Unforgettable Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek – 18-Day Ultimate Itinerary

Overview of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek 18 Days

The Dhaulagiri circuit trek is considered one of the least explored hiking mountain routes around the world that will lead you around the seventh tallest Himalayan peak, grand Dhaulagiri, 8167 m, one of peak of the Crown of the Himalayas.

The Dhaulagiri circuit trek will literally give you the feeling of a true explorer and adventurer with a good chance of not meeting any other trekkers along the route.

However, it is one of the most rugged, demanding, and tough yet magnificent adventure treks in Nepal that suits only experienced explorers.

The Dhaulagiri circuit trek 18 days trail is lengthy (101.06 km), containing some stages that are not only long but also steep and challenging. This trail also passes two high, tough mountain passes of French Pass and Dhampus Pass, both extending above 5000 m.

Yet, you will also constantly find yourself in the middle of some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes formed by the Dhaulagiri mountain range, Tukuche, Sita Chuchura, Churen, Manapathi, Dhampus, and Gurja Himal, along with the Chhonbarban Glacier.

The Dhaulagiri circuit trek itinerary will guide you towards the northwestern corner of Nepal in the Gandaki province. At first, the approach will be similar to the Dolpo trek, and at the end it merges with the Kali Gandaki Valley of the Annapurna trail.

In the middle section of the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, you will be in the Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4750 m). For the passes crossing, Morning Star Treks has allocated a sufficient acclimatization plan.

When traversing the long route of the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, you will also have a fine encounter with the Magar, Gurung, Thakali, and Sherpa communities.

With Hinduism and Buddhism culture fusion, your adventure in the mountains will become even more exquisite.

So are you eager to join this inspirational trip? Then let Morning Star Treks be your companion for 18 days on your marvelous mountain exploring expedition of Dhaulagiri circuit trek.

Price starts

US$ 2200

We offer group discount

13 - 3 people
US$ 2300
4 - 7 people
US$ 2200
8 - 10 people
US$ 2100
11 + people 9999
US$ 2000

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Trip Highlights

Walk one of the most demanding yet very peaceful mountain trails in the world
Reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp and stand beneath the central Dhaulagiri range
Explore the Mustang and Myagdi districts
Trek through the unique landmark of the Dhaulagiri Conservation Area
Bask at the grandeur of not only Dhaulagiri but also Annapurna and several other 7000 m peaks
Live, eat, and share experience with the Magars, Gurungs, Thakalis, and Sherpas
Immerse in peaceful quietness in Hidden Valley
See Pokhara and Kathmandu from a unique point of view

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Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek 18 Days Detail Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival, and Hotel Transfer

You will get a warm greeting and friendly smile from one of our staff upon your reception at TIA. After your transfer to your chosen hotel via our private pick-up, you can rest your fatiguing body.

Later, you may take a city walk around, and afterward in the evening, you will receive a briefing on your Dhaulagiri circuit trek itinerary.

Max. Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft. (Kathmandu )

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Our Dhaulagiri circuit trek sets off with an early drive towards the mesmerizing nature town of Pokhara. Crossing Thankot from Kathmandu, the Trishuli market will be a pleasing sight.

The Prithvi Rajmarga (Highway) later merges with the Mugling-Narayanghat Rajmarga, which traverses us to Bandipur. The picturesque images of Ganesh Himal, Annapurna Peak, and Manaslu will enchant our travel as we approach Pokhara.

Instead of a tourist bus ride, you can also decide to reach Pokhara via a short thirty-minute flight at an additional service fee.

Activity: 7 to 8 hours drive

Max. Altitude: 822m/2,697ft. (Pokhara)

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Darbang

Another quite long drive, yet very calming and refreshing, awaits us today. The peaceful waves of Myagdi Khola will direct us towards Kushma and Baglung.

In around 4 hours, we will be at Beni, a tiny but busy village at the meeting location of Myagdi and Kali Gandaki Rivers. From here, we will head north through very gorgeous settlements of Mangalghat, Singa, Tatopani, Simalchaur, and Babiyachaur to reach Darbang.

Activity: 6 to 7 hours drive

Max. Altitude: 1,120m/3,675ft. (Darbang)

Accommodation: Lodge

Day 04: Trek from Darbang to Dharapani

After Darbang, the moment of experiencing real hiking in the mountains has begun. The checkpost at Darbang will examine our Dhaulagiri circuit trek permits, after which we will cross the Myagdi Khola to the west bank.

The trail will go up to Shahashradhara, where we will have to cross one more floating bridge over Duk River. A hairpin bend climb will then lead us to Dharapani through Ratorunga Village.

The visual of the southern wall of Dhaulagiri Range with Dhaulagiri I and II and Churen Himal will be pretty overwhelming.

Activity: 5 to 6 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 1,400m/4,593ft. (Dharapani)

Accommodation: Lodge

Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Jugepani

Casting a glance at the rice paddies, we will follow the increasing trail towards Hille Pokhari. The track ahead will carry us forward to Takam (1670 m) and then Sibang Village (1800 m).

Crossing one more floating metal bridge over Shivaratri Khola, we will reach the descending path ahead, which directs us to Jugepani. Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, and V, along with Gurja Peak, outshine the sky of this village.

Activity: 5 to 6 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft. (Jugepani)

Accommodation: Lodge

Day 06: Trek from Jugepani to Boghara

The path after Jugepani winds along the steep side, alternating between open grassland and dense forest. A single ascent is around 900 m, directing us over the 1700 m high Pass, at the bottom of which flows the Dudh Khola River.

Looking at Ghustung South, we will keep on climbing uphill for around 1 to 2 hours, navigating the picturesque slopes of Mahatala and Naura villages till we are at Boghara Village, aka Bagar.

The village is inhabited by Magar people, where we can see Manapathi and Dhaulagiri touching the sky.

Activity: 6 to 7 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 2,100m/6,890ft. (Boghara)

Accommodation: Lodge

Day 07: Trek from Boghara to Dobang

From Boghara, we continue our Dhaulagiri circuit trek itinerary along a canyon. Hiking through the subtropical forest of Jyardan Village, the slope will carry us upward towards a ridge.

The path now becomes forgiving as we reach Lipshe Village. With the constant rhythm of ups and downs, we will finally arrive at the rich meadow of Lapche Kharka (2310 m).

Now, the final exertion of around 200 m steep ascent will ultimately rest us at Dobang.

Activity: 6 to 7 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 2,520m/8,268ft. (Dobang)

Accommodation: Lodge

Day 08: Trek from Dobang to Sallaghari

Leaving the Dudh Lhola River canyon, we will traverse the beautiful bamboo and rhododendron forest track to reach Chartare. This photogenic spot allows us to devour at Dhaulagiri sight.

Now, the route passes through vast mountain meadows reaching the campsite of Sallaghari in the afternoon.

Activity: 5 to 6 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 3,100m/10,171ft. (Sallaghari)

Accommodation: Lodge

Day 09: Trek from Sallaghari to Italian Base Camp

The route of our Dhaulagiri circuit trek now changes character. Hiking along quite steep rocky and muddy sections, we will arrive at Chhonbarban Glacier.

The scattered rhododendrons growing here and there, we will walk through them to reach the alpine landscape of the Italian Base Camp. While our team pitches in the tents, we will look at the looming Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, and V along with Tukuche Peaks.

Activity: 4 to 5 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 3,660m/12,008ft. (Italian Base Camp)

Accommodation: Lodge

Day 10: Acclimatizing day

Today, we will rest and prepare our bodies for the high elevation that we will encounter on our further Dhaulagiri circuit trek. We recommend you to hike to the Ice Cave or the American Base Camp to improve your acclimatization.

Max. Altitude: 3,660m/12,008ft. (Italian Base Camp)

Accommodation: Camp

Day 11: Trek from Italian Base Camp to Japanese Base Camp

On the way to the Japanese Base Camp, we will cross a ridge of Pakhoban and pass by the Swiss Base Camp (3770 m). The next section of the route leads through a small glacier, ending in the spectacular Chhonbarban glacier.

Now the most challenging section of the track awaits us, where the ascent will be steep, covered with loose stones and boulders. If necessary on the route, a handrail and rope may be utilized.

The rest of the route is now easier, descending us to the Japanese Base Camp where we will stay for the last night before reaching Base Camp of Dhaulagiri.

Activity: 5 to 6 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 4,000m/13,123ft. (Japanese Base Camp)

Accommodation: Camp

Day 12: Trek from Japanese Base Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp

One of the main days of our Dhaulagiri circuit trek is today. With the magnificent Himalayan landscape unfolding before our eyes, we will slowly climb the slope of the Chhonbarban glacier.

Soon enough, we will be facing the northern slope of Dhaulagiri. Navigating the crevasses and frozen lakes, we will ascend the side wall of the glacier and reach the Dhaulagiri Base Camp.

The individual peaks of Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, V, and VI, along with Sita Chuchura, will be bedazzling to look at.

Activity: 5 to 7 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 4,750m/15,584ft. (Dhaulagiri Base Camp)

Accommodation: Camp

Day 13: Trek from Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley, via French Pass (5360 m)

We are about to reach the highest altitude of our Dhaulagiri circuit trek. After setting off from the base camp, we will take the northeastern side of Dhaulagiri massif and start to ascend along a rocky slope to reach French Pass.

A French team of Lionel Terray, Gaston Rebuffat, and Luis Lachenal is the one who reached here, saw Dhaulagiri, and considered it impossible to climb in 1950.

After reaching the pass, we will descend and soon reach Hidden Valley where we set up camp beneath the beautiful walls of Tukuche, Mukut, and Dhampus Peaks.

Activity: 6 to 7 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 5,200m/17,060ft. (Hidden Valley)

Accommodation: Lodge

Day 14: Trek from Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka via Dhampus Pass (5240 m)

Our descent will resume today from Hidden Valley for a while. Then, we will have another climb to the nearby pass of Dhampus. After overcoming it, gradual descent will be followed into the vast Kali Gandaki Valley.

In the afternoon, we will be at Yak Kharka devoid of high mountain landscape.

Activity: 6 to 7 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 3,837m/12,589ft. (Yak Kharka)

Accommodation: Lodge

Day 15: Trek from Yak Kharka to Marpha

We will be back in the lush rhododendron forest as we leave Yak Kharka and descend to Alubari. Soon enough, the apple city of Nepal, Marpha town, will be reached, where locally made apple wine and pie worth trying.

Activity: 4 to 5 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 2,600m/8,530ft. (Marpha)

Accommodation: Lodge

Day 16: Drive From Marpha to Pokhara

Today, we will conclude our mountain hiking expedition of Dhaulagiri circuit trek and transfer to our off-road vehicle to travel to Pokhara. We will journey through the gorgeous towns of Jomsom, Tatopani, Ghasa, and reach Beni.

Here, we will leave the Dhaulagiri Conservation Area and arrive at Pokhara.

If you decide, you can also stop at Jomsom for a day and take a short morning return flight to Pokhara.

Activity: 6 to 7 hours trek

Max. Altitude: 822m/2,697ft. (Pokhara)

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

After the comfort of Pokhara, we will take on the large Prithvi Highway once again to reach Kathmandu. Instead of a tourist bus, you can also decide to fly only half an hour to reach Kathmandu at an added service fee.

Activity: 6 to 7 hours drive

Max. Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft. (Kathmandu)

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 18: Home

Your Dhaulagiri circuit trek ends here with a transfer to the airport arranged by Morning Star Treks for a flight home.

If our standard itinerary doesn't fully meet your needs, we are happy to tailor it to your specific preferences and requirements.

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Includes and Excludes

What’s Included?

Airport transfers in Kathmandu, including pickup on arrival and drop-off on departure
Tourist bus transport between Kathmandu and Pokhara, both ways
Private vehicle / local jeep transport between Pokhara and trek start point, both ways
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek
Comfortable teahouse or lodge accommodation during the trek (twin-sharing)
Breakfast in Kathmandu hotel, and three meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) each day during the trek
Professional, English-speaking trekking guide and required porters
Trekking guide salary, insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
Seasonal fresh fruit during the trek
All necessary trekking permits and national park entry fees
Basic medical kit and safety equipment during the trek
Sleeping bag, down Jacket, walking poles, duffel bags (you have to return after the trek)
Certificate of achievement at the end of the journey
Government taxes and agency service charges

What is not Included?

International flights to and from Nepal
Nepal entry visa fees upon arrival
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Personal expenses such as drinks, snacks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging
Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and helicopter evacuation
Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
Extra hotel nights caused by flight delays, early arrival, or late departure
Personal Travel insurance and emergency rescue evacuation
Extra cost caused by natural or political disturbances beyond our control

Route Map & Altitude Chart

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Trip Information of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek 18 Days

Weather and Best Season

The Dhaulagiri circuit trek is ideal to engage in in the autumn season, running from September to November, and the spring season running between March to May.

In autumn and spring, you will get the unchanging weather, blue sky, green, vibrant landscape, and utterly clear Dhaulagiri sights.

December to February is the extremely coldest time in Dhaulagiri when temperature can plummet to -30 degrees Celsius with thick snow and heavy snowfall preventing you from crossing the passes.

The rainy spell lasts between June to August with the likely threat of landslides and floods.

Difficulty

The Dhaulagiri circuit trek 18 days expedition is profile IV, a very tough mountain journey in Nepal with the ultimate altitude exceeding 5000 m, containing the crossing of two massive passes.

The trek is nontechnical but arduous due to the long duration, steep and slope rugged trails, abrupt elevation changes, cold overnight accommodations, and occasional strong winds

Additionally, weather will be ever changing as well, with chances of snowfall on the passes and at the campsites. However, the well-planned acclimatization cycle and the rest days will significantly ease the challenges faced.

Altitude Sickness/Acute Mountain Sickness/AMS

AMS will be a possible hazard in our Dhaulagiri circuit trek with maximum walking days occurring above 3500 m altitude. The thin atmospheric condition of such elevation can lead to a decline in physical activity, headaches, insomnia, dizziness, and vomiting.

These often subside with sufficient hydration and sleep within 1 to 3 days. However, you may have to stop climbing and remain where you are or go down a few hundred meters, which our guide will decide.

Buying and using Diamox from Kathmandu onward will significantly help you to quickly become accustomed to the varying elevation. However, the key will be extra water intake over your regular consumption.

Preparation and Fitness

Because the length of the Dhaulagiri circuit trek itinerary is long and physically demanding, and the terrain is also challenging with a lack of comfort, the Dhaulagiri circuit trek certainly needs adequate preparation.

Minimum 4 months before you leave your home for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, prepare physically with running, stair climbing, biking, and hiking trips. If you are in Nepal for the first time, do not attempt the Dhaulagiri circuit trek; instead, go for the Annapurna trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, or Everest Base Camp Trek.

Please note that if you are already a patient of chronic ailments, it is better that you check with your doctor.

Food and Accommodation

Morning Star Treks will arrange your Kathmandu and Pokhara stays in the atmospheric three-star hotels in double rooms. And, during the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, you will spend the evenings in the humble mountain tea houses from Darbang to Sallaghari.

From Italian Base Camp until Yak Kharka, you will sleep in two-person tents supplied by the company.

In terms of your food, all meals are added in the cost of the Dhaulagiri circuit trek 18 days trip cost, while meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara will be your own expense except for breakfast.

We also provide meals in high-altitude camps where our crew will cook fresh and clean food for you.

Transportation

We have our own private vehicle for all your airport-hotel transfers. A tourist bus will be managed for a road trip between Kathmandu-Pokhara while a local bus will be used for a drive towards Darbang from Pokhara. A private 4 by 4 vehicle will be organized by us for a transfer from Marpha to Pokhara.

A domestic Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu flight or Jomsom-Pokhara flight can also be managed at an extra charge.

Communication

Please understand that the Dhaulagiri circuit trek will not be like the usual EBc or the Annapurna Treks. In fact, it is the trail where not only people but also your gadgets won’t distract you.

However, you can rely on the Namaste and the NCELL network till Boghara village. For the urgent calls and messages, a satellite phone will come in handy, which our team will carry with the other supplies.

As for the internet, you can depend on the 4G data of the local networks. WiFi may be available at the lower Dhaulagiri villages, but expect pricey fare for the usage.

When camping, you may not get the signals on your phone, and no WiFi. You will have to rely on the solar charger, power bank, and spare batteries.

Permit

Since Dhaulagiri Conservation Area is not officially recognized, so we will only be needing the permits for the Annapurna Conservation Area, followed by a TIMS Card.

The fees are 3000 NPR for the Annapurna and 2000 NPR for the TIMS Card, which we will pay at the tourism office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is very much essential not only for the procurement of the permits for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek but also for your own protection and safety.

Dhaulagiri in Nepal is still counted as one of the underdeveloped, remote mountain corners where road access is not that advanced. The terrain is particularly challenging, followed by steep inclinations, passes crossing, and abrupt changes in weather.

In any event of injuries or sickness, a helicopter remains the only possible mode of transport for the rescue. Therefore, for the active safety during your Dhaulagiri circuit trek itinerary, we propose that you include the helicopter rescue coverage to 5500 m altitude along with the trip cancellation, theft, flight cancellation, medical, and accidental coverage.

Extra Expenses

During the Dhaulagiri circuit trek 18 days adventure, you will only need to set aside a little cash to cover your extra expenses that include:

Personal Travel Insurance
International Flights to and from Nepal
Nepal tourist visa
Hot showers, beverages, device charging, WiFi, tips for guides and porters, arrangements for a personal porter, and personal shopping
An extra few days’ accommodation on the trek or in Kathmandu due to circumstances beyond the control of Morning Star Treks

Most Asked Questions

General

Which month is excellent timing for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

October and early November days will be the excellent timing for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek.

What will be the maximum altitude of the Dhaulagiri circuit trek 18 days journey?

The French Pass, elevated to the height of 5360 m above sea level, will be our maximum reaching elevation.

How many hours have you set aside to walk per day in your Dhaulagiri circuit trek itinerary?

The average hiking hours will be 5.5 per day, with some days reaching even 8 hours.

Does Dhaulagiri circuit trek suit the new hikers?

No, the Dhaulagiri circuit trek is one of the demanding category 4 mountain adventures that need some high elevation trekking experience.

What is the overall length of your Dhaulagiri circuit trek 18 days trip in km?

The overall length you will be covering, excluding the driving distances, is 101.6 km.

Can I independently do the Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

No, the April 2023 rule has mandated the compulsory presence of a local licensed guide for any mountain hiking journeys in Nepal, including the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek.

Is Dhaulagiri region a conservation area like Everest and Annapurna?

No, the region has been proposed as a conservation area, but it has not been officially validated.

Is Mount Everest seen during the Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

No, Everest and Dhaulagiri are positioned in two different corners.

What are the major difficulties of the Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

The overcoming demands and toughness of two passes: French Pass and Dhampus Pass.

Preparation & Fitness

How long should I prepare physically for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

At least 4 months of physical training and preparation will be the best and ideal for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek.

How fit should I be and in what physical shape should I be for your Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

Very good physical shape, conditioning, and fitness are essential for this adventure.

Which trek will ready me correctly for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

The Annapurna Circuit trek, the Everest Base Camp trek, and the Ghorepani and Poon Hill trek are some ideal journeys that will ready you for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek. .

Insurance and Visa

What are the travel documents should I have to enter Nepal?

A passport containing a minimum 6 months’ valid time, two empty pages, and passport-sized most recent photos is essential to enter Nepal.

How will I get the Nepal tourist visa at TIA or at any land border?

Pre-fill out the tourist visa application form on the Immigration Department site of Nepal. Print the form, show it to officials at TIA or the land border, and pay the amount.

What should be my visa duration for your Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

If you wish to only engage in the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, one month visa duration will be sufficient, which will also allow you to add some more days after your trek.

What is the fee I need to pay for one month Nepal tourist visa?

You need to pay US Dollars 50 for a person for one month Nepal Visa.

Guides & Support Staff

Who will be my accompanying guide during your Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

We will be providing a very knowledgeable, expert, licensed local guide for your Dhaulagiri circuit trek adventure.

How many guides will you provide for a average group?

We will be offering one guide for a group of six adventurers and assistant guides for the larger traveling groups.

Will your company also be offering us the assistance of the porter?

Yes, one porter for two travelers will be given for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek.

Accommodation and Facilities

Is camping an absolute compulsion during the Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

Yes, from Italian Base Camp onward, there are only a few houses scattered in the area with no tea houses.

Do I need to rent or buy the camp for my Dhaulagiri circuit trek itinerary?

No, Morning Star Treks will be supplying you with two-person durable cold-resistant tents.

Will my accommodation be extremely cold in Dhaulagiri?

Yes, the tea houses lack a heating system for rooms, so a cold-resistant, durable sleeping bag will be very comforting.

Food and Drinks

Why haven't you included the Kathmandu and Pokhara meal option in your Dhaulagiri circuit trek 18 days trip cost?

Because Kathmandu and Pokhara offer an array of choices, our guests can select and dine according to their own preference.

Do I need to cook for myself when camping on the trek?

No, our kitchen crew will be cooking a fresh meal for you three times a day. If you like, you can certainly engage in helping them.

Weather & Seasons

What will be the climate and weather in Dhaulagiri?

The lower jungle trails have subtropical weather, while the upper Dhaulagiri trails have the alpine cold climate.

What will be the minimum temperature in the Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

It can be as much as -30 degrees Celsius.

Will there be snow all the time over the French and Dhampus Passes?

Yes, even in autumn dry time, snow may be present on the route upward to these passes.

Health & Safety

Will I encounter any health risk during your Dhaulagiri circuit trek?

Except for AMS, you will not encounter any other significant health issues.

How high and dangerous is the threat of the AMS in the Dhaulagiri circuit trek 18 days trip?

It is not as serious as many online sources suggest. With effective management, hydration, slow walking, and sticking to the acclimatization plan, the AMS can be well managed.