Improving Tourism: Temporary Bridges Aid Access to Dhorpatan Valley

In recent times, the Dhorpatan Valley has attracted a significant number of tourists. To reach the popular destination of Jaljala, visitors must traverse through Gurjaghat and cross several rivers.

Following the destruction of Sanghus (wooden bridges) during monsoon season, the Hotel Entrepreneur Association of Dhorpatan Valley and the Nepal Army have collaborated to construct Phatkas (temporary bridges). According to local hotel entrepreneurs, these makeshift bridges have been built specifically to improve ease of access for tourists crossing the rivers.

Although Jaljala is accessible by various vehicles, the majority of tourists opt for motorcycle rides. Thus, the construction of temporary bridges caters to this preference, making it much more convenient for riders and domestic trekkers alike.

Locals explained that most visitors wish to enjoy spectacular mountain views which can only be accessed via Jaljala and Gurjaghat. To enhance tourists' experience, makeshift bridges have been built in two strategic locations. Although travel to Jaljala is now simpler than ever, river floods during monsoon season still pose a challenge by washing away the bridges.

People living in the area also expressed how these new bridges have greatly improved mobility. He pointed out that while younger individuals may cross the river with ease, children and elderly people often struggle and could benefit from these structures.

Located in western Nepal's remote Dhaulagiri region, the Dhorpatan Trek passes through Nepal's only Hunting Reserve, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve. Relatively untouched trail away from crowded routes, it provides spectacular mountain views of peaks like Putha Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, Churen Himal, and Gurja Himal and the opportunity to spot rare wildlife such as Blue Sheep, Snow Leopards, Himalayan Thar, Pheasants, and the national bird, Danphe (Lophophorus).

Despite temporary bridges can be useful for the short term, these are not a long-term solution due to their vulnerability to floods during monsoon season. A necessity for a proper suspension bridge has been demanded by locals from time to time but so far their appeals thus far have not yielded any results.