Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Duration
18 Days
Max Altitude
5,360m
Starts / Ends
Beni / Pokhara region / Jomsom / Pokhara
Group Size
4-8
Overview
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the most challenging, remote, and physically demanding trekking routes in Nepal. Circling the massive Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), the trek takes you deep into wild Himalayan terrain where glaciers, high passes, and isolated valleys replace villages and roads. This is not a standard trekking route — it is a full alpine expedition experience that combines technical difficulty, extreme altitude, and raw wilderness.
Highlights
- Trek around the entire Dhaulagiri massif
- Cross high passes like French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass
- Camp in remote glacier valleys
- Walk through deep gorges, moraines, and ice fields
- Experience Hidden Valley — a high-altitude desert basin
- Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Tukuche peaks
- True expedition-style trekking with camping support
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival in Kathmandu, trek briefing, gear check, and preparation for the expedition.
Drive to Pokhara
Scenic drive to Pokhara. Final preparation and rest before heading into remote western Himalayas.
Drive to Beni & Trek to Darbang
Drive to Beni, then begin trekking through villages and terraced hills to Darbang. First night in camping setup.
Trek to Dharapani
Trail climbs through forests, riversides, and small Magar villages. Terrain becomes more remote.
Trek to Muri
Steady ascent with views of deep valleys and ridges. Entering less populated Himalayan foothills.
Trek to Boghara
Rugged trail with steep climbs and river crossings. First real sense of remoteness begins.
Trek to Dobang
Dense forest trekking with narrow trails and suspension bridges. Wildlife chances increase.
Trek to Sallaghari
Trail becomes more isolated. Forests get thicker and terrain more rugged.
Trek to Italian Base Camp
Arrival at Italian Base Camp with dramatic views of Dhaulagiri I. Glacier environment begins.
Acclimatization Day at Italian Base Camp
Rest and acclimatization. Short hikes around glacier zone to prepare for higher altitude.
Trek to Glacier Camp
Enter glacier terrain. Walk across moraine and ice fields. Camping directly on glacial landscape.
Trek to Hidden Valley via French Pass (5,360m)
Cross the challenging French Pass. Enter Hidden Valley — a high-altitude desert surrounded by peaks.
Acclimatization / Exploration in Hidden Valley
Rest day in Hidden Valley. Optional short hikes for acclimatization and views of surrounding Himalayan giants.
Cross Dhampus Pass (5,200m) & Trek to Yak Kharka
Second major pass crossing. Long descent to Yak Kharka area. Terrain shifts from ice to alpine grassland.
Trek to Marpha (Mustang Region)
Descend into Mustang region. Apple orchards and traditional villages begin to appear.
Trek to Jomsom
Easy downhill trek following Kali Gandaki valley. Strong winds in afternoon.
Flight/Drive to Pokhara
Short flight or jeep drive to Pokhara. Return to comfort and rest.
Return to Kathmandu
Drive back to Kathmandu. Expedition ends with unforgettable memories of the Dhaulagiri circuit.
What's included
- Airport pickup and drop in Kathmandu
- Domestic transport (Kathmandu–Pokhara–trailhead)
- Required trekking permits
- Licensed trekking guide and support crew
- Full camping arrangement (tents, kitchen, dining setup)
- Cook and kitchen staff
- All meals during trekking days
- Porter service for equipment
- First aid and safety kit
- Government taxes and service charges
Not included
- International flights
- Nepal visa fees
- Hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, down jacket, boots, etc.)
- Travel insurance (must include high-altitude evacuation)
- Emergency helicopter rescue
- Hot showers, charging, and extra services (if available)
- Alcohol, snacks, and personal expenses
- Tips for crew
Starting from
$2,200
per person · all-inclusive
No payment required to enquire · Response within 4–8 hours
Best seasons