Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Duration
19 Days
Highest Location
French Pass
Difficulty Level
High
Arrival
Kathmandu
Min Pax
Min 2 Pax Pax

Duration:
19 Days
Trek Starting Point:
Pokhara
Trek End Point:
Pokhara
Difficulty Level:
High
Max-Altitude:
5360m/17585 ftm
Min Pax:
Min 2 Pax Pax
Accomodation: Tea house + Camping
Meals: All Meals (Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

Trip Introduction

Exploring the Majestic Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Nepal, renowned for its awe-inspiring Himalayan landscapes and challenging treks, presents the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek as a thrilling adventure for avid explorers. Situated in the western region of Nepal, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a journey that takes you around the Dhaulagiri massif, the seventh highest mountain in the world. This trek is not just a physical challenge but also a cultural and natural immersion into the heart of the Himalayas.

Beginning the Journey

The trek typically begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Beni, where the trail commences. From Beni, the route gradually ascends through picturesque villages and terraced hillsides, offering glimpses into the traditional Nepalese way of life. As you trek further, the landscape transforms, revealing lush forests, raging rivers, and cascading waterfalls that accompany you along the journey.

Reaching the High Altitudes

As you ascend higher, the true grandeur of the Dhaulagiri massif starts to unfold. Towering peaks, including Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), dominate the skyline, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your trekking adventure. The trail leads you through challenging mountain passes, such as the French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,182m), where panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks await. These high-altitude crossings offer not only physical challenges but also unparalleled vistas of the Dhaulagiri range and its neighboring peaks like Annapurna and Nilgiri.

Cultural Encounters

Beyond its natural splendor, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek also provides opportunities to interact with local communities. You’ll encounter diverse ethnic groups such as Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis, each with their own unique traditions and hospitality. Villages like Marpha and Jomsom offer insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage, with ancient monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags dotting the landscape.

Challenges and Rewards

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is known for its remote and rugged terrain, making it a challenging endeavor even for seasoned trekkers. The trek demands physical endurance and acclimatization to high altitudes, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. However, the rewards are plentiful—a sense of accomplishment upon conquering mountain passes, serene nights under starlit skies, and encounters with rare flora and fauna unique to the region.

Season and Logistics

The best time to embark on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is favorable, offering clear skies and stable trekking conditions. Accommodation along the trek ranges from teahouses to camping options, providing trekkers with essential amenities amidst the wilderness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek stands as a testament to Nepal’s natural beauty and trekking prowess. From challenging mountain passes to cultural encounters with local communities, every step of this trek is filled with awe-inspiring moments. Whether you seek adventure, cultural immersion, or simply the thrill of exploring the Himalayas, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek promises an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most stunning landscapes.

Embark on this epic adventure and discover why the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Outline Itinerary

- Day 01
- Arrival day in Kathmandu (1300m)
- Day 02
- Trek Preparation in Kathmandu
- Day 03
- Drive to Pokhara (850m) by private vehicle, 7-8 hours
- Day 04
- Drive to Dharapani (1360m) via Dharbang (950m), 5-6 hours
- Day 05
- Trek from Dharapani to Mudi(1720) 6-7 hour
- Day 06
- Trek from Mudi to Bagar(2080m) 5-6 hours
- Day 07
- Trek from Bagar to Dovan(2520m)- 5-6 hours walk
- Day 08
- Trek from Dovan to Sallaghari (2,820m), 4-5 hours
- Day 09
- Trek to the Italian Base Camp (3,660m), 5-6 hours
- Day 10
- Acclimatization and rest day
- Day 11
- Trek to the Japanese Camp (4,210m), 4-6 hours
- Day 12
- Trek to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m), 6-7 hours
- Day 13
- Cross the French Pass (5,360m), then trek to the Hidden Valley (5,200m), 5-6 hours
- Day 14
- Cross Dhampus pass (5,200m), and trek to Yak Kharka (3,680m), 4-6 hours
- Day 15
- Yak Kharka to Jomsom (2670m), 5-6 hours
- Day 16
- Morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara 830m-30 min
- Day 17
- Pokhara to Kathmandu, 6-8 hours
- Day 18
- Free Day in Kathmandu
- Day 19
- Final Departure

Best Time to Travel

Weather in Nepal is quite a favorable. For trekking we have two peak season; Spring & Autumn. Autumn season starts from September to November whereas Spring season starts from March to May. Beside this two season, you can visit Nepal in other months too but it is quite cold in January and rainy in the month of July & August.

- Day 01
- Arrival day in Kathmandu (1300m)
  
  On this day you will be landed at the Capital City of Nepal-Kathmandu (1300m/4265 ft). It is the only International Airport in Nepal. You will be received by Sherpa Himalaya Representative.
  
  Then with a brief introduction, you will be welcomed by flower Garland. You will be taken to your hotel where you can rest and freshen up to keep away Jet Lag. You will get a nearby location map from the hotel reception and you can explore around.
  
  Overnight at KTM Hotel
- Day 02
- Trek Preparation in Kathmandu
  
  Today you will also be introduced to your respective Guide for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. If you have anything to buy for your trek then you can purchase it from the stores around. In the evening you will have to pack only the necessary and important items that you need during the Trek and the rest you can either store at Hotel or with Sherpa Himalaya.
  
  We recommend you use the company Duffel bag as there will be less chance of misplacing in an airport and easier to find in case of missing.
  
  you can also have a good sightseeing around Kathmandu.
  
  Overnight at KTM Hotel
- Day 03
- Drive to Pokhara (850m) by private vehicle, 7-8 hours
  
  Today you will have a long day drive. As you finish your breakfast your guide will pick you from the hotel and your drive starts. Today your destination will be Pokhara which will take 7-8 hours drive depending upon traffic.
  
  Overnight at Beni.
- Day 04
- Drive to Dharapani (1360m) via Dharbang (950m), 5-6 hours
  
  As you finish your breakfast, you will further drive towards Dharapani. Your drive will be 5-6 hours long. On your drive from the start, you will have a great opportunity to learn about the landscape of the Terai and Hilly region of Nepal.
  
  Dharapani is a small village inhabitant by mostly Gurung and Chettri People. Today you will have a view of great Dhaulagiri towards the north.
  
  Overnight at Dharapani
- Day 05
- Trek from Dharapani to Mudi(1720) 6-7 hour
  
  Today will be your first day of Trek. As you finish your breakfast you start your trek towards the Myagdi Khola River. These places have a very high level of precipitation. As the massif Dhaulagiri blocks the clouds from the Indian side. Hence you will find sub-tropical forest throughout your trail.
  
  Today your trails are a combination of both ascend and descend. Your Trek will be a 6-7 hours long walk.
  
  Overnight at Mudi
- Day 06
- Trek from Mudi to Bagar(2080m) 5-6 hours
  
  As you finish your breakfast your trail climbs towards Bagar. Today your trek will be 5-6 hours long along Riverside. You will cross through small villages and pine forests.
  
  Overnight at Bagar
- Day 07
- Trek from Bagar to Dovan(2520m)- 5-6 hours walk
  
  Today your destination is Dovan. Dovan gives meaning to a junction of two trails. This small village is the junction of two Rivers, Kunaban Khola and Myagdi Khola. Your trail is normal uphill through mixed sub-tropical forest and you will need 5-6 hours trek to reach Dovan.
  
  Overnight at Dovan
- Day 08
- Trek from Dovan to Sallaghari (2,820m), 4-5 hours
  
  Your trek starts towards Sallaghari after you finish your breakfast. Your trek will be 4-5 hours long. You will have around 300m of ascending in today’s trial. Your trail is filled with Bamboo and Rhododendrons forest. You will also come across a cantilever bridge at Myagdi Khola.
  
  Sallaghari is a place where you will find the forest of all chir pine (Salla in Nepali)
  
  Overnight at Sallaghari.
- Day 09
- Trek to the Italian Base Camp (3,660m), 5-6 hours
  
  Leaving Sallaghari, your today’s destination will be Italian Base Camp. Today your trek is mostly an uphill climb. You will ascend for almost 7500 m. Trails are covered with mostly pine and rhododendron trees. As you arrive at Italian Base Camp you will have a beautiful view of Mt.Dhaulagiri and Mt. Tsauranong Peak. Your today’s trek will be 5-6 hours long.
  
  Overnight at Italian Base Camp Trek
- Day 10
- Acclimatization and rest day
  
  Acclimatization is an Extra Day where you will be introduced to a new elevation but the overnight will be at the same spot. It is done so to keep your body familiar with the new environment and to escape from Altitude sickness.
  
  Acclimatization Day will play a vital role to prevent you from Altitude sickness. Today you can hike around and explore the lateral moraine.
- Day 11
- Trek to the Japanese Camp (4,210m), 4-6 hours
  
  A challenging day compared with previous days. Today you climb towards Japanese Camp or to Glacier Camp. In the earlier days, fixed ropes were used to pass through the trails but at the moment trails are well improved and not as challenging as earlier days. You will encounter glaciers, rocky trails, and fast-flowing streams along the trail.
  
  Overnight at Japanese Camp/Glacier Camp
- Day 12
- Trek to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m), 6-7 hours
  
  A special day of the entire trek. Today you will reach the base of Mt.Dhaulagiri. Your trek starts at the usual time after breakfast. You will climb through glaciers and rocky trial. You will find an impressive view of Mt. Tukuche, Mt.Dhaulagiri I-II &IV, and the expedition route of Mt. Dhaulagiri. If you trek during Spring you are most likely encounter expedition teams.
  
  Overnight at Dhaulagiri Base Camp
- Day 13
- Cross the French Pass (5,360m), then trek to the Hidden Valley (5,200m), 5-6 hours
  
  Today will be a tough day. You will have breakfast/soups early in the morning and start the climb towards French pass or French Col. Taking energy bars are highly recommended. Today you will start your climb crossing over Chonbarden Galcier and head towards Pass.
  
  The view of Mt. Tukuche and Dhaulagiri I are breathtaking. The French Pass is elevated at an elevation of 5360m where Tibetan flags are tied and can see close view of enormously huge Mt.Dhaulagiri, Mt.Tukuche, Mt.Tashi Kang, Mt.Mukut Himal, and many more small peaks.
  
  Descending from the pass you will enter into the hidden valley. Today your trek will be 7-8 hours long.
  
  Overnight at Hidden valley
- Day 14
- Cross Dhampus pass (5,200m), and trek to Yak Kharka (3,680m), 4-6 hours
  
  The day will be the toughest trail on the entire Dhaulagiri Circuit Trail. Today you will have to make a long trek + climb. Today you will have to cross the Dhampus Pass having an elevation of 5200m. As similar to French Pass you will have breakfast early in the morning and the climb starts.
  
  You will need to use Crampons and rope depending upon the condition of the trail. If you trek during spring it will be a mandatory thing. From the pass, Mt. Dhampus and Mt. Tukuche are seen very massif and close distance.
  
  After the pass, you climb steep 100m down and trek through snowy and rocky trails and reach Yak Kharka.
  
  Overnight at Yak Kharka.
- Day 15
- Yak Kharka to Jomsom (2670m), 5-6 hours
  
  Trekking through the high passes and rocks today your trail will be very easy. Your destination will be Marpha Village of Jomsom. You can explore the Marpha village, you will encounter small houses and monasteries around. This place also produces alcohol made from apples known as Marpha Rakshi.
  
  We head further down to Jomsom for Overnight. Today your trek will be 5-6 hours long. Today is also the last day to meet with your staff. We take dinner together and greet each other for a safe journey ahead.
  
  Overnight at Jomsom
- Day 16
- Morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara 830m-30 min
  
  Today you will have a 30 min morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara early in the morning. Jomsom gets hit by strong wind after 12 pm hence afternoon flight is not possible.
  
  As you reach Pokhara in the morning before 10 am you use this day to explore the beautiful lakeside city. You can get adventure activities such as Bunjee and Paragliding in Pokhara. If you mention Sherpa Himalaya Team about the need for adventure activity then it would be appreciated and time will be managed accordingly.
  
  Overnight at Pokhara
- Day 17
- Pokhara to Kathmandu, 6-8 hours
  
  Today we will fly / Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu as planned with Company. You will be picked by the Sherpa Himalaya representative and dropped at Hotel.
  
  After this beautiful and adventurous Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, you can have a proper rest at your hotel.
- Day 18
- Free Day in Kathmandu
  
  Today will be a free day. Today you can prepare for your departure and also make a short city tour around and also use the day for shopping some gifts for your family.
  
  Overnight at Kathmandu
- Day 19
- Final Departure
  
  Today morning your Sherpa Himalaya representative will be there at your hotel for the last meet. You will be dropped at the airport considering airport time.
  
  Sherpa Himalaya will thank you for an amazing time together and handover Buddhist Scarf (Kha-tak) which symbolizes peace, prosperity, Long life, and Harmony to everyone, and a certificate for your completion of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Sherpa Himalaya.
  
  With a hope to see all the beautiful people again, a warm Namaste, and a hand wave.
  
  Thank You for your co-operation with Sherpa Himalaya

Cost Include:

All ground transportations by private vehicle including airport transfers
Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu including tour guide, entry fees and vehicle
Meals on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) prepared by our expert cook
Twin sharing tented accommodation during the trek
An experience guide, required number of porters, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment
Trekking equipment (two men tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, table with chairs, kitchen utensils, and other necessary equipment during the trek)
Jomsom to Pokhara flight including departure tax
Nepal Hiking Team duffle bag, down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek
Nepal Hiking Team T – Shirt (yours to keep)
Safe drinking water, boiled/iodine tablets.
First aid medical kit bag
All necessary permits for trek
All government and local taxes
Office service charge

Cost Exclude:

Meals not specified in the ‘Meal Inclusions’ in the itinerary’
Travel insurance
International airfare
Nepal entry visa:
All cold drinks such as: alcoholic beverages, mineral water, Coke, Fanta, juice, etc.
Personal shopping and laundry, phone, internet bill etc.
Personal trekking equipment
Tips for trekking crews

Trekking
- Hiking Poles
- Trekking Wind Proof Jacket
- Water Bottle
- Trekking T Shirt
- Sun Cream
- Sun Glasses
- Socks
- Rain Coat
- Trekking Shoes
- Rain Coat
- Trekking Pants
- Inner Thermal
- Head Lamp
- Hat
- Thin Gloves
- Thick Gloves
- Flip Sweater
- Down Jacket
- Trekking Bag
- Portable Charger
- Sun Glasses
Climbing
- Harness
- Ice Axe
- Lip Guard
- Lock Carabiners
- Mid Weight Top
- Prusick Loop
- Snow Goggles
- Summit Gloves
- Summit Socks
- Swiss Knife
- Tape Sling
- Thermal Mattress Cell Foam
- Thermal Mattress Inflatable
- Thermos