Introduction
Mt. Dhaulagiri is the seventh highest mountain in the world with an altitude of 8,167m/26,795ft from sea level. It was firstly climbed on 13th May 1960 by a group of Swiss, Austrian & Nepalese expedition team. The word Dhaulagiri came from a Sanskrit word which means white/beautiful/dazzling mountain. Mt. Dhaulagiri is separated by Kaligandaki River and the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki Valley from Annapurna Range where Mt. Annapurna I (8,091m/26,545ft) is the tenth highest mountain in the world.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking is one of the challenging, adventurous and longest full camping trek of Nepal. During the trek, we have to cross numerous numbers of high passes such as French pass at 5,360m/17,580ft altitude & Dhampus Pass at 5,240m/17,187ft altitude, explore remote valleys, glaciers, agricultural farmlands as well as dramatic sceneries of many peaks above 7,000m from sea level. This trek is especially suitable for those trekkers who have previous experience of trekking and good physical condition for walking through snow ridges and high valleys, in some high snow paved places there might need to use climbing gears thus would also be better to have a little bit knowledge about climbing gears as well. From the high passes and valleys during our Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking, we can have very close views of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri IV (7,618m), Tukuche Peak (6,920m), Mukut Himal, Sita Chuchura, Tashi Kang, Annapurna, Nilgiri, Dhampus Peak, and many more snow-capped ranges.
Remember: This itinerary outline can be easily changed as per your duration of stay, the purpose of a holiday and your preference. The cost of the package also depends upon Deluxe, Standard, Budget and your group size. You can easily feel free to CONTACT US any time for any queries.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Features:
- Experience one of the toughest trekking trail of Nepal, the entire circuit of world’s seventh highest mountain of the world.
- Ascend up to Italian Base Camp at 3,660 meters, Glacier Camp at
4,200m, Dhaulagiri Base Camp 4,700m as well as French pass at 5,360m & Dhampus Pass at 5,240m. - Close up views of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Dhaulagiri II (7,751m),
Dhaulagiri IV (7,618m), Tukuche Peak (6,920m), Mukut Himal, Sita
Chuchura, Tashi Kang, Annapurna, Nilgiri, Dhampus Peak and many more snow-capped ranges. - The trek is suitable for advanced trekkers who already has previous trekking experience in the high Himalayas.
AMT - TREK - 507
Spring & Autumn
Challenging
Dhampus Pass (5,240m/17,187ft)
Teahouses/Lodges
Flight/Jeep or Bus
BB/Full Board
Any
Dhaulagiri Circuit Map
Trip Itinerary
-
01Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 kmOur company representative will welcome you at Tribhuwan International Airport and drive you by private vehicle to hotel. Preparation and briefing about the trip.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)Accommodation Hotel -
02Guided tour around world’s Heritage sites of Kathmandu.
After breakfast at hotel we will explore UNESCO sites: Swayambhunath, Patan, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath and overnight in thamel.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)Accommodation Hotel -
03Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs drive
Distance: 200 kmEarly in the morning, your guide will pick you up from the hotel. On the way to Pokhara offers scenic views of the Nepali countryside, rivers, terraced hills, and local villages. The bus will stop for breakfast, lunch, and tea/snack breaks along the way. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and relax. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk around Phewa Lake.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)Accommodation Hotel -
04Drive to Beni and Trek to Tatopani.
Duration: Approx. 3 hrs drive and 3-4 hrs walking
Distance: Approx. 10.2 km walkingDrive through Beni to trailhead, then begin trekking.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Tatopani (2,380m/7,808ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
05Trek from Tatopani to Dharapani.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 kmGradual uphill trail through villages and forest.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Dharapani (1,470 m/4,821 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
06Trek from Dharapani to Muri.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 kmSteep ascents and descents with views of Dhaulagiri range.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Muri (1,850m/6,068ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
07Trek from Muri to Baghar.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14 kmEnter remote valley with fewer settlements, walk through forest.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Baghar (2,080m/6,822ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
08Trek from Baghar to Dobang.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 kmFollow the Myagdi River, walk through dense pine and rhododendron forests.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Dobang (2,500m/8,200ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
09Trek from Dobang to Sallaghari.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 10 kmSteady ascent through alpine forest and river crossings.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Sallaghari (2,820m/9,249ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
10Trek from Sallaghari to Italian Base Camp.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 kmHike through forested terrain with first close views of Dhaulagiri I.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Italian Base Camp (3,660m/1,204ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
11Rest and acclimatization day–free exploration.
Rest, light hiking or explore nearby ridges for altitude adaptation.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Italian Base Camp (3,660m/1,204ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
12Trek from Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp.
Duration: Approx. 4-5 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 6 kmCross moraines and ice slopes — challenging section.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Glacier Camp (4,200m/13,776ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
13Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 9.3 kmWalk alongside the Chhonbardan Glacier surrounded by snowy peaks
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,700m/15,416ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
14Trek to Hidden Valley via French pass.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 kmMajor pass day with breathtaking panoramic Himalayan views.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Hidden Valley (5,050m/16,564ft) via French pass (5,360m/17,580ft).Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
15Trek from Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka via Dhampus Pass.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 15 kmAnother high pass day with steep descents and alpine meadows.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Yak Kharka (3,680m/12,070ft) via Dhampus Pass (5,240m/17,187ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
16Trek from Yak Kharka to Jomsom.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14 kmFinal day walk along windy Kaligandaki valley.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Jomson (2,720 m/8,924 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
17Fly to Pokhara. Sightseeing, boating or free for any other personal activities.
Duration: Approx. 20 minutes flight
Short scenic flight, explore lakeside Pokhara. Once you reach Pokhara, you can relax and explore the city. Overnight Stay at Pokhara.Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)Accommodation Hotel -
18Drive or fly back to Kathmandu.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs drive / 20-30 minutes Flight
Distance: Approx. 200 kmAfter early breakfast, we drive or flight back to Kathmandu. In drive the journey offers beautiful views of rivers, green hills, and rural villages. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)Accommodation Teahouses/ Lodges -
19Farewell, departure transfer to Tribhuwan International Airport.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 kmOur representative will drop-off as per flight schedule.
Meals BB/ Full BoardMax Altitude Tribhuvan Internation Airport (1,338 m/4390 ft)Accommodation -
Includes
- Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic). All required transfers in Kathmandu too.
- 3 Night’s accommodation in touristic town of Kathmandu in BB Plan (one can choose budget, standard and deluxe).
- Kathmandu – Pokhara - Beni in private/sharing vechicle.
- Jomsom - Pokhara in Flight and back to Kathmandu by flight/drive.
- Standard tea house (lodge) accommodation during the entire trekking as per mentioned in itinerary.
- Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the entire trek as per mentioned in itinerary.
- A duffel bag, Trekking Map .
- Trekking pole, Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Nepali SIM card (Rental basis, if needed).
- TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit.
- Required Permits.
- An experienced government certified local Trekking Guide.
- Required numbers of highly experienced trekking porters (2:1 ratio).
- Staff’s foods, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation etc.
- General first Aid Kit.
- A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek.
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
- All government taxes and applicable paperwork.
Excludes
- International Airfare.
- Personal Travel Insurance (essential for high altitude trekking).
- Personal expenses (bar, laundry, personal shopping, internet usages during the trek, hot shower during the trek, battery charge during the trek etc.).
- Alcoholic beverage.
- TIPS for Staff.
Equipment Checklist
Embarking on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a thrilling adventure that requires meticulous preparation. Ensuring you have the right gear can make the difference between a comfortable journey and a challenging one. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential equipment needed for the trek, from clothing layers to personal items. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, our comprehensive packing list will help you get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
1. Clothing
Base Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms for warmth.
Mid Layers: Fleece jacket for insulation.
Outer Layer: Insulated down jacket (recommended for high altitudes).
Rainproof/Windproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for unpredictable weather.
Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants for daytime trekking.
Warm Hat and Sun Hat: A warm beanie for cold weather, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
Gloves: Waterproof insulated gloves and lightweight inner gloves.
Socks: Wool socks for cold weather and moisture-wicking socks for trekking.
Gaiters: To keep mud, snow, and debris out of your boots.
2. Footwear
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Camp Shoes/Sandals: For comfort when relaxing in the tea houses or lodges.
3. Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C to withstand cold nights in higher altitudes.
Sleeping Bag Liner: Adds warmth and keeps your sleeping bag clean.
4. Backpack and Accessories
Daypack (25-30 liters): For carrying essentials like water, snacks, and layers.
Duffel Bag: Large, durable bag for porters to carry; waterproof covers are recommended.
Rain Cover: For protecting your daypack from rain.
Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability and reducing stress on knees.
5. Hydration and Nutrition
Water Bottles and/or Hydration Bladder: With at least 2-3 liters capacity.
Water Purification Tablets or Filter: To treat water on the trail.
Snacks: High-energy snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates.
6. Personal and Miscellaneous Items
Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for early morning treks or dark trails.
Sunglasses: UV-protective, high-quality sunglasses to protect against the intense high-altitude sun.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF for sun protection.
Basic First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, blister treatment, antiseptics, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and any personal medications.
Toiletries: Eco-friendly soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.
Camera and Extra Batteries: Since charging can be costly and unreliable at high altitudes.
7. Documents and Money
Passport and Permits: Passport, visa,TIMS card, and entry permit.
Cash: ATMs are not reliable in the mountains, so bring enough Nepali cash for personal expenses.
Frequently asked question (FAQ'S)
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking is considered as most challenging trek of Nepal. There are numerous challenges like the rugged terrain, steep slopes, trekking route through stone stairs and continuous walk of 5 to 6 hours per day. That being said, Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking can be done by travelers who have the right attitude, have previous trekking experience and are physically fit.
The best season for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking is during Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (October and November). During these seasons the weather will be clear, you will get long sunlight hours, fewer bugs, flowers will bloom on the way, the charm of the atmosphere can be felt by the heart, magnificent views of the Himalayas can be seen and you can escape the crowd and enjoy the pleasure of trekking.
The maximum height we will ascend during this trek is up to Dhampus Pass (5,240m/17,187ft).
Yes!! The Internet is accessible during Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continuous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited WiFi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.
The permits required for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking are:
- Trekkers' Information Management Systems (TIMS)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)
According to the standard itinerary our Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking is of 19 days from your arrival to Kathmandu to farewell at Airport. If you wish to amend the itinerary you have to contact our booking manager; he will prepare the itinerary according to your needs.
Yes!! It is possible to trek Dhaulagiri Circuit. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking requires stamina and good health conditions. If you are planning to trek without any experience then you can contact us prior to 20 days so that we can guide you through some exercises and diets you should consider for preparation.
Yes!! It is recommended to have travel insurance during the trek. It is uncertain that you will not feel sick or get into any accidents during the trek. So, for medical emergencies and as precaution against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling, insurance is best.
All the equipment/accessories required for trekking will be arranged for you. You will have to pay the amount for equipment. If you personally want to manage any equipment by yourself it’s fine. We have created The Ultimate Trekking Checklist page for your help as It is always better to carry the essential gears and accessories.
Qualified, well experienced, knowledgeable and reliable trekking leaders who have been working in this field professionally for more than a decade will guide you toward the destination and back. You are in safe hands with us, so don’t worry about trekking guides.
Adventure Mountain Trek offers you a lifetime policy through which you can renew your booking amount for another trek although if you want to cancel it then we will refund you as per our trip cancellation terms procedure.
We hire our staff according to their standards. They should have to go through our selection procedure on which we will check their certifications, qualifications and experience. Hence, Our staff are equipped/trained and insured.
Normally, Within 12-24 hours after ascending a certain height(1,500 to 2,500 meter above sea level) altitude sickness symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems, loss of energy, and shortness of breath are seen. In case of any altitude sickness symptoms we will apply medication and descend immediately for acclimatization.
Trekking via the local agency is one of the great ideas for trekkers. There are more local trekking organizations in Nepal. The hard part is you need to recognize whether they are authorized businesses and are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN).You can view their internet site and profiles commonly all legal organizations will upload their profile along with authorities-legal certificates.
Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget. Also you should know that at high altitude and remote places the service will be limited.
Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring power bank with you which will be helpful.
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