The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a thinly trekked but exciting and demanding adventure that penetrates the heart of seclusion and remoteness of the western-central section of the Himalayas.
When you first set out on the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, you might have no idea what to expect, except that you want to chase something larger than life. Circling Dhaulagiri, Nepal’s seventh-highest peak at 8,167 meters, seems like an entrance into a land where the mountains reign.
Each day, in its way, is fueled by excitement: scrambling over rocky passes with an adrenaline rush, waking up with views of jagged peaks glowing pink at dawn, or sharing jokes with local porters over hot steaming dal bhat curry in a rustic teahouse.
It is hard, though; don’t get us wrong, your legs ache, the air thins—but every painful step draws you deeper into the raw magic of the Himalayas. This trek tests everyone and changes you for the better. Stories are forever etched in your bones, and the journey’s pulse makes you want to return to this magical place.
Highlights
- Epic Mountain Views: Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, and V, Annapurna, and Nilgiri from French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,244m).
- Remote Wilderness: Rugged and desolate, covered with glaciers, moraines, and alpine meadows.
- Varied Terrain: From subtropical forests and farmlands to high-altitude barren lands.
- Cultural Encounters: Magar, Gurung, and Chhetri people living in villages such as Darbang and Muri.
- High Passes: Exciting crossings at French Pass and Dhampus Pass.
- Hidden Vale: A calm and quiet high-altitude plateau.
- Camping Adventure: Nights at Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m).
- Tatopani Hot Springs: Healing natural hot springs.
- Challenging Trek: 14-18 days, suitable for experienced trekkers, best done in spring or autumn.
What makes the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek unique?
Want to know why you should do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek? Well, we will give you plenty of reasons why this place sets itself apart from other popular trekking routes. Let’s dive in:
1. Remote and untouched:
Nobody would be glad when seeing a huge crowd on the trekking trails. One of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek’s highlights is its remoteness, where far fewer trekkers walk than the avenues of Everest or Annapurna.
The isolation rewards trekkers with a pristine wilderness experience wherein you traverse through landscapes with minimal human presence: glaciers, moraines, and alpine meadows, fostering a deep, godly connection to the Himalayas.
2. Confront high-altitude passes:
The two high-altitude passes—French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,244 m) make the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek uniquely challenging. These crossings call for nothing short of great physical endurance and some basic mountaineering skills, with the added challenge of steep and rugged terrain and unpredictable weather.
Once accomplished, these passes reward trekkers with breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri massif and a deep sense of fulfilment.
3. Dhaulagiri massif proximity:
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a great trek that brings you close to the entire Dhaulagiri massif, including the seventh-highest peak in the world, Dhaulagiri I (8,167m). Trekkers will experience close-ups of some truly breathtaking peaks and an appreciation of the surrounding peaks, all set against dramatic glacier and moraine landscapes, producing an unusually high alpine experience that only this route can offer.
4. Hidden Valley:
The Hidden Valley, situated in the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, is one of the unique sites of high-altitude plateaus. Somewhere between the barren land and quiet isolation, it gives a thrill that is almost surreal to the senses. So, this trek is a rare jewel for the adventurers yearning for untouched Himalayan beauty.
5. Camping-based:
Want to make this trek even more adventurous? Here’s how. The trek around Dhaulagiri is completely camping-based, unlike other routes such as Everest or Annapurna, which may offer you teahouses to stay overnight.
Imagine spending nights at such remote sites as Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp in tents that will deliver a true wilderness experience of self-sufficiency, surrounded by the untouched, raw Himalayan environment.
6. Cultural isolation:
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek seems like a private world where you can mingle with the ever-receptive Magar and Gurung communities in the peaceful Myagdi district. Away from the peaks of Everest or Annapurna, dwellings such as Darbang and Muri still cherish their ancient Himalayan lifestyle.
Locals invite you in with real hospitality, revealing their age-old lifestyle and legends over a cup of tea—a unique but intimate access to the country’s lively cultural heart.
7. Diverse Ecosystem:
From lush subtropical forests filled with life to dry, barren alpine zones, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek boasts varied ecosystems. Within these different landscapes, you trek on terraced farmland, through dense rhododendron forests, and down along the Kali Gandaki gorge, the world’s deepest, to high-altitude moraines and glaciers—one single trip showing off nature’s variety at its best.
How long is the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a tough 14-18 day trek, depending on speed, acclimatisation period, and route changes. Below is an example of a typical itinerary, broken up into paragraphs for clarity, describing the high points of the journey:
Day 1-2: Kathmandu to Beni and Darbang
The trekking experience begins with some in-house preparations in Kathmandu, followed by a drive (8-10 hours) or flight to Pokhara and a further drive to Beni, the gateway to Myagdi.
Day 2 involves a quick drive to Darbang (1,110m) from Beni, a colourful Magar village. Here, trekkers will spend the night soaking in the local culture and gearing up for the trail ahead. The day will be easy with a light walk or resting so that trekkers can get used to the local setting.
Day 3-5: Darbang to Italian Base Camp
From Darbang, the trek follows the Myagdi Khola through thick forests and terraced fields before passing the village of Muri (1,850m), where the Gurung and Magar hospitality prevails on Day 3.
Boghara (2,080m) marks the transition into denser forests on Day 4. The trail then climbs steeply to reach Italian Base Camp, located at 3,660m, on Day 5. The grassy meadow immediately reveals glimpses of the Dhaulagiri massif. The walking on those days varies from 5 to 7 hours, with slow but steady increases in altitude to allow for acclimatization.
Day 6-7: Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp
Day 6 is the acclimatisation day at the Italian Base Camp, where you will do just a few stretches to acclimatise to the altitude.
The trail then creeps down onto Chhonbardan Glacier on Day 7, a tough trek across moraines and rocky terrain, where it finally ends up at Glacier Camp (4,200 m). This day typically lasts between 6 and 8 hours, tiring but fulfilling.
Proper trekking gear is a must because of the dangers involved with the often-challenging terrain, while making it possible to enjoy beautiful views of the glacier and the looming Dhaulagiri peaks.
Day 8-9: Glacier Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Day 8 takes you deeper into reaching the Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m) after a 6-7 hour trek over glacial moraines. This attractive trek promises an inspiring view of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) and adjacent peaks. It truly feels like you have entered a different world
Day 9 is typically spent resting or acclimatizing at Base Camp, during which trekkers will get the chance to explore some nearby ridges, enjoy the dramatic scenery, and prepare for the high passes.
Day 10-11: Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley via French Pass
Day 10 highlights the French Pass (5360 m) crossing after a 5-6 hour climb to the trek’s highest point. The pass is open for panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and beyond. Descending from the pass is the Hidden Valley (5050 m), a solitary plateau.
Day 11 is to acclimatize or to explore this one-off high-altitude valley, with its naked beauty and snow-capped heights, such as tertiary night camping.
Day 12-13: Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka via Dhampus Pass
On Day 12, you cross Dhampus Pass, at 5,244m, a challenging trek that takes about 6 to 7 hours on foot with spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The descent leads to Yak Kharka at 3,680m, and the place is pastoral with grazing lands.
Day 13 again goes downhill to Marpha at 2,670m, the beautiful Thakali settlement in Kali Gandaki Valley, famous for its apple orchards and stone-paved streets, representing a culture change after days of wandering in the wilderness.
Day 14-15: Marpha to Pokhara via Tatopani
The penultimate Day 14, which stretches down to Tatopani (1,190 m), is a 5-6 hour hike down the Kali Gandaki gorge, where trekkers can enjoy the soothing waters of natural hot springs.
On Day 15, the drive takes travellers from Tatopani to Pokhara (around 4-5 hours), and the trekking section of the trip finally ends. Rest and relax at Pokhara’s lakeside and reflect on travels before returning to Kathmandu or extending the trip.
Day 16-18: Pokhara to Kathmandu
The way from a drive or flight back to Kathmandu on Day 16 could take 6-8 hours by road and only 25 minutes by air. A rest day or buffer day is fixed in Kathmandu on Day 17 for possible sightseeing or offsetting delays in the itinerary due to weather or logistics. Departure from Kathmandu is scheduled on Day 18, bringing the unforgettable trip to an end.
What is the cost of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
Below is the estimated cost of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek for 16-18 days:
| Cost Component | Estimated Cost (NRS) | Details |
| Trekking Package (16-21 days) | 263,925-317,250 | Full package for 1 person, including permits, guides, porters, meals, tented camping, and transport (Kathmandu-Beni-Pokhara).
Group discounts may be as low as 243,000-270,000 for 4+ trekkers. Solo/private treks up to 337,500. |
| Permits | 5,400-6,750 | Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): 4,050 NRS (non-SAARC) or 1,350 NRS (SAARC). TIMS card: 1,350-2,700 NRS (group vs. solo) |
| Accommodation (KTM/Pokhara) | 13,500-27,000 | 3 nights in Kathmandu and 1 night in Pokhara at 2-3 star hotels (3,357-6,750 NRS/night, breakfast included). |
| Meals (during trek) | 40,500-81,000 | Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) for 14-18 days, prepared by crew, at 2,025-4,050 NRS/day. |
| Guides | 47,250-75,600 | Licensed guide for 14-18 days at 3,375-5,400 NRS/day |
| Porters | 28,350-60,750 | Porters for 14-18 days at 2,025-3,375 NRS/day (1 porter per 2 trekkers typical). |
| Transportation | 16,200-24,300 | Kathmandu-Beni-Darbang (round trip): 2,700-6,750 NRS.
Jomsom-Pokhara flight: 13,500-20,250 NRS. |
| Trekking Gear | Included in the package | Sleeping bags, down jackets, tents, and personal gear rental: 1,350-2,025 NRS/day (if needed). |
| Miscellaneous | 4,050-13,500 | Satellite phone/GPS, staff insurance, celebration dinner, hot showers |
Tips from the trail
For trekkers, this is a very strenuous trek for which a reasonable amount of preparation and reverence need to be kept in mind because of its remote, high-altitude environment.
1. Physical conditioning
Train for 2-3 months, combining cardio (hiking, running) with strength conditioning and stair climbing for 6-8 hours of trekking days over high passes (French Pass, 5,360m). Get new hiking boots broken in to avoid blisters. Given your concern with listening to your body during treks, if tired, take it easy, especially just before any glacier sections.
2. Acclimatisation:
Adhere to the rest days prescribed by the itinerary (for instance, during the stay at Italian Base Camp, Dhaulagiri Base Camp) for high-altitude adjustment beyond 4,000m. Water intake should be high (3-4 liters every day), and watch for symptoms of high-altitude sickness (such as headache and vomiting). If symptoms persist, descend.
3. Pack wisely:
The total weight of the packs should be as light as possible, 10-12 kg with porter help. Include a:
- 4-season sleeping bag,
- down jacket,
- moisture-wicking base,
- a pair of comfortable trekking shoes
- fleece jacket,
- waterproof top layer,
- crampons for glaciers,
- trekking poles, and
- personal sun protection gear like sunglasses and sunscreen, for glare in the snow.
Rent in Kathmandu when needed.
4. Permits and guides:
Obtain a TIMS card, along with an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, to trek on this circuit. It’s important to take a licensed guide and include porters for your safety and navigation; the trail is unmarked in a lot of parts. (The cost of the permits is mentioned above.)
5. Cultural Respect:
Here, you can engage with respect with Magar and Gurung locals in Darbang and Muri. Learn a few basics of Nepali, such as Namaste and Dhanyabad. Ask them before snapping pictures of people. Generous tipping for the guides/porters would be done (around 30,000 NRS per trekker, group fund).
6. Environmental Responsibility:
Follow the Leave No Trace principle as you embark on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Pack out all trash (there are no bins on the trail), avoid single-use plastics, and walk only designated paths to protect fragile alpine ecosystems, especially in Hidden Valley.
7. Nutrition and Hydration
What you eat and drink during the trek impacts your experience greatly. You must depend on the making of the camping crew: dal bhat, soups, and carbohydrates. Pack some high-energy snacks like nuts and chocolate for the long days. Above 3,000 meters, boil or treat water with iodine tablets or filters. Skip drinking alcohol to keep a clear head on technical parts like Chhonbardan Glacier.
8. Safety and Communication:
Hold in your possession a personal first aid kit (bandages, painkillers, Diamox for altitude). Ensure that your agency has organized a satellite phone or GPS for emergencies: there isn’t cell service post-Beni in hikes. Inform your family of a potential itinerary due to the remoteness of the trek.
9. Cash and budget:
Carry 20,000-30,000 NRS in small denominations for tips and snacks or extras (e.g., hot showers in Tatopani, ~1,350 NRS). You will find no ATMs after Beni. Also, budget for travel insurance covering high-altitude evacuation (13,500-27,000 NRS) as you put safety first during the last trek.
Conclusion
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is not just another Himalayan adventure; it’s a raw, unfiltered journey into the heart of Nepal’s rugged beauty. With its remote wilderness, challenging high-altitude passes, and close-up views of the mighty Dhaulagiri massif, this trek offers a unique and transformative experience. Whether it’s the solitude of the Hidden Valley or the thrill of crossing French and Dhampus passes, every step brings you closer to the untamed power of the Himalayas.
If you’re ready to take on this challenging yet rewarding adventure, Asian Expedition is here to guide you every step of the way. From expert guides to all-inclusive trekking packages, we’ll ensure you have the most seamless and unforgettable trekking experience on the Dhaulagiri Circuit.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to trek the Dhaulagiri Circuit?
Ans: While the best trekking season is spring (March to May), the other is autumn (September to November) because at this time you can have all possible clear skies and stable weather. Therefore, make sure to get forecasts for the passes since snowstorms usually close down French and Dhampus Passes. Go as early as possible (5-6 AM), as there are high chances of afternoon winds.
2. Can beginners do this trek?
Ans: No. This trek is not recommended for beginners. There is a high altitude, technical terrain, and a remoteness factor. It requires some previous trekking experience (Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Langtang, etc.). Try going on your first time trekking in Poon Hill, especially since you also favor some easily accessible treks like Mardi Himal.