Trip Info
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Private vehicle, tourist bus, and domestic flight.
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Minimum of 2, maximum of 15.
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5,360 meters (French Pass).
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Lodges, tea houses, and camping.
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Moderate to strenuous; requires good physical condition.
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Kathmandu
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Kathmandu
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Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
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Professional English-speaking guide (other languages on request).
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Adventure trekking.
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English (other languages available upon request)
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TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).
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Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included during the trek.
Overview
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a spectacular 19-day adventure that encircles the majestic Dhaulagiri massif, offering trekkers an unparalleled journey through some of Nepal’s most rugged and remote landscapes. This challenging trek takes you through diverse terrains, from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to high-altitude alpine meadows and stark, icy landscapes. Trekkers will traverse high passes, such as the French Pass and Dhampus Pass, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Along the way, you’ll experience the rich cultural heritage of local villages and witness the serene beauty of high-altitude lakes and glaciers. The trek demands physical endurance and acclimatization due to its high altitudes, but rewards adventurers with stunning natural beauty and a profound sense of accomplishment.
Trip Highlights
- Majestic Mountain Views: Stunning panoramic vistas of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.
- High Passes: Challenging crossings of the French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,250m).
- Diverse Landscapes: Experience varied terrains, from lush forests to alpine meadows and icy glaciers.
- Remote Villages: Immerse in the culture and traditions of isolated mountain communities.
- High-Altitude Beauty: Marvel at high-altitude lakes, glaciers, and the stark, dramatic scenery of the Himalayas.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Kathmandu arrival . Overnight in Hotel (1,300m)
Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal. You will be met on airport and transferred to your hotel. After the arrival, the group will be formally introduced to Guide for the activities over the next few days. One should pay attention in particular to the safety aspects of the briefing. Any questions or doubts should be asked and clarified at this time. We check your insurance details and other requirement for your trekking.
Day 2 :
Kathmandu sightseeing Overnight in Hotel (1,300m)
After breakfast, we start an interesting tour around Kathmandu. Escorting by an English speaking guide (can be provide any language speaking guide on request) be, try to give them a full taste of our vivid culture image and an enchanting manner of its people. In our sightseeing tour we go to Monkey temple Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath and Kathmandu Durbar square.
Bouddhanath: Bouddhanath is a Buddhist religious complex with a history dating back over 500 years. Located on the eastern edge of Kathmandu it is now a site of great pilgrimage for Buddhist followers who circle its massive stupa, spin its many prayer wheels and visit its beautiful monastery. The main feature of Boudhanath is its huge hemispherical white stupa with central golden tower and the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha. Visitors should circle the stupa in a clockwise direction and spin prayer wheels for good fortune and a good life. Visitors may also enjoy visiting the Thangka painting school within the complex to see highly skilled artists at work on religious mandala paintings.
Pashupatinath: Hindu Temple is a very large and complex and focal point for the Hindu religion. This old and very revered complex of buildings and shrines is dedicated to the Lord Shiva, one of the main deities of Hinduism. While Lord Shiva has multiple forms he is often seen as the destroyer. This has great significance for the Pashupatinath temple as it is the site of many Hindi ritual cremations each day. Pashupatinath is considered by Hindus to be an auspicious site for passing from one stage of life to the next through the purifying and destroying flames of cremation. However, on a happier note, visitors may also get to see the temple in a buoyant festival mode with one of the many Hindu festivals celebrated here through the year.
Swayambhunath: You will first visit the Swayambhunath temple complex that sits atop a high hill overlooking Kathmandu and the entire Kathmandu Valley. Swayambhunath is perhaps the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal. It consists of a very large white stupa with the all-seeing-eye of Lord Buddha plus many small stupa and beautifully carved stone shrines. This is a wonderful place to catch your breath and start to understand and appreciate the deep importance of Buddhist belief to the people of Nepal and the Himalaya region. Make sure you ring the many bells to awaken the gods and let them know you are in Nepal. Take the time to enjoy the view over Kathmandu and have your guide point the many other highlights of the city. In the far distance to the east you may also be able to see the hills of Nagarkot where your hotel for tonight is located. If you feel energetic you might also like to try some or all of the 350 steps that lead all the way from Kathmandu city up to your Swayambhunath temple vantage point.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: The next stop today is the beautiful Kathmandu Durbar Square, or the royal palace square of the ancient Malla kings of the Kathmandu Valley. This square and all its architectural treasures are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While some damage to buildings occurred in the 2015 earthquake the site still contains many stunning architectural gems. The original royal palace courtyards are open to visitors and you will marvel at the intricate timber carving and beautifully crafted brickwork of the palace. The open square outside the palace has many beautiful multi-storey pagodas and temples with ornate carving and carpentry artwork that tells some of the story of the ancient kings and their mystical time and beliefs. The square also contains many important Hindu temples and statues such as to Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Durbar Square also contains the unique and intriguing Kumari Chok. This is an ancient and ornate house where resides the Raj Kumari – the Living Goddess. She is a young girl chosen through an ancient and mystical selection process to become the human incarnation of the Hindu mother goddess, Durga. If you are in the courtyard of the home at the right time in the afternoon you may see a brief glimpse of the Goddess at her window
Day 3 :
Kathamandu to Pokhara Drive (900m)
After an early breakfast, we take a tourist bus or flight to Pokhara. The drive takes around 6 hours. Once you reach Pokhara you will have the rest of the day off where you can enjoy the beautiful Lake Side tourist area in Pokhara
Day 4 :
Drive from Pokhara to Dharapani via Beni (1,860m)
After breakfast we will start our drive towards Dharapani. The drive takes around 5/6 hours. The drive is quite scenic as we cross villages of brahmin, gurung and magar ethnic groups. We will also experience beautiful views of Annapurna Range and Kali Gandaki River.
Day 5 :
Trek from Dharapani to Muri (1,720m)
We will be trekking to Muri Village, which will be around 5 hours of walking. The day will consist of around 300m of decent and 150m of accent and relatively pleasant walk with the view Dhaulagiri range and Guria Himal during the journey. The local people like most of the villages through the trek will be that of Magar ethnic group.
Day 6 :
Muri Village to Boogara (2,080m)
From Muri Village we will make our journey to Boogara, which is around 6/7 hours of walking. The journey consists of uphill and downhill hikes with around 360m of accent and 150m of decent. We can be the view of Dhaulagiri mountain range and Myagdi River on today’s journey.
Day 7 :
Boogara to Dobhan (2,520m)
Today we journey from Boogara to Dobhan, while witnessing amazing view of Tsaurabang peak while walking through Magdi River and beautiful forest with view of some of the local birds. We will be walking for around 6/7 hours today where we will accent for 440m.
Day 8 :
Dobhan to Salla Ghari (3,445m)
We will be making our way towards Salla Ghari. Today will be a relatively challenging day, as we will be making an accent of 925m, which includes some steep uphill climb. Making such a steep climb means that we will have to walk slowly while staying hydrated and taking enough rest through out the way. We will need to walk for around 6/7 hours to reach Salla Ghari. As we move higher we will have more amazing view of Dhaulagiri range and fantastic view of Tsaurabang peak.
Day 9 :
Salla Ghari to Italian base Camp (3,660m)
Todays journey will take 4/5 hours with the destination being Italian base camp. We will be making an overall accent of 215m. Throughout the day will see view of Dhaulagiri I, Tsaurabang peak. We will be walking through lush pine forest.
Day 10 :
Acclimatisation day at Italian Base Camp (3,660m)
Today we will stay in Italian base camp in order to get acclimatized with the high altitude. We will climb few hundred meters from the camp during the day and come back to Italian base camp where we will rest for the night.
Day 11 :
Italian Base Camp to Japanese Camp (3,890m)
With an overall accent of 230m we will be making our way to Japanese Camp from Italian Base Camp. The trek will take around 5/6 hours. Today we will pass through glaciers; we will also cross Magdi River. We will see views of Dhaulagiri I, Mukut Himal, Sita Chuchura and other mountains throughout the day. In Japanese camp we will be making our camp on glacier.
Day 12 :
Japanese Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750m)
One of the highlights of the whole trek will be the target of the day i.e. to reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp. To reach this goal will be bit challenging, as there is a lot of uphill climb. We will be making an overall accent of 840m. We will be walking in glacier for the whole day and we will be making our camp in glacier once we reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp. Today we will see views of Tukuche peak north, Dhaulagiri I, II and III, Mukut Himal and Sita Chuchura
Day 13 :
Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley (5140) via French Pass (5360m)
Today we will be trekking towards Hidden Valley while crossing the French Pass. This will be one of the most challenging day while also being the most rewarding day as we will see the best view of Dhaulagiri I, Tukuche peak north, Thapa peak and many other peaks. Todays journey will take around 6/7 hours. We will be making an accent of 610m and a decent of 220m to reach Hidden Valley. French pass will be the highest altitude we reach during the whole trek.
Day 14 :
Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka via Thapa Pass/Dhampus Pass (5244m) (4,800m)
From Hidden Valley we will begin our decent for the journey. We will be making our way to Yak Kharka, which will take around 6/7 hours. We will be making an accent of 150m and decent of 445m. The afternoon can be quite chilly due to cloudy weather and high winds. We also recommend wearing your crampon and walking together with the group as some icy and slippery trail can be faced. Today we will see the view of Annapurna I, Nilgiri Range and Kali Gandaki Valley.
Day 15 :
Yak Kharka to Marpha Village (2,670m)
We will be making the biggest decent of our trek today with around 2130m of decent as we make our way from Yak Kharka to Marpha Village. Today’s trek will take around 5/6 hours of walking. Today we will make our way through Juniper forest and Kali Gandaki River and Valley. We will see views of Nilgiri and Tilicho peak. Marpha Village is home of Thakali ethnic people. The village is also popular for apple items like brandi and cider.
Day 16 :
Drive to Jomsom. Fly to Pokhara. Overnight in Hotel (900m)
We will make our way to Jomsom on vehicle. From there take a flight to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara
Day 17 :
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Overnight in Hotel (1,300m)
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (about 5-6 hours). with river views of Marsyangdi and Trisuli River. The drive passes through numerous towns and farm villages with great scenery of the farm fields, terrace landscapes. Reaching Kathmandu, you will return to the hotel and have the evening to explore the surrounding areas or to relax in the Hotel.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Airport Pick up & Drop Transportation by private vehicle.
- Twin/Double sharing accommodation at Kathmandu and Pokhara in 2-3star hotel with breakfast & all taxes.
- Sightseeing in Kathmandu Escorted with English Speaking Guide, private car & all Entrance fee.
- Kathmandu – Dharapani and Pokhara- Kathmandu by private vehicle.
- Jomsom- Pokhara by flight.
- Accommodation in Tent during trek.
- All 3 Meals, boiled drinking water, tea coffee and juice in trekking.
- Tents, mattresses, sleeping bag and cooking utensils.
- Government license holder English speaking guide.
- Experience cook and porters.
- Trekking map for group.
- All necessary paper work.
- Accommodation, meals, salary, equipment, transportation & Insurance of trekking staffs.
- Travel & Rescue arrangement.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit fees.
- All government taxes.
- Farewell dinner.
Cost Excludes
- International Airfare.
- Nepal Visa fee (US$ 50 per person for 30 days).
- Lunch/Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
- Any expenses of personal nature.
- Medical evacuation in case of emergency.
- Personal gears & clothing.
- Client's Insurance, Items of personal nature i.e. Soft/hard drinks.
- Tips for guide, cook porter and driver etc.
- Expenses incurred due to mishaps, landslide, strikes, political unrest etc. In such case extra will be charged as per actual.
- Anything doesn’t specified in cost include section.
Map
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek: Essential Information
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging and scenic journey that circles the stunning Dhaulagiri massif. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for this extraordinary adventure.
General Overview
Region: The trek encircles the Dhaulagiri massif, traversing regions in Myagdi and Dolpo, offering diverse landscapes from lush forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and high-altitude passes.
Duration: 19 days, including acclimatization and travel days.
Maximum Elevation: 5,360 meters (17,586 feet) at Dhaulagiri Pass.
Difficulty: Highly challenging; requires excellent physical fitness and prior trekking experience. Expect long days, steep ascents, technical sections, and high altitudes.
Best Time to Trek: Pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) for stable weather and clear skies.
Permits and Regulations
Dhaulagiri Conservation Area Permit: Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) for foreign nationals.
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card: Cost: NPR 2,000 (approximately USD 15) for foreign trekkers.
Acquisition: Arrange permits through registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu.
Accommodation
Teahouses and Lodges:
- Lower Altitudes: More developed with basic amenities.
- Higher Altitudes: Rudimentary; services may be limited.
Camping: Required at high altitudes. Trekking companies provide tents and other equipment.
Hotels: Comfortable hotels in Kathmandu and major cities with private rooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi.
Meals
During the Trek:
- Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, toast, pancakes, tea, or coffee.
- Lunch: Dal bhat, noodles, soup, or pasta.
- Dinner: Dal bhat, fried rice, momo (dumplings), and noodle dishes.
Food Quality: Improves as you descend; limited options at higher altitudes.
Transportation
To and From the Trek:
- Domestic Travel: Drive from Kathmandu to Beni (6 to 8 hours). Return from Jomsom or Pokhara to Kathmandu (6 to 8 hours).
Fitness and Health Considerations
Fitness Level: High fitness level required. Be able to hike several hours daily, including technical and steep sections.
Acclimatization: Includes acclimatization days to help prevent altitude sickness.
Health Precautions:
- First Aid Kit: Include altitude sickness medication, pain relievers, treatments for gastrointestinal issues.
- Vaccinations: Consult a healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive insurance covering high-altitude trekking and evacuation is essential.
Environmental and Cultural Responsibility
Leave No Trace: Follow principles to minimize environmental impact.
Respect Local Culture: Respect customs and traditions, dress modestly, and ask permission before taking photos in sacred areas.
Support Local Economy: Hire local guides and porters, stay in locally-run teahouses, and support local businesses.
Guiding and Support
Guides and Porters: Licensed guides are essential. Porters can carry your luggage.
Group Size: Typically ranges from 2 to 16 people. Smaller groups offer personalized experiences; larger groups benefit from shared costs.
Guiding Method: Fully guided trek with a professional guide managing logistics and safety.
Communication and Connectivity
Mobile Connectivity: Available in many areas but limited in remote locations. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi.
Emergency Communication: Satellite phones are available for emergencies. Ensure contact methods with your guide.
Privacy Policy
Data Collection: We collect personal information such as names, passport details, emergency contacts, and medical history for booking and safety purposes.
Data Usage: Your data is used exclusively for arranging your trek, including securing permits and managing logistics. It will not be shared with third parties except for trip facilitation.
Confidentiality: All data is stored securely and accessed only by authorized personnel involved in trip management. We are committed to protecting your privacy.
Consent: By participating in the trek, you consent to the collection and use of your data as described in this policy.
FAQs
- How challenging is the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
The trek is highly challenging, requiring excellent physical fitness and prior trekking experience. It involves long days, steep ascents, and technical sections. - What kind of food can I expect on the trek?
Meals include local dishes like dal bhat, noodles, and soup. The variety of food may be limited at higher altitudes. - What if I experience altitude sickness?
Immediate descent to a lower altitude is the best remedy. Guides are trained to handle altitude sickness and will assist as needed. - Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and evacuation is highly recommended. - Can I use my mobile phone during the trek?
Mobile connectivity is available in many areas, though it may be limited in remote locations. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi. - What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies vary by operator. It is advisable to review and understand the terms at the time of booking. - What kind of training should I do before the trek?
Cardiovascular training, strength training, and hiking practice are recommended to prepare for the trek. - Are there any altitude acclimatization days?
Yes, the itinerary includes acclimatization days to help prevent altitude sickness. - How much luggage can I bring?
Limit your luggage to 10-15 kg. Porters will carry your main pack. - Are there medical facilities available along the trek?
Medical facilities are limited. Carry a personal first-aid kit and be prepared for emergencies. - How can I prepare for the technical sections?
Practice trekking on rugged terrain and steep ascents/descents before your trip. - What should I pack for the trek?
Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, and a first-aid kit. - Is it possible to buy supplies during the trek?
Basic supplies are available in lower altitudes; options become more limited as you ascend. - What if I need to return early from the trek?
Inform your guide immediately. Arrangements can be made for an early return, though it may involve additional costs. - How do I stay in touch with family while trekking?
Mobile coverage and Wi-Fi are available in some areas. Satellite phones are an option for emergencies. - Are there any special dietary requirements I should consider?
Inform your trekking company in advance of any dietary restrictions. They can accommodate most requests. - Can I take part in the trek if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
Consult with a healthcare provider before the trek and ensure you have appropriate medical clearance. - What is the best way to stay hydrated during the trek?
Drink plenty of water and carry purification tablets or a water filter. - How do I handle extreme weather conditions?
Be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear. Follow your guide’s advice on managing weather-related challenges. - Are there any cultural etiquette guidelines to follow?
Respect local customs and traditions. Seek permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites. - What is the best way to manage high-altitude symptoms?
Slow down, stay hydrated, and follow acclimatization protocols. Inform your guide if you experience symptoms. - How do I book a trek?
Contact a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu to arrange permits, guides, and logistics. - What should I do in case of an emergency?
Contact your guide or trek organizer immediately. Emergency procedures are in place to handle various situations. - Can I extend my trek or explore other areas?
Discuss with your trekking company. They can assist in arranging additional activities or extensions. - What is the best way to ensure a safe trekking experience?
Prepare physically, follow safety guidelines, respect local customs, and stay informed about weather conditions.
This guide provides comprehensive information on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, including key details on logistics, health, and cultural considerations. Proper preparation will help ensure a successful and enjoyable trekking experience.
