Dhaulagiri Around Trek | Cost | FAQ | Itinerary| Best Time | Best Offer (2025)
Dhaulagiri Around Trek: A Remarkable Himalayan Journey for Trekkers
The Dhaulagiri Around Trek is a stunning adventure in the Himalayas, taking trekkers through remote valleys, villages, high passes, and breathtaking alpine landscapes. trekkers will be captivated by the diverse landscape and the sheer majesty of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and its supporting peaks. The trek offers physical challenges and the opportunity to witness the rich cultures of Nepal, making it one of the most rewarding treks on earth.
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- Bask in the stunning vistas of Dhaulagiri and nearby peaks
- Hike through rugged, untainted landscapes and old villages
- Cross high passes like French Pass and Thapa Pass for breathtaking views
- Be immersed in the rich culture and traditions of local ethnic communities
- A perfect blend of adventure and cultural exploration
Trekking through the Dhaulagiri Around Circuit: A Journey of Wonders
The Dhaulagiri Around Trek begins in the picturesque town of Beni and winds its way through diverse geography ranging from tropical forest to highlands. During the course of the journey through villages like Babichaur, Dharapani, and Yak Kharka, you have the opportunity to experience the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali villagers' way of life. The highlight of the trek is crossing the French Pass (5,360m) and Thapa Pass (5,150m), which offers the most breathtaking panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and other Himalayan giants. The last few days of the trek treat the trekkers with spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri massif and surrounding peaks, making the trek an experience of a lifetime.
Key Highlights of the Dhaulagiri Around Trek for Trekkers
- Explore the stunning Dhaulagiri massif and neighboring peaks
- Hike through diverse landscapes that include forests, meadows, and glaciers
- Cross high-altitude passes like French Pass and Thapa Pass for panoramic mountain vistas
- Enjoy the hospitality and culture of the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali people
- Savor the tranquility and silence of less-touristy trails compared to other popular trails in Nepal
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The Dhaulagiri Around Trek is a challenging trek that must be done in good physical shape and with proper acclimatization. The trekking peak along the French Pass reaches up to approximately 5,360 meters, and altitude sickness is something that must be contended with. Having said this, proper preparation and a gradual ascent enable trekkers to reach the summit risk-free. Our professional guides will have you hiking at a leisurely pace, with proper rest days observed for acclimatization. It is better to be physically strong prior to embarking on the trek to have a great experience.
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The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an exciting experience through some of Nepal's most isolated regions, with trekkers being offered an experience that is physically taxing and highly rewarding. It is a more demanding than usual Himalayan trek since it crosses some of the most interesting and demanding Himalayan passes. Dhaulagiri Circuit is particularly best for the more daring type of trekker who would wish to challenge his/her limits under the intense serenity of the highest mountains.
The trek passes through picturesque Magar, Gurung, Chhetri, and Thakali villages, giving travelers an insight into the local population's way of life, as they have lived in harmony with the mountain range for centuries.
Highlights of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Discovery of Three Big Base Camps: Explore three big base camps — Dhaulagiri Base Camp, Glacier Camp, and Italian Base Camp. Trekkers get magnificent sights of Dhaulagiri and surrounding mountains from these base camps, an unforgettable experience.
- Difficult Himalayan Passes: Some of the most difficult and highest Himalayan passes, such as Dhampus Pass (5,240m) and French Pass (5,360m). These passes are physically and mentally demanding but offer breathtaking views.
- Scenic Trail: Cascading waterfalls, rushing rivers, and picturesque high Himalayan villages. Diverse scenery from lush forests and alpine meadows to barren high-altitude deserts. Stunning views of peaks like Manapathi, Gurja Himal, Dhaulagiri, Tukuchen, Tsaurabong, and Dhampus.
- Flora and Fauna: The region is a biodiversity treasure, exposing trekkers to unusual Himalayan flora and fauna.
- Cultural Immersion: Trail goes through Magar, Gurung, Chhetri, and Thakali villages preserving their traditional way of life. Interact with locals, learn their culture, and enjoy their hospitality.
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The trek is an exciting experience through some of Nepal's most isolated regions, with trekkers being offered an experience that is physically taxing and highly rewarding. It is a more demanding than usual Himalayan treks since it crosses some of the most interesting and demanding Himalayan passes. Dhaulagiri Circuit is particularly best for the more daring type of trekker who would wish to challenge his/her limits under the intense serenity of the highest mountains.
The trek from different villages with their own unique culture and traditions. The trek passes through picturesque Magar, Gurung, Chhetri, and Thakali villages, giving travelers an insight into the local population's way of life, as they have lived in harmony with the mountain range for centuries.
Highlights of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Discovery of Three Big Base Camps: The most significantly special thing about the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is the fact that one can explore three big base camps on a single trek, including the Dhaulagiri Base Camp, Glacier Camp, and Italian Base Camp. Trekkers get to see the magnificent sights of Dhaulagiri and surrounding mountains from these base camps, an experience which they would not forget for the rest of their lives.
- Difficult Himalayan Passes: A few of the most difficult and highest Himalayan passes are on the trek path, i.e., Dhampus Pass at an altitude of 5,240 meters and French Pass at 5,360 meters. The passes offer demanding phases, with breathtaking view points, for the trek that is body as well as mind demanding.
- Scenic Trail: The trekking trail is dotted with cascading waterfalls, rushing rivers, and picturesque high Himalayan villages. The trekker will have a diverse scenery as the trek unfolds from lush forests and alpine meadows to barren high-altitude deserts. You will have stunning views of great summits like Manapathi Peak, Gurja Himal, Dhaulagiri, Tukuchen, Tsaurabong Peak, and Dhampus Peak.
- Flora and Fauna: The region of Dhaulagiri is a biodiversity treasure house, providing the trekkers with the possibility of exposure to unusual Himalayan flora and fauna. From thickets of greenery to grasslands, the region is filled with flora and fauna, making the trek not just an experiment of physical endurance but also a way of connecting with nature.
- Cultural Immersion: The trek is also a rewarding cultural experience. The trail goes through various ethnic communities like Magar, Gurung, Chhetri, and Thakali villages. They have been able to preserve their traditional way of life, and the trekkers will be able to interact with the locals, learn from their culture, and enjoy their hospitality.
Conclusion
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a lifetime experience for those who love the mountains and wish to embark on a challenging yet extremely rewarding trek. Whether you are trekking across high-altitude passes, camping in remote base camps, or immersing yourself in the region's rich local culture, the Dhaulagiri Circuit offers something for every trekker. This trek puts your body and mind to the test but rewards you with some of the Himalayas' most breathtaking views and experiences. If you are looking to explore the best-kept secrets of Nepal's mountain villages, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is where you need to be.
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Description: Your challenging and rewarding trek through the Dhaulagiri region, experiencing remote villages, stunning mountain views, and crossing high passes.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Your challenging and rewarding Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Upon clearing customs and collecting your luggage, a friendly representative will warmly greet you and arrange your comfortable transfer to your hotel. This initial drive typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on the city's traffic. This first day is primarily designed for you to settle in, relax after your international travels, and begin to acclimatize to the local environment. There are no planned activities beyond your hotel transfer, providing you with ample opportunity to rest and prepare for the robust expedition ahead.
Day 2: Arrangement or Preparation Day in Kathmandu (1,400 m); Optional Sightseeing
Today is an important day dedicated to essential arrangements and final preparations for your trek. In the morning, you will attend a detailed trek briefing. During this session, you will have the opportunity to meet your trekking guide and support team, review the full itinerary, discuss safety protocols, and address any last-minute questions you may have. This is also a crucial time for final gear checks and any necessary purchases. For those interested in exploring Nepal's rich cultural heritage, an optional sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley can be arranged. You might visit some of Kathmandu's famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as ancient temples or stupas, offering a deeper understanding of the country's history and spirituality before you head to the remote mountains.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Beni (830 m)
Today, your journey towards the Dhaulagiri region begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Beni. This drive typically covers approximately 280-300 kilometers and can take around 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions. The route takes you through diverse landscapes, including terraced hillsides, rural towns, and along major rivers, offering glimpses of traditional Nepalese life. Upon arrival in Beni, a bustling town located at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki and Myagdi rivers, you will check into your local guesthouse or hotel. Beni serves as a significant stopover point before heading deeper into the trekking region, allowing for an evening of rest and preparation for the rugged terrain ahead.
Day 4: Drive from Beni to Darbang (1,110 m) then Trek to Khibang (1,755 m)
Today involves a combination of driving and trekking. You will first take a local vehicle, likely a jeep, from Beni to Darbang. This drive covers about 20-25 kilometers and takes approximately 1-2 hours, navigating narrower roads into more rural areas. Darbang is the starting point for the trekking section. From Darbang, you will begin your first trek segment to Khibang. This trek covers roughly 7-9 kilometers and takes about 4-5 hours. The trail gradually ascends through villages and terraced fields, introducing you to the initial landscapes of the Dhaulagiri region. Khibang is a traditional Magar village, offering a simple guesthouse stay and a cultural introduction to the area.
Day 5: Trek from Khibang to Boghara (2,080 m)
Today's trek from Khibang to Boghara will cover approximately 8-10 kilometers, with an estimated walking duration of 5-6 hours. The path leads you through charming villages, dense forests, and across small streams. You will continue to gain altitude steadily, moving deeper into the more remote sections of the trail. Boghara is a relatively small settlement, offering basic teahouse accommodation for trekkers. It serves as an important resting point before the trail becomes significantly wilder. This segment allows your body to continue its acclimatization process while immersing you further in the untouched beauty of the region.
Day 6: Trek from Baghara to Dobhan Kharka (2,520 m)
The trek from Boghara to Dobhan Kharka is a challenging yet rewarding day, covering approximately 8-10 kilometers and estimated to take 6-7 hours. The trail becomes more demanding, often involving steep ascents and descents through thick bamboo and rhododendron forests. You will cross several suspension bridges over rivers and streams. Dobhan Kharka is a basic camp site or a very simple teahouse, situated by a river. This area is more remote, marking your entry into the wilderness section of the trek where permanent settlements are left behind. You'll likely be camping here or staying in very basic shelters, embracing the true wilderness experience.
Day 7: Trek from Dobhan Kharka to Chaur Bag Khola (3,445 m)
Today's trek from Dobhan Kharka to Chaur Bag Khola is a significant and demanding day, covering approximately 6-8 kilometers and taking around 6-7 hours. The trail continues to ascend steeply through rough terrain, including rocky sections and possibly through remnants of old landslides. The vegetation begins to thin out as you gain significant altitude. Chaur Bag Khola (sometimes referred to as Choriban Khola or Japanese Camp I) is a basic camping site in a more open, high-altitude setting. Being at 3,445 meters, this location is crucial for further acclimatization. The raw beauty of the high mountains begins to dominate the landscape around you.
Day 8: Trek from Chaur Bag Khola camp to Italian Base Camp (3,660 m)
The trek from Chaur Bag Khola to Italian Base Camp is a relatively shorter but still challenging segment, covering approximately 4-5 kilometers and taking 3-4 hours. The path continues its ascent, navigating through moraines and scree slopes, which can be demanding underfoot. You will be walking closer to the glacial landscapes. Italian Base Camp is a well-known camping spot, offering incredible close-up views of the Dhaulagiri range, including the impressive west face of Dhaulagiri I. Despite its name, it's a basic camp, often with just temporary shelters or tents. This camp provides a strategic location for acclimatization before heading higher into the Dhaulagiri Sanctuary.
Day 9: Rest and Acclimatization Day at Italian Base Camp (3,660 m)
Today is a crucial rest and acclimatization day at Italian Base Camp. While you will remain at the same altitude for sleeping, it is highly recommended to engage in short, easy hikes to higher viewpoints around the camp. This "climb high, sleep low" strategy significantly aids your body in adapting to the thinner air and higher elevations you will encounter. You can explore the surrounding moraines, enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II, and the Tukuche Peak, or simply relax and conserve energy. This day is vital for preventing altitude sickness and preparing your body for the demanding ascent to Dhaulagiri Base Camp and over the French Pass.
Day 10: Trek from Italian Base Camp to Japanese Base Camp (3,890 m)
Today's trek from Italian Base Camp to Japanese Base Camp involves a further ascent, covering approximately 4-5 kilometers and taking around 3-4 hours. The trail continues through glaciated terrain and moraine fields. You will pass by the Chonbarden Glacier, offering stark and dramatic high-mountain scenery. Japanese Base Camp (also known as the Chonbarden Base Camp) is another remote and basic camping spot. It offers spectacular close-up views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. This camp provides another essential stop for acclimatization and acts as a stepping stone towards the ultimate goal of Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Day 11: Trek from Japanese Base Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,748 m)
This is a momentous day as you reach the ultimate objective: Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,748 m). The trek from Japanese Base Camp covers approximately 6-8 kilometers and is a strenuous ascent, taking around 5-6 hours. The trail involves navigating challenging glacial moraines, rough scree, and potentially snowy sections, requiring careful footing. Upon arrival at Dhaulagiri Base Camp, you will be surrounded by the awe-inspiring north face of Dhaulagiri I, along with other towering peaks like Dhaulagiri II, III, V, and Tukuche Peak. The sheer scale and grandeur of this high-altitude camp are truly overwhelming. You will spend the night here, experiencing the raw power of the Himalayas.
Day 12: Trek from Dhaulagiri Base Camp through French Pass (5,360 m) to Hidden Valley (5,140 m)
This is the most challenging and technically demanding day of the entire trek. You will start very early, before dawn, to ascend to French Pass (5,360 m) from Dhaulagiri Base Camp, which typically takes 3-4 hours. This high pass can be snow-covered and requires good physical condition and mental fortitude. From the pass, you are rewarded with unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of numerous Himalayan giants. After conquering the French Pass, you will begin a long and often steep descent (approx. 3-4 hours) into the surreal Hidden Valley (5,140 m). This vast, barren, and almost otherworldly landscape is truly unique. You will set up camp in this remote valley, providing a dramatic overnight experience at over 5,000 meters.
Day 13: Trek from Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka (4,400m)
Today's trek involves a significant descent from the high altitude of Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka. The journey covers approximately 10 kilometers and is estimated to take 5-6 hours. The trail is generally downhill, but can be rough and rocky in sections, so careful footing is still required. As you descend, you will gradually notice changes in the landscape, with vegetation reappearing. Yak Kharka (meaning 'yak pasture') is a high-altitude grazing area, offering a more comfortable overnight stop after the demanding French Pass crossing and the exposure of Hidden Valley. You'll likely be camping here, enjoying the relative warmth.
Day 14: Trek from Yak Kharka to Marpha (2,670 m) and then Drive to Jomsom (2,720 m)
Today combines trekking with a scenic drive, bringing you back to a more established route. You will trek from Yak Kharka to Marpha, covering about 10-12 kilometers and taking 4-5 hours. The trail descends significantly into the Kali Gandaki valley, passing through traditional villages and apple orchards as you approach Marpha. Marpha is a beautiful traditional Thakali village renowned for its apple production and local brandy. After exploring Marpha, you will take a short drive to Jomsom (2,720 m), covering approximately 5-7 kilometers in about 20-30 minutes. Jomsom is a larger administrative center and offers more amenities, providing a comfortable overnight stay after days in the wilderness.
Day 15: Fly or Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (827 m)
Today, you will make your way from Jomsom to the lakeside city of Pokhara. The most common and scenic option is a morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. This brief but spectacular flight takes approximately 20-25 minutes, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge (the world's deepest) and the surrounding peaks. Flights are weather-dependent. Alternatively, a longer drive from Jomsom to Pokhara is available, which can take 8-10 hours on often rough and dusty roads. Upon arrival in Pokhara, a beautiful city known for its tranquil Phewa Lake and stunning mountain backdrops, you will be transferred to your hotel. This day marks a welcome return to comfort after the rigors of the trek.
Day 16: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400 m) and Farewell Program by Red Swissa Family
Today, you will complete your return journey to Kathmandu. You have the option to either take a comfortable tourist bus, which typically takes 6-7 hours for the approximately 200-kilometer drive, or a short domestic flight, lasting about 25-30 minutes. Both options offer glimpses of Nepal's varied landscapes. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you are invited to a special farewell dinner and cultural program hosted by the Red Swissa Family. This provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your remarkable achievement, share stories with your trekking companions and guides, and enjoy traditional Nepalese hospitality.
Day 17: Transfer for International Departure
Today marks the grand conclusion of your inspiring Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek in Nepal. Depending on the schedule of your international flight, you will have time for a final breakfast at your hotel and to complete any last-minute packing. A pre-arranged transfer will ensure your comfortable and timely transport from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), usually a 30-45 minute drive. As you depart from Kathmandu, we hope you leave with cherished memories of conquering challenging high passes, witnessing the majestic Dhaulagiri range up close, and experiencing the unique wilderness and culture of Nepal. This trek will undoubtedly leave you with a profound sense of accomplishment and a lifetime of incredible experiences.
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