Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Dhaulagiri Circuit, also known as Dhaulagiri Round, is one of the best treks in the Nepal Himalaya. Dhaulagiri trekking trail crosses French Col and Dhampus Pass with both passes over 5,000m in altitude.

Trekking Dhaulagiri route explores a remote area in central Nepal. The trek starts through villages framed by views of the Dhaulagiri range. After Italian Base Camp, we walk through Chonbarden gorge towards Dhaulagiri Base Camp. We cross French Pass at an altitude of 5,360m into Hidden Valley and camp in Hidden Valley for two nights.

Mount Dhaulagiri is the seventh highest mountain in the world at an altitude of 8,167m. It was first climbed along the northeast ridge in 1960 by a team of Swiss and Austrian mountaineers.

On the day walk from Hidden Valley, you can explore this area with our trekking guides. Our recommendation is to ascend a ridge on the North-West side of the valley. From here there is superb views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Nilgiris, and Annapurnas

Region
Nepal
Duration
21 day
Level
hard
Max Altitude
5200 m.
Daily Activity
4 to 5 hour
Season
, April, May, September, October
Starting From
$ 2460
This cost will more 4 people Nepal New Generation Trek
Brief Introduction

The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is a long trek that passes through high alpine pastures, uninhabited valleys, high windswept passes, forests and cultivated terraced hills. Crossing two passes – the French Pass at 5,360m and Dhampus Pass at 5,200m, and including the Dhaulagiri Base Camp at 4,740m, this is a challenging trek which requires a high level of fitness. However, with good stamina and basic mountaineering skills, the rewards of this trek include stunning views of Tukuche Peak (6,920m), Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Dhaulagiri ii (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m) and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m).

Trip Highlights
  • Sightseeing of Kathmandu and Pokhara Valley
  • A scenic drive from Pokhara to Darbang
  • Variation in the scenery as the trek starts in the Dhaulagiri region and ends in the Mustang region.
  • Experience a deep wilderness of the Dhaulagiri region in Nepal
  • Trekking route accompany with the scenic rivers, tumbling waterfalls, and picturesque villages
  • Trek along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world
  • The isolated trail leads to the traditional villages such as Dharapani, Phaliyagaon, Muri, Lipsaba, Dobhan Kharka, etc  
  • Enjoy the magnificent view of Dhaulagiri I, II, III, and V from Italian Base Camp and Glacier Camp
  • Captivating sight of Chhongardan Glacier on the way to Dhaulagiri Base Camp
  • Relish an astonishing view of Dhaulagiri range from Dhaulagiri Base Camp
  • Crossing two high mountain passes, namely French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,244m)
  • Splendid views of the majestic Dhaulagiri range and Annapurna range 
  • Wander around the least explored and serene Hidden Valley
  • An optional ascent of Dhampus Peak
  • Get wind into the remote culture and lifestyle of charming inhabitants such as Magar, Gurung, Thakali, and Chettri people.
  • Explore alluring Marpha Village, famous for apple orchards and locally made apple brandy
  • Jomsom, the capital of the Mustang district 
  • Scenic and a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara 
Itinerary

Seeking for a real adventure? Our travel itinerary is based on years of trekking expertise, ensuring that you have a fun and safe vacation. However, like with all such risky excursions, there may be instances where we must change the schedule, possibly without much notice. While we make every attempt to stick to the timetable, we humbly ask for your patience and flexibility if unforeseen circumstances like weather or unforeseen natural events come into play. You may be sure that our knowledgeable guides will adjust as needed to make your tour as enjoyable as possible.

Schedule for each day
Days: 01- Arrival in Kathmandu airport (1345meters).  
Our airport representative will be receiving you at Tribhuvan International airport, Kathmandu and s/he will be displaying an Nepal New Generation Trek and Adventure signboard outside the airport terminal. You will be then transffered to your respective hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Overnight at Hotel. (No meals included)
Days: 02- Pre-trip Meeting and Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley.  
In the morning, after breakfast, At around 8am, we host a pre-trip meeting at your hotel in Kathmandu and After the meeting and a hearty breakfast, your sightseeing trip will start at around 9:45am. You will have a private vehicle and a professional tour guide at your disposal. We visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where we observe Buddhist monks praying in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. After Boudhanath Stupa we visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here we see Hindu holy men (sadhus) meditating, pilgrims bathing and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. We will also visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which is a collection of pagoda and shikhara – style temples grouped around a fifty-five-window palace of brick and wood. The attraction of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square is The Lion gate, The Golden gate, The Palace of fifty five windows, Art Galleries, The Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla. The rest of our time in Kathmandu is free for further exploration and some last-minute shopping in Thamel area near by your hotel. Overnight at a hotel. (Breakfast Included)introduce your trek leader/guide. Please seek this opportunity to ask questions about your trek. We will also supply you with our trek Duffel Bag, T-shirt and a Cap. For the meeting, please make sure you bring passport, three copies of passport-size photos, and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy. During this meeting, please clear the due balance, if any, and sign the legally binding trip form as well as the non-liability disclaimer. Please inform us in advance if you will be arriving late and therefore are unable to attend the pre-trip meeting.
Days: 03 - Drive to Beni (850m) by bus - 8 hrs  
After breakfast, you head to Beni by Local Bus. You'll find most of the scenery is very enjoyable along the countryside. Beni is the district headquarters and has a police check post where your trekking permits will be examined. The town is at the confluence of the Myagdi Khola and the Kali Gandaki. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 04 - Trek to Babiachor (950m) - 5 hrs  
Leaving Beni and Kali Gandaki the trek heads west along the north bank of the Myagdi Khola through the village of Beni Mangalghat to Singa and Tatopani (hot springs). Crossing the bridge beyond the village to the south bank of the river, the trail makes a little half loop before crossing another bridge, near the village of Simalchour, back to the north bank from where it continues to the village of Babichor. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 05 - Trek to Dharapani (1,400m) - 6 hrs  
The valley widens and terraced hills develop on both sides of the river. The trail is fairly level and you pass the village of Shahashradhara, cross the Duk Khola and walk through fields arriving at Ratorunga. From here the valley narrows again and terraces disappear on either side of the river. Continue to the village of Dharapani. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 06 - Trek to Muri (1,850m) - 5 hrs  
After crossing the river to its West Bank as you leave Phedi, the trail starts climbing in earnest and there will be many switch-backs until you arrive at the ridge and the angle of ascent eases. Again the trail climbs steeply to the villages of Muri. Continue your trek to Sibang and Mattim. From here you continue up an incline to the snout of the ridge, descend to the Gatti Khola and reach Phalai Gaon (1,810m). Cross the Dhara Khola to once again emerge on the west bank of the Myagdi Khola and then climb a ridge to the large Magar village of Muri. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 07 - Trek to Boghara (2,080m) - 6 hrs  
Descend a little, cross a stream and continue through terraced fields before climbing a ridge to reach the pass from where you can see Mt. Ghustung South (6,465m). Descend to the Myagdi Khola and trek along its West Bank to the village of Naura from where you will climb a little before traversing a grassy hill and climbing a steep slope with switch-backs, then descend through a forest and terraced fields to Boghara (2,080m). Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 08 - Trek to Dobang (2,520m) - 5 hrs  
The trail first descends through terraced fields to a small ridge, then through a forest to Jyardan which is the most remote permanent settlement in this part. After the settlement a high winding path crosses a rocky area which then descends before climbing again to Lipshe where there is one single hut. The trail continues through a forest to Lapche Kharka and then climbs to the level area at Dobang. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 09 - Trek to Choriban Khola (3,110m) - 5 hrs  
After crossing a wooden bridge out of Dobang the trail ascends a forested area. Soon the west face of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) becomes visible through breaks in the trees. Descend to the Myagdi Khola and cross via a wooden bridge to the east bank continue to Chartare. Passing through forests again, you cut across a rocky area and cross a stream to Choriban Khola. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 10 - Trek to the Italian Base Camp (3,660m) - 7 hrs  
Follow a trail to the terminal moraine of the Chhonbarban Glacier and enter the glacier from the right. Tukche Peak (6,837m) becomes visible straight ahead; at the far end while the impressive north flank of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) dominates the skyline to your right. After a short while you will reach Italian Base Camp (3,660m), which is also the site of your camp for the night. To the west are the peaks of Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m) and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m). Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 11 - Acclimatization and rest day  
We will spend a day acclimatizing to the thinning of the air. It is recommended that your body acclimatizes to the high altitude and be adjusted for higher altitudes in the days to follow. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 12 - Trek to the Glacier Camp (4,210m) - 6 hrs  
Set up early in the morning when the weather is expected to be clear. This Trail is prone to stone fall, which passes through a narrow gorge. Today we stay overnight near at glacier. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 13 - Trek to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m) - 7 hrs  
This is one of our adventurous days to Dhaulagiri base camp. From here you can look up at the impressive north face of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) dominating the skyline to your right. To the west are peaks of Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m) and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m). In front of you is the impressive icefall that descends from the north-east col. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 14 - Another acclimatization and rest day  
Another day to take some rest and more importantly, acclimatize to the lower air pressure. Views from this place are superb and there is plenty to explore. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 15 - Cross the French Pass (5,360m), then trek to the Hidden Valley (5,200m) - 6 hrs  
After the glacier you climb two terraced hills, the first of which runs along the glacier, then cuts across the mountain flank and the moraine you enter a gentle incline on the left from an ablation valley. Climb this gentle slope to the French Pass (5,360m). A great vista opens up from the French Pass and you will be able to see Mukut Himal (6,328m), Tashi Kang (6,386m) and Sita Chuchura (6,611m), all of which surround the Hidden Valley. To the south is Tukche Peak (6,920m) and beyond is the massive peak of Dhaulagiri I. From the French Pass you continue along the right edge of the Hidden valley losing a little altitude to the Thapa Pass (5,250m) between Tukche Peak and Thapa Peak (6,012m). Descending from the Thapa Pass you will make it to the camp at 5,200m. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 16 - Cross Dhampus Pass (5,200m), and trek to Yak Kharka (3,680m) - 6 hrs  
Descend from the Hidden Valley to the Dhampus Pass and continue to Yak Kharka. There is a perfect camp site to enjoy the surroundings. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 17 - Trek to Jomsom (2,710m) - 5 hrs  
Continue on to the village of Marpha, on the west bank of the Kali Gandaki River. Marpha is home to many apple orchards as well as all various food products made from the fruit. Don't forget to taste the local Apple Brandy a specialty from the region that you may be lucky enough to taste en route. Continue north, up the river valley to the town of Jomsom. Overnight at tented camps. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)
Days: 18- Morning flight to Pokhara - 30 mins. Sightseeing around Pokhara  
A 30-minute morning flight takes us to Pokhara from Jomsom. Once we arrive at Pokhara airport, we then drive to the hotel. In the afternoon we will have a sightseeing tour around Pokhara valley, which covers Fewa Lake, Devi’s water fall, Museum, Tibetan refugee settlement and Gupteshower cave, etc. Overnight at a hotel. (Breakfast Included)
Days: 19- Leisure day and sightseeing around Pokhara  
It's also spare day in case of bad weather in Jomsom. Overnight at a hotel. (Breakfast Included)
Days: 20 - Drive back to Kathmandu (1,345m) and farewell dinner  
You have the option to extend your trip to continue onto Chitwan jungle safari, rafting adventure, Kathmandu valley shopping tour, scenic Everest flight, mountain biking and other activities. In the evening we will have a farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances. (Your guide(s) and an office staff will accompany you.) Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu. (Breakfast and Farewell Dinner Included)
Days: 21 - Transfer to the international airport for your final departure  
The trip concludes today. Our Airport Representative will drop you at the international airport in Kathmandu for your flight departure from Nepal. (Breakfast Included)
Reservation & Date
Monday
01 Jan 2024
Tuesday
31 Dec 2024
$25 Off
$2460
$2485
6 Seats
Available
Inclusion/ Exclusion

The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.

Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.

Services Included
  • Sightseeing of Kathmandu and Pokhara Valley
  • A scenic drive from Pokhara to Darbang
  • Variation in the scenery as the trek starts in the Dhaulagiri region and ends in the Mustang region.
  • Experience a deep wilderness of the Dhaulagiri region in Nepal
  • Trekking route accompany with the scenic rivers, tumbling waterfalls, and picturesque villages
  • Trek along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world
  • The isolated trail leads to the traditional villages such as Dharapani, Phaliyagaon, Muri, Lipsaba, Dobhan Kharka, etc  
  • Enjoy the magnificent view of Dhaulagiri I, II, III, and V from Italian Base Camp and Glacier Camp
  • Captivating sight of Chhongardan Glacier on the way to Dhaulagiri Base Camp
  • Relish an astonishing view of Dhaulagiri range from Dhaulagiri Base Camp
  • Crossing two high mountain passes, namely French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,244m)
  • Splendid views of the majestic Dhaulagiri range and Annapurna range 
  • Wander around the least explored and serene Hidden Valley
  • An optional ascent of Dhampus Peak
  • Get wind into the remote culture and lifestyle of charming inhabitants such as Magar, Gurung, Thakali, and Chettri people.
  • Explore alluring Marpha Village, famous for apple orchards and locally made apple brandy
  • Jomsom, the capital of the Mustang district 
  • Scenic and a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara 
Services Excluded
  • Free Ace the Himalaya duffel/kit bag, sun hat and T-shirt (yours to keep).
  • Sightseeing/Monument entrance fees in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Farewell dinner in typical Nepali Restaurant with cultural dance show on second last day (On Day 20th).
  • All our government taxes, vat, tourist service charges.
  • Official expenses.
  • The price does not cover the following services

    • Meals at Kathmandu.

    • Personal nature expenses.

    • Bar and beverage bills.

    • Your Travel Insurance.

    • Rescue & Evacuation.

    • Gratitude (tip) for staff.

    Note

    Conditions stated in the itinerary are the visitors who prefer full package programme. At the same time, we also serve you based on your choice. The selection of itineraries and the staff depends on your choice and financial procurement. We have options for any partial visit as per your requirement regarding your interest and financial condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

The answers to your questions regarding the Nepal New Generation Trek, what this trip entails, and what is needed can be found in the following frequently asked questions. If your question isn't addressed there, don't hesitate to contact us.

The grade of the difficulty level of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is difficult to challenge. To complete this trek, you need good physical strength, strong determination, and a positive attitude. The trek starts in Darbang village (1,110m) and ends at Marpha village (2,670m) in the Mustang district. The trek routes involve long descent, steep climbs in the rocky paths, high alpine pastures, uninhabited settlements, off-beaten trails, lateral moraine, icy glaciers, and windy high passes. During the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, you need to cross two high passes, i.e., French Pass at 5,360m and Dhampus Pass at 5,244m. To cross these passes is challenging yet rewarding. Strong physical fitness is essential, with the ability to walk 6 to 7 per day on an off-beaten path. During the trek, most of the days, you'll spend your night at an altitude above 3,500m. So, you need to more careful about the acute mountain sickness problem. Previous trekking experience with basic mountaineering skills is beneficial to the Dhaulagiri Trek.