Trip Facts
Duration
16 Days
Max. Altitude:
5,360 meters
Group size
2-10+
Best Time for Visit
Spring, Summer & Autumn
Meals
Breakfast,Lunch ,Dinner
DIFFICULTY
Moderate & Strenuous
LOCATION
Dhaulagiri
Trip Ends
Kathmandu, Nepal
Trip Highlights
- Dhaulagiri Massif: Get stunning views of the Dhaulagiri peak from various angles.
- High-altitude Passes: Cross two significant high-altitude passes – French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,250m).
- Italian Base Camp: Spend the night in the scenic Italian Base camp that settles in the lap of the Dhaulagiri range.
- Glacier Camp: Treks across glaciers and traverse across the stunning glacial valleys.
- Hidden Valley: Discover the stunning Hidden Valley, a beautiful, untouched alpine paradise.
- Cultural Experience: Visit picturesque and remote villages like Muri, Bogara, and Marpha. Interact with local Magar and Thakali communities.
- Panoramic Views: All along the trail, witness stunning views of peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Annapurna I, and Machapuchare.
- Acclimatization Days: Strategically placed acclimatization days to ensure safe high-altitude trekking.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the most thrilling adventures in Nepal. It is perfect for experienced trekkers. The trail takes you deep into the remote Dhaulagiri region. You can enjoy amazing views of peaks like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, and Machapuchare. Located in western Nepal, this trek is a hidden gem that many people miss. It offers a mix of rugged terrain, high-altitude challenges, rich culture, and breathtaking scenery. The route passes through peaceful villages and untouched landscapes, making it a great choice for those seeking a quiet Himalayan experience.
Trekkers cross high passes such as French Pass and Dhampus Pass. These sections offer stunning mountain views. The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is tough but highly rewarding. It is the perfect adventure for seasoned trekkers seeking a real challenge in the Himalayas. This trek takes you through remote Himalayan landscapes. It is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking high passes and breathtaking scenery.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most thrilling and remote high-altitude adventures, offering an unparalleled trekking experience around the world’s seventh-highest mountain, Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m). Unlike commercial trekking routes, this trail remains untouched and rugged. Trekkers pass through wild glaciers, steep mountain passes like French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,200m), and remote valleys inhabited by traditional Magar communities. For those seeking a true off-the-beaten-path Himalayan expedition, it is the ultimate test of endurance, solitude, and mountain wilderness.
Organizing a trek in this challenging and isolated region requires expert guidance, proper logistics, and safety measures. Choosing a reliable local operator like Always Himalya Trek ensures a successful journey. This trek is a big mountain adventure. You walk through snow, cross high passes, and sleep in tents close to nature. Always Himalya Trek provides experienced guides, high-quality camping gear, acclimatization-focused itineraries, and full support throughout the adventure.
Itinerary
Altitude
1,350 meters
Meal
Breakfast
Your adventure begins upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you’ll be met by an Always Himalayas representative and transferred to your hotel. Explore the bustling streets of Kathmandu, and in the evening, join the team for a last-minute session.
Altitude
830 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
With a quick breakfast, you’ll join in for a scenic drive to Beni, a small town in the Myagdi District. You’ll make multiple stops, witnessing scenic views of the terraced fields and mountains. Upon arrival, you’ll stay overnight in Beni.
Altitude
1,850 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you’ll continue your journey by road to Muri, a small Magar village. As you continue with the day, the landscapes transition from fertile plains to rugged hills of the Himalayas. Experience the stunning view of the surrounding valleys in Muri and spend the night there.
Altitude
2,070 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From Darbang, you’ll now officially begin your trek. The trail will lead you through dense forests and terraced fields, and crossing multiple rivers, you’ll make your way to Bogara, a small village nestled between hills.
Altitude
2,500 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The trail gets more and more beautiful each day. Today’s trail passes through a lush forest to reach the village of Dhoban. You’ll pass through small streams and cross suspension bridges as the stunning views of the surrounding peaks unfold slowly.
Altitude
3,000 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue the ascent through dense forest, slowly clearing up to alpine meadows. You’ll go to Sallaghari/Choriban Khola, which offers a majestic view of the Dhaulagiri and its surrounding peaks.
Altitude
3,660 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you’ll make your way to the Italian Base Camp. The trail ascends through rocky terrain and moraines, offering spectacular views of Dhaulagiri and surrounding peaks. The Italian Base Camp offers some of the best views of the Dhaulagiri Peak.
Altitude
3,660 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking in High-altitude terrain is filled with risks related to Altitude sickness. Today, we’ll acclimatize at Italian Base Camp to recover and adjust to the decreasing oxygen. You can spend the day resting or hiking to nearby viewpoints for a panoramic view of the region.
Altitude
4,200 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
With your body reenergized, you’ll jump back on the trail and go to Glacier Camp. You’ll pass through glaciers and rocky terrain to reach the camp, which offers incredible views of the Dhaulagiri Peak.
Altitude
4,740 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The continuous walk of several hours each day pays off as you reach the Dhaulagiri Base Camp, located at an altitude of 4,740 meters. Reaching the Dhaulagiri Base camp, you’ll find yourself surrounded by snowfields and stunning ranges, and the towering presence of the Dhaulagiri peak will humble you. Immerse yourself in the moment and capture memories.
Altitude
5,360 meters (French Pass)
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today will be one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of your life. You’ll cross the French Pass at a stunning altitude of 5,360 meters, which offers stunning views of surrounding peaks like Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, and others. You’ll then descend to the Hidden Valley, a pristine, remote spot for camping.
Altitude
4,180 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you’ll make another leap in altitude as you cross the Dhampus Pass (5,240 meters). Each day, you’ll get increasingly stunned by the breathtaking views of the Himalayas that seem unlimited. The Dhampus Pass offers majestic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. With memories made, you’ll now descend to Yak Kharka
Altitude
2,670 meters
Meal
Trek to Marpha
The trek descends through picturesque villages and meadows to the famous Thakali village of Marpha, known for its apple orchards. Enjoy local hospitality and explore the village’s quaint streets.
Altitude
827 meters
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you’ll drive back to Pokhara, a relaxing journey through beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Pokhara’s lakes and its vibrant culture. In the evening, celebrate this incredible journey with your team.
Altitude
1,350 meters
Meal
Breakfast
You’ll drive back to Kathmandu to enjoy the city’s rich history and culture. Take this opportunity to do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Altitude
1,350 meters
Meal
Breakfast
Today marks the end of your incredible Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure.
Cost Includes
- Well come and Airport pick-up and drop- service, by private vehicles.
- Two nights' hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with BB plan
- One night hotel accommodations in Pokhara (tourist class) with BB plan
- Transportation includes
- Three meals per day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), along with one cup of tea or coffee per meal.you can choose only one items per meal.
- Seasonal fresh fruits will be provided every night after dinner
- Accommodation will be in tea houses during the trek, with basic twin-sharing rooms
- An experience English Speaking trained, Government license Holder Guide
- Porter, we assign one porter for every two trekkers, a porter typically carries 20 to 25 kg
- An extra assistant guide is provided for groups with more than 6 participants
- All trekking permits, including Annapurna Conservation Area project (ACAP) and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
- All applicable taxes as per government rules and regulations
- First Aid medical kit, Oxy-meter to check pulse, heart rate and oxygen saturation at higher altitude (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms)
- Guide and porter salary, food, accommodation and insurance during the trek
- If you need a duffel bag to pack your trekking gear, we provide one free of cost. However, it must be returned after the trip is completed.
- Farewell dinner with traditional Nepali music and cultural dance will be held at a local restaurant
Cost Excludes
- Nepal entry visa fee for 30 days visa on arrival.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Extra night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara other than itinerary as well as extra trekking days
- Travel insurance and Mountain rescue service (covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation)
- Personal nature expenses (phone, laundry, water, bar drinks, battery recharge, donations, shopping, extra porters, hot shower etc.)
- Entrance fees for Kathmandu Valley sightseeing that cost as well as monasteries and monuments during the trek
- If you are single, Porter cost is extra
- If you prefer to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the flight cost is $105 less or more per person depen on flight fare changes.
- Tips to Trekking staff (Tips is expected)
- Any other expenses that aren’t mentioned in the section above
Equipment
General
- Puffy down jacket (We have rental jackets available for rent
- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag (We have rental sleeping bags available form an additional cost
- Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag liner
Upper Body
- Sun hat or cap
- Knitted hat/Beanie
- Scarf or neck gaiter
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
Torso
- Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- Technical fabric short (2) and long sleeve (2) shirts
- Waterproof, windproof shell
- Fleece jacket or pullover
Lower Body
- Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- Hiking pants (2)
- Comfortable pants for inside the teahouses
- Waterproof/windproof outer shell pants
- Hiking shorts
Hands
- Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
- Hard-shell outer gloves (insulated for colder months)
Feet
- Wool or technical fabric warm socks
- Hiking socks
- Liner socks (optional such as silk)
- Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
- Ice Cleats /Micro Spikes (For trekking from November to March, it's recommended to include Ice Cleats/ Micro Spikes to prevent slipping on icy or wet surfaces.)
- Casual shoes
- Gaiters (lightweight for dust or heavy for snow in colder months)
Undergarments
- Technical fabric/quick drying is best for underwear (opportunities to launder during the trip)
- Sports bras (women)
- Pajamas or sleeping clothes
Optional
- Power bank or extra batteries
- Cameras and mobile phone
- Cards/book
Peak climbing gear
- Climbing boot
- Crampons and harness
- Hiking boot,slippers
- Carabiners 4 pes (2 lock 2 onlock)
- Ascending device jumar
- Descending device ACT and figure of 8
- Helmet ,ice axe and sleeping bag
- Hiking sucks and warm wool sucks
- Warm expedition gloves and thin treking gloves
- Wind proof pant and jacket
- downsuit,expedition bag 50 ltrs for more then 7000 mt
- expedition down jacket for more then 7000 mt
FAQ'S
We are committed to making your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek a safe, memorable, and fulfilling adventure at Always Himalayas. Here’s why we stand out:
- Experienced Guides: The guides from Always Himalayas are familiar with every inch of the trail. They are dedicated to your safety and provide invaluable knowledge of the region, its culture, and its landscapes.
- Personalized Service: We provide custom-tailored itineraries for people with specific needs, ensuring that your priorities are met and that you have a smooth experience.
- Safety First: At Always Himalayas, we prioritize your safety before anything. With thorough pre-trip briefings, medical support, and emergency protocol, you are always safe in the Himalayas.
- Local Expertise: Our team comprises local guides and porters, ensuring a rich, authentic cultural experience and supporting the local economy.
- Sustainable Travel: We are a team dedicated to eco-friendly and sustainable trekking practices, ensuring that your trek leaves a minimal footprint on the environment.
Conclusion
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an unforgettable journey that challenges your endurance, rewards your efforts with spectacular views, and immerses you in the rich cultural heritage of the Himalayas. Choosing the Always Himalayas ensures a safe, enjoyable, and well-supported adventure. With experienced guides, personalized services, and a commitment to sustainable trekking, your trek will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
Customer Reviews
Best Trekking experience in my life Oct 2025 • Friends I did the Mera Peak trek with Always Himalaya Trek and it was an amazing experience. From the start, everything felt very personal and well orgRead more
Conal higney
united kingdom
Best Trekking company I have been on 3 treks with Sitaram; Langtang, Annapurna Circuit, and Mera Peak, all of which have been amazing. My most recent Trek was to the top of Mera Peak, the higheRead more
Gerard Melly
Ireland
We recently traveled to Nepal with “Always Himalaya Trek”, managed by Mr. Sitaram Karki, and had an amazing experience. From the warm traditional welcome at the airport to well-organized tRead more
Shamshuddin imamsaheb Kunnibhavi
India
