Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek - 20 DaysDhaulagiri Circuit Trek - 20 Days

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek - 17 Days 2024 \2025

Key Information
  • Duration17 Days
  • Difficulty LevelDifficult
  • Max Altitude5,360 m/17,585 ft.
  • Arrival CityKathmandu
  • Best TimeMarch-May/Sep.-Dec.
  • Group Size1-16

"Seek a unique path, maybe it's the way to discover what you've been asking for all along."

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Highlights

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek in the Himalayas is a fascinating journey through one of the best off the beaten tracks to praise the glory of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m). Feast your eyes on the grandeur peaks like Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), Gustung South (6,465 m), Tukuche Peak (6,837 m), Mt. Gurja (7,193 m), Manapathi (6,380 m) etc. The lifestyle they live and the unique culture they have been respecting is stunning.

Is this trip right for you?

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking is a courageous and challenging trip. This trek needs your daring heart to cope with the challenge it offers. This Trek takes you through stunning glaciers and snow-clad passes to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp. This Trek lies northwest of Pokhara. It is also called Dhaulagiri Round Trek.

It is a less crowded trek, offering unique natural and cultural diversity. It may be your dream destination surrounded by snow-capped mountains during the peak. You will also cross challenging 2 major passes (Dhampus 5,200 m and French Pass 5,360 m).

Dhaulagiri Circuit is not about mountain passes and snow-clad peaks. It is also rich in flora and fauna treasures that it holds. The trip to Dhaulagiri passes through remote villages with delightful passages starting from Beni. The trail leads to dense forests, alpine meadows, and a magnetic glimpse of Mt Dhaulagiri.

You will also cross the largest conservation area of Nepal, the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is the home of many endangered floras and faunas. You will see untouched nature and the pure elegance of mountain landscapes. This combines lush alpine vegetation on the lower, rugged rock outcrops, and pristine ice slopes on the higher area.

Trek to Dhaulagiri enables you to find the green lush hillsides and typical villages. On the way, you will experience the Magar and Thakali cultures. You will also get to visit thriving small villages and monasteries. It is keen for the tourist who has seen it for the first time. Experience the scale and grandeur of the high plateau and the solitude. You will be blessed with the diverse local traditions and culture in this region.

Majestic mountains, waterfalls, and culturally rich Tibetan villages make your trek worth going. We are planning this trek for around 18 days. Dhaulagiri Circuit trek itinerary gives you enough time to acclimatize and discover. You can flexibly change, alter, and improve the itinerary.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek in 2024 and 2025

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek in Himalaya 2024 gives you an experience of rural Nepal. Witness the gigantic Annapurna on a background like nature in heaven. The best time to do Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek for 18 days is spring ( March to May) and Autumn ( September to November).

We have departure dates to join this Dhaulagiri trek in the Spring and Autumn of 2024 and 2025. You can join any dates that suit best to you. If you desire to have a personal trek and customize the Itinerary, we are flexible to customize it.

For those who have more time and want to explore more Wilderness Trek. You can choose any trip from Wilderness Trek-like Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek, and  Lumba Sumba Pass Trek. For more Annapurna Trekking Packages you can explore more exclusive The Himalayan Odyssey tour packages.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek 18 days Route

Your journey starts with the scenic drive to Beni from Kathmandu. Beni is the trekking starting point during our trip. You will pass through the warm and vibrant villages of Darbag, Muri, and Chariban to the Italian Base Camp. Ahead, you will finally reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp.

During the Trek, you will cross the adventurous French Pass and Dhampus Pass which may be tough for you. After that, we will descend to Marpha and join the Annapurna Circuit Trek route. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek route is the most cherished trekking trial.

Due to its remoteness and mesmerizing view of the mountains, this trek is remarkable. After the mind-blowing trek to Dhaulagiri, return to  Pokhara via Kathmandu.

How hard is Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an old trail, very few people go because of its remoteness and complexity. People need previous high-altitude trekking experience and the solid inner power to finish. A big body doesn't always help, so you must be strong from your inner heart too.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek ranges from 900 m and reaches 5,360 m. After the French Pass, the geographical landscape is very rough. The trail heads into the glacier and the trail changes every year due to the glacier melting. Walking at a high altitude through a rocky trail would be strenuous for the trekkers.

While passing other trekkers or cattle on trial, always be careful and stay at a safe spot. Walking up and down with the backpack at high passes is the hard part of the trek. After Dhaulagiri Base Camp, the trail leads to a rocky glacier and takes us to Hidden Valley via French Pass. The path from Hidden Valley to deep down trekkers must be cautious on this part.

What will be the Trek Cost for Dhaulagiri Circuit?

When you are thinking about exploring Dhaulagiri Circuit, there will be many factors to consider. It includes route, best time, and how fit we need to be? But one of the most important confusion will be, "How much does Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek cost?"

Whether you are budget dependent or not, consider how much you want to pay for the trip and what is the actual cost. The baseline cost of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek will depend on the number of variables. Your cost will change based on how comprehensive you want your trip to be.

On average, the trek will generally be 17-20 days. The cost is generally somewhere between USD 3285 to USD 3185 This price includes domestic flights, permits, meals, guides, porters, accommodation, and others. You will get some discounts if you are in groups. The cost of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek highly depends upon traveling in private or in a group.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Permit Cost

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

The entry fee per person, for SAARC, is USD10 per person, and for other Nationals USD 30 per person.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Altitude Profile

                        Photo: Altitude Chart

Highlights

  • The broad display of landscapes – including the unique Mustang region.
  • Hair-raising lofty mountain passes French Pass (5,360 m) and the Dhampus Pass (5,234 m).
  • Nearly completely barren, off-the-beaten-path trail.
  • Gives you an experience that brings trekkers closer to nature.
  • Experience Nepali local culture and lifestyle.
  • Dramatic views of the Himalayas including Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri range, and dramatic walk through the world’s deepest gorge – Kali Gandaki.
  • You will trek across a diverse range of flora and fauna.
  • Experience the rich culture and unique lifestyle of the locals.

Itinerary

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It is a notice to all our guests joining Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking that our journey will begin with a 9-10 hour local bus ride from Kathmandu to Beni. This will be included in the package; however, you can book a Private Jeep or take a flight to Pokhara with an added cost. If you take a flight, you can reach up to Pokhara and then drive for 2 hours to Beni.

We, The Himalayan Odyssey, will organize the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with the most suitable arrangements. However, there can be some issues that are beyond our handle. Heavy rainfall, snowing, avalanches and landslides can extend the trip in the lower altitude region.

This itinerary is only for guidelines. We can customize the itinerary according to your requirement and the time you have.

Abbreviation

B - Breakfast
L - Lunch
D - Dinner

  • Pre-trip discussion, and safety briefing on the trek
  • Meet up with trek members
  • Last minute shopping for personal ites before the trip
  • Interact with your guide and do some shopping for your trek
  • Spend night in Kathmandu
  • Maximum Altitude1,300 m / 4,265 ft.
  • We will drive to Beni from Kathmandu
  • The drive will take us through rural Nepal and many towns and villages
  • Overnight at Beni
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time8-9 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude850 m/2789 ft.
  • We will leave Beni and trek along the Kali Gandaki river
  • We will cross villages such as Singa and Tatopani
  • After walking further, we will reach Simalchaur
  • From here, it will take about an hour to reach Babaichor
  • Overnight at Babiachor
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude950 m/3,117 ft
  • The trail is relatively flat, and our first stop will be Shahashradhara
  • You will then cross the Duk River and reach the fields of Ratorunga
  • You will climb further up and reach Dharapani
  • Overnight at Dharapni
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6-7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude1400 m/4,593 ft
  • You will trek to Muri on this day
  • Initially, You will descend through the trail and again climb up until we reach Muri
  • Cross the villages of Sibang and Mattim and then cross the Ghatti river to reach Phalai
  • You will then continue walking alongside the Myagdi river before finally reaching Muri
  • Overnight at Muri
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude1,800 m/5,905 ft
  • You will ascend through the trail and walk past terraced fields
  • You will then see the beautiful Mt. Ghustung South (6465 meters)
  • After crossing the Myagdi river, we will reach the town of Naura
  • You will then ascend for a while before going Boghara
  • Overnight at Boghara
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time4-5 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,080 m/6,824 ft
  • You will trek to Dobang on this day
  • You will trek downhill for a while before again heading up the trail
  • Pass through a forest trail and reach Jyardan
  • From Jyardan, we will continue our journey and reach Lipshe
  • After this, we will reach the final stop of the day - Lapche Kharkha
  • We will then head to Dobang
  • Overnight at Dobang
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude2520 m/8268 ft
  • You will cross the 3000 meters mark on this day as we head to Choriban Khola
  • Climb up the forest trail and see the magnificent Dhaulagiri I
  • Then we will cross a wooden bridge over the Myagdi river
  • Climb further before finally reaching Choriban Khola
  • Overnight at Choriban Khola
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude3,110 m/10,203 ft
  • Today trek to the Italian Base Camp
  • You will see the beautiful Tukuche and Dhaulagiri I peaks
  • Climb further and reach the Italian Basecamp, and from here
  • You can enjoy the spectacular view of the Dhaulagiri II (7,751 m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715 m), and Dhaulagiri V (7,618 m).
  • Overnight at Italiean Base Camp
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6-7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude3,660 m/12,008 ft
  • On this day we will rest at the Italian Base Camp
  • Let your body acclimatize to the thinning air as well as the weather
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • TimeRest Day
  • Maximum Altitude3,660 m/12,008 ft
  • On this day, we will climb further high up the trail and make our way to Glacier camp
  • Ascend through the tricky trail and pass through narrow and rocky paths
  • Enjoy the stunning view from the Glacier Camp
  • Overnight at Glacier Camp
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6-7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude4,210 m/13,812 ft
  • On this day, we will head to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp
  • Climb higher through the trail and head up the ridge to the base camp
  • Enjoy the stunning view of the Dhaulagiri I (8167 m), Dhaulagiri II (7751m), Dhaulagiri III (7715 m), and Dhaulagiri V (7618 m)
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6-7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude4,740 m/15,551 ft
  • We will rest and acclimatize
  • On this day, you will be crossing 5000 meters mark the following day
  • Go to bed early as we will wake up very early the next day
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • TimeRest Day
  • Maximum Altitude4,740 m/15,551 ft
  • Cross the French Pass today, which will be very challenging
  • You will leave early in the morning and head up the trail
  • From the Pass, you will see the stunningly beautiful mountains such as Mukut Himal (6328 m), Tashi Kang (6386 m), and Sita Chuchura (6611 m)
  • After enjoying the French Pass, you will head down to the Hidden Valley
  • Overnight at Hidden Valley
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6-7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude5,360 m/17,585 ft
  • Your will climb through the steep trail and head up to Dhampus Pass.
  • After reaching the top; head down to Yak Kharka
  • Overnight at Yak Kharka
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6-7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude5,200m/17,060ft
  • This will be the final day of walking as we will pass through the Kali Gandaki river
  • Reach the town of Marpha, which is famous for its apple and apple brandy
  • Overnight at Jomsom
  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,710 m/8,891 ft
  • We will fly to Pokhara early in the morning
  • Enjoy your day in Pokhara as you have completed a challenging trail
  • Chill by the Lake Side and enjoy Nepali food
  • Overnight at Pokhara
  • Accommodation Basic Hotel
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time30 Minutes
  • Maximum Altitude910 m/2,986 ft
  • On this day, we return to Kathmandu via bus
  • It takes about 6-7 hours to reach Kathmandu
  • Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Nepali countryside
  • Later in the evening, you can go around Thamel, do your souvenir shopping and pack for your departure
  • At night, we will have our farewell dinner.
  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • MealsFarewell Dinner
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude1,300 m/4265 ft.

Cost Details

Included
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu with BB plan
  • Accommodation in the tent as per Itinerary
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
  • Annapurna Conservation Area entry fee and TIMS card
  • Experienced Himalayan trek guide and porter (2 trekkers: 1 guide and porter)
  • Private Vehicle from Kathmandu to Beni
  • Domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
  • Tourist Bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu. (domestic flight if extra charge added)
  • Arrival transfer from the international airport to your hotel
  • Tea house lodge during your trek
  • First Aid Kit during the trek
  • Staff Insurance
  • Salary, food, and accommodation of your staff during the trek
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Tour Certificate
  • Farewell Dinner
Excluded
  • International flight ticket
  • International airport tax
  • Visa Fee
  • Other personal items. (Phone calls, snacks, hot and cold drinks, laundry, alcohol, extra porter, shower, etc )
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for staff and guide
  • Peraonal Travel Equipment
  • Excess baggage cost if you have a domestic flight
  • Anything that is not listed in the “PRICE INCLUDES” section above

Good to Know

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Weather

Nepal is the best destination for trekking who loves to be in the Himalayas. From hills to valleys to open plain Nepal, there is so much to see in Nepal. Besides dramatic scenes of the Himalayas, trekking in Nepal is about learning about the natural habitat and ridges.

Planning the best season to trek may be time-consuming as the weather is unreliable. The trickier thing about the Trek in Nepal than planning is when to do a trek in Nepal. Most importantly, what to expect, when travelling to Nepal in a different season bothers you.

Furthermore, trekking in Nepal can be done throughout the year. But, the different season has their own charm and is classified as follows:

Spring Season

The spring season in Nepal is from March to April and is one of the best seasons for trekking in Nepal. The temperature during this season is from 25 degrees to 5 degrees during Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. It is a fantastic season for Trek as the weather is less cold, and there is no snow on the high mountain trail. Moreover, this is flower blooming season, and the path will consist of a thick rhododendron forest.

Summer Season

The summer season in Nepal is from May to August. The weather is relatively sweltering and warm at night. The temperature during this season rises from 30 degrees to 20 degrees. One good point of trekking in this season is cheap accommodation. It is a little dangerous, and all the walk is not worth it regarding views of the mountains.

The weather will be hazy from the dust and monsoon clouds. Due to frequent rain, the trail will be slippery, and the chance of landslides in a hilly area. If you are fond of botany, it will be the best season to travel in Nepal as the forest will be full of wildflowers.

Autumn Season

The autumn season in Nepal is from September to November. This season is recognized as the best weather to trek in Nepal. During this season, nights are cool, and days are warm when the sun is shining brightly. Mornings are clear; clouds build up during the afternoon and disappear at night and appear in spectacular bright skies, making a perfect time for trekking. Usually, the temperature reaches from 20 degrees to -2 degrees.

Winter Season

The winter season in Nepal is from December to February. The end of February is usually a little milder than other months. The temperature ranges from 15 degrees to -5 degrees. The temperature gets freezing at night, and the sky is clear. The trail will be hazardous because of snow and will be challenging to walk for us. The accommodation prices are relatively low, and teahouse facilities are minimal too.

Packing List for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Every trekking requires certain preparation of gears and types of equipment for the journey to make your trip more comfortable. It is recommended to carry the necessary and light things so that it will be easy while you are walking. The following belongings are recommended that should be brought, although we concede that our clients have their own decision for the clothing. To know what to expect in the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, we have prepared some useful clothing & gear during the trek.

Travel Documents

  • Airline tickets (confirmation and itinerary)
  • Nepal Visa form (may be obtained at Kathmandu Airport)
  • Travel insurance policy documents
  • Valid passport
  • Copy of passport (2 copies, first page only)
  • Passport photos (4)

Travel Equipment

  • Duffel bag (100 liters; no wheels or rigid handles)
  • Lightweight, duffel bag
  • Luggage locks
  • Travel wallet
  • Passport/money belt
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Travel plug adapters
  • Electrical converter

Travel Clothing

  • Quick-dry undergarments
  • Synthetic or wool T-shirt
  • Long-sleeve, travel-friendly shirt and pants
  • Casual shoes
  • Mid-weight wool or synthetic socks

Trekking Equipment

  • Day pack (25–35 liters)
  • Sleeping bag comfortable to 0°F (dependent upon season, weather forecast and personal preference)
  • Waterproof hiking boots
  • Camp shoes (down booties or running shoes)
  • LED headlamp with extra batteries
  • Trekking poles

Trekking Clothing

  • Wool or synthetic T-shirts (2)
  • Mid-weight fleece or soft-shell jacket (2)
  • Mid-weight down or synthetic parka with hood
  • Convertible hiking pants
  • Fleece pants or insulated pants
  • Lightweight waterproof/breathable rain jacket and pants
  • Mid-weight waterproof and fleece gloves or mittens
  • Sun hat
  • Mid-weight wool or synthetic socks (3 pairs)
  • Liner socks (optional)
  • Glacier sunglasses
  • Neck gaiter, balaclava, Buff or bandana

Food

  • Energy bars
  • Electrolyte replacement drink mix
  • Snacks (cookies, GORP, Snickers, etc.)

FAQs

  • Q1. Where is Dhaulagiri Circuit?

    Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek presents a huge mountain range of Dhaulagiri consisting of fifteen 7000 meters peaks is magnificent.

  • Destination towards Dhaulagiri Circuit from Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) is the best season in which mountain lovers and travel bugs come to Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.

  • You have to cross many high altitude passes and the highest point of this trek is French Pass with an altitude of 5,360 m.

  • This trek is an extremely exciting journey through one of the best off the beaten tracks to praise the glory of Dhaulagiri. Feast your eyes the grandeur peaks like Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri Massif, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal, Mt. Gustung South, Tukuche Peak, Mt. Gurja, Manapathi, etc. You will also experience the Magar, and Thakali cultures thrive in small villages and monasteries. 

  • Your journey starts with the scenic drive to Beni from Kathmandu. You will pass through warm and vibrant villages of Darbag, Muri, Chariban to Italian Base Camp and finally to Dhaulagiri Base Camp. You will then cross French Pass and Dhampus Pass. After that, we will descend down to Marpha and return back to Kathmandu via Pokhara.

  • It is always a good idea to involve yourself in doing physical exercises before trekking to be fit enough for Dhaulagiri Circut Trek. An average level of physical fitness will make the journey less stressful. Start exercising at least a month before trekking in the Himalayas. You can do cardio exercises like running, hiking, long walks, cycling and swimming. Carry a light backpack along with you to get used to if you are doing hiking. A gym workout can also be a good option too.

  • You will have to take the entry pass to enter Annapurna Conservation Area. The entry fee for Nepalese is Rs.100 per person, for SAARC Rs.1,000 per person, and for other Nationals Rs.3,000 per person.

  • There is no such hard and quick rule that you must have one. But it is best to travel with a guide. They are someone who will help you with navigation and information when you are in the trial. He will also have a better idea about where to live and eat. They will also help you during medical emergencies in the Himalayan areas.

  • The daily gain in altitude during the Dhaulagiri Cirucit Trek is about 500 to 550 meters above sea level. When you are crossing the high altitude passes you will have to even gain more altitude.

  • The routes are quite harsh compared to other trekking regions. But this trek is suitable for both beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The routes can be more challenging and overwhelming for new trekkers so be prepared with physical and mental preparation. On this trek, you will be making many steep uphill climbs and downhill walks.

  • It takes around 18 to 22 days to complete Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek depending upon your itinerary.

  • The menu in Dhaulagiri Circuit is a mixture of traditional local or Asian but as we go high, the menu will be limited. We extremely suggest you to consume more liquids like green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon, ginger tea, garlic soup, etc. at high altitude and also the fresh vegetable items for well-being.

  • If you are healthy and willing to go on an adventure then there is no limit. There are children as young as 12 years who do Dhaulagiri Circuit. If you are traveling with the kids, then we suggest that families schedule a private trek and put in extra days.

  • We suggest you consult the doctor to know if there are any allergies issues. However, we advise you to bring simple medicines like Ibuprofen, Codeine, Paracetamol, Strepsils, anti-diarrhea tablets, and Diamox (for altitude sickness). If you are having a package tour then the company will provide you such basic medicines.

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