Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Trek Description
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal’s western Himalayas. It’s known for offering breathtaking views of the world’s 7th highest peak, Mt. Dhaulagiri, which stands at 8,167 meters (26,794 ft.). Along the way, you’ll cross high mountain passes, witness diverse scenery, and immerse yourself in the rich local culture.
Destination
Mt. Dhaulagiri
Duration
20 days
Trip Grade
Hard
Start/ End
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
Max People
10-12
Transportation
Drive from Kathmandu-Beni & Return
Activities
Trekking, Cultural Exploration, Photography, Sightseeing
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Facts
| Title | Information |
|---|---|
| Trek Name | Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek |
| Travel Budget | $600-$800 USD per person |
| Standard Budget | $900-$1200 USD per person |
| Difficulty | Hard |
| Best Time | Spring & Autumn |
| Permit | TAnnapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP), Dhaulagiri Restricted Area Permit & TIMS card |
| Accommodation | Guest Houses, Lodges & Camping |
| Best ViewPoints | Dhaulagiri Base Camp, French Col, Hidden Valley |
Day Wise Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)
- Pick-up from Tribhuvan International Airport
- Transfer to a hotel for a trek briefing & gear shopping.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
- Visit cultural landmarks such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Tempe), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
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: Trek From Muri to Baghar (2050)
- Ascend through forests and open landscapes.
- Trek duration: 7-8 hours.
- Overnight in Baghar.
Day 5: Trek From Baghar To Dhovan (3500)
- Climb Higher into alpine terrain with a clearer view of Dhaulagiri.
- Trek duration: 5-6 hours
- Overnight in Dhovan Hotel.
Day 6: Trek From Dhovan To Italian Base Camp (3500m)
- Enter rugged, high-altitude terrain with stunning views of Dhaulagiri & surrounding peaks.
- Trek duration: 6-7 hours.
- Overnight at Italian Base Camp.
Day 7: Rest & Acclimatization Day
- Rest at the Italian Base camp to Acclimatize.
- Optional: Short hikes to explore the area.
- Overnight at Italian Base Camp.
Day 8: Trek From Italian Camp To Glacier Camp (4250m)
- Travel across rocky trails and moraines near the Chhonbardan Glacier with glacial scenery.
- Trek duration: 4-5 hours.
- Overnight at Glacier Camp.
Day 9: Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4650m)
- Reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp, surrounded by towering peaks including Dhaulagiri I (8167m).
- Trek duration: 4 hours.
- Overnight in Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Day 10: Acclimatization Day
- Rest and explore around Dhaulagiri Base Camp
- Overnight in Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Day 11: From Dhaulagiri Base camp To French Col
- Ascend to French Col, a high mountain pass offering panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri range.
- Trek duration: 3-4 hours.
- Overnight near French Col (camping).
Day 12: Trek From French Col To Hidden Valley Camp (5000m)
- Cross the pass and descend into the remote Hidden Valley, a high-altitude plateau with stark beauty.
- Trek duration: 5-6 hours.
- Overnight in Hidden Valley Camp.
Day 13: Trek From Hidden Valley To Yak Kharka (4200m)
- Descend through rocky trails toward greener pastures, passing yak grazing areas.
- Trek duration: 6 hours.
- Overnight at Yak Kharka.
Day 14: Yam Kharka To Jomsom (2715m)
- Final descent to Jomsom, a town in the mustang region.
- Trek duration: 7-8 hours.
- Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 15: Flight From Jomsom To Pokhara
- Take a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara & transfer to a hotel for relaxation.
- Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 16: Drive or Flight To Kathmandu
- Return to Kathmandu by flight (20-25 min ) or Drive (6-7 hours).
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 17: Departure
- Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure.
- 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 experienced 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.
- Emergency rescue evacuation if required.
- 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 Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek ?
The Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek is an adventurous journey which is one of the toughest yet, most rewarding experiences in high altitude. This 20-day journey takes you through remote villages, glaciers, and high passes like French Col. And the scenery & the feeling of accomplishment when reaching Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), the seventh highest mountain in the world, is just otherworldly.
Best Time For Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Spring (March to May) is ideal weather with clear skies, perfect for trekking and sightseeing.
- Autumn (September to November) is considered the best season cuz of better visibility and stable weather conditions.
Cost and Planning Facts for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Budget: The total cost for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek generally ranges from $600 – $1,200 depending on your chosen level of comfort. This includes permits, guides, porter, meals, and transportation.
- Accommodation: Guest houses and lodges with simple rooms and shared facilities along the trail.
- Food/Meal: Meals will consist of local Nepali dishes like dal bhat, rice, and vegetables, with some international options.
- Transportation: Private jeep or bus from Kathmandu to Beni and return transportation after the trek.
- Guide/Porter: Local guide and porter services are recommended to help with navigation and carrying gear.
- Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP), Dhaulagiri Restricted Area Permit and TIMS card are required.
Packing Tips for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Head
- Warm hat & cap.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Headlight.
- Face Mask or Balaclava
- Footwear
- Trekking shoes
- Hiking boots
- Warm Hiking socks
- Gaiters
- Body
- Base Layers
- Waterproof jacket
- Thermal Gloves
- Trekking Trousers and Shorts
- Personal Hygiene Items
- Fleece Jacket
- Thermal Shirts and Pants
- Essentials/ Equipments
- Sleeping bag
- First aid kit
- Trekking poles & Raincoat
- Water Bottles and Hydration Bladder
- High-energy snacks
- Maps & Compass/GPS
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek By Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition
Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition is a trusted trekking company based in Nepal. It is renowned for organizing well-planned and affordable adventures like the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. With experienced government-licensed guides and a focus on customer satisfaction, we ensure a seamless experience from permits to porter service. Our expertise in the Langtang region guarantees trekkers an authentic and memorable journey through Nepal’s majestic mountains.
Gallery Section
FAQ's
1. How physically demanding is the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek?
This trek requires you to have excellent physical fitness due to long trekking days ( up to 8 hours), steep ascents, and altitudes exceeding 5000m, so proper preparation is essential.
2. Are there any risks I should be aware of on this trek?
Risks include: Altitude sickness, Unpredictable weather, Potential landslides & Avalanches.
3. What are the key highlights of this trek?
Key Highlights: Dhaulagiri Base camp with views of Dhaulagiri I, Crossing the dramatic French Col & Experiencing the remote Hidden Valley.
Want to Trek Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Mardi Himal Treks & Expedition?
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