Buki in Dhorpatan emerges as a must-visit tourist destination

KATHMANDU: Nestled on the crest of the top hill, the Buki area in Dhorpatan unfolds as a flat expanse with undulating ridges and verdant landscapes. The northern horizon showcases the majestic Hetamya Himal, while scattered sheepfolds and flocks of sheep and goats cover the terrain, creating a picturesque scene eagerly sought after by tourists.

In recent years, Buki has gained significant attention. A decade ago, the area was predominantly filled with sheep and sheepfolds during the monsoon season, but now it has become a bustling destination for tourists.

Dhorpatan, Nepal’s only hunting reserve, has always been renowned. However, the increasing influx of both domestic and international tourists has broadened its visibility. The natural beauty of Dhorpatan has made it a preferred destination for many, and Buki has recently emerged as a focal point of attraction. Until last year, Buki saw very few visitors.

The area gained viral popularity after tourists shared videos and photographs of Buki on social media and news platforms. Now, visitors to Dhorpatan are keen to explore Buki. While tourists have sporadically visited Dhorpatan Valley over the past decade, the numbers have surged to thousands annually.

Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,900 meters above sea level, reaching Buki from the Dhorpatan Valley requires a trek. The hike takes between three to five hours. Located between 2,900 to 4,500 meters above sea level, Buki is home to numerous herders who set up temporary shelters. They keep thousands of sheep, goats, and cattle.

During the monsoon, Buki is lively with visitors, but it remains deserted in winter. In the rainy season, tourists can enjoy lush green pastures, high hills, meadows, and numerous snow-capped peaks, while also experiencing the life of the herders up close.

Buki, situated in the high mountainous region of Baglung, is incredibly scenic. Previously overshadowed by a lack of promotion, it has started to gain widespread recognition due to the increasing number of tourists.

Sandeep Thapa, a local entrepreneur from Dhorpatan Municipality-9, stated that in just one month, hundreds of domestic tourists have trekked to Buki. Since mid-June, he has hosted around 500 tourists in his lodgings.

Buki encompasses various spots like Garpa Chhedda, Dah Khark, Tika Dhara, Rajwan, Syachun, Furse Deurali, and Fagune Deurali. Visitors often stay in the herders’ shelters.

Starting this year, Thapa has introduced ‘Goth Stay’ (shelter accommodation) for tourists. He explained that due to the absence of lodging and food facilities, the ‘Goth Stay’ was launched on June 29. Tourists can enjoy green pastures, the herder lifestyle, and views of the Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare, Putha Hiunchuli, Churen, and Gurja Annapurna mountain ranges. The trekking season to Buki runs from May to the first week of November.

“While Buki is traditionally a grazing ground for the people of Dhorpatan, its stunning beauty has become evident to visitors. Previously, only a few tourists would come, but after their videos and photos went viral, there has been a noticeable increase in visitors,” Thapa added.

With the onset of cold weather from November, Buki becomes deserted. The herders also move down, and tourists tend to avoid trekking during this period. Life in Dhorpatan Valley has seen a rise in the number of tourists, with Buki now increasingly included in their itineraries, according to Life Hotel Business Association Chairperson, Jeevan Pun.

Pun mentioned that over the past five years, the number of tourists in Dhorpatan Valley has risen, and since last year, Buki has also started to attract visitors. He noted that the organization provides basic medical training to handle altitude sickness and advises against trekking in large groups at once. This monsoon alone, hundreds of tourists have trekked to Buki.

“We did not expect such a high number of tourists at Buki, but the numbers keep increasing daily. Fridays and Saturdays see the highest influx of visitors. Although Buki is an incredibly beautiful place, trekkers need to be cautious and prepared for the journey. The trek can be challenging, and essential supplies should not be forgotten. The rise in tourist arrivals is bringing us great joy,” Pun said.

Samita Argeja, a visitor from Galkot, praised Buki for its mesmerizing beauty. Despite the fatigue from the five-hour trek from Dhorpatan Valley, the stunning views at Buki rejuvenated her spirits. She suggested placing information boards at various points to help visitors navigate and emphasized that with proper promotion, Buki could become one of the country’s top tourist destinations.