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Dhaulagiri Round Trek popularly known as Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is the three weeks long adventure trekking in the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. Trekking in the lap of world’s seventh highest mountain peak is strenuous adventure in Nepal.
Dhaulagiri meaning “white mountain” the 7th highest peak in the world and situated at the northwest of the Pokhara valley. The deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge is formed between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range. The peaks are either side of the Gorge and offers an awesome view during the trek.
Dhaulagiri round trekking is less crowded camping trek and offers a unique and incredible culture and mountain views. Dhaulagiri was supposed to be the world’s highest peak for more than 30 years. Today, it is popular among the adventure seekers and mountaineers.
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, a representative from Life Dream Adventure will greet you and escort you to your hotel. You will have ample time to refresh and rejuvenate yourself.
Afterwards, you will visit our office for a brief meet-up session where your trek guide will provide you with all the necessary details about the upcoming trek. You can also take the opportunity to explore the nearby areas and get familiar with the surroundings.
Once you return to the hotel, you can prepare yourself for the exciting journey ahead.
You will embark on an early morning flight to Pokhara, a stunning city situated beside a serene lake in Nepal. During the flight, you can revel in the breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and other snow-capped peaks.
After landing at the Pokhara airport, you will be chauffeured to your hotel. The remaining part of the day is at your leisure to unwind and rejuvenate. If you desire, you can opt for a sightseeing tour of the Pokhara Valley to explore its scenic beauty. In the evening, you can enjoy the charming lakeside area.
You will spend the night at your hotel in Pokhara.
After departing from Pokhara, you'll embark on a scenic drive to Darbang via the renowned Beni Bazaar. Along the way, you'll be mesmerized by the beauty of winding roads, picturesque towns, and the soothing sound of the rivers. Beni, located at the confluence of Kali Gandaki and Myagdi River, serves as the district headquarters of the Myagdi district.
As you continue towards Darbang from Beni, you'll pass through charming settlements like Tatopani (known for its hot springs) and Babiyachaur. A brief stop will be made for your guide to present your permits at the police checkpoint. The actual Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek commences from Darbang, and as you walk along the Myagdi Khola, you'll encounter small Magar communities. After a gradual climb, admiring breathtaking mountain views and picturesque landscapes, you'll arrive at the Dharapani village.
Overnight stay in Dharapani.
Embark on a journey to Muri Village and marvel at the breathtaking scenic views along the way. Begin your ascent alongside terraced fields and the traditional Takam Magar settlement. As you proceed towards Sibang village, relish the stunning panorama of the snow-capped Dhaulagiri range and Gurja Himal (7,193m/23,600ft).
On the way, witness the picturesque Myagdi Khola and descend towards Gatti Khola, where you can spot the traditional water mill used for grinding grain. After a few hours of trekking, you'll reach Phaliyagaon (1,850m/6,070ft). The steep path showcases majestic mountain views and tree-lined forests before finally arriving at the large Magar settlement of Muri. Take a stroll around the village, interact with locals, and immerse yourself in their culture and lifestyle.
Spend the night in Muri and rejuvenate for the next day's adventure.
Your trek starts with a descent along a steep trail, which then continues through the lush forest. After crossing several small streams, you'll climb to a ridge and reach a pass (1,607m/5,272ft) that offers another incredible viewpoint. From the top, you'll be treated to a stunning view of Mt. Ghustung South.
The trail then winds through the dense jungle and verdant landscapes. Along the way, you'll pass through the small villages of Mahatala and Naura before arriving at Boghara (Bagar). This village boasts a cluster of houses with traditional stone slate rooftops and unique handcrafted windows and doors, adding to its charm. You can also enjoy panoramic views of Manapathi peak from the village.
You'll spend the night in Boghara.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before following the forested trail alongside the Myagdi river. As you make your way through the terrain, you'll come across seasonal tea shops where you can take a quick break and enjoy the local tea while taking in the breathtaking vistas.
The trail offers various picturesque curves and exciting changes in the terrain as you walk towards higher elevations. For the next few days, you'll find yourself trekking in isolation without any human settlements, allowing you to bask in the solitude and enjoy the pure nature around you.
Continue walking until you cross the rocky terrain and ascend to Lipsaba (Lipse). After passing through jungle areas, you'll finally climb to Dobhan.
Overnight stay in Dobhan.
From Dobang, you'll embark on a journey to Sallaghari, walking along the dense jungle beside the riverside of Myagdi Khola. You'll come across a wooden bridge and cross it over the streams. Stay alert while passing through the forest, as you might spot or hear the roaring of wild animals. On the trail, you'll pass through pastures where sheep, goats, and cows are grazing. Then, the path becomes steep and passes through several challenging landslide areas. Just before reaching Sallaghari, enjoy the view of a magnificent waterfall.
Overnight stay in Sallaghari.
Continuing on the trail, you will begin your ascent towards the Italian Base Camp (IBC) by trekking uphill and passing through dense forests. The undulating path will lead you through lush vegetation and across the glacier's terminal. As you approach the IBC, you'll start to notice changes in temperature and landscape, with a drop in temperature and a reduction in tree cover. Instead, you'll encounter terrain dotted with heather and juniper bushes.
After crossing several rivers, you'll finally arrive at the Italian Base Camp. Here, you'll be greeted by stunning views of snow-capped mountains, including the majestic Dhaulagiri I (8,172m/26,810ft). The scenery is breathtaking, and you'll feel like you're surrounded by a magical mountain landscape.
Overnight stay at Italian Base Camp.
You'll have a day off for acclimatization and to explore the stunning Italian Base Camp. You may choose to take a brief hike along the vast lateral moraine grassland stretching from IBC to a small ice cave. From there, you'll have a close-up view of the west face of Mt. Dhaulagiri, and you may also spot a large herd of blue sheep running through a rocky cliff. After exploring the camp area, you can return to the camp and relax.
Stay overnight at Italian Base Camp.
Early in the morning, you'll be greeted with magnificent mountain views. Departing from IBC, you'll follow the path that leads up a grassy slope behind the camp and reach the edge of the glacial moraine. After walking on the tricky, sloppy, and slippery trail for a while, you'll arrive at Swiss Base Camp. The path from here is easy to follow, and after passing a steeper section of the lateral moraine, you'll reach a flat land covered in large rocks. While on your way to Glacier Camp, you'll witness the Chhongardan Glacier and be amazed by the stunning mountain vistas of Dhaulagiri, Dhampus Peak, Manapathi Peak, and Tsaurabong Peak.
Overnight stay in Glacier Camp.
You have another day to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude, as well as explore the stunning natural beauty surrounding Glacier Camp. You can start your day with a hike around the glacier, and be mesmerized by the stunning waterfall cascading down the valley wall. As you proceed, you'll come across several small, icy lakes. After exploring the area, you can take some time to relax and conserve your energy. This rest day will help prepare you for the trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp tomorrow.
You'll spend another night at Glacier Camp.
On this day, you'll embark on the much-awaited hike to the base camp of the awe-inspiring Dhaulagiri massif, which is considered the highlight of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Leaving the Glacier Camp, you'll ascend steeply up the central moraine and follow the natural curves of the glacier. After a few hours of walking, you'll be treated to a breathtaking panorama of Tukuche peak.
As you continue, the valley will open up to a wide T-junction nestled between Dhaulagiri and Tukuche. After a short hike, you'll reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp, traversing rocky terrain on the way.
Once you arrive at the base camp, take in the surroundings and the colorful prayer flags fluttering in the light breeze. Marvel at the impressive view of the icefall descending from the northeast col and the majestic Dhaulagiri range enveloping the base camp.
Overnight stay at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Given that you have already ascended to an altitude of more than 4,500m, it is advisable to take a break day and acclimatize at the base camp. To prevent altitude sickness, you can explore the surrounding area of the base camp, and even go for a short climb above the camp to enjoy the stunning views of the Dhaulagiri Range. Alternatively, you can just unwind at the campsite and appreciate the breathtaking mountain scenery.
You will spend the night at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Today is one of the most anticipated days of your Dhaulagiri Round Trek, but also one of the longest and most challenging. Your destination is French Pass, one of the highest mountain passes you'll cross on this trek. The breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of snow-capped mountain ranges from the top of the pass will make it worth the effort. You'll see magnificent peaks such as Mt. Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Thapa Peak, Dhampus Peak, Mukut Himal, Tashi Kang Peak, and Sita Chuchure. After a brief stop to savor the moment at French Pass, you'll continue on and enter Hidden Valley. The descent is steep and tricky, with a mixture of gravel, stone, snow, and loose dirt underfoot.
Overnight stay in Hidden Valley.
This day is dedicated to rest and recovery after crossing the challenging French Pass. You can take this opportunity to explore the Hidden Valley and acclimate to the high altitude. A short hike to a ridge on the north-western side of the valley will give you a dramatic view of the valley and the majestic mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna. Additionally, for experienced mountaineers, you can try ascending Dhampus Peak. From the top, you can see stunning views stretching from Dhaulagiri to the Annapurna range and into Mustang. Please note that climbing Dhampus Peak requires a permit and additional cost.
Overnight stay in Hidden Valley.
Today, you'll leave the breathtaking Hidden Valley and make your way towards Alu Bari via the Dhampus Pass. This pass presents another exciting challenge on your circuit trek. As you climb up the steep trail, navigating uphill and downhill sections, you'll eventually reach the top of Dhampus Pass where you'll see colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. From here, you'll be rewarded with sensational views of Tukuche and Dhampus peaks, as well as the Annapurna range. After taking in the stunning beauty of the snow-capped peaks, you'll descend to Alu Bari. The final couple of hours of your trek will take you through a forested area until you reach Alu Bari.
You'll spend the night in Alu Bari.
On the final day of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, you will pass through a beautiful forest of oak and pine, offering a haven for bird enthusiasts. As you emerge from the woods, you'll come across small hamlets where locals tend to their farms.
Eventually, you'll reach the charming village of Marpha, situated at an altitude of 2,667m/8,750ft. This village is renowned for its stunning scenery and, more importantly, for its apple products. As you continue on, you'll catch a final glimpse of the majestic Dhaulagiri peak bidding you farewell on the horizon. After gaining some elevation, you'll reach your final destination for the day, Jomsom. Here, you can indulge in Thakali cuisine and immerse yourself in their culture, reflecting on the grueling yet rewarding 17-day journey you have undertaken.
Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Begin your last day by catching an early flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, where you can relish the stunning aerial view of the snow-capped peaks. After completing the airport formalities, board another flight back to the capital city of Kathmandu. Once you land, head back to your hotel and spend the remaining time either relaxing or exploring the nearby areas.Trip END
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek is a challenging trekking route that circumnavigates the Dhaulagiri massif in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a remote and off-the-beaten-path trek that offers stunning views of Dhaulagiri, the seventh highest mountain in the world, and the surrounding peaks.
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek is typically completed in 23 days, depending on the route taken and the pace of the trekker. It covers a distance of approximately 170 km.
The best time to do the Dhaulagiri Round Trek is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally clear and dry, and the temperature is mild, making it ideal for trekking.
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek is a strenuous and challenging trek, and it is suitable for experienced trekkers who are physically fit and have some prior high-altitude trekking experience. The trek involves steep ascents and descents, crossing of high passes, and trekking at high altitudes.
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek reaches its highest point at the French Pass, which is at an altitude of 5,360 meters (17,600 feet).
To do the Dhaulagiri Round Trek, you need to obtain two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board or from the Nepal Tourism Board's office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
It is not mandatory to hire a guide or a porter for the Dhaulagiri Round Trek, but it is highly recommended. The trek is challenging and requires a high level of physical fitness and experience, and having a guide or a porter can make the trek safer and more enjoyable.
Accommodation during the Dhaulagiri Round Trek is mainly in teahouses or lodges. These teahouses offer basic amenities such as a bed, a blanket, and a shared bathroom. Food options are limited, and the menus typically consist of basic Nepali and Tibetan dishes such as dal bhat, momos, and noodles. It is recommended to bring some high-energy snacks and water purification tablets or a water filter.
Starting Point:
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek usually starts from the small town of Beni, which is located about 82 km from Pokhara.
Altitude Sickness:
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek involves trekking at high altitudes, and altitude sickness can be a concern for trekkers. It is important to acclimatize properly and take necessary precautions such as drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and taking Diamox medication if necessary.
Trekking Gear:
Proper trekking gear is essential for the Dhaulagiri Round Trek. You should bring warm and waterproof clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a good quality backpack, a sleeping bag, a headlamp, and trekking poles.
Physical Fitness:
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek is a strenuous and challenging trek that requires a high level of physical fitness. It is recommended to undertake regular physical exercise and endurance training before embarking on the trek.
Wildlife:
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is home to a wide range of wildlife, including snow leopards, Himalayan Tahr, musk deer, and a variety of bird species.
Culture and People:
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek offers an opportunity to experience the unique culture and hospitality of the local people. The trek passes through several villages inhabited by various ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Thakalis, and Tibetans.
Side Trips:
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek offers the opportunity to undertake side trips to nearby attractions such as the hot springs at Tatopani, the sacred lake at Muktinath, and the world-renowned Annapurna Base Camp Trek. These side trips add to the overall experience of the trek
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Sven Ballentin
Bolivia
10th July, 2023
Dhaulagiri Round trek
I completed the Dhaulagiri Round trek after doing the EBC trek, and it was both challenging and rewarding. From my experience trekking twice in Nepal, I've realized that having an experienced guide is crucial for ensuring a great time. Fortunately, I had an incredible guide for both of my treks. I personally reached out to thank them for their support, and they also sent their well-wishes during the holidays and New Year.
This trek is quite challenging and should only be attempted if you have experience with high-altitude trekking. I highly recommend consulting with a travel expert before making your decision. For this trek, I definitely recommend Life Dream Adventure—they were fantastic in making this journey memorable!