Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Duration
21 days
Activities
Trekking and Climbing
Max Altitude
6,012m/19,724ft
Group Size
02-08
Expedition Overview
Facts of the trip
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Arrival On
Kathmandu
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Departure From
Kathmandu
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Accommodation
Hotel, Tented Camp
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Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Best Time
October-December, February- Jun
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Transportation
Private Jeep/Van, Domestic Flight
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is a challenging trek encircling the Dhaulagiri massif, the world’s seventh-highest mountain. Starting and ending in Beni, this trek ventures through remote areas, showcasing diverse landscapes like lush forests, terraced fields, and high mountain passes. The journey includes crossing the formidable French Pass (5,360 meters) and Dhampus Pass (5,200 meters), providing a thrilling sense of adventure and accomplishment.
Dhampus Peak, nestled in the Dhaulagiri range, is a lesser-known trekking peak in Nepal. Combining trekking and climbing elements, the route begins with a trek through the Dhaulagiri Circuit, passing through picturesque landscapes and remote villages. The base camp is typically set near the Italian Base Camp on the Dhaulagiri Circuit. Climbing Dhampus Peak demands technical skills, navigating challenging terrain with ice and snow. The summit rewards climbers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Dampus Peak, located in the beautiful Annapurna region of Nepal, offers a perfect blend of adventure and breathtaking natural beauty. At an altitude of 6,012 meters (19,724 feet), it is considered one of the more accessible climbing peaks in Nepal, ideal for both novice climbers and experienced trekkers looking to step into mountaineering. The journey to Dampus Peak typically begins with a trek through the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna Conservation Area, featuring terraced fields, traditional villages, and panoramic views of towering Himalayan giants like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The climb itself is non-technical but requires good physical fitness and determination, making it an excellent choice for adventure seekers aiming to challenge themselves in a supportive environment.
In addition to its climbing allure, Dampus Peak offers a chance to immerse oneself in the rich culture and hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities. The trek passes through scenic settlements where travelers can experience local traditions and savor authentic Nepali cuisine. The summit rewards climbers with unparalleled 360-degree views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, creating memories that last a lifetime. With a well-organized itinerary, professional guides, and mesmerizing scenery, Dampus Peak provides an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, cultural exploration, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.
Itinerary
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| 03/02/2025 | 23/02/2025 | 21 | 02-15 |
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Cost Details
What's Included
- Airport-Hotel-airport pick up & drop by private car/van/bus
- Deluxe accommodation in 2/3 star hotel in Kathmandu breakfast included. (3 nights)
- Kathmandu city Tours by professional tour guide and private car/van/bus
- All your standard meals as per itinerary (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek and Climb
- All hot drinks as per itinerary such as tea, coffee (4 times a day) during the trek
- Tented accommodation during the trek and climbing
- A local government license holder Trekking and Climbing Guide during the trek and climb
- The required number of trekking and climbing staff and Porters to carry your luggage during the trek
- Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine for all trekking staffs
- Annapurna conservation entry permit
- TIMS
- Dhampus Peak Climbing Permit fees
- General Climbing equipment such as Rope, Ice Screw, Snow Bar etc. Duffel/kit bag by Fourteen Summits Surface transfer from and to Kathmandu
- Service charge and tax
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Your travel insurance (compulsory)
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee (Multiple entry visa for US$ 40 or equivalent convertible foreign currency.) you obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport Kathmandu.
- Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry
- Personal trekking and Climbing Equipment
- Tips for trekking staffs and driver. (Tipping is expected)
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on price includes section
What to Expect
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), proof of insurance
Dollars in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport
Credit cards, bank/ATM/cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards)
Personal Climbing gear:
Harness: A climbing harness should be lightweight and fully adjustable. Easy to put on and take off.
Ice axe: General mountaineering axe. Should be light and easy to use.
Crampons: It must fit boot perfectly and lighter is better.
Carabineers: Two large locking “pear” shaped 4 regular mountaineering carabineers
Prussik cord: You can use in many situation, carry couple more.
Ascenders: One left or right hand orientation, does not matter (Petzl)
Rappel device: Figure 8, ATC or similar. Very important to devices for descending.
Ascender / Jhumar: Must be comfortable to be use with gloves.
Helmet: It is very important to use while crossing areas through rock fall, ice cliff. Better light weight.
Walking pool: Adjustable types are the best, it will be very much helpful while walking through snow field or rocky trail.
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
Feets:
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 asunburn
Anti-mosquito cream;
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.