Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek- 17 Days

Tour Overview

People Interested

0

Location

Dhaulagiri

Durations

19 Days

Trip Grade

Very Strenuous

Max group size

12

Best Time

Spring and Autumn


Tour Description

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an exciting and impressive trekking destination in Nepal that offers a range of breathtaking experiences. This trek is also known as the Dhaulagiri round trek and is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. It involves traversing high-mountain passes and difficult terrains in some areas, but the experiences it offers are worth it. The main highlight of this hike is the Mount. Dhaulagiri(8,167m), the seventh highest mountain in the world.

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek covers two high mountain passes, the Dhampus Pass and the French Pass, which are both demanding and require a good level of fitness to complete. The French Pass was named in honor of the French expedition team that discovered the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek in the 1950s and is located at an altitude of 5360 m, while the Dhampus Pass is situated at 5200 m. You can also visit the Dhaulagiri Base Camp at 4740 m and explore the foothills of Mount Dhaulagiri.

The trek offers a unique experience as you trek through lateral moraines, icy glaciers, and snow-covered trails. You can also explore the cultural variations of the rural mountain villages and meet the locals. The trek provides spectacular views of Tukuche Peak, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II, Dhaulagiri III, and Dhaulagiri V, rising above the Kaligandaki gorge. Dhaulagiri Mountain was discovered in 1808 and was initially believed to be the world's highest mountain, but later Kanchanjunga Mountain took that title. Mount Everest was discovered in 1852 and was later recognized as the world's highest mountain.

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek combines all the elements of a classic Nepal trek and provides a range of unforgettable experiences, including wild landscapes as remote and beautiful as one can experience amongst the high glaciers of Nepal. Trekking in the Dhaulagiri region is full of magical moments, including stunning landscapes, photogenic spots, and captivating views of the trans-Himalayan passes.

 

Ideal Season for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking

When heading for a hike, one needs to be mindful about the season they decide to go. And what exactly time of year is ideal for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking? Hiking Bees advise you to reserve this excursion for the spring and autumn seasons.

Through splitting these seasons further, spring lasts from March to May. These are pleasant hiking months because of the milder weather. During this season, the flowers are in full bloom, and the pathway is lined with petals and leaves. Autumn, which lasts from September to November, is the second-optimal season. These months are characterized by vibrant clouds and a refreshing atmosphere. Normally, we advise avoiding hikes to Dhaulagiri Circuit in the summer. However, Hiking Bees would be pleased to plan a suitable Himalayan trip to the Dhaulagiri region if your timetable for visiting Nepal is scheduled during the summer.

 

Suggested Preparation for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking: 

To undertake the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking, you should have a good level of physical fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 2-3 months before the trek. Some of the suggested preparations include:

Physical Preparation:

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a physically demanding trek that requires a good level of fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 2-3 months in advance. Some of the physical preparation you can do include:

 Regular exercise: Start doing cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to improve your endurance and stamina.

Strength training: Incorporate strength training exercises such as squats, lunges, and leg presses to build leg muscles and increase your overall strength.

Altitude training: You can train your body for high altitude by doing stair climbing, hiking, or trekking on nearby hills or mountains.

Mental preparation:

Mental preparation is equally important as physical preparation. You should be mentally prepared for the challenges of the trek and be positive and determined throughout the journey.

Research: Research about the trek, its challenges, and the culture and customs of the region. This will help you to have realistic expectations and avoid culture shock.

Meditation: Meditation helps to calm your mind and improve your mental strength. You can start with short meditation sessions and gradually increase the duration and frequency.

Positive Attitude: Having a positive attitude helps you to overcome challenges and enjoy the journey. You should focus on the beautiful scenery and the experience rather than the difficulties.

 

How challenging is Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking?

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking is the most popular and demanding hiking destination based on the unexplored trekking trails as well as feedback from hikers. Experienced trekkers won't struggle on this walk, but newcomers may encounter some challenges. As this is a high-altitude trek with unpaved roads, normal people can have difficulties in breaking and walking. 

However, there is always a workaround. Beginners may get ready for this hike by adding these practices to their daily routine: Walking regularly, Remaining hydrated, Meditation and Yoga, Remaining, Nutritional diets, Jogging, Going to Gym, and so on.

You should plan your trip with warm clothes and comfortable boots for a pleasant hike along with raincoats or umbrellas as the weather of the Himalayan region is mostly drizzly. When in the journey, we are here to ease your hike with the availability of guides, who will give you directions and porters, who will carry your luggage and oxygen cylinders.

So if you are an enthusiast and an adventure-loving person, now is the chance to explore the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek – 17 days with Hiking Bees.

 

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking by Hiking Bees

Hiking Bees is a professional Nepalese trekking company with a team of professional guides, who efficiently run a variety of treks and hikes to the Himalayas. Locals from the region where you will be hiking serve as our guides and carriers. They are knowledgeable in hike routes and schedules and have received extensive training. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking is unquestionably a fantastic, ideal location for trekkers. We also suggest other lengthy alternatives if you're searching for other variations of Dhaulagiri Region Trekking.

 

Why Hiking Bees?

  • Registered Trekking and travel company in Nepal
  • Led by a team of experienced and licensed guides
  • Weather forecast review of the Dhaulagiri region for the entire trek
  • Necessary tents for camping along with porters will be provided
  • First aid kit for emergency accidents
  • Emergency heli evacuation service arrangements
  • Flexible itinerary and hassle-free bookings

 

 

Tour Highlights

  • Challenging trek passing through high mountain terraced farms, alpine pasture lands, lush green dense forests, culturally rich villages, and sometimes uninhabited valleys.
  • Includes crossing two high mountain passes, the Dhampus Pass and the French Pass.
  • Opportunity to explore the foothills of Mount Dhaulagiri and visit the Dhaulagiri Base Camp at 4740 m.
  • Provides a unique experience of trekking through lateral moraines, icy glaciers, and snow-covered trails.
  • Spectacular views of Tukuche Peak, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri mountain range.
  • Offers a mix of adventure and cultural experiences, including meeting the locals.
  • A classic Nepal trek combining a range of unforgettable experiences.
  • Offers a great opportunity to explore the peaceful scenery and discover your inner self if you're interested in spirituality.

Tour Includes

  • All kinds of transportation services, notably private vehicles and airport shuttles.
  • 3 nights lodging plus breakfast at a 3-starred tourist standard Kathmandu hotel.
  • Accommodation throughout the hike (mostly tent and small camps)
  • Breakfast, day meal, and supper are all included in the full board hike package, along with tea and coffee.
  • One incredibly skilled, accommodating, and necessary porter, and all of the staff's meals, lodging, and so on.
  • Administrative fees and governmental taxes.
  • Hot bag for a good night's sleep.
  • Emergency Rescue Arrangement service which will be funded by your travel insurance.
  • Hikingbees t shirt
  • Certificate of trek completion.
  • First-aid supplies include an oxygen meter to check pulse rate.
  • Energy Supplements (Cookies, chocolate bar, etc.) once a day.
  • Farewell dinner in a typical Nepali kitchen.

Tour Excludes

  • Your entrance visa and international travel costs.
  • Meals not listed in the "Daily food Inclusions".
  • Personalized hiking kit.
  • Traveling insurance.
  • Tips for guide and porter.
  • Drinks, snacks, water as well as other individual needs and expenses.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 : Landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

Meals : Welcome Drinks

At the Kathmandu airport's arrival zone, staff from our service will be waiting for you with your nameplate. Once you arrive, the staff will greet you and take you to your accommodation in Kathmandu. A description of our arrangements will be provided to you by the hotel when you check-in.

Meals : B

After breakfast, you will start the day by exploring the culturally and historically significant sites of Kathmandu. You will visit the Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world. Next, you will visit Boudhanath Stupa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest stupas in the world. Finally, you will visit Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which offers stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley. After the sightseeing, you will attend a pre-trek meeting where you will meet your trek guide and discuss the details of the trek.

Highest Altitude : 827 m / 2713 ft
Trek Duration : 7 hours drive
Meals : B

Today, you will drive to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region.The drive takes about 6-7 hours and passes through scenic countryside and local villages. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel and have some free time to explore the lakeside city. You can go boating on Phewa Lake, visit the World Peace Pagoda, or hike to the Australian Camp viewpoint for a panoramic view of the Himalayas.

Highest Altitude : 1400 m / 4593 ft
Trek Duration : 9 hrs drive
Meals : B,L,D

After breakfast, you will take a scenic drive to Dharapani, the starting point of your trek. The drive takes about 9-10 hours and passes through stunning landscapes and local villages. You will see the transition from subtropical to alpine vegetation as you gain altitude. Upon arrival in Dharapani, you will check into a teahouse and have some free time to explore the village. You can visit the local monastery, interact with the friendly locals, or simply relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Trek Distance : 15 km / 9.3 miles
Highest Altitude : 1720m / 5643 ft
Trek Duration : 6-7 hours
Meals : B,L,D

Today marks the first day of your trek! After breakfast, you will start your trek from Dharapani to Muri. The trail passes through lush forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron trees and offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. You will cross several suspension bridges and small villages along the way. Upon arrival in Muri, you will check into a teahouse and have some free time to explore the village. You can visit the local school, interact with the friendly locals, or simply relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Trek Distance : 20 km / 12.4 miles
Highest Altitude : 2080 m / 6824 ft
Trek Duration : 7-8 hours
Meals : B,L,D

After breakfast, we start our trek from Muri towards Boghara. This is a relatively short trek and takes around 6 hours to complete. The trail takes us through beautiful forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, and we also pass through several small villages along the way. We will also cross a few suspension bridges over the roaring river below, which can be quite an exhilarating experience. We finally arrive at Boghara, a small village with basic teahouses and lodges for trekkers. We will spend the night here and rest up for the next day's trek.

Trek Distance : 18 km / 11.2 miles
Highest Altitude : 2520 m / 8268 ft
Trek Duration : 8-9 hours
Meals : B,L,D

Day 7's trek is a bit longer than the previous day, taking around 7-8 hours to complete. We start by crossing a small ridge and descending down to a riverbed, where we cross a suspension bridge. From here, we start to climb uphill, passing through dense forests of bamboo and rhododendron. Along the way, we will also pass through several small villages and tea houses. Finally, we arrive at Dobang, a small settlement with a few basic lodges for trekkers. We will spend the night here, acclimatizing to the higher altitude.

Trek Distance : 12 km / 7.5 miles
Highest Altitude : 3660 m / 12008 ft
Trek Duration : 6-7 hours
Meals : B,L,D

Today's trek is a bit challenging as we climb up to higher elevations. We start by following the river upstream, passing through dense forests of pine and oak. The trail then becomes steeper as we climb up towards the Italian Base Camp. The views along the way are spectacular, with snow-capped mountains rising up in the distance. Finally, we arrive at the Italian Base Camp, a small settlement with a few lodges and teahouses for trekkers. We will spend the night here, acclimatizing to the higher altitude.

Highest Altitude : 3660 m / 12008 ft
Meals : B,L,D

Acclimatization is an essential aspect of any high-altitude trek, and taking a rest day at the Italian Base Camp will help us to adjust to the thinner air and lower oxygen levels. During this day, we can take a leisurely walk around the campsite and explore the stunning surroundings, which are characterized by towering peaks and rugged terrain. We will have plenty of time to take in the stunning scenery and soak up the peaceful mountain atmosphere. There will also be opportunities to interact with the local people and learn more about their unique culture and way of life. This rest day at the Italian Base Camp will be a chance to recharge our batteries and get ready for the challenges that lie ahead.

Trek Distance : 10 km / 6.2 miles
Highest Altitude : 4210 m / 13812 ft
Trek Duration : 4-5Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

Today's trek takes us higher up into the mountains to the Glacier Camp. We start by climbing up to the glacier, where we will cross a rocky moraine and reach the Glacier Camp. The trek takes around 5-6 hours to complete, and the views along the way are breathtaking. We will spend the night at Glacier Camp, acclimatizing to the higher altitude.

Trek Distance : 12 km / 7.5 miles
Highest Altitude : 4750 m / 15584 ft
Trek Duration : 6-7 hours
Meals : B,L,D

This day's trek takes us even higher up into the mountains, as we climb up to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp. The trek takes around 6-7 hours to complete and is quite challenging, with steep inclines and rocky terrain. However, the views along the way are absolutely stunning, with panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Finally, we arrive at Dhaulagiri Base Camp, a small settlement with basic lodges and teahouses for trekkers. We will spend the night here, acclimatizing to the higher altitude.

Trek Distance : 14 km / 8.7 miles
Highest Altitude : 5360 m / 17585 ft
Trek Duration : 7-8 hours
Meals : B,L,D

We will be crossing the French Pass on the 12th day, which stands at an elevation of 5,360 meters. This pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is considered one of the highlights of the trek. After a steep climb, we will reach the top of the pass and take some time to admire the breathtaking scenery. We will then descend into the Hidden Valley, a remote and peaceful valley that is surrounded by high peaks. We will spend the night in a campsite in the Hidden Valley.

Trek Distance : 13 km / 8 miles
Highest Altitude : 5200 m / 17060 ft
Trek Duration : 6-7 hours
Meals : B,L,D

Day 13's trek is a relatively short one, as we make our way from the Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka, at an altitude of 5,200 meters. The trail winds through the valley and offers stunning views of the towering peaks that surround us. We will take our time to acclimatize to the higher altitude and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the valley. We will spend the night in a campsite in Yak Kharka.

Trek Distance : 17 km / 10.6 miles
Highest Altitude : 2710 m / 8891 ft
Trek Duration : 6-7 hours
Meals : B,L,D

We will make our way down from the high altitudes of the mountains and into the lower regions. We will descend from Yak Kharka to Jomsom, which is situated at an altitude of 2,710 meters. The trail will take us through picturesque villages and along the banks of the Kali Gandaki River, which is one of the deepest gorges in the world. We will arrive in Jomsom in the afternoon and take some time to explore the town. We will spend the night in a local guesthouse in Jomsom.

Trek Duration : 6 hrs drive
Meals : B,L,D

Today we will say goodbye to the mountains and make our way back to Pokhara. We will  drive from Jomsom to Pokhara. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we will check into our hotel and take some time to rest and relax after the long trek. We can also explore the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara and indulge in some souvenir shopping or try some local cuisine. We will spend the night in a hotel in Pokhara.

Highest Altitude : 1350 m / 4429 ft
Meals : B,D

Today we will make our way back to Kathmandu, either by taking a flight or driving. The drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes approximately 7 hours, while the flight takes around 25 minutes. Once we arrive in Kathmandu, we will check into our hotel and take some time to rest and freshen up. In the evening, we can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu, and indulge in some last-minute shopping or dining. We will spend the night in a hotel in Kathmandu.

This is the day of farewell where you accomplish the journey and leave for your home. Three hours prior to your boarding time, our staff will receive you from your hotel and drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport. We really enjoyed hosting you. Many thanks for having us and safe travels returning home.

FAQs Section

Reaching up to an altitude of above 5,000m, Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is considered one of the toughest treks in Nepal. It is only suitable for experienced trekkers and we don't recommend this trekking to beginners.

The total length of the Dhaulagiri Round trek is approx. 180km, and it takes about 21 days to complete the trail.

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