Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the most challenging adventurous trekking destinations in Nepal, taking you to the foothills of the 7th highest mountain in the world at an elevation of 8167 meters, the trail was discovered by a team of French expeditions in 1950. Throughout the trekking route, you’ll witness views of the majestic Dhaulagiri along with various mountain peaks above 7000 meters, glaciers, snow-covered mountain passes, lush woodlands, hidden valleys, charming villages, and the deepest George of Nepal Kali-Gandaki gorge.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is the representation of crossing the main destination of Dhaulagiri trekking in Dhaulagiri Base Camp which blesses us with enthralling views of the mountains like Dhaulagiri 1,2,3, and 5. The Dhaulagiri circuit trek is isolated by, high passes and icy glaciers, hidden valleys, and charming villages making it a memorable and exciting trip.
The Dhaulagiri circuit trek starts with a drive to Pokhara and towards Darbang the starting point of your trek, walk through various settlements learning about their culture and lifestyle. Along the traverse across three base camps Italian Base Camp, Dhaulagiri Base Camp, and Japanese Base Camp, and crossing two high mountain passes French Pass at an elevation of 5,360 meters which is the highest point of the trek, and the Dhampus Pass at an elevation of 5,234 meters. At Dhaulagiri Base camp witness magnificent views of Dhaulagiri 1,2,3, and 5, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Nilgiri along with endless mountain ranges. Cross various passes settle Jomsom and towards Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Due to the lack of proper teahouse facilities along the way and difficult landscapes, a high level of physical fitness is required for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
The flight into Kathmandu with a panoramic view of the valley below and the Himalayan ranges towering above the clouds is stunning. Once you land and check out from the Tribhuvan International Airport our agent will greet and welcome you, and drive you to your hotel, later on, in the evening you’ll be assisted with all of your travel requirements for the trek by your guide and will have typical Nepali Thali as welcome Dinner.
Maximum Altitude: 1400m
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Alpine hotel and apartment or as per your requirement.
The valley has various tourist attractions so after your breakfast you can either have a guided tour around the city or explore by yourself. In the afternoon, when you back to the hotel you’ll have a brief orientation regarding the trek and will have a conversation with your guide, he will check all your trekking equipment and will be ready for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. In the evening will go for a welcome dinner where will have a Traditional Nepali Thakali thali set which will be a different test. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Maximum Altitude: 1400m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Alpine hotel and apartment or as per your requirement.
Today after your early morning breakfast, drive to Kathmandu airport, catch an early flight to Pokhara, then drive down to the Kali Gandaki Valley and up the Myagdi Khola valley to the settlement of Darbang. Once you reach Darbang explore the area after a brief rest. Overnight at Darbang Village
Maximum Altitude: 1,110m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Teahouse
After early morning breakfast Start early and set off to Sibang, passing through several villages and ridge-top settlements, lush woodlands, and dense vegetation, then continue the trail towards Takam to Sibang. Overnight at Sibang
Maximum Altitude: 1,780m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today, after an early morning breakfast start your trek to the settlement of Muri, after that head towards Myagdi Khola Valley to Naura Bhir. Once you arrive at Naura head towards your camp and get some rest. Overnight at Naura
Maximum Altitude: 1,570m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Teahouse
After your early morning breakfast, the trek takes you to Dobhan, the trail is covered with lush green woodlands, a perfect opportunity to witness the exotic flora and fauna of the region. Overnight at Dobhan
Maximum Altitude: 2,520 m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Teahouse
After your early morning breakfast starts and head towards the trail, today’s trek takes you through a variety of landscapes from woodlands to high rocky terrain. Italian base camp sits in the lap of the west face of the mighty Dhaulagiri, upon reaching the base camp set up your camp and explore the area in which you are not too tired. Overnight at Italian Base Camp.
Maximum Altitude: 3,660 m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Tent
This is your day for acclimatization as you climb higher, you’ll need to adapt to the thin oxygen levels, and there are several vantage points in the village where you can go for an acclimatization hike. So as per your guide plan have an early morning breakfast then go ahead for a day hike when you back from the Day hike have lunch and just chill your day.
Maximum Altitude: 3,660 m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Tent
After an early breakfast ascent towards Myangdi Khola, the climb today is strenuous so take it slow and have frequent rest. Once you arrive at Japanese Base camp, also known as Chhonbardan Glacier Camp, head to your camp and rest, have lunch, and enjoy the sunset views over the great Dhaulagiri peaks in the afternoon. Overnight at Japanese Base Camp
Maximum Altitude: 3,890 m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Tent
Start as early as possible, after a light breakfast head towards Dhaulagiri base camp. It was a short but tough climb uphill. As you reach the base camp, you’ll witness a view of the mighty Dhaulagiri I (8167 m), Dhaulagiri II (7751m), and Dhaulagiri III (7715 m), Dhaulagiri V (7618 m), and the folds of glaciers running down the mountains. Once your camp is set take some much-needed rest and later on explore the area. Overnight at Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Maximum Altitude: 3,890 m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Tent
This is your second day for acclimatization, trekkers and climbers have plenty to do here, including an acclimatization hike to various vantage points. And you will be prepared for the French pass.
Maximum Altitude: 4,000 m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Tent
Today’s trail will bring you across high Steep Mountain and glaciers, take caution as at some point ropes are often required, as you pass this section the terrain changes to a relatively gentle landscape, and from here head towards the French Pass (5360 m) offering you with views of Mukut Himal (6328 m), Tashi Kang (6386 meters) Sita Chuchura (6611 meters), Tukche Peak (6920 m) and the massive peak of Dhaulagiri I rows of endless peaks. Again, the trail continues along the edge of the Hidden Valley to Thapa Pass (5244m), descend from the Pass, and towards your camp. Overnight at Hidden Valley
Maximum Altitude: 5,140 m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Tent Camp
If your summit attempt is canceled due to severe weather or illness, this extra day has been set aside for summiting, this day can also be used in the case of an emergency, such as airline delays or other unanticipated situations that force us to cancel a day of your vacation.
If all goes according to plan, the additional day may be used to take it easy and explore more of the path. Alternatively, you might spend the additional day tour in Kathmandu.
Maximum Altitude: 3,480 m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Tent Camp
Maximum Altitude: 2,670 m
Meals: B /L /D
Accommodation: Guest House
After an early breakfast, catch an early flight to Pokhara. Once you arrive at Pokhara you may rest or explore the lake city, the city has various tourist attraction spots for you to choose from. Then chill your day. Overnight at Pokhara
Maximum Altitude: 800 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
After your early morning breakfast, you will be transferred to the tourist bus park to head back to Kathmandu, the drive takes around 5 to 6 hours passing through various settlements and rolling hills. Once you arrive at Kathmandu head towards your accommodation.
In the evening, a special cultural program and a farewell dinner will be served to commemorate the end of your journey.
Maximum Altitude: 1400 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Our staff will drop you off at the airport, you’ll bid farewell to your newfound friends as well as Nepal.
NOTE: All of the trekking hours and distances mentioned above are estimates and should only be used as a general guideline.
While trekking the Dhaulagiri Circuit, it’s important to stay hydrated and nourished. Carry sufficient water or purification tablets to treat water from natural sources. Local teahouses and lodges along the trail offer meals such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and sometimes Western dishes. Ensure you’re consuming well-cooked food to prevent foodborne illnesses.
The best time to trek the Dhaulagiri Circuit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally clear with mild temperatures, making for comfortable trekking conditions. Avoid trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek offers breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri massif and passes through diverse landscapes including forests, valleys, and high mountain passes. The trail typically starts from Beni or Darbang and follows a route that includes villages like Dharapani, Muri, Italian Base Camp, and Dhaulagiri Base Camp, and crosses the French Pass and Dhampus Pass before descending to Jomsom.
It’s essential to have a good level of physical fitness and stamina for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek as it involves long hours of walking and navigating varied terrain. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization days should be included in the itinerary. Consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on the trek, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.
Along the trekking route, there are teahouses and lodges offering basic accommodation with amenities like beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Accommodation options may vary in quality and availability, especially at higher altitudes, so it’s advisable to carry a sleeping bag and make advance bookings during peak trekking seasons.
Show respect to the local communities by following their customs and traditions. Ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals or religious sites, and be mindful of local etiquette. Avoid littering and minimize environmental impact by carrying out any waste you generate.
Obtain a tourist visa for Nepal before arriving, which can be obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport or at land borders. Additionally, travel insurance that covers trekking activities, including emergency medical evacuation, is highly recommended.
Essential equipment for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek includes sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a waterproof jacket, trekking poles, a backpack, a first aid kit, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a headlamp. Depending on the season, crampons and an ice axe may be necessary for crossing high mountain passes.
Remember to thoroughly research and plan your trek, considering factors like weather conditions, altitude acclimatization, and necessary permits. Hiring a local guide or joining a guided trekking group can enhance your experience and ensure safety along the challenging Dhaulagiri Circuit.
