Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is considered to be one of the toughest and most challenging treks. This trek explores a wild, remote, and off-the-beaten area around Mt. Dhaulagiri. The seventh-highest mountain in the world is Dhaulagiri. The trek starts in a forested and terraced farming village in the area of the Himalayan foothills; predominantly dominated by the Magar community. This trek is to the west of the Annapurna and starts from Pokhara and follows the Myagdi Khola to its source at the Chhonbardan Glacier, which is just below Dhaulagiri.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a real adventure trekking. It takes you to places that are beyond the imagination of most people. This trek also forces you to confront you are in own physical and mental limitations and hits you with the unexpected. Dhaulagiri trek is tough trekking and you have two acclimatization days and you only spend two nights above 5000m. Unlike the trek around Everest and the Khumbu Valley, you are camping all the way because you don’t have the option of getting warm in a teahouse. Particularly, it is cold at night and for five days you are sleeping either on a glacier or snow. The combination of altitude and cold makes the trek particularly tiring.
After walking up to the narrow Churchwarden gorge towards Dhaulagiri Base Camp we cross French Pass into Hidden Valley. After crossing Dhampus Pass, we move to the long descent to Jomsom. At the end of the trek, we fly or drive out to Pokhara. Due to strenuous trekking, trekkers require high-altitude trekking experience. You also need to wear gaiters and carry an ice ax for at least three days during this trek.
Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival(1,300m/4,264ft)
Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour.
Day 03: Drive to Beni (850m) 7-9 hrs
Day 04: Trek to Babiachor (950m) 3-5 hrs
Day 05: Trek to Dharapani (1400m) 4-6 hrs
Day 06: Trek to Muri (1800m) 3-5 hrs
Day 07: Trek to Boghara (2080m)4-6 hrs
Day 08: Trek to Dobang (2520m)3-5 hrs
Day 09: Trek to Choriban Khola (3110m) 3-5 hrs
Day 10: Trek to Italian Base Camp (3660m) 5 – 7hrs
Day 11 : Acclimatization and rest day
Day 12: Trek to Glacier Camp (4210m)4 -6 hrs
Day 13: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4740m) 5 -7 hrs
Day 14: Acclimatization and Rest Day
Day 15: Cross French Pass (5360m) Trek to Hidden Valley (5200m) 4- 6 hrs
Day 16: Cross Dhampus Pass (5200m), Trek to Yak Kharka (3680m) 5-6 hrs
Day 17: Trek to Jomsom (2710m) 4-5 hrs
Day 18: Fly to Pokhara (910m) Duration: 25-minutes
Day 19: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu(6-7hr)
Day 20: Departure Day
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
A representative from HSA welcomes you at the Tribhuvan International Airport and transferred you to the hotel for staying overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour
We commence our Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour after breakfast. We visit World Heritage Sites Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square. Swayambhunath is a Buddhist Stupa said to be more than 2000 years old, perched on a hillock 77 meters above the valley floor and offering a bird’s eye view of Kathmandu City. Patan is known as the “city of beauty” and one of the oldest cities in the valley. An artistic city is abundant with cultural temples, courtyards, and the Patan Museum. Overnight at your hotel in Kathmandu.
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive to Beni (850m) Duration: 7-9 hrs
Our Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek begins with a drive to Beni. A long hour ride journey enjoying the scenic ride. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 04: Trek to Babiachor (950m) 4-5 hr
We head towards Babaiachaur after breakfast. Walk through the bank of Myagdi Khola and traverse Beni, Mangalghat, Singa, and Tatopani. After that, cross a few bridges and reach Babaichaur. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 05: Trek to Dharapani (1400m) 4- 6 hrs
We begin our trek enjoying the walks in the wide valley surrounded by terraced hills and rivers on both sides. Pass the villages of Shahashradhara and arrive at Ratorunga after crossing Duk Khola. Continue walking until we enter the village of Dharapani. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 06: Trek to Muri (1800m) 3-5 hrs
Walk through the Takum and Sibang villages with a great sight of terraced fields. Get a sight of Gurja Himal, and Hiuchuli and continue walking. Traverse through a suspension bridge over Dhara Khola and walk until you enter the Magar village, Muri. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 07: Trek to Boghara (2080m) 4- 6 hrs
Walk through terraced fields, cross a stream, and get a glimpse of Mt, Ghustung South en route. Again, walk through the village of Naura traversing Myagdi Khola. Proceed further and descend to Boghara. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 08: Trek to Dobang (2520m) 3- 5 hrs
We descend to Jyardan which is remote through terraced fields and forest trails. Then, we continue walking passing Lipshe and Lapche Kharka to reach Dobang. Overnight at a tented camp
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 09: Trek to Choriban Khola (3110m) 3-5 hrs
We walk uphill through the lush forest after traversing a wooden bridge. Then, walk downhill and cross a bridge over Myagdi Khola and reach Chartare. Continue walking and cross a stream. Arrive at Choriban Khola and overnight at the tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 10: Trek to Italian Base Camp (3660m) 5-7 hrs
We walk following the Chhonbarban Glacier moraine enjoying mountain vistas of Tukuche Peak and Dhaulagiri I and finally arrive at Italian Base Camp. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 11: Acclimatization and rest day
A much-needed acclimatization rest day at Italian Base Camp to adjust to the altitude. We spend a day short hiking around the places. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 12: Trek to Glacier Camp (4210m) 4-6 hrs
We trek to Glacier Camp. The trek to Glacier Camp passes through a narrow gorge and a careful walk to reach there as the trail is likely to stone fall. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 13: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4740m) 5-7 hrs
An exciting trek to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp. The stunning views of Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II, Dhaulagiri III, Dhaulagiri V, and Tukuche Peak from the base camp. Also, observe the striking icefall. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 14: Acclimatization and Rest Day
An important acclimatization rest day at Dhaulagiri Base Camp. The body needs to adjust to the altitude. Thus, a complete rest at the base camp. Enjoy the stunning mountain vistas and surroundings. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 15: Cross French Pass (5360m) then trek to Hidden Valley (5200m) 6 hrs
We cross French Pass witnessing spectacular mountain vistas. Get awesome views of Tashi Kang, Sita Chuchuro, Mukut Himal, Tukuche Peak, and Dhaulagiri I. Continue walking until Hidden Valley. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 16: Cross Dhampus Pass (5200m), Trek to Yak Kharka (3680m) 4- 6 hrs
We descend traversing Dhampus Pass adoring the surrounding beauties to Yak Kharka. Overnight at tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 17: Trek to Jomsom (2710m) 4-5 hrs
We descend to the Marpha village famous for apple farming and brandy made from apples. Continue walking until Jomsom and overnight at the tented camp.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 18: Fly to Pokhara (910m) in 25-minutes
We take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara that takes approx. 25 minute. Upon arriving at Pokhara, check in to the hotel and rest for a while. Later, explore nearby places at Pokhara. Enjoy the nightlife and overnight at the hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 19: Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, we head towards Kathmandu on a tourist bus. Enjoy the highway ride along with beautiful green hill scenery. Rest at a hotel upon arriving in Kathmandu. In the evening join us for a farewell dinner. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 20: Departure Day
The last day in Nepal and your departure day. Our representative sees off you at the Airport and wishes you a safe journey and hopes you collect some great memories from here.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Price Included
- Airport pickups and drop up
- 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara including Breakfast.
- Breakfasts, Lunches, and Dinners cooked by our expert camping cook and kitchen team during the trek.
- Tented camp Accommodation and equipment during the trek. (We will provide fully waterproof two-men tents, dining tents, kitchen gear, dining table, chairs, toilet tents, and Climbing rope to cross the Passes etc.
- Farewell dinner at the end of the trip
- Surface transfer from and to Kathmandu (Local Bus transfer from Kathmandu to Beni and Tourist Bus transfer from Pokhara to Kathmandu).
- Domestic flights (Jomsom – Pokhara)
- City tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle
- An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking Guide.
- Porter service (1 Porter for 2 Trekkers)
- Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food, and accommodation
- All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP)
- All government and local taxes
Price Excluded
- Nepalese visa fee
- Excess baggage charge(s)
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
- International flights
- Alcoholic and cold drinks.
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses (phone calls, Wi-Fi, laundry, bar bills, hot and cold drinks, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, hot shower, etc.)
- Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is expected).
We are pleased to offer our checklist for your reference. This equipment list is only a guideline. We recommend you bring the listed items below, however, you can choose from your preferred brands using your expertise. The necessary equipment and clothing as mentioned below can be easily purchased or hired at a reasonable price at stores in Thamel, Kathmandu.
General Item
- Duffel or Rucksack bag: Big duffel bag/suitcase is necessary for non-trek items left at the hotel in Kathmandu)
- Down Jacket: (Your own Down Jacket and sleeping bag are strongly recommended)
Head
- Sun hat or scarf
- Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
- Sunglasses with UV protection
Feet
- Thin, lightweight inner socks
- Thick, warm wool hiking socks
- Hiking boots with spare laces
- Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
- Gaiters for hiking in winter
Hands
- Lightweight gloves
- Heavyweight gloves or mittens
- With a waterproof shell outer (Seasonal
Lower Body
- Under Garments
- Hiking shorts
- Lightweight cotton long pants
- Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms
- Fleece or wool pants (seasonal)
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants
Upper Body
- T-shirts
- Light and expedition weight thermal tops
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (Optional)
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
Accessories
- Sleeping bag rated to zero degrees F *
- Headlamp (e.g. Petzl Zoom) with spare bulbs and batteries
- A small pad or combination lock-to-lock
- Trekking Bags/Duffel bags
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Large plastic bags – for keeping items dry inside trek bag
- Day pack (Approximately 20-22 Liter)
- Trekking Poles
- Water bottles
- Toiletries (Small wash towel, Toilet paper, etc.)
- Ear Plug (who knows some people in the group are snoring)
Optional
- Toothbrush/paste
- Multipurpose soap
- Nail cutter
- Small mirror
Personal Hygiene:
- Wet wipes
- Tissue /toilet roll
- Anti-bacterial hands wash
Extras/Luxuries
- Binoculars
- Reading book
- Trail Map/Guide book
- Journal & Pen
- Pencils and small notebooks
- Travel game i.e., cards
What type of shape do I need to be in, is this trip for me?
This trek is more demanding than any of our other treks in Nepal. Crossing the high passes in this trek can be technical so, climbing rope may be required in the presence of heavy snow. You need good stamina for a long day effort while crossing the high passes in this trek. You can do this trek without any previous climbing experience or skills. The knowledge of using climbing ropes and other equipment would be beneficial although not mandatory because our guide will provide you with the necessary training on using climbing gears such as ropes, ice pick, and crampons.
To prepare for a strenuous trek you should begin training at least three to four months before your departure. As a guideline, an hour of aerobic exercise three to four times per week would be considered a minimum requirement.
Can I obtain a visa for Nepal on arrival at the airport?
Yes, you can obtain the visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days can be obtained by paying USD 30 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, a Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days and 90 days can be obtained by paying USD 50 and 125 respectively. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
Please bring a copy of your travel insurance, a copy of your passport, and 3 photos (passport size) with you for your trip to Nepal. You would need photos for permits.
What opportunities will I have for showering along the trek?
During the camping, the proper shower facility is not available. However, the shower tent will be provided and our kitchen team will provide warm water in the bucket for the shower.
How much additional money do I need per day?
It depends on your spending habits. Generally, in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can allocate USD 10 to USD 15 for lunch and dinner. Also USD 10 to USD 15 per person a day will be enough to buy bottles of water, and chocolates, pay for the hot shower, and a have few drinks during the trekking.
I am a Vegetarian, is that a Problem?
No problem at all. We always recommend our clients eat vegetarian meals to avoid food poisoning, eating heavy meals and non-vegetarian meals at a high altitude is not safe for the stomach
What sort of food can I expect in trekking?
There are lots of good restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara where you can find any delight of your choice like local, continental, Chinese, etc. and can choose the best option for yourself from the menu.
During the camping, our expert camping cook will prepare normal and special meals upon request. The food is very healthy and safe and one can eat without any hesitation.
Do I need to bring toilet paper for the trek?
During this trip, we will provide you with toilet paper. Hand sanitizer and a towel you must bring your own.
Where do we go to the toilet along the trail?
In most cases you can use the toilet provided by the tea houses/lodges on the trail but normally in case of emergency, you just do the toilet along the trail wherever you find privacy.
During the night stay in the tented camp, our team would provide the very basic tented toilet facility.
What are the Toilet facilities in the camping?
During the night stay in the tented camp, our team would provide the very basic tented toilet facility.
What sort of accommodation can I expect on this trip?
We use standard rooms at three star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast included. Along the trekking routes, we provide the best possible camping service complete with comfortable two-person tents with good mattresses. A kitchen, dining, shower, toilet tents, and chairs with tables are also provided. Refer to the equipment list for items you will need to bring. We usually camp in or near a village, which allows you to buy sweets and drinks, which we do not carry with us. You will also get a small bucket of hot water each morning in your tent for a quick scrub scrub-up.
For the night spending in camping, shared tented accommodation is provided (Two Persons at each tent). You can book a private tent by paying an additional cost of USD 500 for those nights you spend camping’.
Do I Need to Tip my Guide and Porter if so how much that would be?
This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from USD 50 to USD 500 per person for guides and porters. Tipping is not required, but a small gesture of thanks to your guides and local porters. The level of the tip should reflect the level of satisfaction from and personal involvement with your guide. However, we recommend you spend a minimum of 10% of your total trip cost for tipping the entire local staff, the ratio of tipping guide and porter will be given to you at the pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu before starting the trek.
Will there be a place to store items/clothing not required for the trek?
The hotel in Kathmandu does provide free storage services. So you can leave all your items that are not required for the trekking at your hotel.
Start Date | End Date | Price in USD | Availability | Booking | Note |
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Avabillity Options
OPEN: This date is available and open for bookings. Go for it!
GUARANTEED: Guaranteed departure. Seat Available.
LIMITED: Guaranteed departure, Limited seat. You can send booking request for availability.
FULL:This date is currently unavailable. Please contact us if you are interested in traveling on this date.