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Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

5 - Excellent
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Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek 15 Days, Strenuous

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek offers you the pristine sceneries from the high passes and the snow-capped mountains with the base camp of Mt. Dhaulagiri. Beat your imagination and witness a perfect trek to the lap of the world’s seventh-highest peak.

Trip Facts

Physical Grading: Strenuous

A strenuous trek that demands trekkers/travelers to have a top-notch level of physical and mental fitness to trek daily for long hours at high altitudes.

Max Elevation: 5,360 m (French Pass)

The highest point of the trek is a perfect vantage point to admire the wonderful views of Mukut Himal, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri I, and many more.

Accommodation: Hotel, Teahouse, Tent

Basic but comfortable accommodation with limited facilities and tented camping during the trek and a standard hotel in a city.

Meals: Full Board

3-course Healthy and Hygienic meals during the trek, and only breakfast in a city.

Best Season: Autumn & Spring

Clear views and comfortable trekking trails due to stable weather and temperature.

Trip Route:

Beni – Babiachaur – Dharapani – Muri – Boghara – Dobhan – Italian Base Camp – Glacier Camp – Dhaulagiri Base Camp – French Pass – Hidden Valley – Yak Kharka – Dhampus Pass - Marpha

Trip Highlights

  • Off-beat fascinating trek
  • Deepest Gorge Kaligandaki
  • Highest French Pass (5,360 m)
  • Tented Camping
  • Impressive Dhaulagiri Base Camp
  • Untouched nature and varying cultures and ethnicities
  • Immerse yourself in the Himalayan lifestyle and culture of locals
  • Stunning views of snow-capped peaks (Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Ranges)

Trip Overview

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek offers you the pristine sceneries from the high passes and the snow-capped mountains with the base camp of Mt. Dhaulagiri. Beat your imagination and witness a perfect trek to the lap of the world’s seventh-highest peak. As you stand before the great extent of this massive white mountain, feel the glory and the true joy of trekking in the Himalayas. Often passing by the herds of Yaks and mountain sheep crossing the tracks of rare snow leopards on the trail embrace nature like never before.

The starting point of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is Beni, the district headquarters of Myagdi District. Initially, the trekking trail passes through the villages of Gurung, Chhetri, and Magar people, where you get to observe their unique culture and lifestyle. It gradually gets tougher as you move to higher elevations. From the Italian Base Camp, absorb the extremely beautiful sceneries of Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, and V. After spending a day there for acclimatization and exploration of the nearby areas, proceed to Dhaulagiri North Base Camp. The trek then goes over the high passes and descends until Marpha, where it meets Annapurna Circuit Trek. Then you will meet the world’s deepest gorge in Kali Gandaki (Kali Gandaki Gorge or Andha Galchi) and arrive at Tatopani. Where you will relax in the natural hot springs. Eventually, you will return to Pokhara and wind up our tour.

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Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Gallery

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Trip Outline

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1400 m)

Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Preparation and Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley

Documentation works (Issue of Permits, Paper works), (Optional: Kathmandu Sightseeing).

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Beni (927 m)

Starting point of the trek.

Day 04: Trek to Babiachaur (1000 m)

Cross the suspension bridges and pass through villages like Mangalghat, Singa, Tatopani, and Simalchaur to reach Babiachaur.

Day 05: Trek to Dharapani (1565 m)

Admire the surrounding scenery and trek to Dharapani.

Day 06: Trek to Muri (1850 m)

Walk on steep trails and get amazing views of Mt. Dhaulagiri on the way to Muri.

Day 07: Trek to Boghara (2050 m)

Walk on descending and ascending trails and enjoy a lovely view of Manapathi Peak at Boghara.

Day 08: Trek to Dobhan (2630 m)

Relish the pristine nature through an isolated route to Dobhan.

Day 09: Trek to Italian Base camp (3500 m)

Pass through Sallaghari and the forested trail to Italian Base Camp.

Day 10: Rest day

Hike around the Italian Base Camp and admire the surrounding beauty.

Day 11: Trek to Glacier Camp (4250 m)

Relish the sight of Chhongardan Glacier on the way and cherish the beautiful views of Dhaulagiri, Dhampus Peak, etc.

Day 12: Acclimatization day

Hike around Glacier Camp and explore the region’s natural beauty.

Day 13: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4740 m)

Walk on a steep trail adoring the beautiful views and reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp adorned with colorful praying flags.

Day 14: Rest day

Take a short hike around the base camp to get phenomenal views of the mountain ranges.

Day 15: Trek to Hidden Valley (5050 m) through French Pass (5360 m)

Pass the highest point of the trek, French Pass, and descend to the beautiful Hidden Valley.

Day 16: Acclimatization Day

Take a short hike around Hidden Valley and enjoy the mountain views including Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna.

Day 17: Trek to Yak Kharka (3680 m) via Dhampus Pass (5200 m)

Cross the challenging Dhampus Pass at 5200 m admiring the views of Dhampus Peak and Tukuche and descend to Yak Kharka.

Day 18: Trek to Marpha (2670 m)

Walk on the trail adoring the beautiful scenery and enter the lovely Marpha village renowned for its apple orchards and apple brandy.

Day 19: Shared Jeep Beni Drive and Beni to Pokhara Drive by private vehicle (822 m)

Take a scenic jeep ride to Beni and a private vehicle ride from Beni to Pokhara.

Day 20: Pokhara to Kathmandu drive (1400 m)

Return to Kathmandu after completing the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.

Day 21: Final Departure

Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Essential Information

Accommodation

  • Mostly tented camping during this trek.
  • Locally owned teahouses or lodges in 2-3 stopovers.
  • Very basic but comfortable teahouses (beds, quilts, and pillows).
  • Bathrooms are mostly outside the teahouses.
  • Pay an additional cost for services (Wi-Fi, laundry, hot water, and showers).
  • Internet and phone networks are mostly stable in the lower regions and rare in the higher areas.

Meals

  • Full-board meal options during the trek. (B+L+D)
  • The meals served during the trek are healthy and hygienic.
  • The meals are prepared by our professional cook during tented camping.
  • Limited variety of meals to choose from such as Nepali Dal-Bhat, soup, porridge, noodles, hot coffee, ginger honey tea, etc.

Drinking water

  • Fill boiled water at stopover teahouses paying an additional cost.
  • Fill tap water and use a water purification solution to prevent water-borne diseases.
  • During tent camping, boiled water is served for drinking.
  • Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution.
  • Airport – Hotel – Airport transfers and sightseeing by private transportation
  • Kathmandu – Beni by bus; Marpha-Beni by shared jeep; Beni-Pokhara by Private Vehicle
  • Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus (or flight, if you agree to pay the relevant additional cost)

Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is a strenuous trek and is very demanding. The ideal seasons for this trek are Spring and Autumn as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. The winter and rainy seasons are riskier to trek due to the unstable weather and temperature, slippery trails, and limited availability of accommodation and services. Still, it is possible to trek with proper planning and preparation.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek requires compulsory two permits i.e. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

  • Foreigners- NPR 3000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

  • Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person
  • Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

Documents required

  • Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel Insurance
  • ACAP Permit
  • TIMS

 

Trek Difficulty

Dhaulagiri Circuit is a strenuous trek with a maximum elevation of 5,360 m. It is difficult due to its long duration, high altitude, and challenging terrain. It involves long days of walking, steep ascents and descents, and crossing High Mountain passes. It is beneficial if trekkers know how to use basic gear. This trek is mostly a tented camping trek and limited availability of accommodation and other services can also be challenging for some trekkers.

Fitness Level

Dhaulagiri Circuit trek demands trekkers to have top-notch fitness levels as it is very demanding. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, good physical fitness, and following the guide’s instructions Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is achievable. Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful. Some physical exercises and mental exercises to carry out before the treks are as follows:

Physical Exercises

Cardiovascular Exercises, Leg Strength Exercises, Core Strength Exercises, Upper Body Strengthening, Foot and ankle Strengthening, Flexibility and Stability Exercises, and Hiking Specific Training.

Mental Exercises

Meditation, Breathing Exercises, Stress Management, Solo Reflection, Focus and Concentration Improvement, Setting a goal, Practicing problem-solving skills, Staying Calm and Positive, Enjoying every activity, etc.

The maximum elevation during the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is 5,360 m (French Pass) and requires crossing several high mountain passes. Hence, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness and acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it.

Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.

Preventions for Altitude Sickness 

  • Take an acclimatization rest
  • Inform the guide
  • Climb slowly and gradually
  • Keep yourself Hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods
  • Know your body limit
  • Take a complete rest and sleep
  • Take medicine consulting a guide

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. Your travel insurance company shall bear all these costs.

Dhaulagiri Circuit is a strenuous trek. This trek requires crossing high passes which is challenging. This trek requires advanced equipment and gear that trekkers can hire or bring.

Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Insulating Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks, Raincoat, Balaclava, Bandana, Gaiters

Shoes: Camp shoes, Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals

Essential Documents: Passport, Travel Permits, Visa Photocopy, Passport size photos

Food: Light snacks, Energy bars, and drink mix

Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Solar chargers, Batteries, Head Lamps, Torch, Umbrella, Sewing kit, Water Purifying solution kits, reusable bags to deposit waste, separate clean/dirty clothes

Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag

Gear: Ropes, Crampons, Ice Ax, Ice-claw, Harness, Microspikes (optional)

STANDARD SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: Tented accommodation during the trek; Deluxe accommodation for 4 nights in Kathmandu; 1-night hotel in Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis
  • Meals: 3 meals per day during the trek; (including tea/coffee and boiled drinking water) prepared by our cook during the camping days; breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Transportation: Airport – hotel – airport transfers and sightseeing by private Transportation; Kathmandu – Beni by bus; Marpha – Beni by Shared Jeep; Marpha –Pokhara by private vehicle; Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus (or flight, if you agree to pay the relevant additional cost)
  • Documentation: Necessary trekking permits are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card; Please check the guidelines for a complete list of required documents
  • Equipment/Accessories: Trekking poles, down jacket, sleeping bags, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based) for complimentary use; kitchen and camping equipment (tents, stove, utensils, etc.)
  • Human resource: A professional and experienced trekking guide (English-speaking); two porters per trekker (for carrying the tents and other equipment, and food); a cook to prepare and serve meals during the tented camps. All the expenses for this personnel are covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, etc.)
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no ‘hidden charges’ afterward
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with a live cultural show)
  • Trip Achievement Certificate: After returning from the trip, we will present you with a certificate of achievement
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Make sure that your Travel insurance covers up to 6000 Mtrs

What's not included?

  • Beverage (Cold/Alcoholic drinks, Bottled Mineral Water, extra tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals/Snacks/Dessert, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees, photography charges, Hot Shower, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters (Expected) and any Donations.
  • Your travel insurance
  • Nepal Visa (You can apply and obtain the visa on arrival at the Immigration desk, apply visa https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
  • International Air Fares
  • Activities (Sightseeing/tours) cost in Kathmandu (available at extra cost)
  • Costs arise due to unforeseen weather conditions, natural disasters, political issues, incomplete trips because of personal problems, mountain sickness, physical status, early return from the trek, late departure & any costs other than those mentioned in the inclusion section

GROUP JOINING DATES & PRICES

At present, the group joining dates are not available, but we are happy to create a private trip for you with the flexibility to customize. Simply, let us know your preferences so that our travel experts will assist you in planning a trip to your dream destination.

Detail Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive in Kathmandu

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 30-minute hotel drive.

Based on your flight schedule, a representative of Outdoor Himalayan Treks will receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer you to your hotel conveniently. Get refreshed and if you still have spare time, go on a half-day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu with our guide.

Hotel

Day 02 Preparation and Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m)

While our operation team handles all the documentation required for your trek (preparation of required permits), you will get to enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu City (Optional with an extra cost), We will provide a Private Transportation and a City Guide for your tour.

Hotel Breakfast

Day 03 Drive from Kathmandu to Beni

Elevation: Beni (927 m) 7-8 hours’ drive.

The drive from Kathmandu to Beni takes place through riverbanks, forests, and villages in the hilly region of Nepal. Spend the night in Beni today at a local teahouse.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 04 Trek to Babiachaur

Elevation: Babiachaur (1000 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 73 m

Walk along the Kali Gandaki River at first, moving in the direction of Myagdi Khola. On the way, you will walk over suspension bridges and move through villages like Mangalghat, Singa, Tatopani, Simalchaur. The destination for this day is Babichaur village, overnight at Tented Camp.

Tent B+L+D

Day 05 Trek to Dharapani

Elevation: Dharapani (1565 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 565 m

You continue to gain elevation as you reach Dharapani. You will be staying in a camp tonight.

Tent B+L+D

Day 06 Trek to Muri

Elevation: Muri (1850 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 285 m

A steep walk takes you to Muri, from where you have clear views of Mt Dhaulagiri. Overnight at Tented Camp.

Tent B+L+D

Day 07 Trek to Boghara

Elevation: Boghara (2050 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 200 m

Initially, the trek is easy involving gentle descent but the final leg is a vertical climb for about two hours which reaches you to Boghara.

Tent B+L+D

Day 08 Trek to Dobhan

Elevation: Dobhan (2630 m) 6-7 hours trek. Elevation gain: 580 m

This part is challenging, sometimes even needing the assistance of ropes.

Tent B+L+D

Day 09 Trek to Italian Base Camp

Elevation: Italian Base Camp (3500 m) 6-7 hours trek. Elevation gain: 870 m

After reaching the west face of Mt Dhaulagiri, we set up the camp for the day. The trail passes through alpine forests and from the Base Camp, you will have mountain panorama all around.

Tent B+L+D

Day 10 Rest day

Elevation: Italian Base Camp (3500 m) 3-4 hours trek.

This day serves both as an acclimatization day and a day for sightseeing. Explore the nearby areas and soak up the captivating mountain panorama.

Tent B+L+D

Day 11 Trek to Glacier Camp

Elevation: Glacier Camp (4250 m) 5-7 hours trek. Elevation gain: 750 m

You need to walk through glacier moraine and snow, and in some place you will need to use ropes. You will have an eerie experience as you walk through Chonbarden Gorge. The route involves risks, but the sceneries are extremely beautiful.

Tent B+L+D

Day 12 Acclimatization day

Elevation: Glacier Camp (4250 m) 3-4 hours trek.

You can go up a walk towards the Base Camp. The views from a moraine ridge include that of Tukuche, little Eiger, and icefall from the northeast face of the mountain.

Tent B+L+D

Day 13 Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp

Elevation: Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4740 m) 4-5 hours trek. Elevation gain: 490 m

Dhaulagiri is the tallest white mountain of Nepal. As the other peaks of the country have steeper slopes, ice does not accumulate as much as herein Dhaulagiri. As you reach the Base Camp, you will enjoy the unbeatable sceneries of Dhaulagiri II and IV as well as Tukuche. You will also see the trail that climbs towards the summit.

Tent B+L+D

Day 14 Rest day

Elevation: Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4740 m) 1-2 hours trek.

This day is necessary to adjust your body into the thin air of high altitude. Explore the surrounding places.

Tent B+L+D

Day 15 Trek to Hidden Valley through French Pass

Elevation: French Pass (5360 m), Hidden Valley (5050 m) 6-7 hours trek. Elevation gain: 620 m

Passing through the French Col and reaching the Hidden Valley requires the use of climbing gears like an ice ax and crampons. This is one of the toughest and most adventurous parts of the trek. As usual breathtaking sceneries provide you relief from the strain. Admire the wonderful views of Mukut Himal, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri I, and many more from the highest point of the trek.

Tent B+L+D

Day 16 Acclimatization Day

Elevation: Hidden Valley (5050 m) 1-2 hours trek.

A rest day to absorb the sceneries of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri Himal. It further facilitates acclimatization which is necessary to traverse the Dhampus Pass (5200 m) the next day.

Tent B+L+D

Day 17 Trek to Yak Kharka via Dhampus Pass

Elevation: Dhampus Pass (5200 m), Yak Kharka (3680 m) 6-7 hours trek. Elevation gain/loss: 150/1520 m

You need to make a gentle climb through the snow to reach the Dhampus Pass. The pass offers the eye-catching sceneries of Dhampus peak on the left and Tukuche on the right. After climbing over the 5200m Dhampus Pass, we walk through risky slopes, where avalanches move down sometimes, and make a steep descent to Yak Kharka.

Tent B+L+D

Day 18 Trek to Marpha

Elevation: Marpha (2670 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation loss: 1010 m

Marpha is a village in the Kali Gandaki Valley. It is famous for its monastery and apple orchards. The apples produced here are of superior quality. In the evening, taste apple juice. Overnight at local teahouse.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 19 Shared Jeep Beni Drive and Beni to Pokhara Drive by private vehicle

Elevation: Pokhara (822 m) 4-6 hours’ drive.

We will ride a shared jeep from Marpha and get to Beni, from where our private vehicle will take us to Pokhara. Upon reaching Pokhara, we will transfer you to your hotel, where you can get refreshed and get some rest. You can explore the Lakeside area in the evening. Your guide will be happy to show you some places worth shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs.

Hotel Breakfast

Day 20 Pokhara to Kathmandu drive

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 7-8 hours’ drive.

At about 7:15 am, we will transfer you to the Tourist Bus Park where you will take a bus to Kathmandu. On arrival, we will transfer you to the Hotel. In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner. Overnight in a hotel.

Hotel Breakfast

Day 21 Final Departure

30-minute Airport drive.

Based on your flight schedule, we will transfer you to the airport for your international departure.

Customers Reviews

5 - Excellent

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek FAQs

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek usually takes around 18 to 22 days to complete which includes trekking days, and rest days for proper acclimatization.

The total trek duration of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is 15 days.

Yes, previous trekking experience is required for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek as it is a strenuous and technically challenging trek. This trek involves high altitude, steep ascents, and rugged terrains. Prior experience in high-altitude trekking and excellent physical fitness are necessary.

Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) are the best seasons that offer stable weather conditions, clear views, and favorable temperatures for trekking.

The necessary permits for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) which can be arranged by the trekking agency.

The highest elevation during the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is French Pass at an elevation of 5360 m.

Yes, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is physically demanding due to its duration, high altitude, and challenging terrain. It involves long days of walking, steep ascents and descents, and crossing High Mountain passes. Trekkers must be fully prepared beforehand.

Altitude sickness is a concern during the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek as you trek through high-altitude regions and cross several mountain passes. It’s important to be aware of symptoms and descend if necessary. Trekkers must take proper acclimatization rest to prevent altitude sickness.

Accommodation during the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek mainly consists of camping in designated camping areas. As it is a remote and less frequented trekking route, there are limited teahouses or lodges available. Camping equipment, including tents and sleeping bags, is usually provided by your trekking agency.

The easy availability of drinking water is there but it is advisable to drink purified or treated water during the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. To avoid waterborne illnesses, carry water purification tablets or use a water filter. Always carry a water bottle for easiness.

Travel insurance is essential and compulsory to trek in the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Travel Insurance should cover all medical emergencies, evacuation, high elevation, and injuries.

Since the Dhaulagiri region is remote, consider packing appropriately. Some essential items include warm and waterproof clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a sleeping bag, a backpack, trekking poles, a first aid kit, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Consult with your trekking agency for a detailed packing list.

Yes, hiring a licensed guide and porter is highly recommended for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. A guide will provide valuable support in terms of navigation, safety, and cultural insights. A porter can assist in carrying heavy backpacks, making your trek more comfortable and enjoyable.

To book the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Outdoor Himalayan, visit the website and fill out the booking form or contact us directly via email or phone. We will provide you with the necessary details and assistance for your trekking experience.