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Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek - 17 Days

At Quick Glance

  • Destination

    Nepal

  • Duration

    17 Days

  • Trip Difficulty

    Challenging

  • Activities

    Trekking

  • Altitude

    5360m

  • Best season

    May to November

  • Transportation

    Jeep/Car/Van

  • Accomodation

    Tea house/ Camping

  • Group Size

    Min 1 Person

All Inclusive Price $2890 USD
16 Nights 17 Days
original package price $2895 USD

Trip Highlights

  • Remote and Challenging Expedition: One of Nepal’s most demanding treks, requiring high fitness and endurance.
  • Majestic Mountain Views: Witness Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, V, Annapurna, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, and Thorong Peak.
  • High-Altitude Passes: Cross French Pass (5,360m / 17,585 ft) and Dhampus Pass (5,240m / 17,191 ft) for breathtaking panoramas.
  • Hidden Valley Exploration: Experience the serene and isolated Hidden Valley (5,140m / 16,864 ft).
  • Wildlife Encounters: Spot mountain sheep, semi-wild yaks, and the elusive snow leopard in their natural habitat.
  • Camping Adventure: A full-fledged camping trek, offering a raw and immersive Himalayan experience.
  • Cultural Immersion: Pass through traditional Magar, Gurung, and Chhetri villages with unique customs and traditions.
  • World’s Deepest Gorge: Trek alongside the Kali Gandaki Gorge, nestled between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Trip Overview

Round Dhaulagiri or the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most challenging and adventurous trekking routes, offering high-altitude experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and a remote, expedition-like journey. The trek revolves around Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m / 26,795 ft), the world’s seventh-highest mountain, towering above the Kali Gandaki River, the world's deepest gorge. This trek is a dream for thrill-seekers looking for an ultimate Himalayan adventure.

The journey begins in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593 ft), where trekkers explore the city's rich cultural heritage before heading to Beni (899m / 2,950 ft) via a scenic drive. From Beni, the trek kicks off, traversing lush green valleys, terraced fields, and dense forests inhabited by diverse ethnic groups like the Gurung, Chhetri, and Magar communities.

The initial trekking days lead through villages like Naura (1,600m / 5,249 ft), Bagar (2,080m / 6,824 ft), Dovan (2,520m / 8,268 ft), and Sallaghari (2,900m / 9,514 ft). These segments involve ascending through rhododendron forests, river crossings, and acclimatization to increasing altitude.

The next highlight is Italian Base Camp (3,660m / 12,007 ft), offering panoramic views of Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, and V. An essential acclimatization day here allows trekkers to adjust before moving further. The trek then leads to Japanese Base Camp (3,890m / 12,762 ft) and Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,748m / 15,577 ft), where trekkers witness stunning icefalls and glaciers.

The most strenuous part of the trek involves crossing two high-altitude passes: French Pass (5,360m / 17,585 ft) and Dhampus Pass (5,240m / 17,191 ft). After climbing French Pass, trekkers descend into the serene Hidden Valley (5,140m / 16,864 ft) before tackling Dhampus Pass. The final sections lead to Yak Kharka (3,990m / 13,090 ft), Marpha (2,650m / 8,694 ft), and Tatopani (800m / 2,624 ft) before concluding in Pokhara (822m / 2,697 ft).

Throughout the trek, one can witness wild Himalayan wildlife, including mountain sheep, semi-wild yak herds, and the elusive snow leopard. Majestic peaks such as Annapurna, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, and Thorong Peak remain in sight, making this one of the most visually rewarding treks in Nepal.

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is truly an unforgettable adventure, offering a raw and immersive Himalayan experience. For those prepared to take on the challenge, it promises unparalleled scenery, cultural interactions, and a profound sense of accomplishment.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek itinerary for 2025/2026

Short Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
  • Day 2 : City Tour and Final Preparations for Trekking (1,400m / 4,593ft)
  • Day 3 : Flight to Pokhara and Drive to Khamla, Trek to Naura (1,600m / 5,249ft)
  • Day 4 : Trek from Naura to Bagar/Boghara (2,080m / 6,823ft) | 5-6 Hours / 12km
  • Day 5 : Trek from Bagar to Dovan (2,520m / 8,271ft) | 6-7 Hours/13km
  • Day 6 : Trek from Dovan to Sallaghari (2,900m / 9,514ft) | 5-6 Hours/ 10Km
  • Day 7 : Trek from Sallaghari to Italian Base Camp (3,660m / 12,008ft) | 4 Hours/ 9Km
  • Day 8 : Acclimatization Day at Italian Base Camp (3,660m / 12,008ft)
  • Day 9 : Trek from Italian Base Camp to Japanese Camp (3,890m / 12,762ft) | 5-6 Hours/ 10km
  • Day 10 : Trek from Japanese Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,748m / 15,577ft) | 5-6 Hours/ 9km
  • Day 11 : Cross French Pass (5,360m / 17,587ft), Overnight at Hidden Valley (5,140m / 16,863ft) | 7-9 Hours/ 14Km
  • Day 12 : Trek from Hidden Valley to Dhampus (Thapa Pass) (5,240m / 17,192ft), Descent to Yak Kharka (3,990m / 13,086ft) | 7-8 Hours / 12Km
  • Day 13 : Trek from Yak Kharka to Marpha Village (2,650m / 8,694ft) | 4-5 Hours/ 12Km
  • Day 14 : Drive from Marpha to Pokhara via Tatopani (800m / 2,625ft) | 5-6 Hours
  • Day 15 : Rest Day in Pokhara (800m / 2,625ft)
  • Day 16 : Fly or Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
  • Day 17 : Departure from Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)

Cost Includes

  • All require transportation as program by privet car and jeep.
  • 3 star hotel in Kathmandu on Bed and breakfast.
  • one day city tour with guide and car.
  • Accommodation in guest house and hotel for trekking.
  • 3 times meal and 3 times hot drinks while trekking.
  • 1 Guide with perfect English and experience with got. License holder.
  • require cooks, assistance & porters.
  • require 4 times trekking permits.
  • Insurance for Guide and porters.
  • All require well equipment. 

Cost Excludes

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
  • Cock/fanta or other extra juice while in trekking.
  • Your insurance.
  • Tips

Detailed Itinerary

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by your trekking guide and transferred to your hotel. You will have time to rest and acclimatize after your flight. Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a bustling hub filled with ancient temples, vibrant markets, and fascinating history. In the evening, you can enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner and get ready for the adventure ahead.

Useful Info

Why is the Dhaulagiri Circuit a Camping Trek?

Unlike popular trekking routes with well-established teahouses, the Dhaulagiri Circuit is remote, requiring trekkers to rely on camping-style accommodations. Since this region lacks commercial lodges, trekkers must carry their own tents, cooking equipment, and food supplies, making it a full-fledged expedition.

How is a Camping Trek Different from a Teahouse Trek?

A teahouse trek allows trekkers to stay in local lodges, eat in restaurants, and travel light. However, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek requires a camping approach, with porters carrying tents and food supplies. Meals are prepared by the trekking crew, ensuring a self-sufficient journey through isolated mountain terrain.

Is Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Right for Me?

This trek is best suited for experienced trekkers with a high level of fitness, endurance, and a spirit of adventure. If you enjoy remote trails, high-altitude challenges, and camping expeditions, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer comfortable lodges and structured itineraries, alternative treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp Trek may be better suited.

Lodging and Fooding While Camping in Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Lodging is in tents, which are set up each night at designated camping spots. Meals are cooked by trained trekking chefs, with nutritious meals like rice, lentils, pasta, and soups to keep energy levels high. Trekkers must be prepared for basic sanitation facilities, as no permanent accommodations exist along the route.

Drinking Water While Camping

Clean drinking water is essential. Water sources include glacial streams, rivers, and mountain springs, but all water must be purified using boiling, purification tablets, or portable filters. Trekkers should carry their own reusable water bottles and hydration packs to stay hydrated.

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We are Associated With

Government of NepalNepal Tourism BoardTrekking Agencies Association of NepalNepal Mountaineering AssociationHimalayan Rescue Association