When is the best time to trek Dhaulagiri Circuit?

The destination towards Dhaulagiri Circuit from Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) is the best season in which mountain lovers and travel bugs come to the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.

What permits do I need for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?

You will have to take the entry pass to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. The entry fee for Nepalese is Rs.. 100 per person, for SAARC Rs.. 1,000 per person, and for other Nationals Rs.. 3,000 per person.

Is previous trekking experience really necessary for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?

The routes are quite harsh compared to other trekking regions. But this trek is suitable for both beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The routes can be more challenging and overwhelming for new trekkers, so be prepared with physical and mental preparation. On this trek, you will be making many steep uphill climbs and downhill walks.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the most adventurous and rewarding trekking routes in the Dhaulagiri region of Nepal. Known for its remote and rugged beauty, this trek offers a truly wild Himalayan experience. Though it’s less frequented due to its difficulty and isolation, those who complete it often regard it as one of the most memorable journeys of their lives.

This trek is categorized as strenuous and is best suited for experienced trekkers looking for a challenge. The route circles around Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m)—the seventh highest mountain in the world—and leads all the way to Dhaulagiri Base Camp, offering incredible views of massive glaciers, towering peaks, and high mountain passes.

The journey begins with a scenic drive to Beni, following the Myagdi Khola River westward to Darbang. From there, the trail heads north through lush lowland forests and remote villages before gradually climbing into higher alpine terrain. As the altitude increases, the scenery transforms dramatically.

The trek includes crossing the high and snowy French Pass (5,240m) and the Dhampus Pass (5,155m)—challenging yet breathtaking highlights of the trip. After crossing these passes, the trail descends to Marpha, a charming village known for its apple orchards and locally produced apple brandy.

Accomodation
Hotel/ Tea hours/ camping
Best Season
Autumn/ Spring
Maximum Altitude
5345m
Transportation
Car/Flight/ Jeep/ Tourist Bus
Walking Hours
5/6 hours

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging yet undeniably rewarding camping trek through various landscapes and high passes in a remote part of Nepal near the Annapurna mountain range and the vibrant lake city of Pokhara.

This trek is not for the uninitiated. It requires a high fitness level, stamina, and basic mountaineering skills. But if you fit the bill and are up to the challenge of this 21-day trek, it is something you will never forget. Truly Magical Nepal!

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.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu 1300m:

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representatives. After completion of official formalities, we pick up our luggage and head towards a 4/3 star category hotel where you will be transferred to stay overnight.

Day 02 :

Full day Kathmandu sightseeing and trek preparations:

You will be woken up with a morning call along with bed tea and breakfast. Today, we will enjoy sightseeing around Kathmandu the entire day, including visits to some of the major places of the city, such as Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudha, and so on. These sites have been listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. We get back to our hotel in the late evening and stay overnight

Day 03 :

Kathmandu – Beni (830m)6 – 9 hours:

Beni is 82 kilometres away from Pokhara. So, we can either fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then further drive to Beni, or directly drive from Kathmandu to Beni, which takes 8 – 9 hours. Teahouse overnight

Day 04 :

Beni – Babichaur [1,000m .6 – 7 hours:

This is the first day of our trekking phase. With an early breakfast, we make our move towards Babichaur which is the end point for today. We go through some of the beautiful places such as Mangalghat, Singa and Tatopani. Camp or teahouse overnight.

Day 05 :

Babichaur – Dharapani(1,565m)7 hours:

The trail today takes us through terraced hills, Shahashadhara village, Dudh Khola, Ratorunga village, and then we ultimately reaches Dharapani, where we spend our night in our camp.

Day 06 :

Dharapani – Muri (1,850m)6 – 7 hours:

We take a steep climb today. With high hopes and expectations we continue our trek with full of enthusiasm. The viewpoint at the altitude of 1,850m, we gain clear views of Mt Dhaulagiri and some of the neighbouring mountain peaks. Camp overnight.

Day 07 :

Muri – Boghara (2,050m)7- 8 hours:

The path from this point is easier and takes us down below. Actually, there are a lot of ups and downs. Before reaching Boghara, we climb a steep path for a few hours and then descend down until Phedi. Again from Phedi we make a steep climb until Boghara. Camp overnight.

Day 08 :

Boghara – Dovan (2,630m)6 hours:

This day is quite difficult comparing to other trekking days. We need to use ropes in some of the strenuous sections. The trail takes us down to a small ridge and then to Jyardan. From here, we need to cross a rocky part in order to get to the other side in Dovan. Camp overnight.

Day 09 :

Dovan - Italian Base camp (3,500m)6 – 7 hours:

Today we reach the Italian Base Camp. We make our camp in front of the western body of Dhaulagiri. Going through beautiful forests, we continuously gain altitude. Camp overnight.

Day 10 :

Acclimatization day in Italian Base Camp:

We spend this valuable day with rest. Acclimatization is very important in certain intervals of days. This idea prevents us from getting victimized by Acute Altitude Sickness that can cause serious problems to our health.

Day 11 :

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

This is one of the most strenuous part. We need to use our ropes technically and overcome the challenges. Passing through frozen glaciers we arrive in the Glacier Camp.

Day 12 :

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

We keep an eye on our safety and make Dhaulagiri Base Camp our destination for today. We need to climb up steep and walk through icy glaciers.

Day 13 :

Acclimatization Day in Dhaulagiri Base Camp:

We stay in Dhaulagiri Base Camp for acclimatization. We already have the idea of why acclimatization is so important for us throughout this journey.

Day 14 :

Dhaulagiri Base Camp – French Col; 4 hours:

The trekking region will examine our trekking skills today. With challenging and strenuous trail, we still make our move with strong determination. We reach the French Col to stay overnight in our camp.

Day 15 :

French Col – Hidden Valley Camp (5,000m):

The day takes us to another camp known as the Hidden Valley Camp. This camp in the hidden valley will provide us accommodation for tonight. We also explore the surrounding atmosphere to its advantage.

Day 16 :

Hidden Valley - Yak Kharka (4,200m)6 hours:

After passing the glorious Dhampus Pass [5,200m], we go through avalanche prone areas after then. The steep slope downwards will directly take us to Yak Kharka. Camp or teahouse overnight.

Day 17 :

Yak Kharka – Jomsom (2,715m)7 – 8 hours:

One of the most beautiful places of the country, Jomsom, is just 8 hours away from us. With curiosity, we trek as fast as possible. Upon arrival we explore around this enduring village and try to find out the hidden treasures there. Teahouse overnight.

Day 18 :

Jomsom – Pokhara:

We fly from Jomsom to Pokhara today. This short scenic flight offers you views of some of the glorious mountain peaks of the Annapurna Region through bird’s eye view. Upon arrival in Pokhara, it’s best to explore around some of the major sites of the city such as Lake Site and Sarangkot. Hotel overnight.

Day 19 :

Pokhara – Kathmandu:

We travel all the way to Kathmandu today. We can either take a flight that takes 35 minutes or travel by a bus that takes 6 hours to reach. Hotel overnight.

Day 20 :

Free day in Kathmandu:

You will be offered with a leisure day in the Kathmandu city this day. You can either go for a short sightseeing tour around the city or even do shopping as per your interest. We get back to our hotel in the late evening and enjoy a cultural show along with a farewell dinner in our hotel.

Day 21 :

Final Departure:

With unforgettable memories taken, we declare an end to our beautiful holiday in Nepal. Our representatives will escort you to the airport before 3 hours of scheduled flight time.

Cost

Cost Includes

Airport pick & drop off service by Private Vehicle.
Welcome or fare well dinner in typical Nepali restaurant with traditional musical show.
Hotel 3 ,accommodation in Kathmandu as per Itinerary.
Hotel accommodation in Pokhara.
Kathmandu Valley sightseeing with English speaking license holder’s 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 Attach 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 required for the Domestic / International flights.
All alcoholic drinks, mineral water, laundry, phone calls, 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