This season, the expansive grasslands of Dhorpatan Valley have transformed into a living canvas, draped in brilliant hues of red, yellow, purple, and pink. Wildflowers in full bloom stretch as far as the eye can see, enchanting visitors with their natural splendor.

Once a quiet corner in western Nepal known mainly to pilgrims visiting the Dhor Baraha Temple on the occasion of Janai Purnima, Dhorpatan is now steadily emerging as a sought-after destination for both domestic and foreign tourists. A decade ago, few ventured beyond the temple. Today, it’s the wildflowers — locally known as Rake Phool — that draw crowds, especially during the monsoon.

“The flowers were always here, but nobody really paid attention,” says Dhirendra Gharti Magar, a local hotelier. “Now, people come just to walk among them, to pose for photos, and to breathe in the beauty. It’s changed everything.”

Thanks to exposure from social media and growing media coverage, Dhorpatan has witnessed a surge in visitors who come eager to capture Instagram-worthy moments. Every day, over 200 tourists flock to the valley during peak bloom, turning the once-silent meadows into lively, colorful gathering spots. Tourists arrive in groups, camera in hand, mesmerized by the sea of blossoms.

These wildflowers are now central to Dhorpatan’s tourism economy. While grazing cattle and horses still roam the fields, leaving behind manure that nourishes the flowers, the arrival of uncontrolled vehicles has begun to pose a threat to the delicate ecosystem.

“Compared to previous years, the bloom has decreased,” says Jeevan Pun, chairperson of the Dhorpatan Hotel Entrepreneurs Committee. “For the past three years, we’ve noticed fewer flowers, which is worrying.”

Pun believes that despite the poor condition of roads — especially the 32-kilometer stretch from Burtibang to Dhorpatan — visitors are undeterred. Most tourists arrive between late June and early September, the prime wildflower season. Some even hike further up to Bukipatan, a five-hour uphill walk from the main valley, to enjoy sweeping views of flower-draped hills.

The growing popularity of Dhorpatan has revitalized local businesses. New hotels and homestays have sprung up to accommodate the influx, turning what was once an overlooked region into a vibrant local economy. Still, both Gharti Magar and Pun stress the need for conservation. “If we don't act now,” Magar warns, “we could lose what makes this place special.”

The flowers bloom across the entire valley, offering not just beauty but a sense of serenity that visitors crave.

“Aha! Dhorpatan is truly magical,” says Akash Giri, a tourist from Butwal who arrived to escape the intense summer heat. “We saw photos and videos online and couldn’t resist. It's like stepping into paradise. The flowers, the air — everything feels surreal. Only if the road could be better, but the joy of being here more than makes up for it.”

Indeed, Dhorpatan has become more than a destination; it’s a seasonal sensation. But as thousands continue to be lured by its wild charm, the question now is whether beauty alone can sustain it — or if timely protection will ensure Dhorpatan continues to bloom year after year. -- RSS