Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek - 17 days

Best Price Guarantee
Duration
17 days
Max. Elevation
5360m
Group size
2 or more
Level
DIFFICULT
Transportation
Private Car/Van/Bus, Flight
Best Season
March-May, September-November
Accomodation
Hotel, Teahouse Lodge, and Tenting Camp
Meals
Nepali, Continental, Indian and many other dishes 
Starts at
Kathmandu
Ends at
Pokhara
Trip Route
kathmandu-Pokhara-Darbang- Dhaulagiri pass- Marpha- Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathamndu

Highlights

    • An adventure of great bio-diversity from lush green forest to arctic terrains.
    • Walk around world 7th highest Mt. Dhaulagiri and its massive range of peaks.
    • On an elusive trail to scenic hidden valley crossing over high French-Pass. 
    • Adventure around massive remorseless fields of ice, moraine and glaciers.
    • Traverse from low warm Mygdi district to lovely Mustang Kaligandaki valley.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek 

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an adventure around the massif Nepal Himalaya range of peaks.  Dhaulagiri Trekking is known as High Passes Trek and it is the most difficult and Popular Trekking route in Nepal. The walk leads from a low warm farm sub-tropical climate to cooler hills and ends at an arctic cold zone. Where route leads on off the beaten tracks, seldom ventured by few groups of trekkers and adventurers. 

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek includes exciting walks to Mt. Dhaulagiri base camp and crossing high French Pass to Hidden Valley. Dhaulagiri Range trekking Starts from Darbang and heads up to terraced fields and up to a high mountain base. There will be many trekkers interested in doing the trek but it will be enjoyable for young and energetic people. 

The adventure continues over Thapa / Dhampus pass reaching beautiful areas of Kaligandaki River valley in Mustang District. Mt. Dhaulagiri towers high as the world's 7th highest peak at 8,167 m with its adjoining towering peaks Dhaulagiri-II (7,751 m). Includes Dhaulagiri-III (7,715 m), and IV (7,618 m) with Mana Pathi and Putha Hiunchuli towards the far southwest.  

Dhaulagiri Himalayas is one of the massif range of peaks that extends from Mygdi, Mustang to Dolpo districts. Adventure of fewer than two weeks where trekkers can enjoy walking in the sheer mountain wilderness. Walking amidst high staggering snow-capped peaks, remorseless fields of ice, and glaciers in the harmony of pristine surroundings. Trek begins on leaving the low sub-tropical farm areas, heading uphill to cooler hills. Covered in the dense green forest of tall rhododendron, pines, and fir trees with nice summer grazing pastures.

The adventure leads further north, within a river gorge entering a glaciated valley around the southwest flank of the Dhaulagiri massif. 
A steep haul over the moraine of ice and snow on a faint path to Dhaulagiri base camp. Spending an overnight right beneath staggering Mt. Dhaulagiri and its massive Ice Fall, as the walk continues crossing French Pass. The highest point of the adventure leads to a wide scenic Hidden valley enclosed behind an array of snow peaks. 

Slowly walk takes you over the last Dhampus/ Thapa pass, facing incredible views of Annapurna-I, Nilgiris, and the Dhaulagiri Himalaya range.  
The trail follows downhill into dense tree lines reaching Kaligandaki River valley in Marpha around Lower Mustang. A gem of a village with white-washed houses offers lovely guest-house and lodges. Famous for delicious apples and its products, a short drive takes you to Jomsom (lower mustang), from Jomsom one Path leads to Upper mustang and Muktinath Another path leads back to Tatopani, Beni, and Pokhara. Jomsom is the headquarters town of Mustang district. At Jomsom our adventurous walk completes taking a scenic flight to beautiful Pokhara, concluding a wonderful adventure on Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.

Accommodation in Dhaulagiri 

Accommodation will be provided with tourist-friendly hotels and lodges in the trial of the Dhaulagiri Trekking. They also provide you with Luxury hotels and tea houses that suit your budget. In the tourism Sector, the Facilities in the Hotel and lodge can find normal basic to Luxury and deluxe hotels. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is possible to do Teahouse Trek until the Itali Camp, then Accommodation is impossible while you are heading Up to the base Camp of Dhaulagiri. But whereas we find a teahouse lodge, Most of the teahouses are built and well managed by the Local people.  Dhaulagiri circuit package trek provided accommodation and basic facilities for the trekkers. Some Trekkers like to take a rest and plan for a further walk below the tiredness and laziness offer a golden opportunity to explore the picturesque green village and its unique tradition and culture.

Camping Accommodation 

Camping Accommodation to Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is followed by the Trekking group and climbing group. Generally, the people who planned to Trek to Dhaulagiri Circuit or climb some other peaks need camping. There is no availability of Tea houses on the base camp of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche peak, and Dhampus Peak. If every spot has a tea house Lodge, it will be an easy and more comfortable stay but sadly there is not. so the trek will be physically difficult and more expensive.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Cost

Dhaulagiri Trekking Cost depends on your stay in City and Himalaya Range. Normally, trekking costs begin from $2300/- up to your choice.  If you are willing to get a cheaper price for Trekking to Dhaulagiri we can create a different Itinerary for you.

Important Note

feel free to contact us Adventure a One Trek. Trek itinerary can Customize as your choice.

Trip Itinerary

On arrival at Kathmandu, Nepal International Airport was well received by our guide and staff with traditional welcome greetings. Then the short drive to your hotel, located in the heart of a city. Accommodation in one of the best 5-star deluxe hotels. Check into your lovely rooms, after rest and getting refreshed from the Jet-Lag. Walk down to the hotel lobby to join other trekking members for a group briefing. Provided by your guide or Group Leader, with useful information regarding the trek, hotels, and local lodges on route walk. 

Evening a group welcome dinner in authentic Nepali Restaurants. 

Entertains you with Nepalese folk cultural program, an introduction to Nepalese heritage and culture while you enjoy the meals. 

Another day in Kathmandu for familiarization with local Nepalese cultures and historical background. Morning after breakfast, our city / cultural guide will take you for a short drive in the heart of Kathmandu city. 

Kathmandu most places are steeped with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like old Durbar Square / Palace Courtyard. After an interesting tour of old Durbar Square, a short drive to Nepal’s famous landmark. The Swayambhunath Stupa of more than 2,500 years history.  A Buddhist monument stands on a hill top west of Kathmandu city, from here visit of Pashupatinath. The holy Hindu Temple of Lord Shiva, one of most revered sacred sites, tour continues to Bouddhanath Stupa, also called ‘Little Tibet’. A great place houses world’s largest Stupa with all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha.

After an exciting tour, back to hotel rest of the afternoon preparation for Dhaulagiri Circuit trek.

An early morning overland journey of 6 hours to scenic Pokhara city, an abbot of serene Phewa and Begnas Lakes. Interesting drive to Nepal Mid-West past lovely farm villages and town then reaching Pokhara by the beautiful Phewa lake side.

Where most good hotels located, with time for short walk in the afternoon around Phewa Lake that reflects the view of high Annapurna Himalaya.

Morning from Pokhara, another exciting drive takes you to western part of Nepal at Beni. The headquarters of Mygdi district, from here drive continues for another few hour on the dirt road. The drive leads through several towns and farm villages before arriving Darbang for overnight halt. 

Darbang is located near the raging Mygdi River, which flows from Dhaulagiri Base Camp and its glaciers. Today’s camp will be set near the main village or staying in a local simple lodge.

Today's adventure starts walking past farm villages following a pleasant trail along the Mygdi River. After a gradual walk, head towards overnight camp by the river. In the afternoon, enjoy a cool dip in the glacial river or relax and explore the rural farm areas populated by Magar. The main hill tribes of western Nepal follows Hindu and Buddhism religions.

Morning after a first overnight in tented camp, and having good breakfast walk follows a river. Reaching a farm village of Jugepani, where we will stop for hot lunch, afternoon walk leads to climb a ridge. Covered in dense tree lines a gradual walk for short while, and then descend to Bagar for overnight camp. 

Bagar is a small rural farm village, the last settlement before reaching Marpha on the other side of Dhaulagiri Himalayas.

Leaving Bagar hamlet, adventure continues heading higher on a narrow, undulating path above the Mygdi River. Reaching a ridge top, as trail descends through thick vegetation and tree lines, then finally at Dovan for overnight camp.

Located on a small forest clearing the stone-made temporary huts for cattle, the camp is set on a grassy meadow. After 5 to 6 hours of good exciting walk, a place with few small shelters for travelers and porters.

Today, the trek starts with a 30-minute walk to the bank of a fast running stream. Carefully cross the bridge entering the forest. Passing through another log bridge over a stream once again leading to the deeply forested area.

While descending from the forest, you’ll notice the Dhaulagiri range, peeping through closely packed trees. Before straying too far from the Konaban River, head down to the Mygdi River side and take the left bank trail. Climb up toward another Khola called the Pakite Khola and cross it to reach the tableland of Chatare. Overnight camp in Chartare also called Bhainsi Kharka.

On leaving the campsite, and the lush green forest behind proceeding further along the trail to Italian Base Camp. Beyond woodland area as walk enters a rocky and glaciated valley around the mountainside within a glacier originated from the West wall of the Dhaulagiri Himal. 

Prepare yourself for another ascend to a grassy narrow ridge and a plateau of Pakhaban, also known as Japanese Camp. Pakhaban is a lovely campsite with the spectacular Dhaulagiri-I, West Wall and the massive rocky cliff walls of Tsaurabong Peak.

From Pakhaban, leaving the grass land as walk heads down to the right side of the valley blanketed with snow and fallen rocks. Walking with care along the undulating glacier surface as the valley bends towards Dhaulagiri Base Camp.

As walk finally ends for the day on reaching at high Dhaulagiri base camp, beneath towering peaks of Dhaulagiri-I. Along with massif Ice-Fall facing views of Dhaulagiri-II (7,751 m), III (7,715 m), and IV (7,618 m). Includes close views of Tukuche Peak with majestic North Face of Dhaulagiri-I. The rocky moraine clearing will be the site of the overnight camp

Morning trek is initiated along the moraine and glacier to a rocky terraced hill. Climb towards a rocky ridge, with uphill to the top of French Col, the highest point of the adventure. The pass is not only summited for the adventurous purpose but also for spiritual enhancement. The top marked with Buddhist prayer flag or Lungta, raised by fellow hikers and other climbers. 

Cherish the view of Sita Chuchura, the Mukut Himal, and Tashi Kang (5,386 m), all of which surrounds the Hidden Valley. Tukuche Peak West lies to the right, and in the distance is the enormous Dhaulagiri-I. A gentle descent along the snow-covered landscape finally leads to the overnight camp at a wide Hidden Valley.

A well-deserved rest day, after several days of tough and interesting walks. 

Enjoy the free day and explore the unexplored scenic Hidden valley and empty your exhaustion amidst massive mountains. An ideal environment for blue sheep, you might get the opportunity to spot the rare wildlife.

After a pleasant rest day at Hidden Valley, the walk follows on to cross the 

5,250 m-high Dhampus Pass. The walk begins on a wide path with a short ascent per hour continued by a narrow lane for the next hour. 

Then finally climb on top of Dhampus or Thapa Pass, offers grand vista of the Kali Gandaki Valley's deep gorge and the Annapurna Himalaya ranges beyond.

At Dhampus Pass' summit ridge, Mukut Himal is seen in the distance as the Hidden Valley is hidden behind the Col. Walk downhill to the campsite at Yak Kharka, the mountainside is steeply descending and covered in rocks. 

Setting camp at the summer pastureland of Yak Kharka, accompanied by Nilgiri and the western end of the Annapurna massif.

Last day walk of the adventure, enjoy the morning glorious views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri range. After a good breakfast, head downhill along a winding mountain trail that ascends to a ridge. From which Dhaulagiri-I and the Tukuche Peak are once again discernible. Slowly the walk ends on reaching a lovely and charming Marpha Village, the loveliest settlements on this trip. From Marpha taking a short drive to Jomsom. The headquarters of Mustang with a small airstrip above Kali Gandaki River. At Jomsom overnight in a lovely hotels or guest house with time to explore the exciting streets of Jomsom town.

From Jomsom, morning a short walk to air terminal and then board in a small aircraft for scenic flight of less than 25 minutes to Pokhara, viewing the amazing Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range. On arrival at Pokhara airport transfer to the hotel by the Phewa lake side. Rest of the day at leisure for individual activities and browsing the lively streets of Pokhara lake side.

An early-morning trip from Pokhara to Kathmandu taking an overland journey of about six hours. An interesting drive on Pokhara and Kathmandu highway, following the Trisuli River for some hours. As drive heads uphill and then down towards Kathmandu bustling city. On arrival transfer to your hotel, rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Your last day in Kathmandu and Nepal, as per your international flight time our staff transfer you to the airport. Then bid farewell to guide and staff as you enter the airport terminal for homeward bound flight, after a memorable adventure on 

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking.

Not satisfied with this itinerary? Make your own.
Customize

Includes

    • The airport picks up and drops off by a private vehicle.
    • 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast on a twin/double sharing basis. 
    • Transportation (Kathmandu - Pokhara - Darbang  Jomsom - Pokhara- Kathmandu) by Bus and flight
    • Dhaulagiri Trekking permit and Annapurna Conservation permit, Entrance Fee, and Trekkers Information Management System Card (TIMS). 
    • Experienced trekking guide and his/her expenses during the trekking. 
    • Porter(s) during the trek. 
    • Three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) a day during the trek.
    • Teahouse accommodation on a twin/double sharing basis during the trek. 
    • All the government taxes.

Doesn't Include

    • International airfare, Travel insurance, Nepal visa fees 
    • Food in Kathmandu and Pokhara. 
    • Extra charges of WIFI, hot shower, boiled Hot/ and cold water, and electricity to charge the devices during the trekking.
    • Laundries and beverages 
    • Tips for Guide, Porter, and Driver

Complimentary

    • Trekking Map of Dhaulagiri region
    • Welcome and welfare Dinner in Nepali cultural dance shows the restaurant
    • A1trek company logo print T-shirt.
    • Trekking Certificate of a1trekking company name with a stamp. 

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is typically between April and June. This is when the weather is at its best and the trails are still clear of snow. and September to November is also another best time to go for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Usually, people prefer to go to Dhaulagiri circuit trek for two seasons of the year spring and Autumn. 

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a 21-day trek that typically covers a distance of approximately 180-200 kilometers. but nowadays off the road in the village taking the bus more up and treks being shorter. 


The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is considered to be moderately difficult. You should have a good level of physical fitness and experience in trekking in order to complete the trek successfully.

You will need to obtain a special trekking permit from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu in order to do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. and need to make Annapurna Conservation Area Permit as well


Accommodation along the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is usually in the form of simple guesthouses and lodges. It is necessary to take a tent for three to four days. so better to do a camping trek for Dhaulagiri Circuit.



Food is usually a combination of traditional Nepali dishes, as well as western-style meals. but in this trek food is taken by the group, so it depends on cooking by the cook. usually, you will get vegetarian food on this trek.  


The highest altitude reached on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is 5,400 meters, at the summit of Dhampus Pass.


You will need warm clothing and good quality hiking boots, as well as a sleeping bag, trekking poles and a first aid kit.


The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is home to a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan Thar, wild yaks, snow leopards, red pandas and musk deer. some people said that in the past times, they saw a yeti too. 


It is recommended that you hire a guide for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, as the trails can be difficult to navigate and the terrain is often challenging. Dhaulagiri trekking is only possible in camping, that's why you need to make a permit through some reputed local company and hire a guide and porter. 


Read more FAQs

Best trekking to Dhaulagiri circuit trek with A1trek!

I had the absolute pleasure of embarking on a two week Dhaulgiri Circuit trek with Adventure A One Treks. The owner, Ajeeb Bhatta, not only provided us with an amazing team, led by an experienced trekking guide, but also provided us with highly experienced and qualified porters to ensure that we were able to enjoy this stunning Himalayan trekking experience to its fullest. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and fully equipped with the necessary components for a successful and safe trek, ensuring that we all had a memorable experience. I was particularly impressed by Ajeeb's dedication to safety, which was extremely reassuring given the changing weather conditions in the Himalayas. Thanks to Ajeeb's commitment to safety, the whole team felt secure enough to enjoy all the spectacular views. I can't thank Ajeeb and Adventure A One Treks enough for the amazing experience we had on the Dhaulgiri Circuit! 5 Stars for Adventure A One Treks!

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Bjørn Amundsen
Norway
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