Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Nepal
Trekking
Extrime
15–21 days
5360

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most demanding and rewarding treks, offering an unparalleled adventure through remote landscapes, high-altitude passes, and breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri Massif (8,167m), the world's seventh-highest peak. This trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking solitude, rugged terrain, and an expedition-like experience. Below is a detailed overview, highlights, and a day-to-day itinerary.

Overview of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Duration: 15–21 days (varies by itinerary)

Max Altitude: 5,360m (French Pass)

Difficulty: Strenuous (requires prior high-altitude trekking experience)

Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)

Accommodation: Mostly camping (some teahouses in lower villages)

Start/End Points: Typically Kathmandu or Pokhara, with the trek starting from Beni

This trek takes you through diverse landscapes—lush forests, glacial moraines, high-altitude deserts, and traditional villages—while crossing two major passes: French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240m). The route is remote, with limited infrastructure, making it a true wilderness experience

Trip Facts

Activities
Trekking
Starting Price
Starting 2000 USD
Accommodation
Tea House/ Camping
Max. Altitude
5360
Best Season
Autumn
Trip Hours/Day
05 to 06
Trip Grade
Extrime
Group Size
2 to 10

Highlights & Attractions

Spectacular Mountain Views Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), and V (7,618m) Annapurna Range, Tukuche Peak (6,920m), and Nilgiri Himal
High-Altitude Passes Crossing French Pass (5,360m) into the surreal Hidden Valley, a high-altitude desert surrounded by towering peaks
Remote and Untouched Trails Fewer trekkers compared to popular routes like Everest or Annapurna, offering solitude and pristine nature
Cultural Encounters Visit traditional Magar, Gurung, and Thakali villages, experiencing their hospitality and culture
Diverse Landscapes From subtropical forests to glacial moraines, rocky ridges, and alpine meadows. Camping Adventure tents, with camps at Italian Base Camp (3,660m), Glacier Camp (4,200m), and Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,700m)
Wildlife Spotting Chance to see Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and pheasants in the Annapurna Conservation Area

Trip Itinerary
Include & Excludes
Trip Notes
Reviews

Trip Itinerary

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

Briefing, gear check, and preparation for the trek.
Day 2:: Drive to Beni (850m) – 8–10 hours

Scenic drive via Pokhara, following the Trisuli and Marsyangdi rivers. Overnight in Beni
Day 3: : Trek to Babiachaur (950m) – 5–6 hours

Follow the Myagdi Khola River, crossing suspension bridges and terraced fields. Overnight Tea House Lodge
Day 4: : Trek to Dharapani (1,860m) – 6–7 hours

Pass through subtropical forests and traditional Magar community villages.
Day 5: : Trek to Muri (1,800m) – 4–5 hours

Ascend through terraced farmland with views of Dhaulagiri and Gurja Himal.
Day 6: Trek to Boghara (2,080m) – 5–6 hours

Cross a low pass with views of Ghustung South and enter pine forests.
Day 7: : Trek to Dobang (2,520m) – 5–6 hours

Walk through dense forests and landslide-prone areas.
Day 8:: Trek to Choriban Khola (3,110m) – 4–5 hours

walking Steep climb along the Myagdi Khola, entering higher alpine terrain.
Day 9: : Trek to Italian Base Camp (3,660m) – 5–6 hours

First close-up views of Dhaulagiri’s west face.
Day 10: : Acclimatization at Italian Base Camp

Optional hike to nearby ridges for better acclimatization. Back to the Italian Base camp
Day 11: : Trek to Glacier Camp (4,210m) – 4–5 hours

Cross the Chonbarden Glacier, a challenging but rewarding section.
Day 12:: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m) – 4–5 hours

while you are here Stunning views of Dhaulagiri I, II, and Tukuche Peak.
Day 13:: Acclimatization at Dhaulagiri Base Camp

Acclimatize day and Rest day to prepare for the high passes.
Day 14: : Cross French Pass (5,360m) to Hidden Valley (5,050m) – 7–8 hours

The toughest day, with steep ascents and breathtaking panoramic views of all Surrounding Mt. Peaks
.
Day 15: : Cross Dhampus Pass (5,240m) to Yak Kharka (3,680m) – 6–7 hours

Trek Descend into the Kali Gandaki Valley, linking to the Annapurna Circuit.
Day 16: : Trek to Marpha (2,670m) – 5 hours

Walk through apple orchards and the famous Thakali village of Marpha.Overnight stay at Marpha
Day 17: : Drive to Pokhara (830m) – 3–4 hours

End of the trek reached Pokhara, with an optional flight to Kathmandu the next day.

Package Includes

Annapurna Area Permit (ACAP) for Dhaulagiri
Full Board on Trek: 3 meals daily (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
2 Nights twin deluxe bedroom in Kathmandu with breakfast.
All necessary camping equipment.
First Aid Kit (oxygen meter, basic medications)
Conservation Area Permit and TIMS Cards if necessity
Porter (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 15kg/porter)
Experienced Trek Guide (licensed, English-speaking)

Package Excludes

Nepal Visa ($30-50 depending on duration)
Travel Insurance (mandatory; must cover altitude up to 3,000m + evacuation)
Early Termination: Extra transport/hotel if leaving trek early
Kathmandu Sightseeing (entrance fees for UNESCO sites ~$20-30)

Any costs arising due to a change of the itinerary, landslides, political issue etc

Medical expenses, rescue at high altitudes, trip cancellation and unforeseeable events are excluded.

Trip Notes

Trek Difficulty & Preparation
Physical Fitness: Requires excellent stamina (6–8 hours of daily trekking).

Altitude Challenges: Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).

Technical Sections: Glacier crossings, steep ascents, and rocky moraines .

Permits Required
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card – Required for all treks in Nepal .

Conclusion
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for those seeking a challenging, off-the-beaten-path Himalayan experience. With its dramatic landscapes, high passes, and cultural richness, it stands out as one of Nepal’s most rewarding treks.

For further details on pricing, packing List conatct at info@highmountaintrek.com

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek