Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek - 18 Days

General Info

Group Size 2-12 Persons
Max Altitude 5360M
Trip Duration 18 Days
Accommodation 4/3 Star Hotel & Teahouse/Lodges
Trip Difficult Challenging
Trek Route
Meals BLD
Country Nepal

Trip Overview

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an outstanding trek that passes through incredible alpine landscapes and offers the opportunity to explore the world's eighth highest mountain, Dhaulagiri (8167 m). Unlike the Annapurna Circuit Trek or other treks in the Annapurna and Everest regions, this trek demands significant physical and mental strength and suits only those with extensive high-altitude trekking experience. Branded as an extreme route, the Around Dhaulagiri trek needs you to be familiarized with equipment like ice axes and crampons.

 

Starting from Beni, the trail takes you to alpine villages and explores the lifestyle of local inhabitants of Gurung, Chhetri, and Magar communities.Trekkers traverse fairly challenging passes like French Col (5,240 m) and Dhampus Pass (5,155 m) during this trek.



The Dhaulagiri circuit trek offers spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri range, Annapurna range, and many other Himalayan giants. This trek mesmerizes you with the views of amazing icefalls and glaciers. Basically, September to December and March to May are the perfect times to enjoy this absolute high altitude trail.

 

Blaze Mountain Adventure, with its proficiency in the highlands of Nepal, will help you to realize your adventure dreams in Dhaulagiri. The team at Trekking in the Mountains will be there to assist you in your trekking venture all along. Professional guides will be there to lead you to your destination, where no compromise will be made with your safety. We can also make customized arrangements upon request to enhance your Around Dhaulagiri trekking experience, making it more exciting and adventurous.

Short Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) – Our staff will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you…
  • Day 2: Fly to Pokhara (820m) and Trek Preparation – You fly to Pokhara today, taking in breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas…
  • Day 3: Drive to Darbang (1,180m) and Trek to Dharapani (1,560m) – You start your trip by driving through picturesque hills and rural villages…
  • Day 4: Trek from Dharapani to Muri (1,850m) – The path today climbs and descends across suspension bridges, rivers, and woodlands.…
  • Day 5: Trek from Muri to Boghara (2,080m) – As you proceed more into the Dhaulagiri area, the trail gets more…
  • Day 6: Trek from Boghara to Dobang (2,520m) – Walking up the Myagdi Khola today will take you over rocky pathways…
  • Day 7: Trek from Dobang to Sallaghari (3,110m) – The trail continues uphill through alpine forests and open valleys. You may…
  • Day 8: Trek to Italian Base Camp (3,660m) – You gradually ascend towards Italian Base Camp, one of the major milestones…
  • Day 9: Acclimatization at Italian Base Camp – This is an important rest day for acclimatization. You can take short…
  • Day 10: Trek to Glacier Camp (4,200m) – Todayu2019s trail becomes more challenging with rocky and icy terrain. You cross…
  • Day 11: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m) – You reach one of the most iconic points of the trek Dhaulagiri…
  • Day 12: Acclimatization at Dhaulagiri Base Camp – Another rest day to prepare for high passes ahead. You can explore…
  • Day 13: Cross French Pass (5,360m) and Trek to Hidden Valley – This is one of the toughest and most exciting days of the…
  • Day 14: Cross Dhampus Pass (5,155m) and Trek to Yak Kharka (3,680m) – You cross another challenging high pass with stunning mountain scenery. After a…
  • Day 15: Trek to Marpha (2,670m) – You descend further into the Mustang region, reaching the beautiful village of…
  • Day 16: Drive from Marpha to Pokhara – After completing the trek, you take a scenic drive back to Pokhara.…
  • Day 17: Fly Back to Kathmandu – You take a short flight back to Kathmandu. The rest of the…
  • Day 18: Final Departure – Our team will transfer you to the airport according to your flight…

About Trip:

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an outstanding trek that passes through incredible alpine landscapes and offers the opportunity to explore the world's eighth highest mountain, Dhaulagiri (8167 m). Unlike the Annapurna Circuit Trek or other treks in the Annapurna and Everest regions, this trek demands significant physical and mental strength and suits only those with extensive high-altitude trekking experience. Branded as an extreme route, the Around Dhaulagiri trek needs you to be familiarized with equipment like ice axes and crampons.

 

Starting from Beni, the trail takes you to alpine villages and explores the lifestyle of local inhabitants of Gurung, Chhetri, and Magar communities.Trekkers traverse fairly challenging passes like French Col (5,240 m) and Dhampus Pass (5,155 m) during this trek.



The Dhaulagiri circuit trek offers spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri range, Annapurna range, and many other Himalayan giants. This trek mesmerizes you with the views of amazing icefalls and glaciers. Basically, September to December and March to May are the perfect times to enjoy this absolute high altitude trail.

 

Blaze Mountain Adventure, with its proficiency in the highlands of Nepal, will help you to realize your adventure dreams in Dhaulagiri. The team at Trekking in the Mountains will be there to assist you in your trekking venture all along. Professional guides will be there to lead you to your destination, where no compromise will be made with your safety. We can also make customized arrangements upon request to enhance your Around Dhaulagiri trekking experience, making it more exciting and adventurous.

Trip Highlights:

  • Trek through one of Nepal’s most remote and challenging Himalayan routes, circling the majestic Dhaulagiri (8,167m).
  • Cross high mountain passes including French Col (5,240m) and Dhampus Pass (5,155m) with breathtaking panoramic views.
  • Explore dramatic landscapes ranging from lush valleys and dense forests to glaciers and high-altitude wilderness.
  • Experience the thrill of trekking through the Hidden Valley, a secluded and untouched Himalayan paradise.
  • Witness stunning close-up views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, and the Annapurna range.
  • Walk alongside massive glaciers and rugged moraine trails in a true alpine environment.
  • Enjoy authentic cultural encounters with remote mountain communities along the route.
  • Ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a demanding, off-the-beaten-path adventure in Nepal.

Best Season for this Trip:

Spring (March and May)
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is best in spring. It is generally pretty good in weather, and one can also get to see quite a clear view of the Himalayas in most parts, and the temperature starts moderating as well. It is pretty warm during days (favorable for trekking), and during the nights it is cold; still, very bearable. The colorfully blooming rhododendron flowers paint most of the lands besides the alpine beauty during the spring time of the year.

 

Autumn (September to November)
During autumn, which is from September to November of the year, trekking is at its best in Nepal; the Dhaulagiri Circuit is no different. This season has the most favorable weather conditions, with clear skies, stable temperatures, and minimal chances of rainfall. The days are usually warm, while the nights get cold but are manageable. Autumn is also considered ideal because of the clear view of the surrounding mountains seen across the crisp air.

 

Winter (December to February)
Winter is a more challenging option to go on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek because of colder temperatures and heavy snowfall, especially at higher altitudes. Weather conditions can be quite inclement, with temperatures well below freezing, with specialized gear and clothing. Prolonga, pero different trekking experiences with less crowded trails and spectacular snowy landscapes.

 

Summer/Monsoon (June to August)
Obviously, summer is the worst time to trek along the Dhaulagiri Circuit. This happens to be a monsoon season; thus, the rain keeps falling continuously. Monsoons naturally bring in trails that are prone to slipping, landslides, and reduced visibility-a tough and really not safe situation concerning trekking conditions. Besides, the trails become a bit muddy, hazardous, and altitude sickness could be more possible due to increased humidity

Food and Accommodations on Trip:

Food on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is all about keeping you fueled for those long days at altitude. Down in the lower areas, you get a pretty nice spread classic Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice, lentils, veggies), momo dumplings, noodles, and Tibetan bread. Sometimes you’ll spot simple Western meals too, like pasta, pancakes, or eggs. But as you climb higher, the menu shrinks. Up there, it’s mostly hearty local food stuff the cooks can make quickly and trekkers can actually digest when it’s colder and you’re tired. Hot drinks are everywhere tea, coffee, soups completely necessary to stay warm and hydrated.

 

For accommodation, you’ll spend most nights in teahouses until the trek gets more remote. These guesthouses are basic: twin beds, a blanket, and shared bathrooms. The higher you go, the more stripped-down everything becomes. The rooms get colder and simpler sometimes just a bed and four walls but the people running the teahouses usually make you feel right at home. After a hard day’s walk, it’s nice to sit down with other trekkers and locals, eat, and swap stories.

 

Once you’re deep into the high-altitude or glacier zones near base camps, there aren’t any teahouses. Your group sets up tented camps instead. You’ll sleep in thick, insulated sleeping bags inside sturdy tents, with a dining tent and even a kitchen tent pitched nearby. It’s definitely more rugged less comfort, more wilderness. But waking up with the mountains right outside your tent and the sheer quiet around you has a way of making the tough moments worth it. Those nights under the stars tend to stick with you long after the trek ends.

Includes / Excludes

Includes:

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off service in Kathmandu for arrival and departure convenience.
  • Standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis.
  • Teahouse accommodation during the lower and mid sections of the trek and tented camping in remote high-altitude areas.
  • Domestic flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara (round trip).
  • Private ground transportation from Pokhara to the trek starting point and return from the ending point.
  • Experienced licensed trekking guide and necessary number of porters for luggage support.
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with tea or coffee.
  • Required trekking permits including ACAP and TIMS card.
  • First aid kit and basic emergency support equipment carried by the guide team.

Excludes:

  • International airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Nepal visa fees payable on arrival or in advance.
  • Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara except for breakfast where included in hotel plan.
  • Personal expenses such as drinks, snacks, laundry, hot showers, and charging devices.
  • Personal trekking gear such as sleeping bag, down jacket, boots, and trekking poles.
  • Tips for guides and porters (recommended but not mandatory).
  • Emergency evacuation or rescue costs if required due to unforeseen situations.
  • Any expenses not mentioned in the “Includes” section.

Detailed Itinerary of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek:

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

Our staff will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your accommodation in Kathmandu. After checking in, you may relax or stroll around Thamel's bustling streets, which are home to hiking stores and regional eateries. A thorough explanation of the hike, an equipment inspection, and an introduction to your guide will take place in the evening. You can relax in and mentally get ready for the adventure ahead on this day.

Teahouse/Lodge | 1400M | BLD

Day 2: Fly to Pokhara (820m) and Trek Preparation

You fly to Pokhara today, taking in breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas as you go. You will be driven to your accommodation close to Phewa Lake after you arrive in Pokhara. The remainder of the day can be used for leisure, quick touring, or last-minute equipment setup. Additionally, your guide will reiterate the trekking route and safety regulations.

Hotels | 822M | BLD

Day 3: Drive to Darbang (1,180m) and Trek to Dharapani (1,560m)

You start your trip by driving through picturesque hills and rural villages from Pokhara to Darbang. The hiking officially begins as you make your way from Darbang to Dharapani. The path gives you a true experience of rural Nepal as it winds through tiny villages and terraced farms. Spend the night in a teahouse in Dharapani.

Teahouse/Lodge | 1560M | BLD

Day 4: Trek from Dharapani to Muri (1,850m)

The path today climbs and descends across suspension bridges, rivers, and woodlands. You will travel through traditional Magar communities and get a close-up look at the native way of life. The neighboring hills and far-off summits begin to come into view. Spend the night at Muri village.

Teahouse/Lodge | 1850M | BLD

Day 5: Trek from Muri to Boghara (2,080m)

As you proceed more into the Dhaulagiri area, the trail gets more isolated. You stroll over small hills and woodlands with ever-greater vistas of the mountains. There is a sense of wildness and solitude as the villages get smaller. camping/teahouse stay in Boghara for the night.

Teahouse/Lodge | 2080M | BLD

Day 6: Trek from Boghara to Dobang (2,520m)

Walking up the Myagdi Khola today will take you over rocky pathways and deep trees. As there are fewer human settlements along the route, it gets rougher and more daring. The high Himalayan zone begins to feel closer to you. Spend the night at Dobang.

Teahouse/Lodge | 2520M | BLD

Day 7: Trek from Dobang to Sallaghari (3,110m)

The trail continues uphill through alpine forests and open valleys. You may start noticing changes in vegetation due to altitude gain. The environment becomes quieter and more isolated. Overnight camping at Sallaghari.

Teahouse/Lodge | 3110M | BLD

Day 8: Trek to Italian Base Camp (3,660m)

You gradually ascend towards Italian Base Camp, one of the major milestones of the trek. The landscape becomes more glacial and dramatic with closer mountain views. You will set up camp beneath towering peaks of the Dhaulagiri range. Overnight stay at Italian Base Camp.

Teahouse/Lodge | 3660M | BLD

Day 9: Acclimatization at Italian Base Camp

This is an important rest day for acclimatization. You can take short hikes around the area to help your body adjust to altitude. The surrounding views of glaciers and peaks are breathtaking. Overnight stay at the same camp.

Teahouse/Lodge | 3660M | BLD

Day 10: Trek to Glacier Camp (4,200m)

Todayu2019s trail becomes more challenging with rocky and icy terrain. You cross glacial moraines and navigate difficult paths with the support of your guide. The surroundings feel completely wild and untouched. Overnight camping at Glacier Camp.

Teahouse/Lodge | 4200M | BLD

Day 11: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m)

You reach one of the most iconic points of the trek Dhaulagiri Base Camp. The views of Dhaulagiri I and surrounding peaks are absolutely stunning. The terrain is harsh but rewarding with dramatic ice and snow formations. Overnight stay at Base Camp.

Teahouse/Lodge | 4740M | BLD

Day 12: Acclimatization at Dhaulagiri Base Camp

Another rest day to prepare for high passes ahead. You can explore nearby glaciers and enjoy panoramic mountain views. This helps your body adjust before crossing French Pass. Overnight stay at Base Camp.

Teahouse/Lodge | BLD

Day 13: Cross French Pass (5,360m) and Trek to Hidden Valley

This is one of the toughest and most exciting days of the trek. You cross the high French Pass with breathtaking 360-degree Himalayan views. After the pass, you descend into the beautiful and isolated Hidden Valley. Overnight camping in Hidden Valley.

Teahouse/Lodge | 5360M | BLD

Day 14: Cross Dhampus Pass (5,155m) and Trek to Yak Kharka (3,680m)

You cross another challenging high pass with stunning mountain scenery. After a long descent, you reach Yak Kharka, a peaceful grazing area. The environment becomes greener and more open. Overnight stay at Yak Kharka.

Teahouse/Lodge | 3680M | BLD

Day 15: Trek to Marpha (2,670m)

You descend further into the Mustang region, reaching the beautiful village of Marpha. The landscape changes dramatically to dry valleys and apple orchards. You can explore local culture and taste famous apple products. Overnight stay at Marpha.

Teahouse/Lodge | 2670M | BLD

Day 16: Drive from Marpha to Pokhara

After completing the trek, you take a scenic drive back to Pokhara. The journey passes through the Kali Gandaki Valley with amazing landscapes. Once in Pokhara, you can relax by the lakeside. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Hotels | 822M | BLD

Day 17: Fly Back to Kathmandu

You take a short flight back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for shopping, sightseeing, or rest. In the evening, a farewell dinner may be organized to celebrate the successful trek. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Hotels | 1400M | BLD

Day 18: Final Departure

Our team will transfer you to the airport according to your flight schedule. This marks the end of your incredible Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek experience with Blaze Mountain. You leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas.

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