Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek-19 Days
Duration
19 days
Activities
Tour and Trekking
Max Altitude
5200m / 17060ft
Group Size
02-08
Expedition Overview
Facts of the trip
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Arrival On
Kathmandu
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Departure From
Kathmandu, Nepal
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Accommodation
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and camping basis accommodation during trekking
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Meals
BB plan in Kathmandu and All meals during the trek and expediiton
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Best Time
October-December, February- Jun
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Transportation
Private Car / Jeep in Kathmandu, domestic flight
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek in Nepal offers an exhilarating adventure amidst some of the most awe-inspiring natural landscapes on the planet. Situated adjacent to the Annapurna Mountain range, it is bounded by the Kaligandaki River and its profound gorge, recognized as the deepest gorge globally. Dominating the scene is Dhaulagiri, the seventh-highest peak globally, standing tall at 8167 meters, with an impressive cluster of fifteen peaks surpassing 7000 meters. This approximately three-week journey is a testament to the raw beauty of the Himalayas, demanding a certain level of high-altitude trekking experience due to its strenuous nature.
The trek takes trekkers on a mesmerizing journey through a diverse range of terrains, from lush verdant valleys to terraced fields, and from rhododendron and alpine forests to expansive meadows dotted with vibrant wildflowers. Passing through remote areas away from the main trails, the Dhaulagiri Circuit rewards adventurers with breathtaking panoramas at every turn, including towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and rejuvenating hot springs. However, its remoteness and challenging terrain make it a demanding trek, requiring a good level of physical fitness and stamina. For those seeking an unforgettable adventure off the beaten path, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek promises an experience of a lifetime amidst the rugged grandeur of the Himalayas.
Here are some highlights of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek in Nepal:
1. Cultural Immersion: Throughout the trek, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the diverse cultures of the region, interacting with local communities such as the Gurungs, Magars, and Thakali people. Experience their traditional lifestyle, sample local cuisine, and learn about their customs and traditions.
2. Flora and Fauna: Trekking through the Dhaulagiri region, you’ll encounter a wide array of flora and fauna, thanks to its varied ecosystems. From lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine to alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, the landscape is a haven for biodiversity. Keep an eye out for unique species of birds, mammals, and even rare Himalayan wildlife like the snow leopard.
3. Sweeping Vistas: Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking vistas that unfold before you at every turn. Enjoy panoramic views of towering peaks, including the iconic Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The Dhaulagiri Base Camp offers a particularly spectacular viewpoint, allowing you to marvel at the sheer grandeur of the surrounding Himalayan giants.
4. Himalayan Majesty: The trek provides unparalleled opportunities to witness the majesty of the Himalayas up close. From the rugged beauty of Dhaulagiri, the seventh highest mountain in the world, to the towering peaks of the Annapurna range, the scenery is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Capture unforgettable moments as you witness sunrise and sunset painting the mountains in golden hues.
5. Traverse the Kali Gandaki Gorge: Embark on a journey through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. As you trek along the banks of the Kali Gandaki River, surrounded by towering cliffs and rugged terrain, you’ll be humbled by the sheer scale of nature’s creations.
6. Conquer High Mountain Passes: Challenge yourself by conquering two high mountain passes on the trek: the French Pass (5,240m/17,192ft) and Thapa Pass (5,155m/16,913ft). These exhilarating passes offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, rewarding your efforts with a sense of accomplishment and unparalleled vistas.
Overall, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek promises an unforgettable adventure, blending cultural immersion, natural beauty, and thrilling challenges amidst the majestic Himalayas of Nepal.
Itinerary
Welcome to Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan international airport our representative welcomes you and assists to transfer in your hotel in Kathmandu (1,400m). After time to get refreshed, evening you will meet and transfer for welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurant in the heart of Kathmandu and after meal briefing about your trip and overnight at Hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 45 Min
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Dinner
Today, morning we will ready after your breakfast to head on for our relaxing guided day trip to world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley and visit the highlights of Kathmandu and the surrounding areas. We take you to visit the pilgrimage sites of Hindus temple Pashupatinath, one of the most important shrine of Shiva temples on the subcontinent which is place of thousand of devotees, Saddhus (holy men/Baba), and can be seen the cremating body most of the times in the holy riverbank of Bagmati. Hundreds of monkeys are giggling with you and take a time to exploring surrounding area and visit Bouddhanath stupa an another pilgrimage centre which is most popular and important place for Buddhist. You can explore with rounding prayer wheel and flattering colorful flag with melodious chanting noise. After your lunch at Bouddha visit Swoyambhunath stupa also known as monkey temple covering wide range of area with highest point of Kathmandu valley and enjoy the 360 degrees of valley view. After exploring the surrounding areas visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square which is old royal palace of Kathmandu and can be seen lot of temple, architectures and Kumari (living goddess) and walk in a freak street and late afternoon back to hotel and evening briefing about your trip, what is your responsibility, what to do and does not in the trek? Introduce with our fellow trekking staff and chances to ask remaining question and simply relax at the hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast in the hotel we take a bus to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Airport for the 45 minute flight to Pokhara. Here we board our transport for the 3 – 4 hour journey through a fascinating and lush landscape of emerald green rice paddies and dense forest on the steeper and higher slopes. Travelling deeper into the Annapurrna Himal, we follow the Kali Gandakhi river to the town of Beni and then follow its tributary, the Myagdi Khola, passing several small settlements, to arrive at the small rural town of Darbang where we make our first camp. Approximate altitude of camp is 1100 metres. Overnight in Darbang.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 1100m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Beginning our trek after breakfast, short easy walk we get to the river bank at Phedi, after we cross the Danyga Kholaa on a big suspension bridge and start to climb up to Dharapani. It offers nice views of Dhaulagiri, Gurja Himal and Puta Hiunchuli to the west. After lunch at Dharapani (1200m) and then continue along the ridge to Sibang. Overnight in Sibang.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 1770m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a long descent to the Dar Khola, the path goes steep climb to Muri which takes approximately 2 hours. The Dar River flows from the west, in which direction lies The Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, which is the only hunting reserve in Nepal established in 1987. We follow the route towards the north along the Myagdi River. We will stop at Muri for lunch and afterwards we continue the trek, to a bridge crossing of the Mudi Khola. We pass through pretty farmland, terraced rice fields and isolated houses to the village of Naura. Overnight in Naura.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 1570m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we continue walking through the Myagdi River to the larger settlement of Bagar (2080m). After lunch at Bagara the trail descends down to a small ridge then crosses forest to Jyardan, it is the last village in this valley and the last village that we will encounter until we arrive at Marpha. Descend a long, steep, slippery stone staircase into a deep bamboo and rhododendron forests to crazing field know as Lapche Kharka. Overnight at Lapche Kharka.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 2050m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After the breakfast, we continuing our gradual ascent on a spectacular alpine-style path, passing more grassy fields and arrive grazing area at Dobang. After lunch at Dobang we continue our journey crossing Konaban Khola, then climbing towards the Sallaghari. We will have west face of Dhaulagiri during the walk. Overnight in Sallaghari.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 2500m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We take an easy day today; it is just about 3-4 hours short walking. You’ll pass through beautiful forests trail and with the closer views of mountains panorama, where you will camp just in front of the West wall of the Dhaulagiri. Overnight in Italian Base Camp.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 4
- Altitude: 3660m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Acclimatization day at Italian base camp, it is important that we include an acclimatization day before we reach over 4000m. A good day for resting, possible to make exploration walk above camp and enjoy the scenery and natural beauty. Overnight at tented camp.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 0
- Altitude: 3660m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast another short trek as we climb up above four thousand meters. The trail now crosses a rocky area then walk through first section of glacier, probably using a rope in couple of tricky spots while crossing the main glacier. The surroundings are spectacular, dominated by the impressive west face of Dhaulagiri I and massive rocky walls of Tsaurabong Peak on the other. Overnight in Glacier Camp or Japanese Camp.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 4
- Altitude: 4250m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We start early morning for the long and tough trek to Dhaulagiri Basecamp. Soon we follow the north side of the glacier passing to the smooth ice of the white part then climb steadily to the rough part before teaching to the basecamp. Tough walk but campsite offers the spectacular towering face of Dhaulagiri I (8167m) and to the west Dhaulagiri II (7751m), III (7715m) and IV (7618m). Overnight in Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 8
- Altitude: 4748m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the next day you will be crossing the pass into the Hidden Valley where you will be constantly at an altitude of over 5000m so it is important you will have rest. You can walk over the camp for spectacular views. Overnight in Dhaulagiri Basecamp.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 0
- Altitude: 4748m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We follow the Ghhondarban Glacier towards the north before steadily climb hillside above the glacier. We cross over the French Pass (5370m) the highest point of the trek; it offers a stunning 360 degree panorama of the surrounding mountain ranges including Sita Chuchura, the peaks of the Mukut Himal, Tashi Kang, Tukuche Peak, and the huge Dhaulagiri I. We descneds an easy trail into Hidden Valley. Overnight in Hidden Valley.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 5170m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Another rest day or spare day in case of any problems affecting our schedule. Enjoy the surrounding Peaks and exploring around the valley. Overnight in Hidden Valley.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 0
- Altitude: 5170m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We follow high- level alpine style travers path to the eastern end of Hidden Valley and climb up the Dhampus Pass, a spectacular crossing between the Thukuche and Thapa peaks, which overlooks the Kali Gandaki valley with the view of the Annapurna range and we can once again see Dhaulagiri I. Then rocky steeply descent leading to Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka.
- Accommodation: Tented Camp
- Hours: 8
- Altitude: 4000m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We continue our descent Kali Gandaki Valley, passing through first seasonal huts at Alubari(3400m) then to beautiful Thakali village Marpha (2667m) where we stop for Lunch. We take easy walk to Jomsom. Overnight in Jomsom.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 4
- Altitude: 2710m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today 22 minute morning flight takes us to Pokhara from Jomsom. Once we arrived at Pokhara airport, we then drive to hotel. In the afternoon we will have sightseeing tour around Pokhara valley, which covers Fewa Lake, Devi’s water fall, International Mountain Museum, Tibetan refugee settlement and Gupteshower cave. Overnight at hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 5
- Altitude: 950m
- Meals: Breakfast
Driver back to Kathmandu. 7 hrs drive. You can choose flight option which will take 24 min to Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 24 Min / 8 Hours
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast (or depending your flight schedule) we transfer to the airport final departure or follow your next adventures trip.
- Accommodation: No
- Hours: 30 Min
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
What's Included
- Arrival and Departure: Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop)
- Accommodation in Kathmandu (3 nights in 2-3 star level tourist standard hotel with breakfast included, other possibilities on demand)
- Welcome Dinner: One Welcome Dinner in tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office’s Staffs.
- Sightseeing tour with an experienced local guide.
- All land transfer as per given itinerary.
- National Park, Conservation Area entry permit fees.
- Accommodation: Tea house (twin sharing basis room)/ Camping (twin sharing two men tent), dining tent, toilet tent.
- Meals (3 meals / B.L.D) while on the trek.
- Experienced English speaking guide / leader, necessary experience local helpers.
- Wages, food, accommodation, equipment, insurance and other facilities to staffs.
- Map: Trekking map.
- Program according to the itinerary
- Comprehensive Medical kit for members and staff.
- Government tax and Company service charges
- Domestic Airfare (Jomsom – Pokhara USD 125 per person)
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- Air Fare: International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
- Nepal entry Visa fee: Nepali Visa fee $50 USD per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days is $100 USD).
- Insurance: Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, Helicopter medical & emergency evacuation. *Mandatory
- Entrance fees for monasteries, temples, world heritage sites.
- Lunch & Dinner: Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking)
- Extra night in Kathmandu: Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking
- Personal Expenses: Telephone Calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers, and any Alcoholic beverages (during the trek and in Kathmandu).
- Personal Equipment: Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears.
- Toiletries: Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
- Extra: Any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Filming: Special Filming, Drone permit fee and Photography charges (if and when applicable).
- Tips to guides, restaurants, hotel lobby, porters and trekking staff. (Tipping is expected.)
What to Expect
Accommodation:
We will be staying at 2/3 star hotel in Kathmandu, and in tea-houses during the trek. All rooms are on twin-shared basis. Single bedroom will be arranged on request and will cost additional. Fourteen Summit will arrange rooms with attached washrooms; however, tea-houses at some places only have shared washing and toilet facilities. Also note that single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu and in trekking regions at lower elevation but it might be difficult to find them at higher altitude.
Meals:
All meals will be provided during trekking (On demand, we can arrange only breakfast during the trek and trekkers can order lunch and dinner individually from the tea-house menu). In Kathmandu, breakfast will be available . There will also be welcome and farewell dinners taking place for guests. While on trek, we have breakfast and dinner in the tea-houses/lodges where we spend the night and lunch on our way to next destination. Authentic Nepalese, Tibetan, continental meals and Indian cuisine are common choices in the menu.
Physical Condition & Experience Requirements:
Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is a moderate trek. Travelers who can walk up to 6-7 hours a day on an uphill and downhill trail will consider this trip fulfilling and enjoyable. It is a good idea to prepare for the Annapurna circuit trek by jogging and exercising regularly at least for a month prior to the start. Trekking to the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek should be relatively easy for those who have experience in walking/trekking in high altitudes. Determination, good physical health, positive attitude and average physical fitness are good preconditions for a successful accomplishment of the trek. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skills are required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood diseases should inform Fourteen Summits before booking the trek.
Best Time to Travel:
The best time for trekking to Dhaulagiri Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The temperature is moderate and guarantees amazing views throughout the trip. Although this trek can be undertaken during winter, the cold temperature might not be suitable for everyone.
Equipment List
Fourteen Summit has compiled a list of necessary equipment, personal medical supplies and symptoms of medical condition likely to face during trekking / peak climbing. Also, please do understand that items listed below should be considered as an essential summary.
We highly recommend you to be familiar with all of your equipment and basic understanding of medical Conditions related to high elevation.
Your document to travel to Nepal:
Valid passport, 2 extra passport size photos, airline tickets
Separate photocopies of passport, visa form (easily obtained at Kathmandu airport)
Dollars in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport
Credit cards, bank/ATM/cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines
Accessories:
Sleeping bag rated to zero degrees F
Headlamp with spare bulbs and batteries
Small pad or combination lock-to-lock trek bag
Basic First Aid Kit (see Health and Medicinal)
Large plastic bags – for keeping items dry inside trek bag
Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches)
Water bottles
Toiletries
Small wash towel
Rain coat
Personal Clothing items
Head:
Sun hat or scarf
Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
Sunglasses with UV protection
Upper Body:
T-shirts
Weight thermal tops
Fleece jacket or pullover
Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
Down vest and/or jacket (optional)
Hands:
Lightweight gloves
Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower Body:
Underwear
Hiking shorts
Lightweight cotton long pants
Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms
Fleece or wool pants
Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants
Feet:
Thick, warm wool hiking socks
Hiking boots with spare laces
Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
Personal Hygiene:
Personal hygiene supplies;
Two tubes lip sun cream, at least 1 large tube regular sun cream (min. factor 30), some after-sun lotion in case you do get a sunburn
One toothpaste/brush set;
One hand sanitizer gel
1 (fast drying) synthetic towel
Medical Supplies:
Personal prescription medications; Please let your leader know about any medical issues before the climb.
Small personal first-aid kit; (Simple and Light): first-aid tape, plasters (Band-Aids),alcohol-free wipes for cuts, personal medications, etc. (The leaders will have more extensive first-aid kits)
One skin blister repair kit
Anti-diarrhea pills (Imodium) (one regular package)
Anti-headache medication (Aspirin or Ibuprofen) (one regular package)
One small bottle cough and/or cold medicine.
One course antibiotics for chest infection, available locally at chemist shop or pharmacy with no doctor’s prescription.
One course antibiotics for stomach infection, available locally at chemist shop or pharmacy with no doctor’s prescription.
One small bottle anti-altitude sickness medication: Diamox (Acetylzolamide), available locally, for more about this medication, please contact us or your doctor
One small bottle of water purification tablets (needs to contain silver-ions AND chlorine) or a water filter or UV sterilizer.
Earplugs
Extra prescription glasses/contact lens. Contact lens wearers, please bring glasses in case of emergency.
Photo and Video
FAQ
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging and remote high-altitude trek that circles Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the seventh-highest mountain in the world. This trek takes 15-18 days and features rugged terrain, high passes, glaciers, and pristine landscapes. It passes through Magar villages, dense forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude wilderness, offering incredible views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Tukuche Peak, and Nilgiri. The trek includes the Italian Base Camp, Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750m), French Pass (5,360m), and Dhampus Pass (5,240m), making it one of Nepal’s most demanding adventures.
The trek is classified as very difficult, requiring excellent physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience. Trekkers face steep ascents, challenging moraine trails, high passes, and glacier crossings, along with extreme cold at higher elevations. Camping is required for several days due to the lack of teahouses, adding to the challenge.
The best seasons for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is stable, and mountain views are at their best. Spring features blooming rhododendrons, while autumn provides clear skies and crisp mountain views. Winter (December-February) is too harsh, with heavy snowfall making the passes dangerous, and monsoon (June-August) brings rain and landslides in the lower sections.
Yes, trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card. Since parts of the route are remote and less traveled, a special permit may be required in certain areas. These can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
The standard itinerary for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek takes 15-18 days, including acclimatization days at Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp. Some itineraries extend the trek by combining it with the Annapurna Circuit or Kali Gandaki Valley for additional exploration.
Unlike other popular treks, the Dhaulagiri Circuit has very few teahouses, so trekkers need to camp for multiple nights at higher altitudes. Lodges are available in the lower sections, but beyond Italian Base Camp, camping is required. Trekkers must carry tents, sleeping bags, food supplies, and cooking equipment, usually with the help of porters and a trekking crew.
Yes, altitude sickness is a major concern, as trekkers reach elevations above 5,000m, including Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750m), French Pass (5,360m), and Dhampus Pass (5,240m). Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a slow ascent are crucial. Symptoms like headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue should not be ignored, and immediate descent is necessary if symptoms worsen.
Yes, hiring a licensed guide and porter is highly recommended due to the remote and challenging nature of the trek. Trails are often poorly marked, and crossing glaciers and high passes requires experience with ice and snow conditions. A support team helps with navigation, safety, setting up camps, and carrying equipment, making the trek more manageable.
The trek starts from Beni, which is about a 7-8 hour drive from Pokhara. From Beni, the route follows villages like Darbang, Muri, and Dobang before reaching Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp. The trek ends in Jomsom, from where trekkers either fly to Pokhara or take a jeep/bus ride back.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is unique because it is one of Nepal’s most remote and least crowded high-altitude treks, offering an adventurous and wild experience. It provides a rare opportunity to trek through glaciers, high passes, and untouched alpine terrain, with breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri’s massive icefalls and towering peaks. The combination of challenging conditions, high-altitude wilderness, and the sense of true Himalayan adventure makes this trek ideal for experienced trekkers looking for an off-the-beaten-path expedition.