Trip info
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Min. 2 Max 12
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Grade: Challenging
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Sep-Nov, Mar-May
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Max. 5,360m/17,590ft.
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Annapurna Region
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Duration: 19 Days
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Private Car/ Tourist Bus
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Hotel/ Camping
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Meals Included (B,L,D)
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Highlights of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Explore the surreal amphitheater of Dhaulagiri Base Camp, surrounded by icy and snow-capped peaks.
- Navigate Fench Pass (5,360m), a high mountain pass offering a stunning view of Mukut Himal, Tukuche Peak, and the Dhaulagiri massif.
- Explore the Chhonbardan and Dhaulagiri glaciers for a thrilling experience.
- Experience the distinct Magar and their lifestyle, language, and hospitality.
- Trek along the Myagdi Khola, surrounded by deep forested gorges.
- Witness a spectacular sunrise view over the Nilgiri and Annapurna ranges.
- Pass through the varied terrain and witness the varied flora and fauna of Annapurna Conservation Area.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, also known as Dhaulagiri Round Trek, is a classic expedition-style trek around the world’s seventh-highest peak, Dhaulagiri, 8167m, and its broad massif of 7000m peaks. Dhaulagiri Circuit is a challenging trek in western Nepal, offering a full adventure and an off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal’s remote and unspoiled region. The Dhaulagiri circuit trek itinerary traverses serene, isolated areas of natural beauty, crossing highlands and high passes with stunning viewpoints.
The route offers constant mountain views as it passes through remote villages and an astonishing landscape, featuring several high passes, dense forests, and glaciers. Our 19-day Dhaulagiri circuit trek with camping accommodations is fully guided and supported. Our journey to the Dhaulagiri Round Trek begins with a 6-7 hours drive to Pokhara, followed by an off-road drive to Darbang the next day. Our actual trek commences from Darbang as we follow the well-paced itinerary that we have meticulously devised, keeping every important aspect in mind.
Is this trek for you? Whether the trek is for you depends on your fitness level, prior trekking experience, and mental resilience. The journey takes 18-19 days and involves 17 complete days of trekking. Each day of the trip includes walking for 5-6 hours. Thus, this trek is ideal for you if you are resilient enough to walk in rough terrain for 14-15 days, with an average daily walking time of 5-6 hours.
Likewise, the location within the Dhaulagiri region lacks accommodation facilities, and trekkers must stay in a tented camp throughout the trip. And this trek is for you if you enjoy camping. Furthermore, the trek to the Dhaulagiri Circuit poses a risk of altitude sickness; thus, it is suitable for those who can cope with high-altitude sickness and are aware of the associated risks. Moreover, the trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp or Circuit is remote and challenging; it suits you if you seek off-beaten trekking in the Himalayas with some daring.
Customize Your Trek:
- This is a general itinerary, which can always individually be “tailormade”. The trek package can be redesigned or redeveloped as per your taste, For more information please contact us.
19 Days Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Itinerary
We recommend that you schedule your arrival in Kathmandu in the morning or during the day. This will give you enough time to relax and recover from jet lag before starting your adventure. Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, our representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in. You will be briefed about your upcoming adventure. If you have any doubts, check your equipment and visited to Thamel, the main tourist hub. Spend the night in Kathmandu.
Maximum Elevation: 1,350m/4,445ft
Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel Vajra)
After breakfast early morning, you will take a tourist bus to Pokhara. If you are lucky and get the right side of the bus, you can take pleasure in amazing views of green mountains and villages. Upon reaching the enchanting city of Pokhara which offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, peaks of Annapurna and others, you'll check in to the hotel. Pokhara has numerous lakes, known as ‘Tal’ in Nepali which offer fishing, boating and swimming. Strolling around the Lakeside city and exploring it in the evening is enjoyable. Overnight in a hotel in Pokhara.
Driving: 6-7 hrs
Maximum Elevation: 827m/2,713ft
Accommodation: Hotel (Mount View Pokhara)
Meals: Breakfast
You'll leave Pokhara and drive to Darbang via the famous Beni Bazaar. On the way, you'll traverse through scenic winding roads, discovering the charm of small towns, and listen to the relaxing sound of free-flowing rivers. Situated at the confluence of Kali Gandaki and Myagdi river, Beni is the district headquarters of the Myagdi district. From Beni, you will continue your drive towards Darbang. Passing through small settlements of Tatopani (hot spring), Babiyachaur, you will reach Darbang. You have to take a brief stop while your guide will show your permits at the police checkpoint. The actual Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek begins from Darbang. Walking along the bank of the Myagdi Khola, you come across small settlements of a Magari community. After a gradual climb, enjoying magnificent vistas of mountains and dotted landscapes, you reach Dharapani village. Overnight stay in Dharapani.
Hiking: 34 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 1,550m/5,084ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Discover the countless scenic vistas on the way to Muri Village. Begin your uphill walk beside terraced fields and the traditional Magar settlement of Takam. Here onwards, the path continues towards Sibang village, offering an incredible panorama of the snow-clad Dhaulagiri range and Gurja Himal. En route, enjoying the incredible sight of Myagdi Khola, you will descend to Gatti Khola. Here you can spot the traditional water mill for grinding the grain. After few hours of walk, you will reach Phaliyagaon. The trail follows the steep path showcasing majestic mountain views and tree-lined forests. Finally, you'll make a steep climb to the large Magar settlement of Muri. You can stroll around the village, interact with the locals, and get familiar with their culture and lifestyle. Overnight stay in Muri.
Hiking: 6-7 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 1,720m/5,650ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today, begin your trek with a downhill walk on a steep trail. The trail continues, and after crossing some small streams, you'll climb to a ridge and reach a pass, another famous viewpoint. From the top of the pass, you'll witness the utterly beautiful scenery of Mt. Ghustung South. Further, the pathway you will continue through the thickened jungles and greeneries. After passing through the small villages of Mahatala and Naura, you will reach Boghara (Bagar). You can enjoy the grand view of Manapathi peak from the village. Also, there is a cluster house with stone slate rooftops and unique handcrafted windows and doors in this village. Overnight stay in Boghara.
Hiking: 6-7 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 2,080m/6,830ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast you will follow the forested trail along the Myagdi river. On the way, you will encounter some seasonal tea shop where you can take a brief stopover. With the grand vistas, you can enjoy the local tea. The trail offers various picturesque curves and exciting changes in the terrain as you will walk towards the higher elevation. For a few days, you'll not see any human settlements as the trek continues in an isolated path. You can enjoy the solitude and experience some pure nature along the route. Now keep walking until you will cross the rocky terrain and ascend to Lipsaba (Lipse). Passing through jungle areas, you'll finally climb to Dobang. Overnight stay in Dobang.
Hiking: 6-7 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 2,520m/8,270ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After morning breakfast, you'll set off to Sallaghari along with the dense jungle along the riverside of Myagdi Khola. You'll spot a wooden bridge and cross it over the streams. Keep eyes and ears wide open in the forests; you might spot or hear the roaring of wild animals. Along the trail, you'll pass through the pastures where sheep, goats, and cows are grazing. Afterward, the path has a steep climb and passes through several tricky landslide areas. Enjoy the views of a spectacular waterfall just before you reach Sallaghari. Overnight stay in Sallaghari.
Hiking: 6-7 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 2,820m/9,250ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today you'll head towards Italian Base Camp (IBC) by climbing uphill and walking through the thick jungle. Further, the path continues through lush vegetation on an undulating route. You'll cross the terminal of the glacier. As you get close to Italian Base Camp, you'll feel the differences in the climate as the temperature drops, and you'll feel cold, and you'll notice changes in the landscape too. You'll walk on terrain covered with heather and juniper bushes. Finally, after crossing a river a few more times, you will reach Italian Base Camp. The views are breathtaking as you'll be surrounded by enchanting massif snow-clad mountains, including Dhaulagiri I (8,172m/26,810ft). Overnight at Italian Base Camp.
Hiking: 6-7 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 3,660m/12,007ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today you will have a acclimatization day an and exploration of Italian Base Camp. You can opt to go for a short hike along the extended lateral moraine grassy area that runs from IBC to a small ice cave. You'll get a very close-up view of the west face of Mt. Dhaulagiri. On the way up, you can even spot a large herd of blue sheep running through a rocky cliff. After exploring the camp area, you can return to camp and take a rest. Overnight at Italian Base Camp.
Maximum Altitude: 3,660m/12,007ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Magnificent mountains views will greet you early in the morning. You'll leave IBC and follow the path that heads up a grassy slope behind the camp and reach the lip of the glacial moraine. After walking for a while on the tricky sloppy, and slippery trail, you reach Swiss Base Camp. From here, the path is easy to follow, and passing a steeper section of the lateral moraine, and you reach a flat land covered in large rocks. On the way to Glacier camp, you'll also witness the Chhongardan Glacier with the astonishing mountain vistas of Dhaulagiri, Dhampus Peak, Manapathi peak, and Tsaurabong peak. Overnight stay in Glacier Camp.
Hiking: 6-7 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 4,200m/13,780ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Finally, the day you’ve been waiting for is here. The eleventh day of the journey takes you to your ultimate destination, Dhaulagiri Base Camp. As you leave Glacier Camp, the trail steeply ascends along the central moraine of the Chhongarden glacier. As the trek involves navigating a glacier section, trekkers should be prepared for potential crevasses and shifting ice. Moving along, the trail opens up to a wide T-junction point between Dhaulagiri and Tukuche. After approximately 7 hours of walking from Glacier Camp, you’ll get to Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Reaching the base camp of Dhaulagiri rewards you with jaw-dropping views of mountain ranges and glacier terrain. The view of Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II, Dhaulagiri III, Dhaulagiri IV, and Dhaulagiri V, along with Tukuche Peak and Little Eiger, will appeal to trekkers’ eyes, making the journey and long trekking days worthwhile. Stay overnight at the Dhaulagiri Base Camp under the mountains and the stars.
Duration: 6-7 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 4,700m/15,417ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12 is another acclimatization day on the journey to the Dhaulagiri Circuit. On this day, you’ll spend acclimatization at Dhaulagiri Base Camp, the foot of the world’s seventh-highest peak, Mt Dhaulagiri. On this acclimatization day, you can take more time to soak in the beauty and surroundings of the base camp. Additionally, trekkers can do short hikes, capture the moment, walk around the glacier, rest, and prepare for the upcoming challenges on this day.
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Have your morning meal while witnessing a mesmerizing sunrise view over the Dhaulagiri massif. After breakfast, prepare yourself for the day’s demanding trek. The day involves a trek from Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley via French Pass (5,360m). The trekking trail begins with a steep ascent from Dhaulagiri Base Camp, navigating moraines and glacial paths. After some hours of steep climb, you’ll reach the top of the French Pass, from where you can get a 360° panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, including Mukut Himal, Tashi Kang, Tukuche Peak, Sita Chuchura, Thapa Peak, Dhampus Peak, and Mukut Himal.
After enjoying the view from the Pass and feeling a sense of accomplishment, continue your trail towards your day’s destination, Hidden Valley. The trail descends towards the Hidden Valley, a barren landscape surrounded by towering mountain peaks. On the day, you’ll trek for 6-7 hours.
Hiking: 6-7 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 5,360m/17,581ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
In the Hidden Valley, you’ve added a contingency day on the fourteenth day. The weather on a high-altitude trek is unpredictable, so a contingency day is helpful in case of snow, wind, or any other delays. Likewise, the contingency day gives trekkers time to recover physically after the strenuous crossing of the French Pass. Additionally, trekkers can opt for an ascent to Dhampus Peak, which takes 6-8 hours on a round trip from Hidden Valley. The view of the Dhaulagiri range, Nilgiri, Annapurna, Tukuche Peak, and Hidden Valley, all visible from Dhampus Peak, is astonishing. Overnight at Hidden Valley.
Climbing: 8-9 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 6,012m/19,719ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
The day begins after a hearty meal at Hidden Valley. The trek starts with a steady climb through rocky alpine trails and possibly snow towards Dhampus Peak. After the Pass, the trail descends to Yak Kharka, which can be tough on the knees. The trail zigzags down steep ridges and scree-covered slopes. As the trek approaches Yak Kharka, the landscape becomes greener. It takes 7-8 hours to travel from Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka via Dhampus Pass.
Hiking: 7-8 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 5,240m/17,188ft
Accommodation: Camping (tented camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
As you have achieved your key locations, you are now descending to the lower region to resume your journey. As you finish your breakfast, you’ll reach the day’s destination, Marpha, a famous village in the Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail. After walking for the last few days through a rocky landscape, you’ll enter the pine and rhododendron forests, where the Kaligandaki River complements the scenic beauty of lush greenery. A 5-6 hour trek from Yak Kharka takes you to Marpha.
Hiking: 5-6 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 2,650m/8,692ft
Accommodation: Tented Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
It’s time to bid farewell to the Himalayas. Have your morning meal at Marpha and get ready for the drive to Pokhara. Leaving the apple town of Marpha behind, the drive moves towards the hustle and bustle of the city area. The distance from Marpha to Pokhara is 139.1 km, and takes 7-8 hours on a dusty yet spectacular road. As you get to Pokhara, check into your hotel, freshen up, and explore the city once again. Overnight at Pokhara’s hotel.
Driving: 7-8 hrs
Maximum Altitude: 827m/2,713ft
Accommodation: Hotel (Mount View Pokhara)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early morning, you will take a tourist bus to get back to Kathmandu. Watching scenic countryside en route makes your long vehicle journey interesting. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, your guide will transfer you to your hotel. Rest of the day can be spent at leisure or perhaps catching up with some last minute shopping in Kathmandu. Overnight at Kathmandu.
Driving: 6-7 hrs
Maximum Elevation: 1,350m/4,429ft
Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel Vajra)
Meals: Breakfas
Thank you for joining us on this trek and it has been a pleasure getting to know you during this time. We hope this venture has enriched your experience with happy memories. You will be assisted in your last minute preparation. Our representative will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport three hours before your scheduled flight. Bon voyage for a safe and pleasant trip home. Safe Journey!! We hope to see you again.
Meals: Breakfast
Itinerary Disclaimer:
Your safety is of imperative concern while travel, please take care to note that; we every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; But" group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. Trek guide will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
Follow the package's Inclusions and Exclusions.
Cost Includes
- On the trekking route: Full camping setup (kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs, and more for your comfort.
- Twin-sharing accommodation at Hotel in Kathmandu for 2 nights
- Twin sharing accommodation at 3-star hotel in Pokhara for 2 nights
- All guide, cook, Sherpa, and porter expenses, including meals, transportation, tent camping accommodations.
- All private ground transportation including airport transfers
- Freshly prepared meals (B, L, D) with boiled water, tea, coffee etc.
- Twin sharing tent for accommodation during the trek.
- Experienced local trek guide with 1:4 assistant guide to client ratio
- Full support camping crew with number of porters to carry load equipment.
- All camping logistical arrangements for your comfort
- All required permits for the trek
- Comprehensive first aid kit with high altitude medicine
- Use a Duffel bag, Sleeping bag and Down Jacket (Must be returned after completion of trek)
- Staff wages, equipment, insurance and allowances
- Required documentation, government and local taxes.
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
Cost Excludes
- International airfare, Nepal Visa and travel insurance
- Meals at Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara or on the trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason)
- Any other costs whatsoever, that is not mentioned in the cost included.
- Horse renting and additional porters due to natural calamitie during trek.
- Personal trekking and climbing gears
- Gratuities for staff
Why didn't AlpineTrav Include the price in the package?
Price for the trip:
- The trip cost always depends on group size, hotel accommodation category and client’s desire budget
- The included itinerary is a guideline and standard pattern which AlpineTrav you. This trekking itinerary can be modified according to your time and requirements
- The itinerary shall be changed after an understanding between both AlpineTrav and the client. Additional activities could be either added or reduced as per client’s request before the trip confirmation
- Price shall be adjusted in our mutual understanding, if the client intends to add some services we shall charge him/ her for those additional services and if he/she intends to lessen some services, we shall wave the charges accordingly
- The itinerary is published in full board services for the better understanding to the client. Among many options such as hotel facilities in Kathmandu and Pokhara, the client can make his/her own choice
- The cost is also affected by the number of employees‒ guides and porters
- Please contact us for any information about in your selected package.
Nepal Visa Information
Visa on Arrival: Most nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.
Visa Fees: A 15-day multiple-entry visa costs USD 30, a 30-day visa costs USD 50, and a 90-day visa costs USD 125.
Application Process: Visitors should fill out a visa application form, which is available online or at the airport, and provide a passport-sized photo and payment in cash.
Requirements: A valid passport with at least six months remaining validity and a blank page for the visa stamp is required. Ensure you carry sufficient USD cash for the visa fee as not all payment methods are accepted.
Useful Information
For your information, international flights and Nepal’s “entry visa fee” are not included. Rooms are usually shared by two people unless you request a private room. So if you want to upgrade to better hotels in the cities, please contact us for your customized services.
Meals on the trek
All meals are included during the trekking period (Day 02 to Day 18 Breakfast). We will provide three meals a day (B,L,D) during the trek. Since this is a full camping trek, our kitchen crew will serve freshly prepared meals during the trek. We consider hearty and delicious meals as a key component to the overall success of our trip. You can and is encouraged to bring along comfort food which you enjoy eating – chocolates, power bars, dry fruits, candies, other snacks etc.
If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know in advance and we will be sure to pass your message to your guide. For a gluten-free diet, we highly recommend you bring extra foods especially for breakfast as your options for the breakfast will be limited. In Kathmandu, only breakfast will be provided to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where what and with whom to eat for lunch and dinner.
Accommodation on the trek
Hotel: 4 Nights & Camping: 14 Nights
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, we manage a three-star hotel offering a bed and breakfast plan on a twin-sharing basis. We can also manage a single room upon your request, but at an extra cost. Likewise, if you prefer more luxurious accommodations, it is also possible, but it costs more. Yet, due to the remote location and the lack of facilities at teahouses or lodges along the trek, trekkers must stay in a tented camp throughout the expedition.
Trekking: Camping
Your accommodation during the trekking period will be fully tented camping. A tent will be provided for every 2 travellers with a foam mattress. In the case of a single, we will arrange a single tent for you by default at no additional cost. There will also be a kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs, and more for your comfort. Our trekking team will carry all of the tent equipment for your worry-free and easy journey.
Difficulty
Dhaulagiri circuit trek or Dhaulagiri round trek is a challenging trek reaching a maximum elevation of 5360m at French Pass and a maximum overnight elevation of 5050m at the Hidden Valley. This two-week trek includes crossing two high passes above 5000m and is fully camping-based. Due to the higher elevation, it is physically challenging and involves daily trekking of approximately 6–8 hours.
The altitude-related issues (acute mountain sickness, high-altitude cerebral edema, and high-altitude pulmonary edema) make it the primary factor that makes the trek challenging. Likewise, the steep, rocky, snowy, and icy section also adds to the trek’s difficulty. In addition, the remote location, long trekking days, long trekking hours, camping accommodations, technical sections, and unpredictable weather are the other factors that make the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek difficult.
Requirements
No previous trekking experience is required to participate in Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, but trekkers should be moderately fit, enjoy walking, and adapt to high-altitude conditions. Trekkers who are okay with long trekking hours for longer days don’t require previous trekking experience for the trek. Likewise, those with good physical fitness, stamina, and mental resilience can smoothly complete the trek without prior trekking experience. Still, a prior trekking experience is a bonus point for a challenging journey like Dhaulagiri Circuit.
Length and terrain of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is 160-230 km (100-143 miles) long and traverses varied terrain, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes. However, the length and terrain of the trek vary depending on the chosen path and side trips. Generally, the trek that begins in Dharapani and ends in Marpha covers 160-230 km, with a daily average hike of 10-12 km.
Additionally, the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek route is known for its varied terrain. The terrain of the region varies from location to location. During the journey in the lower areas, trekkers can witness fields and lush forests of rhododendron, bamboo, and pine. In contrast, as the trek moves to higher regions, trekkers experience alpine meadows and high mountain passes. Likewise, the trek involves navigating icy, snowy, and glacier terrain, adding the thrill and challenge of the trek.
Weather and temperature in the Dhaulagiri region
The weather and temperature in the Dhaularigi region are variable and change throughout the year. Likewise, the region features varied weather conditions due to its altitude variations. While the region experiences four distinct seasons, each with its unique weather and temperature, Spring and Autumn are the best seasons for the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek. The season offers ideal weather and temperatures, making the trek favorable due to its well-maintained trekking trail.
Summer : (June to August) Rainy, cloudy, leeches, landslides, poor visibility 15°C to 25°C 0°C to 10°C Drop below 0°C
Spring : (March to May) Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, stable weather 10°C to 20°C 0°C to 10°C -10°C to -20°C
Autumn : (September to November) Dry, clear views, stable weather, cool climate 10°C to 15°C 0°C to 8°C -5°C to -15°C
Winter : (December to February) Cold, snow in high passes, harsh, and icy sections. 5°C to 15°C -5°C to 5°C -15°C to -25°C
Major attractions of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Dhaulagiri Base Camp is one of the significant highlights of the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek below the north face of Mount Dhaulagiri. At an impressive height of 4,750m, the base camp is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, icefalls, and glaciers, offering a mesmerizing view. Trekkers reach the base camp after a challenging trek through icy moraine and rocky terrain, making the arrival truly a rewarding experience. The view of the rising and setting sun in the Dhaulagiri massif is impressive from the Dhaulagiri Base Camp, making the location a major attraction of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
Mountain Views:
The panoramic view of the mountains is undoubtedly the major attraction of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. The view of the world’s seventh-highest peak, Mount Dhaulagiri, will accompany trekkers throughout the adventure. Majestic Dhaulagiri II, III, and IV, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, Mukut Himal, Dhampus Peak, and other peaks are astonishing throughout the trek to Dhaulagiri Circuit. Moreover, high passes, hidden valleys, and the Dhaulagiri Base Camp are key locations offering the closest and clearest views of the mountains.
French and Dhampus Pass
French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240m) are the other significant milestones on the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek. The French Pass is named after the French expedition that crossed it in the 1950s. Likewise, it serves as the gateway to Hidden Valley. Dhampus Pass, or Thapa Pass, connects the Hidden Valley to Kali Gandaki Valley and serves as the final high-altitude crossing on the Dhaulagiri Circuit journey. Navigating the passes is definitely tough, but worth it due to the 360-degree panoramic view of mountains, glaciers, and the Dhaulagiri region.
Italian Base Camp
Italian Base Camp is another picturesque spot on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, at 3,660m above sea level. It is the first high-altitude spot on the route to the Dhaulagiri Circuit and an acclimatization point. The base camp offers a jaw-dropping panorama surrounded by towering peaks, snowy ridgelines, and dense rhododendron forests. The Base Camp is attractive because it showcases the transition from thick forested trails to the wide-open alpine amphitheater. Additionally, the sunrise and sunset views from the Italian Base Camp are mesmerizing.
Can the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek be done independently?
If the Dhaulagiri Circuit weren’t a restricted area, the independent trek would be possible. However, according to Nepal’s restricted area rules and regulations, trekkers must be accompanied by at least one guide and a group of two trekkers. Even if independent trekking is possible, trekking in a restricted and remote location like the Dhaulagiri Circuit is challenging and comes with many hardships, and it is not recommended.
The Dhaulagiri region lies in remote, isolated terrain where permanent settlements and accommodation points are unavailable. Thus, trekkers must stay in a tented camp, which they must carry by themselves, which is not possible in independent trekking. Likewise, the high-altitude passes and glacier crossings are the other reasons why trekkers must not trek independently in Dharlagiri, as it is tough and risky to do so. Moreover, rules and regulations regarding independent trekking are in place, with a primary focus on the safety of trekkers, which must be followed.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Route
The two-week trek around Dhaulagiri begins by following a newly identified trekking route along scenic rivers, tumbling waterfalls, and terraced fields surrounding picturesque villages, where people lead a rural lifestyle. As we ascend, leaving the human inhabitants behind, the views become increasingly exhilarating. Mesmerizing landscape views come into view as we reach the Italian base camp, located west of Dhaulagiri. Camping overnight at the actual glacier at the Glacier base camp/Japanese camp gives you the sense of being right in the heart of the Himalaya, and then we reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp, where we are face to face with the high peaks.
Two important rest days at the Italian base camp and the Dhaulagiri base camp have been kept in the itinerary to ensure proper acclimatization. Our itinerary also includes a contingency day, which can be used in case you wish to climb Dhampus Peak, at 6,012 m. Another major highlight of this trek is the high passes. From Dhaulagiri Base Camp, the route traverses French Pass and into the serene Hidden Valley, an isolated region in the heart of the Himalayas. The route makes a traverse of one more pass, Dhampus pass, and descends to the Annapurna Circuit. The last section follows along the Annapurna Circuit Trek route. We then finish the journey by taking a drive to Pokhara.
Additional Information
Other information such as (Insurance, Arrival Instructions, Visa and Passport etc) required for the trip will be provided after your trip confirmation. Please feel free to get in touch with us if you require more information about the trip.
FAQs
To plan a trek and get off to a good start, it’s always a good idea to learn a little more about the area and even catch a few checkpoints. These FAQs will answer your most important question marks and provide tips to plan your trek with confidence. So, let’s get into them.
What's Asked by Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Travelers?
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is a challenging, high-altitude trek in western-central Nepal, in the Myagdi district, near the Annapurna and Mustang regions. It is a thrilling adventure that circles Mount Dhaulagiri, taking 18-19 days to complete in a round trip.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek generally takes 18-19 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and the need for acclimatization. The 18- 20-day itinerary includes arrival and departure, trekking, and acclimatization days. However, 14-15 days of trekking will be enough to cover the Dhaulagiri Circuit.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek costs USD 3,230. This covers all expenses required for the trek, including domestic flight tickets, all necessary paperwork, including taxes and permits, accommodation and meals throughout the journey, as well as in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and other essential expenses. However, the cost varies depending on several factors, including the size of the group, the preferred level of luxury, and the degree of customization of the trip.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is more challenging and remote than other treks in Nepal, making it a less-traveled, strenuous trekking destination. In addition, the trek involves crossing high mountain passes, such as French Pass and Dhampus Pass, as well as traversing glacial and rugged terrain. It also takes you through “Hidden Valley,” making it different from other treks in Nepal.
Yes, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek requires a special permit called a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). The Circuit falls within the restricted area to protect its fragile ecosystem, unique culture, and tourism management. Along with the RAP, the trek requires an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card.
Yes, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek requires a technical climbing section, making it one of the most challenging treks in Nepal’s Himalayas. The trek, notably the French Pass and Dhampus Pass, is a technical section requiring the use of ropes and crampons.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is considered tougher than the Everest Base Camp Trek due to the need to navigate higher passes multiple times, remote and rugged terrain, limited facilities, and a high fitness level. However, both treks are equally rewarding, offering some majestic sights of the Himalayan peaks and majesty.
Yes, it is possible to combine the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with others, including the Annapurna Circuit, Upper Mustang, Jomsom Muktinath, and Dolpo. Each trek offers a unique combination of options that adds to the thrill and challenge of the adventure.
The Hidden Valley section is one of the most remote parts of the Dhaulagiri Circuit. Along the trek, the valley lies beyond French Pass and before Dhampus Pass, which is completely cut off from villages and roads. No permanent settlement exists in the valley, nor are there any tea houses or lodges. Additionally, there is no mobile or internet signal, making it one of the most remote areas in the Circuit.
Yes, the trek to Dhaulagiri Circuit can be shortened and extended. We believe that every client is unique and has distinct preferences, so we offer a trip customization option that allows trekkers to tailor the trip to their specific needs, either by shortening or extending the duration. This option allows trekkers to customize their itinerary according to their desires and time availability.
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