Dhaulagiri circuit trek

Trip Facts

Duration : 15 Days Max-Altitude : 5212m Program Type : Camping Best Season : Sep to Nov, March to Jun Per Day Walking : 6/7 Hours Trek Grade : Grade 3:

Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should expect to trek above 5416m/17872ft.

Mode of Travel : Flight/Land

Start From

All price inclusive

$ 3500 $ 3100

USD per person

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek 15 days package itinerary

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a demanding adventure that takes you around the majestic Dhaulagiri peaks, the world’s seventh-highest mountain. The trek starts from Beni’s diverse landscapes, fields, lush forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes.

The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek route ranges from 160 to 230 kilometers (100 to 143 miles), depending on the chosen path and side trips. It typically takes 14 to 15 days to complete, with daily hikes averaging 10 to 12 kilometers (6 to 12 miles). The route follows the Myagdi Khola River, passing through villages like Darbang, Muri, Boghara, Dobang, Italian Base Camp, Dhaulagiri Base Camp, and Jomsom.

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is renowned for its difficulty and is considered one of Nepal’s most challenging treks. It requires high physical fitness, as it involves crossing high mountain passes, including the French Pass (5,360 meters) and Thapa Pass (5,250 meters). Despite the difficulty, the trek offers breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri peaks, including Dhaulagiri I (8,167 meters), the world’s seventh-highest peak.

Best season for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

The best time for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek is during spring (March to mid-June) and autumn (September to mid-December), when the weather is favorable, with clear skies, dry trails, and excellent visibility. Winter treks are possible but more challenging due to heavy snowfall at higher elevations. The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is known for its narrow, landslide-prone trails that often require rope repairs, limiting the number of trekking groups each season.

On the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, you will encounter the captivating “hidden valley,” a barren region with biting winds and challenging trails. The view from Alu Bari (Yak Khadka) offers breathtaking panoramas of the Annapurna range, Nilgiri Peak (6,940 meters), Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Tilicho Peak (7,134 meters), Thorong Peak (6,144 meters), and the Upper Mustang Valley.

Dhaulagiri circuit trek is at an elevation of 4,700 meters, and French Pass, at 5,360 meters, offers stunning views from the high viewpoint scaling a spectacular mountain from a high hill. This classic Nepal trek encompasses remote and picturesque landscapes typical of the high mountains.

For additional adventure, trekkers can extend the Dhaulagiri circuit trek by two days to ascend Dhampus Peak (6,012 meters). This requires a separate itinerary, guide, permits, and climbing gear with costs not included in the Dhaulagiri round Trek package.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Route

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek begins in Darbang after reaching Beni from Kathmandu via Baglung. Trekkers often spend the first night in Beni before starting the trek toward Muri, ascending through forest paths. From Muri, the trail leads to Boghara, offering stunning mountain views.

After crossing the Dhaulagiri circuit Pass, trekkers descend through rugged terrain to the villages of Marpha and Jomsom. The descent is challenging, with steep and rocky paths. Marpha is a small mountain settlement with the best spot to stay for an overnight, while Jomsom is a larger town with flight connections to Pokhara.

The villages along the route are inhabited by Magars on the Magdi side and Thakalis on the Kali Gandaki side. Trekkers experience a transition from village settlements to alpine wilderness and pasturelands.

From Jomsom, trekkers either fly or continue trekking to Pokhara, a picturesque city by Phewa Lake and the trek’s endpoint. In Pokhara, trekkers can relax, reflect, and celebrate their journey, enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape.

Challenges of Dhaulagiri Round Trek

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most challenging camping treks. You’ll carry all necessary camping equipment and supplies, including food, due to limited facilities. Basic accommodations are available until the Italian Base Camp, where you will rely on camping for overnight stays.

Physical Preparation

To undertake the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, trekkers need to be physically fit. It is recommended to run for at least an hour a day for 10 to 15 days or a month, depending on your fitness level, before the trek. This helps to build the individual’s hiking stamina. It requires high physical fitness, as it involves crossing high mountain passes, including the French Pass (5,360 meters) and Thapa Pass (5,250 meters). This preparation helps in acclimatizing to the high altitudes and ensures you are ready for the demanding terrain of the trek.

Dhaulagiri Round Trek Stages.

Stage One:

Begins in Beni and leads through various villages and landscapes to the Italian Base Camp.
Includes challenging terrains, high mountain passes, and diverse scenery.

Stage Two:

Starts at the Italian Base Camp and continues to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Offers a close view of the Dhaulagiri massif.
Ends in Jomsom.

Accommodation

Beni to Italian Base Camp: Regular tea houses.
Italian Base Camp to Alubari: Camping-based accommodations.
Marpha to Jomsom: Regular tea houses.

Dhaulagiri Round Trek Highlights

Stunning Views: Offers tremendous views of the Dhaulagiri massif and other peaks.
High Mountain Passes: Crosses the French Pass (5,360 meters) and Thapa Pass (5,250 meters).
Varied Landscapes: Includes lush forests, terraced fields, alpine meadows, and rocky glaciers.
Cultural Experiences: Interact with local people in remote villages.
Natural Hot Springs: Relaxing spots to soothe tired muscles.
Jomsom: Famous for apple orchards and stunning mountain views.
Remote Wilderness: Trek through some of Nepal’s most remote and untouched areas.

French Pass

Altitude: 5,360 meters
Features: Incredible views, steep and rocky terrain, requires good fitness and acclimatization.
Gear: Warm clothing, trekking poles, and crampons are essential.

Thapa Pass

Altitude: 5,250 meters
Features: Views of Kali Gandaki Valley, steep and rocky terrain, requires good fitness and acclimatization.
Gear: Warm clothing, trekking poles, and crampons are essential.

Tips for a Successful Trek

Expert Guides: Enhance safety and enjoyment.
Group Trekking: Recommended for cost and safety.
Best Time: Choose the right season for favorable conditions.

Our expert guide from the Nepal Wilderness Trekking team can enhance your Dhaulagiri round Trek, making it safer, more enjoyable, and informative. We ensure a memorable experience in one of Nepal’s most remote and stunning regions. Trekking in the Dhaulagiri circuit trek solo can be challenging and costly due to the high passes. It’s advisable to trek in a group, even a small one. Additionally, choosing the best time for the Dhaulagiri round trek is crucial for a successful journey.

Note

We guarantee departure on all published dates for Dhaulagiri round Trek Itinerary. If these dates don’t match your travel plans, we are happy to create a trip for your desired dates. Let us know what kind of trip you are looking for, and we will help make your dream destination a reality.