Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek

Trek Description

The Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek takes you deep into the majestic Dhaulagiri Himal range, offering trekkers incredible views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the seventh-highest mountain in the world. As you traverse through remote landscapes, dense forests, and high-altitude deserts, you’ll experience the rugged beauty that makes the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek a true Himalayan adventure.

Along the way, trekkers can also interact with the local Magar and Gurung communities, immersing themselves in the unique cultural aspects of the region. The trek is physically demanding, but the rewards of reaching Dhaulagiri Base Camp and witnessing the grandeur of the mountains make it a life-changing journey.

Destination

Dhaulagiri Base Camp

Duration

18 Days

Trip Grade

Moderate-Difficult

Start/ End

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Best Season

Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November)

Max People

2-12 people

Transportation

Private jeep or local buses to Beni, flight to Pokhara

Activities

Trekking/Tour/Hiking/ Cultural experiences

The Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek offers an unforgettable journey through diverse terrains, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows. As trekkers approach the base camp, they’re rewarded with breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek Facts

Title	Information
Trek Name	Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Travel Budget	$1,200 – $1,600 per person
Standard Budget	$2,000 – $3,500 per person
Difficulty	Difficult (High altitude & dry, windy terrain)
Best Time	Spring(March-May) and Autumn(September-November)
Permits	TIMS Card, Dhaulagiri Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit required.
Accommodation	Tea Houses, Lodges and Camping
Best ViewPoints	Dhaulagiri Base Camp, French Pass, and the view of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and the Kali Gandaki Valley.

Day Wise Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Day 2: Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour

Day 3: Drive from Pokhara to Dharapani (1,400m) and Trek to Muri (1,850m)

Scenic drive through hills, rivers, and small towns.
Drive time: Around 6-8 hours by jeep or bus.
Steep ascents and stunning views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and other peaks.
Trek time: 4 - 5 hours
Overnight at Muri.

Day 4: Muri to Boghara (2,080m)

Day 5: Boghara to Dobang (2,520m)

Day 6: Dobang to Italian Base Camp (3,660m)

Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Italian Base Camp

Day 8: Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp (4,200m)

Day 9: Glacier Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m)

Day 10: Acclimatization and Exploration at Dhaulagiri Base Camp

Day 11: Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley (5,200m) via French Pass (5,360m)

Day 12: Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka (3,680m) via Dhampus Pass (5,200m)

Day 13: Yak Kharka to Marpha (2,670m)

Day 14: Drive/Flight to Pokhara – Return to Kathmandu

Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu

Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop service by private car.
Meals on full board during the trekking(Breakfast, lunch,dinner,soup,Tea or coffee).
Free Trekking map.
An expert Government licensed holder guide.
Trekking porter /Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trekking.
Ground transportation.
All necessary paper works and Trekking entry permits.

Unforeseen delay and emergency expenses.
Personal accident insurance or Helicopter rescue.
Any kind of Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks.
All kind of Personal Expenses.
Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.
Tips, gifts, souvenirs.

Why Choose This Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek

Unbeatable views of Dhaulagiri and Tukuche – Enjoy stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak, along with other Himalayan giants.
Diverse landscapes – Experience a variety of terrains, from lush forests to high-altitude deserts
Less crowded, more peaceful – Trek through quieter routes with fewer trekkers for a more serene experience.
Cultural immersion – Interact with local Magar and Gurung communities, gaining insight into their traditions.
Challenging trek – Test your endurance with a rewarding journey to Dhaulagiri Base Camp at 4,700 meter.
Off-the-beaten-path adventure – Explore one of Nepal’s remote and less-visited trekking routes for a unique experience.
Wildlife & Biodiversity – Walk through the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to Himalayan Thars, Langurs, and rare birds.
Acclimatization opportunities – Strategic rest days at Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp help adjust to altitude.
Great for photography – Capture breathtaking landscapes, from snow-covered peaks to vibrant cultural scenes.
Wildlife sightings – Pass through Dhorpatan Reserve, where you may spot blue sheep and musk deer.

Best Time For Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek

Spring is one of the best times for the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek, offering mild temperatures and stable weather. Days are warmer, and the visibility is excellent, with clear skies and breathtaking views of the mountains.
Autumn is another prime season for trekking, characterized by clear skies and crisp weather. The temperatures are comfortable, and the air is dry, making it ideal for long treks with stunning mountain vistas.
Winter is generally avoided for the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek due to extreme cold and heavy snow at high altitudes. The temperatures can drop significantly, making the trek more challenging and risky, especially for those without proper winter gear.
Monsoon season is the least favorable time for trekking due to heavy rainfall. The trails can be slippery and muddy, and visibility is often poor, reducing the overall trekking experience.

Cost and Planning Facts for Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek

Budget:
Trek costs typically range from $1,500 to $2,500 USD depending on the package, including permits, accommodation, guide/porter fees, and meals. Flights, extra services, and personal expenses are additional.
Accommodation:
Expect basic tea house accommodation on lower sections, costing around $5-$10 USD per night. For camping at higher altitudes like Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp, prices range from $10-$15 USD per night due to the remote location and the cost of equipment.
Food/Meal:
Meals typically cost around $3-$7 USD per meal in tea houses, with basic Nepali or Tibetan dishes like dal bhat, noodles, and rice. Expect limited variety and vegetarian options at higher altitudes.
Transportation:
The drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Beni costs around $20-$40, depending on the mode of transport (local bus or private jeep). No additional flights are needed except for the flight to and from Kathmandu, which can cost between $100-$150 depending on the airline.
Guide/Porter:
A guide is highly recommended for safety and navigation. Porters are optional but helpful for carrying your gear, and they usually cost around $15-20 per day.
Permits:
You’ll need several permits, including TIMS Card, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and a Special Trekking Permit for the restricted area near Dhaulagiri Base Camp. The cost for permits usually ranges between $100-$150.

Packing Tips for Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek

Warm hat & cap.
Sunglasses with UV protection.
Headlight.
Face Mask or Balaclava

Trekking shoes
Hiking boots
Warm Hiking socks
Gaiters

Base layers
Waterproof jacket
Thermal Gloves
Trekking Trousers and Shorts
Personal Hygiene Items
Fleece Jacket
Thermal Shirts and Pants

Sleeping bag
First aid kit
Trekking poles & Raincoat
Water Bottles
High-energy snacks
Maps & Compass/GPS

Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek By Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a mesmerizing journey into the heart of the Himalayas, offering stunning mountain scenery and rich cultural experiences. Our expert team ensures a well-organized trek with professional guides, comfortable accommodations, and high-quality service. Join us for an unforgettable trekking adventure to one of Nepal’s most famous destinations!

Gallery Section

FAQ's Section

1. Is the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek suitable for beginners?

The Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek is not suitable for beginners as it involves high-altitude trekking, steep ascents, and long, challenging days. It is recommended for trekkers with prior experience in the mountains and good physical fitness to handle the demanding conditions.

2. How long is the trek?

The Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek usually takes around 16-18 days, including rest and acclimatization days. The trek covers varied terrain and requires a steady pace, allowing trekkers to enjoy both the scenic views and the challenges of high-altitude trekking.

3. What permits are required for the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek?

To trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp, you will need the TIMS Card, Dhaulagiri Conservation Area Permit, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. These permits are essential for trekking in the region and ensure that the trek is done within the guidelines of Nepal’s conservation and tourism policies.