers (37-62 miles) over the course of the expedition, with daily distances ranging from 10 to 20 kilometers (6 to 12 miles). The routes are selected based on snow conditions and the skill level of the group, ensuring that each participant can fully engage with the environment.
The terrain includes wide-open snowfields, narrow valleys, and high ridges, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. The region's isolation means you'll have the slopes largely to yourself, skiing in the peace and solitude of Nepal's winter wilderness.
Cultural Encounters: Beyond the skiing, the Dhorpatan region offers rich cultural experiences. You'll have the opportunity to visit Magar villages, where you'll learn about their traditional way of life, which has remained largely unchanged for generations. Interacting with the local community, you'll gain insights into their agricultural practices, religious beliefs, and their intimate relationship with the land.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty: As you ski through the reserve, keep an eye out for the rare and elusive wildlife that inhabits this region. Blue sheep, musk deer, and even the occasional snow leopard are known to roam these high-altitude areas. The Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is also a Bird-watcher's paradise, with species like the Himalayan monal, pheasants, and various raptors often spotted in the area.
Safety and Acclimatization: The expedition is designed with safety as the highest priority. Acclimatization days are built into the itinerary to help you adjust to the altitude, and your experienced guides are trained in high-altitude first aid and avalanche safety. The team will carry all necessary emergency equipment, including satellite phones, oxygen, and a comprehensive medical kit.
Final Days: After an intense and rewarding week of skiing, you'll return to Pokhara, where you can relax and enjoy the city's mild winter climate before flying back to Kathmandu. The final day in Kathmandu offers time for reflection on your adventure, last-minute shopping, or exploring the cultural sites of the city.
This expedition is more than just a skiing trip; it’s a journey through one of Nepal’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions, offering a rare combination of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re an experienced skier or looking to push your limits, the Dhorpatan Ski Expedition provides an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most remote and stunning winter landscapes.
- Destination: Dhorpatan, Nepal
- Starting / Ending Point: Kathmandu, Nepal
- Duration: 12 Days
- Transportation: Domestic flights (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu), Private vehicle (Pokhara-Dhorpatan-Pokhara)
- Maximum Elevation: 4,500 meters (14,764 feet)
- Total Skiing Distance: Approximately 60-100 kilometers (37-62 miles)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Accommodation: Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara; Lodges or Camping in Dhorpatan
- Main Activities: Skiing, Acclimatization, Cultural Exploration
- Terrain: Alpine meadows, snow-covered forests, high-altitude slopes
- Weather Conditions: Cold, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to -20°C (23°F to -4°F) depending on elevation and time of day
- Trip Guides: Professional ski guides with experience in high-altitude skiing and local terrain
- Best Season: Winter (December to February)
- Group Size: 2-12 participants (per team)
- Pristine Wilderness: Ski through the remote and untouched landscapes of the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, a region known for its natural beauty and biodiversity, far from the usual tourist trails.
- Challenging Terrain: Experience a diverse range of skiing conditions, from gentle alpine meadows to steep, high-altitude slopes, offering a thrilling adventure for skiers of varying skill levels.
- Cultural Immersion: Interact with the local Magar community, one of Nepal’s indigenous groups, and gain insights into their traditional lifestyle, customs, and connection to the land.
- Breathtaking Views: Ski at elevations reaching up to 4,500 meters (14,764 feet), with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and vast snow-covered valleys.
- Unique Winter Experience: Embark on a winter expedition that combines the excitement of skiing with the challenge of navigating Nepal's rugged winter terrain, all within a serene and remote environment.
- Flexible Skiing Routes: Explore a variety of skiing routes tailored to your skill level, with opportunities to tackle more advanced slopes as you acclimatize and gain confidence.
- Wildlife Sightings: While skiing in the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, you may encounter rare Himalayan wildlife, including blue sheep, musk deer, and various bird species, adding a unique element to your adventure.
- Acclimatization and Safety: Benefit from carefully planned acclimatization days and expert guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable skiing experience in a high-altitude environment.
- Scenic Journeys: Enjoy the scenic drive from Pokhara to Dhorpatan, passing through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and lush forests, offering a glimpse of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.
- Cultural and Natural Fusion: Combine the thrill of skiing with the rich cultural heritage of Nepal, making the Dhorpatan Ski Expedition a truly holistic adventure that connects you with both the natural and cultural wonders of the region.
- Transportation: Airport-Hotel-Airport pickup and drop in a private vehicle as per group size.
- Member's Accommodation in Kathmandu: 2 Night 4* Hotel (Single) with BB per schedule program and itinerary
- Member's Accommodation in Pokhara: 2 Night 4* Hotel (Single) with BLD per schedule program and itinerary
- Domestic Flight (If Taking Flight): Domestic Flight KTM-Pokhara-KTM with regular flight as per scheduled itinerary.
- Overland 4WD reserved private Jeep Transport (If taking 4WD drive): Drive from Pokhara-Dhorpatan-Pokhara for both members and supporting staff as per the program and scheduled itinerary.
- Trekking Permit: Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve entry permit, TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permit.
- Member's Accommodation During Trip: Best available Local Lodge / Homestay accommodation with locally prepared 3 times meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with fresh fruits as long as available during the entire trek as per scheduled program and itinerary
- Entire necessary requirements of animals: Entire necessary animals such as Hens, Goat, or any other animals or necessary goods required for the Shaman's Rituals.
- Shamans and their assistants' meals and Wages: Shamans and their assistants' meals and wages are required during rituals.
- Trekking Guide, Assistant Guide: Highly experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed professional trekking/Ski guide and assistant guide (If the number of participants is above 8. pax) and their daily wages.
- Guide & support staff including driver's Meals and Wages, Emergency Heli, and Medical Insurance: Supporting staff wages, medical and emergency Heli rescue insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation.
- Communication: Radio Walkie-Talkie and Thuraya SAT Phone will be carried by a Guide for emergency use (for members USD 5 per minute)
- Xtreme Climbers Duffel Bags, Sun Hat: TWO Members use one Xtreme Climbers Duffel Bag to put your Trekking/Expedition gears and stuff during Trekking / Expedition and Sun Hat will be provided as souvenirs.
- Medical Kit Bag: Medical kit (carried by trekking Guide or supporting staff for basic use only)
- Government VAT / TAX and company minimum service charge: Local government VAT / Tax and company minimum service charges.
- Airfare: International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
- Nepal entry Visa fee: The Nepal Visa fee is USD 60 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days (USD 120).
- Sightseeing: Sightseeing around historical monuments and entrance fees.
- Extra night in Kathmandu and Lunch & Dinner: Extra night accommodation and Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking / Expedition (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- Insurance: Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical & emergency evacuation.
- Rescue Evacuation: Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation costs. (Rescue, Repatriation, Medication, Medical Tests, and Hospitalization costs.)
- Personal Trekking / Climbing equipment and Personal Expenses: Personal Trekking and Climbing Gear, Internet, battery recharge, Hot shower, Laundry, any Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks (during the trek and in Kathmandu), and Personal Medical Kit bags.
- Filming: Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
- Horse renting and additional porters: Horse renting and additional porters during the trek.
- Tips: Calculate some tips for staff, Drivers, and Porters.
- Extra: Any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary or any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section. Or any costs that arise due to a change of the itinerary, because of landslides, domestic flight delays, political disturbance, strikes, etc.
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