What is the best time to trek the Dhaulagiri Circuit?

The ideal trekking seasons are pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (late September to November), when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are spectacular.

How difficult is the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?

This trek is strenuous to challenging, involving long trekking days, high-altitude passes above 5,000 meters, and remote terrain. Good physical fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.

Are special permits required for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?

Yes, trekkers need a Dhaulagiri Restricted Area Permit, a TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System), and potentially other local permits, which can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking is one of the most popular and rewarding trekking packages in the Dhaulagiri region of Nepal. Known for its challenging routes and breathtaking landscapes, this trek attracts adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Past trekkers have praised the journey, leaving positive reviews and unforgettable memories.

This trek is strenuous and takes you around the entire Dhaulagiri region, culminating at the Dhaulagiri Base Camp (8,167 m), the world’s seventh-highest peak. The journey begins with a drive to Beni, following the scenic Myagdi Khola west to Darbang, before turning north through lush forests and gradually ascending to higher altitudes.

The trek crosses French Col Pass (5,240 m), walking over snow-covered trails, and continues via Dhamus Pass (5,155 m). The descent leads to Marpha, famous for its apple brandy, before returning to Pokhara via the Ghorepani Ridge.

Accomodation
Hotel/ Tea house.
Best Season
Sept, Oct, Nov, March, April, May
Maximum Altitude
5345m
Transportation
Jeep/ Car/ fly.
Walking Hours
5/6 hours

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging but immensely rewarding camping trek through diverse landscapes and high mountain passes in a remote region of Nepal, near the Annapurna range and the scenic city of Pokhara.

This trek is not for beginners. It demands excellent fitness, stamina, and basic mountaineering skills. For those prepared to take on the 21-day adventure, it promises an unforgettable experience filled with spectacular views, cultural encounters, and the magic of the Nepalese Himalayas.

Trip Highlights

Begin your adventure by sightseeing the natural beauty and ancient heritages of Kathmandu Valley.
Immerse yourself in the deep wilderness of the Dhaulagiri region, surrounded by untouched natural beauty and serene tranquility.
Trek along the rugged terrains accompanied by mesmerizing sight of rivers, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque natural beauty.
Explore the isolated tracks that lead you to traditional villages like Dharapani, Muri, Phaliya Gaon, Lipsaba, Dobhan Kharka, and others.
Marvel at the stunning vista of the Dhaulagiri range including the Dhaulagiri I, II, III, and V, Dhampus Peak, and several other mountains.
Cross the high mountain passes French Col Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,244m) and be rewarded by the mesmerizing view.
Wander through the least explored Hidden Valley, experiencing the thrill of a pristine region.
Gain insight into the remote culture and lifestyle of Magar, Gurung, and Thakali inhabitants and enjoy their warm hospitality.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m)

Arrive at Kathmandu’s international airport and transfer to your hotel. Rest and prepare for the upcoming trek. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore local markets or enjoy a brief city tour. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 02 :

Full Day Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparations

Spend the day exploring Kathmandu’s cultural and historic landmarks, including ancient temples, squares, and local markets. In parallel, complete all trek preparations, including permit arrangements, gear checks, and briefing for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 03 :

Drive Kathmandu → Beni (830 m) – 6 to 9 hours

Drive from Kathmandu to Beni, following scenic landscapes along the Myagdi River. Enjoy views of terraced fields, forests, and local villages along the way. Arrive in Beni and rest in your hotel in preparation for the trek. Overnight stay in Beni.

Day 04 :

Trek Beni → Babichaur (1,000 m) – 6 to 7 hours

Begin your trek from Beni and ascend gradually through terraced fields, forests, and traditional villages. Reach Babichaur (1,000 m) by late afternoon and settle into your campsite or lodge for the night. Overnight stay in Babichaur.

Day 05 :

Trek Babichaur → Dharapani (1,565 m) – 7 hours

Trek from Babichaur through lush forests, terraced fields, and local villages, gradually gaining altitude. Arrive at Dharapani (1,565 m) by late afternoon and rest at your campsite or lodge. Overnight stay in Dharapani.

Day 06 :

Trek Dharapani → Muri (1,850 m) – 6 to 7 hours

Continue trekking from Dharapani through scenic trails, terraced fields, and forested areas. Gain moderate altitude as you reach Muri (1,850 m) by late afternoon. Settle into your campsite or lodge for the night. Overnight stay in Muri.

Day 07 :

Trek Muri → Boghara (2,050 m) – 7 to 8 hours

Trek from Muri through dense forests, river valleys, and terraced landscapes, gradually ascending to Boghara (2,050 m). Enjoy the natural scenery and traditional villages along the way. Overnight stay in Boghara.

Day 08 :

Trek Boghara → Dovan (2,630 m) – 6 hours

Continue trekking from Boghara through lush forests, river valleys, and alpine landscapes. Gradually gain altitude as you reach Dovan (2,630 m). Overnight stay in Dovan.

Day 09 :

Trek Dovan → Italian Base Camp (3,500 m) – 6 to 7 hours

Trek from Dovan through alpine forests and scenic trails, gradually ascending toward Italian Base Camp (3,500 m). Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks as you approach the higher altitudes. Overnight stay at Italian Base Camp.

Day 10 :

Acclimatization at Italian Base Camp (3,500 m)

Spend the day resting and acclimatizing at Italian Base Camp. Take short hikes around the area to help your body adjust to the higher altitude while enjoying panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri range. Overnight stay at Italian Base Camp.

Day 11 :

Trek Italian Base Camp → Glacier Camp (4,250 m) – 5 hours

Trek from Italian Base Camp through rugged alpine terrain, moraine trails, and snow-covered paths to reach Glacier Camp (4,250 m). Enjoy breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri and surrounding peaks. Overnight stay at Glacier Camp.

Day 12 :

Trek Glacier Camp → Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,650 m) – 4 hours

Trek from Glacier Camp across snowfields and rugged terrain to reach the Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,650 m). Take in spectacular panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and surrounding peaks. Spend time exploring the base camp before overnight stay at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.

Day 13 :

Acclimatization at Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,650 m)

Spend the day resting and acclimatizing at Dhaulagiri Base Camp. Take short hikes around the area, enjoy the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, and prepare your body for the upcoming high-altitude passes. Overnight stay at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.

Day 14 :

Trek Dhaulagiri Base Camp → French Col Pass (5,240 m) – 4 hours

Trek from Dhaulagiri Base Camp across snow-covered trails and rugged terrain to reach French Col Pass (5,240 m). Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Overnight stay near French Col.

Day 15 :

Trek French Col → Hidden Valley Camp (5,000 m)

Descend from French Col Pass (5,240 m) through snow-covered trails and alpine landscapes to reach Hidden Valley Camp (5,000 m). Enjoy the serene, remote environment and spectacular panoramic views of surrounding peaks. Overnight stay at Hidden Valley Camp.

Day 16 :

Trek Hidden Valley → Yak Kharka (4,200 m) – 6 hours

Descend from Hidden Valley Camp through alpine meadows and rugged trails to reach Yak Kharka (4,200 m). Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery and experience the high-altitude landscapes. Overnight stay at Yak Kharka.

Day 17 :

Trek Yak Kharka → Jomsom (2,715 m) – 7 to 8 hours

Descend from Yak Kharka through high valleys, terraced fields, and traditional villages to reach Jomsom (2,715 m), the gateway to the Mustang region. Enjoy views of the Kali Gandaki River and surrounding peaks along the way. Overnight stay in Jomsom.

Day 18 :

Fly Jomsom → Pokhara

Take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, enjoying aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel and relax after the trek. Spend the evening exploring the lakeside city or resting. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 19 :

Drive/Fly Pokhara → Kathmandu

Travel from Pokhara to Kathmandu by road or flight. Enjoy scenic views of rivers, valleys, and mountains along the way. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and rest. Spend the evening at leisure, exploring the city or shopping for souvenirs. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 20 :

Free Day in Kathmandu

Spend a leisure day in Kathmandu to relax after the trek. You can explore local markets, visit cultural and historic sites, or simply rest at your hotel and reflect on your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek experience. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 21 :

Final Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu’s international airport for your onward journey home. Conclude your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with unforgettable memories of remote Himalayan landscapes, challenging high passes, and the unique culture of Nepal.

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Airport pick & drop off service by Private Vehicle.
Welcome or farewell dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant with a traditional musical show.
Hotel accommodation in Pokhara.
Kathmandu Valley sightseeing with an English-speaking licensed tour guide.
Comprehensive pre-departure information/meeting.
3 meals a day (Breakfasts, Lunch, and Dinners with tea or coffee) during the trek, (Generally we will provide you 3 cop of tea ).
Accommodation in lodges, guesthouses on twin sharing basis during the trek (We will try to provide you with an attached bathroom room as well as available).
Trekking guides and porters (Porter can carry up to 20kg ).
Guide airfare (if applicable).
Ground road transportation as per itinerary if applicable (Private Car , Bus ,Van extra).
Arrangements for food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all trekking staff.
Travel insurance for Nepali staff. While trekking period.
Group medical supplies (First Aid medical kit will be available).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for National park & Conservation.
Trekking information management system ( TIMS ), New Trekking permit to keep record of tourist, (This is for your safety)
Seasonal fresh fruits like (orange, apple, banana, mango and grape and other Nepali local fruits etc)
All Paper work and Administration and registration charge.
All Government, Vat, Service charge, and taxes are included.

Cost Excludes

Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
Airfare domestic ( Kathmandu - Pokhara flights ) and international flights.
Nepal entry visa fee.
Airport tax is required for the Domestic / International flights.
All alcoholic drinks, mineral water, laundry, phone calls, and internet.
Personal trekking equipment, medical and travel insurance.
Entrance fees for sightseeing/Monument.
Any extra transportation except itinerary (we can arrange if request).
Any kind of personal expenses / Helicopter rescue due to cause of out of our control.
Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the inclusive price.
Some extra assistance like (if you can not walk properly our guide will arrange you horse, to came back, if applicable this you have t o pay them directly.
Tips to staff.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs