Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek 20 Days

Trip Facts

  • Destination Nepal

Highlights

  • Explore the two main cities of Nepal, Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • A scenic drive from Kathmandu to Beni
  • DIscover the Mur Magar Village
  • Enjoy the magnificent views of Tukuche Peak(6,837m), Dhaulagiri II(7,751m), Dhaulagiri III(7,715m) and Dhaulagiri V(7,618m) from the Italian Base Camp
  • Close up views of the Dhaulagiri range from Dhaulagiri Base Camp
  • Cross French Pass rewarded with fantastic views of Mukut Himal (6,328 m), Tashi Kang (6,386 m) and Sita Chuchura (6,611 m)
  • Trek to Hidden Valley and Dhampus Pass
  • Taste the apples from Marpha on the way to Jomsom
  • Enjoy a scenic flight to Pokhara from Jomsom

Dhaulagiri, (meaning ‘’White Mountain’’) is the world’s seventh highest mountain at 8,167 m. One of the most popular Peaks for summiting in the Himalayas, Dhaulagiri lies northwest of Pokhara. It stands near the Kali Gandaki gorge along with another eight-thousander, Annapurna I.

When Dhaulagiri was first discovered in 1808, it was considered the highest mountain in the world and remained so for another 30 years. And, from the late 1830s to the early 1850s Kanchenjunga was considered the world’s highest mountain until Everest was declared the highest in 1856. A mountain with such a history, Dhaulagiri makes for a circuit that is extremely challenging to trek. Dhaulagiri circuit trek is a strenuous but highly rewarding trek in the Western Nepalese Himalayan region. The high alpine pastures, high passes, and uninhabited but breathtakingly serene valleys make for one of the most beautiful treks in the world.

The route consists of more than fifteen peaks over 7,000m and some of the most serene landscapes in Nepal. The Dhaulagiri Circuit trekking starts with an 8-hour-long scenic drive from Kathmandu to Beni. We head north-west from Beni crossing villages of Babichour, Dorbang, Darapani, and Muri from where we take north following the banks of the Myagdi River.

Muri is predominantly a settlement of the Magar tribe and the last major village in this trail. Magar people are of Mongoloid stock and descendants of the Nepalese middle hills’ early settlers.   Walking north from muri takes us to the villages of Baghara, Dobang, Choriban Khola, and to the Italian Base Camp. You will notice that there are no permanent settlements anymore. And, that is because we are already above 3,500 m in height. We are still heading north and before reaching the Dhaulagiri Base Camp, we skirt the Chhanbardan Glacier. At Dhaulagiri Base Camp Journey, a wide-ranging spread of mountain vistas welcome you, and you can literally touch Mt. Dhaulagiri! From the Base Camp, we walk northeast towards French Pass. It is a steep climb and along the way, you are awarded views of Mukut Himal, Sita Chuchura, and Tashi Kang. We then walk past Thapa Pass in between Tukuche Peak and Thapa Peak towards the Hidden Valley.

Through Dumuche Pass we head to Yak Kharka and then to Jomsom via Marpha. As Marpha is known for its apple, we stop to enjoy the apples and some of the products made from local apples including the Apple Brandy. From Jomsom, we board a scenic flight that provides magnificent views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna to Pokhara. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we visit main attractions including Phewa Lake, Gupteshwor Cave, Davis Fall, and Tibetan Refugee Camp among others.

The 21-day-long Dhaulagiri Circuit Trip is unique as it provides almost a peak climbing expedition expenditure. This is the best example of remote trekking in Nepal’s Himalayan region. For those who seek more restricted region trekking thrill in Nepal, Upper Dolpo-25 Days and Upper Mustang-17 days are ideas. Adventure Club Trek also provides itineraries to the Manaslu region and Dhaulagiri Circuit.

Itinerary

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Welcome to Nepal. A representative from the Adventure Club Trek will receive you upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. After going through your custom formalities (visa and so on), you will be driven to your respective hotel on Adventure Club Trek’s private vehicle. After you take a rest for some time at the hotel suite, you will be called for an orientation session with your trekking guide over a welcome dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsWelcome Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,345m

After breakfast, our city guide will take you to the four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Swayambhunath stupa, the famous Buddhist monkey temple is located on the hill from where you can get a picture of Kathmandu valley from a bird’s view. Pashupathinath temple, one of the most important pilgrimages for Hindus, is located in the eastern part of the city. Likewise, Buddhanath is the largest spherical stupas in Asia. You will also visit the Kathmandu Durbar Squire, a centuries-old royal palace, now turned into national museums, temples, and other buildings, with the finest architecture, fine cuts, and wood carvings. In the afternoon, we get our equipment checked by our Trekking leader, get introduced to fellow participants, and discuss our trip  Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfasrt
  • Max. Altitude1,345m

We ride a local bus from the capital city to Beni. The road to Beni is filled with views of Greenlands and hills. Before entering Beni there is a police check post where you are needed to show your trekking permits. At an altitude of 899m, the town is located at the confluence of Kali Gandaki and Myagdi. Overnight in a hotel in Beni.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude830m

Our trek begins today as we head north along the banks of Myagdi Khola, passing by Beni Mangalghat village. We continue through Singa village and also come across the village of Tatopani(hot spring). We cross two suspension bridges to reach Simalchour from where we follow the north bank of Myagdi Khola to Babichor. Overnight camping in Babichor.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude950m

As we go forward, hills gradually start to appear on both sides of the river and the valley widens. We continue on the path to arrive at Sahastradhara village, then cross Duk Khola and head towards Ratorunga. After a short trek from Ratorunga, we reach Dharapani where we camp for the night.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude1,400m

After breakfast, we began to climb the ridge of Dharapani. We pass the Phedi(3,731m) village to reach the top of the ridge that boasts magnificent views of Myagdi Khola. After crossing the village of Siband, we head downhill towards Gatti Khola to arrive at Phalai Gaon(1,810m). Upon crossing the Dhara Khola, the trail leads us back to the west bank of Myagdi Khola followed by a gradual climb to the Magar village of Muri. Overnight camping in Muri.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude1,850m

A short downhill climb leads to a small stream, upon crossing it we continue on our trail through the terraced fields and then ascend a ridge. From the top of the ridge, beautiful views of Mt. Gustung South(6,465m) spread in front of us. Again we head downhill towards Myagdi Khola, then we follow the path along its west bank to arrive at Naural village. After a short climb, the path stretches along a grassy hill. We ascend a steep slope followed by a descent through forest and terrains to reach Baghara. Overnight camping in Baghara.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude2,050m

Day 08: Trek Baghara to Dobang (2,520m.) : 5 hours

After descending through terrains, small ridges, and forest we arrive at Jyardan, the last settlement of the region until Marpha. We walk past a twisting trail along a rocky area followed by a downhill drop and again ascend to Lipshe(2,080m). We follow the trail into a forest and at the end of it is our destination, Dobang. Overnight camping Dobang.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude2,520m

As we began our trek from Dobang, we cross a wooden bridge after which the trail channels through a forest. Climbing higher, the west face of Mt. Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) slowly starts to appear through the gaps in the trees. Again we head towards Myagdi Khola, then we follow the path along the east bank after crossing the river via a wooden bridge to arrive at Chartare. Hereafter, the trail leads through a forest, rocky terrains, and a stream to bring us to our destination for the day, Choriban Khola. Overnight camping in Choriban Khola.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3110m

Today, our destination is the Italian Base Camp. We walk past the Chhonbarban glacier and continue along many glacial trails. Throughout our trek today, we are accompanied by the magnificent views of Tukuche Peak(6,837m) and the north face of Dhaulagiri I(8,167m). We continue on the path to reach the Italian Base Camp where we spend the night. We get the best views of Dhaulagiri II(7,751m), Dhaulagiri III(7,715m) and Dhaulagiri V(7,618m) to the west of the camp.
 

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3660m

Today, we acclimatize to increasing altitudes and prepare our body for higher altitudes in the following days. Acclimatizing helps our body to adapt to changing conditions, especially at altitude. We will take short excursions around the area to help us acclimatize. Overnight camping at Italian Base Camp.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3660m

We head out in the morning when the weather is presumably clear. Be alert at all times as the path is prone to stone falls as we make our way through a narrow gorge. Overnight camping by the side of a glacier.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4210m

Our destination today is the Dhaulagiri Base Camp. It is one of the most challenging parts of the trip and also the most rewarding one. Continue on the glacial trail which is quite difficult but is made more pleasant by the beautiful surrounding environment. Upon arrival at the Dhaulagiri Base Camp, we are surrounded by the Dhaulagiri range. Enjoy the up close view of Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II, Dhaulagiri III and Dhaulagiri V. Overnight camping at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4740m

We spend a day at the base camp to acclimatize and avoid Acute Mountain Sickness. There is plenty of exploring to do around the base camp or if wish you can just admire the beauty and embrace the moment. Overnight camping at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4740m

We leave Dhaulagiri Base Camp and continue on the glacial trail followed by a path through two terraced hills. Before we reach the French Pass (5,360m), we trek along a gradual slope. Continuing forward, we are rewarded by fantastic views of Mukut Himal (6,328 m), Tashi Kang (6,386 m), and Sita Chuchura (6,611 m), all surrounding the Hidden Valley. Tukuche Peak and Dhaulagiri also can be seen. We walk towards Thapa Pass in between Tukuche Peak and Thapa Peak(6,012m). We descend from Thapa Pass to reach the campsite for the night. Overnight in a tent at Hidden Valley.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude5200m

As we descend to Dhampus Pass from Hidden Valley, we are rewarded with spectacular views. After reaching Dhampus Pass(5,200m) and spending some time there, head down towards Yak Kharka. Overnight camping at Yak Kharka, is the best spot to enjoy the surrounding.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3680m

From Yak Kharka we head towards Jomsom. En route falls the village of Marpha known for apples and also for food products made from them. While there do taste the apples and also the local Apple Brandy. Continue along the north bank of Kali Gandaki to arrive at Jomsom. Overnight in a tent at Jomsom.

  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude2710m

We board an early flight to Pokhara from Jomsom. The plane flies alongside the Himalayas providing spectacular views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Upon arrival at the Pokhara airport, we check-in into our hotels. In the afternoon, we have a planned sightseeing tour around the beautiful valley of Pokhara. We visit the famous landmarks of The Lake City including the Davis Fall, Phewa Lake, Gupteshwor Cave, and Tibetan Refugee Camp among others.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast.
  • Max. Altitude800m

Another short flight takes you back to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. We can take a rest in our hotel room and spend the rest of the day in leisure. In the evening, there will be a farewell dinner hosted by Adventure Club Trek to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, and Farewell Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,300m

Our adventure ends here. A representative from the Adventure Club Trek will accompany you and see you off at Tribhuvan International airport a few hours before the scheduled flight to your home.

Note: If you still have a few days after the trekking schedule, you might be interested to experience other adventurous activities like jungle safariRafting, Bungee jumping, and paragliding. You may contact the Adventure Club Trek for the arrangement.

  • AccommodationN/A
  • MealsBreakfast.
  • Max. AltitudeN/A

Note: Your safety is of the utmost concern whilst you are traveling with Adventure Club Trek. We will make every effort possible to follow the original itinerary but we reserve the right to change that itinerary if a segment of it becomes a safety issue. Certain mountain regions are remote, natural disasters can happen, weather conditions can decline and there can be illness or an injury. To avoid dangerous situations we may occasionally have to make changes to the itinerary to ensure everyone’s safety. That having been said, Adventure Club Trek will strive to provide you with the best possible trekking experience and to keep your safety our number one priority. We thank you for your understanding.

Cost Details

Price Includes

  • Arrival and Departure transfers on both domestic and international flights.
  • 3 nights’ accommodation in a standard twin shared room at a three-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • 1 night accommodation in a standard twin shared room at a three-star hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
  • Accommodation in Tented camp while around Dhaulagiri trekking.
  • Full board meals prepared by our cook (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
  • Properly boiled drinking water, tea and coffee while on trek.
  • Welcome and farewell dinner
  • Flight cost from Jomsom to Pokhara including airport departure tax.
  • Fully- licensed, English-speaking Trekking guide trained in Wilderness first aid.
  • Porters to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • Assistant trekking guides walking with the group to support as necessary (1 assistant guide for 4 trekkers)
  • Staff cost including their Salary, food, accommodation, transportation, medicine and  domestic airfare.
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu with world heritage entrance fees and private vehicle.
  • All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary.
  • Down jacket, 4 seasonal sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)
  • Proper Insurance covering all staff, including porters.
  • TIMS / Dhaulagiri trek permit, National park / Conservation entry fees.
  • Complimentary Adventure Club Trek T-shirt, duffel bag and trekking map
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • Travel and rescue arrangement (helicopter evacuation is available if needed - at an additional cost)
  • All Government and Local taxes

Price Excludes

  • Nepal visa (USD 25 for 15 days and USD 40 for 30 days).
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Hot shower during the trekking.
  • Excess baggage charges (if you have more than 15 kg of luggage, a cargo charge is around $1.5 per kg)
  • Insurance with helicopter evacuation.
  • International air fares / flights (fares and flights can be arranged upon the request).
  • Personal expenses (alcoholic drinks, bottled water, cold drinks).
  • Personal travel insurance and medical bills.
  • Personal trekking equipment.
  • Tips for guide, porters, and drivers (tipping is expected, but it is not mandatory).

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