A daring trek around Mount Dhaulagiri, the seventh highest peak in the world, through two high altitude passes above 5000 meters.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Overview of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most challenging and rewarding trekking routes, offering an adventurous journey around the Dhaulagiri Massif, the seventh-highest mountain in the world at 8,167 meters. This trek is renowned for its remote and rugged terrain, high-altitude passes, and breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna, and Manaslu. The trek typically takes around 18-21 days and begins in Beni, passing through lush forests, traditional villages, and terraced farmlands before ascending into alpine and glacial landscapes. Key highlights include the French Pass (5,360 meters) and Dhampus Pass (5,200 meters), which offer panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayas. Trekkers also traverse the Dhaulagiri Base Camp and the hidden valley, a surreal high-altitude desert surrounded by towering peaks.
Our life-changing Dhaulagiri Circuit trek with Wilderness Excursion explores a wild, remote and off-the-beaten-track area of the Nepal Himalaya. The journey begins at Beni and then follows the Myagdi Khola river, going through beautiful Gurung villages with terraced farmlands enclosed by views of the Dhaulagiri massif. After walking up the narrow Chonbarden gorge towards Dhaulagiri Base Camp, we then cross French Pass into Hidden Valley. After crossing Dhampus Pass, we start the long descent to Jomsom, and then, at the end of the trek, we catch a flight to Pokhara, the lake city, to relax after this legendary venture.
To keep in mind, due to its technical difficulty, including glacier crossings and steep ascents, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is best suited for experienced trekkers with a high level of fitness and proper acclimatization. The route remains less crowded compared to other popular treks in Nepal, providing a sense of solitude and raw natural beauty. Proper preparation, including hiring experienced guides and porters, is essential for a safe and successful journey.
Brief Itinerary
Day 01: Join Kathmandu, the city of temples
Day 02: After permits are done, fly to Pokhara.
Day 03: Drive to Darbang (1,180 m) and trek Dharapani (1,470 m)
Day 04: Trek to Muri (1,850 m)
Day 05: Trek to Boghara (2,080 m)
Day 06: Trek to Dobang (2,500 m)
Day 07: Trek to Sallaghari (2,820 m)
Day 08: Trek to Italian Base Camp (3,660 m)
Day 09: Rest and acclimatization day
Day 10: Trek to Glacier Camp (4,200 m)
Day 11: Rest and acclimatisation day at Glacier Camp
Day 12: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,700 m)
Day 13: Rest and acclimatisation day at Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Day 14: Trek via French Col (5,360 m) to Hidden Valley (5,050 m)
Day 15: Exploration walk around Hidden Valley option or ascent of Dhampus Peak (6,060 m) at extra cost and a day.
Day 16: Trek via Dhampus Pass (5,240 m) to Yak Kharka (3,680 m)
Day 17: Trek to Jomsom (2,670 m)
Day 18: Fly to Pokhara. Rest and relax.
Day 19: Fly to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel
While trekking with Wilderness Excursion, your safety is paramount. While we strive to follow the planned itinerary, traveling in remote mountain areas requires flexibility. Your leader may adjust or cancel portions of the trip due to safety concerns, weather, natural disasters, or group health. We will always prioritize your well-being and make every effort to minimize disruptions and make the trip memorable.
- All airport shuttles by Private vehicle.
- Internal flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Jomsom to Pokhara and onto Kathmandu
- Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in best budget hotel, Samsara Resort or similar.
- Lodge and tented accommodation on twin sharing basis while in trek.
- All trekking arrangements including permits and fees, tents.
- Sherpa guides, porters and cook with all their expenses.
- Meals: All meals breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
- Satellites phone for organizing logistics and medical evacuations,
- All applicable local taxes and service charge
- International flight to/from Kathmandu
- If you like to climb Dhampus Peak there is an extra charge
- Personal Travel & trekking insurance, Nepal visa for 30 days
- Accommodation, meals and transfers in Pokhara and Kathmandu
- Personal clothing & equipment
- Tipping for your trekking support crew.
- Other items not listed in "What is included"
Check our published date! If it doesn’t match, we are happy to customize your tour perfectly to suit your interests and needs. Contact us for creating a unique travel experience for you