The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Nepal. Located in the Annapurna region, the trek circles the majestic Dhaulagiri Mountain (8,167 meters), the seventh-highest peak in the world. The route takes trekkers through remote valleys, high-altitude glaciers, pristine forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain terrain. The trek offers stunning views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and other surrounding peaks, along with an opportunity to experience the culture of various ethnic groups along the way.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Highlights
- Dhaulagiri Base Camp: A stunning base camp that provides dramatic views of Dhaulagiri and its glaciers.
- French Pass: The highest point of the trek with panoramic views of surrounding peaks.
- Hidden Valley: A pristine, secluded valley offering peace and solitude in the lap of the mountains.
- Views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri: The trek offers incredible views of these massive peaks from different angles.
- Remote Villages and Culture: Trek through traditional villages with a rich cultural heritage of Magar and Thakali people.
Dhaulagiri Trekking Information
- Difficulty Level: This trek is considered challenging and is suitable for experienced trekkers who are comfortable with high-altitude trekking. The route involves technical sections, high passes, and rocky terrain.
- Accommodation: Most of the accommodation is in basic teahouses and camping (especially at high altitudes). The teahouses offer basic meals like dal bhat, momos, and noodles.
- Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Dhaulagiri Restricted Area Permit are required. The trek is in a restricted area, so trekkers must travel with a licensed guide.
Safety and Health Tips
- Altitude Sickness: This trek reaches altitudes over 5,000 meters, so it’s crucial to acclimatize properly. Trek slowly and hydrate well.
- Physical Fitness: A high level of physical fitness is necessary for this trek due to the steep ascents and high-altitude conditions.
- Weather: The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so be prepared for cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.
- Gear: Bring proper trekking gear, including warm clothing, waterproof jacket, good trekking boots, and sleeping bag.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal.
- Complete trekking permits and preparations.
- Overnight in a hotel.
Day 2: Drive to Beni (830m) – 8-10 hours
- Take a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Beni, a small town in the Myagdi District.
- Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 3: Trek to Babichaur (1,100m) – 5-6 hours
- Begin the trek with a gentle walk through villages and terraced fields.
- Cross the Myagdi Khola and reach Babichaur.
- Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 4: Trek to Dharapani (1,500m) – 6-7 hours
- Continue trekking through forests and villages.
- Enjoy views of Gurja Himal and Dhaulagiri.
- Overnight in Dharapani.
Day 5: Trek to Muri (1,850m) – 6-7 hours
- Trek through lush forests and cross several streams.
- Reach Muri, a small village with stunning mountain views.
- Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 6: Trek to Boghara (2,080m) – 6-7 hours
- Trek through rugged terrain and dense forests.
- Pass through small settlements and terraced fields.
- Overnight in Boghara.
Day 7: Trek to Dobang (2,520m) – 6-7 hours
- Continue ascending through forests and cross the Myagdi Khola.
- Reach Dobang, a small settlement surrounded by forests.
- Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 8: Trek to Choriban Khola (3,110m) – 6-7 hours
- Trek through dense forests and cross several streams.
- Reach Choriban Khola, a campsite near the river.
- Overnight in tents.
Day 9: Trek to Italian Base Camp (3,660m) – 5-6 hours
- Trek through rocky terrain and glacial moraines.
- Reach Italian Base Camp, with stunning views of Dhaulagiri.
- Overnight in tents.
Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Italian Base Camp
- Rest and acclimatize to the altitude.
- Explore the surrounding area and enjoy the views.
- Overnight in tents.
Day 11: Trek to Glacier Camp (4,200m) – 6-7 hours
- Trek across the Dhaulagiri Glacier.
- Reach Glacier Camp, a high-altitude campsite.
- Overnight in tents.
Day 12: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m) – 5-6 hours
- Trek through challenging terrain to reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri and surrounding peaks.
- Overnight in tents.
Day 13: Exploration Day at Dhaulagiri Base Camp
- Spend the day exploring the base camp and surrounding areas.
- Rest and acclimatize.
- Overnight in tents.
Day 14: Trek to Hidden Valley (5,200m) via French Pass (5,360m) – 7-8 hours
- Cross the challenging French Pass, the highest point of the trek.
- Descend to the Hidden Valley, a remote and beautiful area.
- Overnight in tents.
Day 15: Trek to Yak Kharka (3,680m) via Dhampus Pass (5,200m) – 7-8 hours
- Cross the Dhampus Pass and descend to Yak Kharka.
- Enjoy views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Overnight in tents.
Day 16: Trek to Jomsom (2,720m) – 5-6 hours
- Descend through the Kali Gandaki Valley to Jomsom.
- Celebrate the completion of the trek.
- Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 17: Fly to Pokhara (820m) – 25 minutes
- Take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
- Relax and explore Pokhara.
- Overnight in a hotel.
Day 18: Drive/Fly to Kathmandu
- Drive or fly back to Kathmandu.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner.
- Overnight in a hotel.
Day 19: Departure from Kathmandu
Cost Includes
- Airports pick up and drop off by private vehicle
- All Transportation
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara BB (Bed & Breakfast) basis
- Internal domestic flights
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & dinner) each day during the trek
- Best accommodation at tea houses during trek period
- Capmping equipment during the trek.
- Professional English-speaking guide service trained by government of Nepal.
- Experience trekking staffs (2 guest = 1 porter basic) to carry your backpack and Extra port to carry camping equipments.
- All necessary paperwork, trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS) and local taxes
- Travel and rescue arrangements if require
Cost Excludes
- International Flight Ticet.
- Nepal visa fees.
- Personal expenses such as drinks, postage, laundry.
- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
- Travel insurance.
- Emergency evacuation.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Costs arising from unforeseen events outside the control of our company.
- Domestic flight ticket (optional)