Mt. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Mt. Dhoulagiri Region, Nepal
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0% of guests recommend
Duration
17 Hours
Tour Type
Trekking & Hiking
Group Size
15 persons
Location
Nepal
Overview
"Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek: Where you explore wild places and each step paints a picture on your heart's canvas of adventure."
Mt. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging adventure that leads you through remote and isolated areas, across high-altitude passes, and around the Dhaulagiri Massif, the world's seventh-highest mountain (8,167m).
Follow trails through the Hidden Valley, surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes. This region has remained unchanged for centuries due to its natural barriers.The trek to Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) is not recommended for beginners. Ascending the French Pass at 5360 meters will test your endurance, so proper acclimatization is essential.
Mt. Dhaulagiri, named for its dazzling, white beauty, is the highest mountain in the Gandaki river basin, while Annapurna I (8091m) lies to the east, separated by the deep Kaligandaki Gorge.
The journey begins in terraced farmland inhabited by the Magar people, with diverse sub-castes. You'll traverse moraines along Dhaulagiri's edges, cross French Pass (5360m), explore Hidden Valley, and have the option to climb Dhampus Peak (6060m). Then, the trail descends through Dhampus Pass (5240m) before ending in Jomsom.
Compared to other treks like Annapurna Circuit or Manaslu Circuit, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is physically demanding. It requires strong physical fitness to endure days of trekking across barren gravel and stone moraines at the glacier's base.
Higlights Of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
✅Dhaulagiri 1 stands as the world's seventh-highest mountain at 8167m.
✅Embark on a trek over the French Pass (5370m) and into the breathtaking Hidden Valley.
✅Experience changing scenery, from lush green farmlands to glaciers and barren high-altitude moraines.
✅Feel like you're on an exploration of an untouched and pristine area in Nepal.
✅Enjoy stunning vistas of Dhaulagiri and numerous other peaks over 7000m.
✅This circuit trek avoids retracing the same path.
✅The Dhaulagiri Trek is ideal for adventurous hikers ready to tackle the challenge and savor the unparalleled beauty.
✅Take a picturesque flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Included/Excluded
We provide transportation by either private or public vehicle, including airport transfers.
You'll stay for three nights at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, with breakfast included.
Enjoy guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu, complete with a tour guide, entry fees, and transportation.
Meals will be provided on a full board basis, covering breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea, and coffee, all skillfully prepared by our expert cook.
During the trek, you'll share twin tents for accommodation.
Our experienced guide and the required number of porters will accompany you. We cover their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment.
Trekking equipment, including two-person tents, dining and kitchen tents, tables with chairs, kitchen utensils, and other essentials, will be available throughout the trek.
The flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, including departure tax, is included.
You'll receive a duffle bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking for use during the trek.
As a keepsake, you'll also get a Annpurna Encounter PVT.Ltd T-shirt.
We ensure access to safe drinking water, either boiled or using iodine tablets.
A comprehensive first aid medical kit will be provided.
All necessary permits for the trek are taken care of.
Additionally, all government and local taxes, as well as an office service charge, are included in our service.
Expenses not covered by the specified meals in the itinerary.
Travel insurance.
International airfare.
Nepal entry visa.
Any cold beverages, including alcohol, mineral water, soft drinks, juices, etc.
Personal expenses like shopping, laundry, phone, internet bills, etc.
Your personal trekking gear.
Tips for the trekking staff.
Itinerary Expand All Close All
Once you reach the airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly received by our airport representative who will help you with the transfer to the hotel on a private car or a bus. Lodge hotels and breakfast , Dinner and lunch all are available.
Today, we'll enjoy a day of exploration in the Kathmandu Valley with our guide. Our journey will take us to several sacred sites, starting with Pashupatinath, the most revered Hindu temple in Nepal, where devotees worship Lord Shiva on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Next, we'll visit Bouddhanath, a Buddhist temple often called 'Little Tibet,' and then proceed to Swayambhunath, affectionately known as the Monkey Temple.
Our day continues as we drive to the renowned Durbar Square in Kathmandu, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area located in front of the historic royal palace. Upon returning to your hotel, you'll have the opportunity for some last-minute shopping in Thamel, the bustling tourist district of Kathmandu. Your guide will also assist you in getting ready for your upcoming trek.
We'll start by taking a flight to Pokhara, and then we'll embark on a 4-5 hour drive. We'll descend into the Kali Gandaki Valley and then follow a tributary of the Myagdi Khola valley until we reach Darbang, where we'll spend the night.
Today, we'll walk along the trail for about 6-7 hours, passing through several villages. Our journey will take us to Dharapani, perched on a ridge, where we'll enjoy a lunch break. Afterward, we'll continue through more villages and pass by Takam Village before reaching Sibang, where we'll spend the night.
Today's trek will be a gentle ascent for approximately 2 to 3 hours until we reach a ridge. From there, we'll descend to the river and cross a suspension bridge. Then, it's a climb of about one to one and a half hours to reach the picturesque Magar village of Muri. As we make our way, you'll enjoy stunning views overlooking lush, tree-covered valleys. Our campsite for the night will be in Muri.
Our day begins with a climb up to a ridge, followed by a descent to Juge Pani, where we take a break for lunch. After our meal, we ascend on a steep path and soon find ourselves high above the valley. The trail runs alongside a cliff edge, and in about an hour, we reach Boghara Village, where we'll set up camp for the night.
Today's journey starts as we walk through farmland while making our way up to the ridge. As we continue, the trail becomes less strenuous, eventually leading us to Lipshe Village for a lunch break. Afterward, we'll trek through thick forest for about two to three hours until we reach Dobang Village, where we'll spend the night.
Today's trek requires careful attention as the trail may be less clear, and balance is important as some parts can be tricky. We'll be following the untamed Myagdi Khola (river), hopping over logs and using our hands and feet to navigate uneven terrain. We'll then ascend through bamboo groves and untouched forests, where you might spot Langur monkeys frolicking in the treetops. After trekking for another three to four hours, we'll reach Dobhan and then Sallaghari, where we'll take a lunch break.
Post-lunch, we'll continue our ascent through thorny aeglea brush (broom bush). After two to three more hours on the trail, we'll finally arrive at Italy Base Camp, a location previously used by Italian explorers before their ascent of Dhaulagiri. Tonight, we'll set up camp at Italy Base Camp.
Today's trek is relatively short, lasting about two to three hours, and we'll soon arrive at Swiss Base Camp. As we continue along the trail from Italy Base Camp, you'll notice several memorials dedicated to climbers who tragically lost their lives while attempting to conquer Dhaulagiri. This includes a tribute to three Chinese climbers who passed away in 2010. Previous trekkers have left a fixed rope in place, making the descent less hazardous. After crossing the moraine, we'll reach Swiss Base Camp, where there's a single hut. This is where we'll set up camp for the night.
Today's path guides us through a narrow gorge, enclosed by delicate rocky cliffs. It's important to stay alert and keep an eye upward in case of falling rocks on the trail. After about 30 minutes in this terrain, we'll transition to a moraine, where we'll descend to the Japanese Base Camp. This part of the journey takes another four to five hours, and we'll establish our camp here for the night.
Today's trek will last approximately seven to eight hours. We'll follow a trail along the Dhaulagiri moraine, just below the glacier. If we start early in the morning, we aim to reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp before lunchtime. Our campsite here offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, creating a truly breathtaking experience.
We must pause here for some rest and acclimatization. Additionally, it's a good idea to stay as active as you comfortably can.
Today brings a trek lasting six to seven hours, and it'll be more physically challenging due to the higher altitude. Our journey starts with crossing a moraine and then ascending a ridge toward the snowy slopes leading to French Pass. After crossing the pass, we'll enter the Hidden Valley on the other side of Dhaulagiri, where we'll set up camp for the night.
For those interested in climbing Dhampus Peak (6,060m), we'll start early, around 3 am. The climb to Dhampus Peak and the return to Kalopani will span about 10 hours. Our camp for the night will be in Kalopani.
Today's trek treats us to unforgettable vistas, including the impressive Dhaulagiri Peak to the southwest, Annapurna and Nilgiri to the east, and the distant Mustang to the north. We'll also catch sight of the world's deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Valley. The trail is relatively straightforward until we approach Yak Kharka. From there, it descends quickly to Marpha Village, where we can take a lunch break. Afterward, we'll press on to Jomsom, where we'll spend the night in a lodge.
We'll enjoy a scenic flight over the mountains, returning to Pokhara. After arriving, we'll check in to our hotel. You can take it easy and relax, explore the city's shopping areas, or sit by the serene Phew Tal (lake) while gazing at the distant Annapurna Mountains.it takes about 30 minutes.
In the morning, our flight will bring us back to Kathmandu, where we'll check in at our hotel. You'll have some free time to explore the bustling tourist hub of Thamel, perhaps doing some final shopping or enjoying a drink at one of the many bars to celebrate our unforgettable mountain adventure.
Travel Styles
Cultural
Nature & Adventure
Independent
Activities
Festival & Events
Special Interest
Facilities
Entry Permits
FAQs
What is Mt. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
Mt. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging and adventurous trek that circles Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the world’s seventh-highest peak. This trek offers remote wilderness, high-altitude passes, glaciers, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas, making it one of Nepal’s most demanding yet rewarding treks.
How long does the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek take?
The trek typically takes 16-21 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization schedule.
What is the best time to do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
✅ Autumn (September-November) – Best weather, clear skies, and stable conditions.
✅ Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and beautiful rhododendron blooms.
🚫 Monsoon (June-August) – Heavy rainfall makes trails dangerous and landslide-prone.
🚫 Winter (December-February) – Extreme cold and heavy snowfall can block high passes.
How difficult is the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
🏔 Very Challenging – The trek includes high passes over 5,000m, glacier crossings, and remote camping. It requires excellent physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience.
What are the main highlights of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
✅ Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750m) – Close-up views of the mighty Dhaulagiri massif.
✅ French Pass (5,360m) & Dhampus Pass (5,200m) – High-altitude adventure with panoramic Himalayan views.
✅ Hidden Valley (5,200m) – A stunning remote valley surrounded by towering peaks.
✅ Diverse Landscapes – From lush forests to alpine meadows and rugged glaciers.
What permits are required for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
✅ Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 ($25 USD).
✅ TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card – NPR 2,000 ($15 USD).
What type of accommodation is available?
🏡 Camping Trek – Unlike other popular treks, the Dhaulagiri Circuit is mostly a camping trek, as teahouses are limited in the remote areas. Tents, food, and cooking equipment must be carried.
How do I reach the starting point of the trek?
🚙 Kathmandu → Pokhara → Darbang (by jeep/bus, approx. 10 hours) – The trek begins from Darbang, a small village in Myagdi district.
What should I pack for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
🎒 Essential gear includes:
✔ High-quality sleeping bag (-20°C rating) – Necessary for cold high-altitude nights.
✔ Crampons & ice axe – Required for glacier crossings.
✔ Trekking boots & gaiters – Needed for snow and rough trails.
✔ Down jacket & thermal layers – Essential for sub-zero temperatures.
✔ First aid kit & altitude sickness medication – Important for safety at extreme altitudes.
Is the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek worth it?
✅ Absolutely! The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most adventurous and remote treks, perfect for experienced trekkers seeking a thrilling challenge, spectacular mountain scenery, and untouched wilderness.
🔥 Book your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek today for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure! 🚀
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Annapurna Encounter Pvt Ltd
Member Since Jul 2024
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