Round Dhaulagiri Trekking
Trip Facts
Overview
The Round Dhaulagiri Trek is a challenging and adventurous trekking route in the Dhaulagiri region of Nepal. Dhaulagiri is the seventh highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,167 meters (26,795 feet), and the trekking route takes you around the base of this majestic peak. This trek is known for its rugged and remote nature, offering trekkers a unique and less crowded experience compared to some of the more popular trekking routes in Nepal, such as the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit treks.
Trekking Route:
The trek usually starts and ends in Beni, a town located in the Kali Gandaki River Valley. The trail takes you through various villages and settlements, including Darbang, Dharapani, Muri, Boghara, Dobang, Italian Base Camp, and Dhaulagiri Base Camp, among others. The trek also involves crossing two high mountain passes: the French Pass (5,360 meters) and the Dhampus Pass (5,200 meters).
Duration:
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek typically takes around 18 to 21 days to complete, depending on the specific itinerary and the trekking agency you choose. It’s a challenging trek that requires good physical fitness and acclimatization to the high altitudes.
Highlights:
Dhaulagiri Massif: Experience breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, and V throughout the trek.
Remote Villages: Visit remote and traditional villages inhabited by various ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis.
Diverse Landscapes: Trek through dense forests, terraced fields, and alpine meadows, experiencing the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
High Mountain Passes: Cross the challenging French Pass and Dhampus Pass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs in Tatopani, a welcome relief after days of trekking.
Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture, traditions, and hospitality of the people living in the remote Himalayan villages.
Permits:
To trek in the Dhaulagiri region, you need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. Additionally, if you’re planning to visit the Dhaulagiri Base Camp, you’ll need a special permit from the Nepal Tourism Board.
Best Time to Trek:
The best time to trek the Dhaulagiri Circuit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is stable, and the skies are clear. These months offer excellent visibility and comfortable temperatures for trekking.
Difficulty Level:
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is considered a strenuous and challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness. The high altitude, rough terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions make this trek demanding and require proper preparation and acclimatization.
Highlights
Diverse Landscapes: The trek offers a variety of landscapes, including terraced fields, dense forests, serene rivers, and high alpine meadows. Trekkers also cross several mountain passes.
Cultural Experience: You will have the opportunity to interact with local communities such as Gurungs, Magars, and Thakali people, experiencing their unique culture, traditions, and hospitality.
Panoramic Views: The trek provides breathtaking panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and other surrounding peaks. The views are especially stunning from high mountain passes.
Challenging Passes: Trekkers will cross challenging mountain passes like French Pass (5,360 meters) and Dhampus Pass (5,155 meters), which offer both a physical challenge and spectacular views.
Natural Beauty: The route takes you through beautiful forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, as well as alongside rivers and waterfalls, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Isolation: The trek is relatively less crowded compared to the popular routes like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, offering a more secluded and serene trekking experience.
Why Travel With Us
Customer Support
With 24-hour customer service, customers can get help whenever they need it, which can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Safety Equipment
We carry all necessary safety equipment including hyperbaric chambers, automated external defibrillators, pulse oximeters, and general first aid kits.
Our first priority is your safety on the mountain.
Our purpose
To provide our customers with unforgettable and safe trekking experiences that connect them with natural beauty, and support local communities and local culture.
Certified Tour Operator
We are a certified Trek and Tour operator with Nepal Tourism Board, Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal, and Nepal Mountaineering Association. And we are local Sherpa tour company of Nepal.
No Extra Fees
There is no additional fee for paying by credit card. Airport transfers are included both on arrival and departure. All taxes and government fees are included in all our packages.
Free Nepali & Sherpa Food Cooking Classes - The Best Way to Learn!
Start a culinary journey with our free Nepalese and Sherpa cooking classes. Discover authentic recipes, hands-on cooking, and cultural insights into Himalayan cuisine. Explore Traditional Cuisine: Learn to prepare iconic dishes like momos (dumplings), dal bhat (lentils and rice), thukpa (noodle soup), and more. Perfect for food enthusiasts and travelers alike. Join us for an unforgettable experience!
Social Media Updates
During every trek, we do our best to post social media updates with photos to our Facebook Group or our Instagram Stories. This way your family and friends can watch your progress during your trek.
Itinerary
: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822m / 2,697ft) Distance: 200 km Driving Time: 7/8 Hours
After breakfast, drive along the scenic Prithvi Highway beside the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers. The jouney offers beautiful views of terraced hills, charming villages, waterfalls, and distant Himalayan peaks.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, enjoy a relaxing evening beside the peaceful Phewa Lake.
Day 3: Drive from Pokhara to Darbang (1,110m / 3,642ft) Distance: 125 km Driving Time: 5/6 Hours
Day 4: Trek from Darbang to Sibang (1,770m / 5,807ft) 12 km Walking Time: 5–6 Hours
The trek begins by following the Myagdi Khola through cultivated farmland and picturesque villages. Crossing several suspension bridges and passing dense forests, you'll reach the traditional Magar village of Sibang.
Enjoy warm local hospitality and stunning mountain scenery.
Day 5: Trek from Sibang to Muri (1,850m / 6,070ft) Distance: 11 km Walking Time: 5/6 Hours
Today's trail climbs gently through forests and terraced hillsides before reaching the beautiful village of Muri. Surrounded by green hills and traditional stone houses, Muri offers spectacular panoramic views of Gurja Himal and Ghustung Peak.
Day 6: Trek from Muri to Boghara (2,080m / 6,824ft) Distance: 13 km Walking Time: 6–7 Hours
Day 7: Trek from Boghara to Dobang (2,520m / 8,268ft) Distance: 12 km Walking Time: 6/7 Hours
Day 8: Trek from Dobang to Italian Base Camp (3,660m / 12,008ft) 11 km Walking Time: 6/7 Hours
Day 9: Acclimatization Day at Italian Base Camp (3,660m)
Day 10: Trek to Glacier Camp (4,210m / 13,812ft) Distance: 9 km Walking Time: 6/7 Hours
Today's adventure becomes more technical as you traverse rocky moraines and glacier terrain. Carefully navigate the rugged landscape under the guidance of your experienced trekking crew.
Camp beside the glacier surrounded by breathtaking ice formations.
Day 11: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m / 15,551ft) Distance: 8 km Walking Time: 5–6 Hours
Continue across the glacier toward Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Towering directly above the campsite rises the magnificent north face of Dhaulagiri I, creating one of Nepal's most dramatic mountain landscapes.
Day 12: Trek over French Pass (5,360m) to Hidden Valley (5,120m) 12 km Walking Time: 8–9 Hours
One of the most exciting days of the expedition.
Climb gradually to French Pass, where unforgettable views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Mukut Himal, and the Annapuna range unfold in every direction.
After enjoying the breathtaking panorama, descend into the beautiful Hidden Valley.
Day 13: Acclimatization and Exploration in Hidden Valley (5,120m)
Spend another important acclimatization day exploring the surrounding ridges.
Hidden Valley offers spectacular alpine scenery and excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.
Day 14: Cross Dhampus Pass (5,240m) to Yak Kharka (3,680m) 13 km Walking Time: 7–8 Hours
Cross the second major pass of the trek—Dhampus Pass.
The trail rewards you with breathtaking views before descending through alpine meadows to Yak Kharka.
Day 15: Trek from Yak Kharka to Marpha (2,670m) Distance: 15 km Walking Time: 6–7 Hours
Descend into the famous Kali Gandaki Valley, eventually arriving in the picturesque village of Marpha.
Known as Nepal's apple capital, Marpha is famous for its apple orchards, local brandy, and charming whitewashed houses.
Day 16: Drive from Marpha to Pokhara Driving Time: 7–8 Hours
Leave the mountains behind as you drive through Jomsom, Tatopani, Beni, and back to beautiful Pokhara.
Relax by the lakeside after completing one of Nepal's most demanding trekking adventures.
Day 17: Leisure Day in Pokhara
Enjoy a well-deserved rest. / Optional activities include:
Boating on Phewa Lake / Davis Falls /Gupteshwor Cave
Peace Pagoda / Lakeside cafu00e9s
Day 18: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Retun to Kathmandu through beautiful river valleys and mountain landscapes.
Spend your final evening shopping for souvenirs or exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Day 19: Final Departure
After breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan Intenational Airport for your onward flight.
Leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of one of the Himalayas' most remote and spectacular trekking adventures.
Includes/Excludes
What's Included?
- KTM International Airport arrival and departure transfer by private car/van/Hiace
- 3 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (BB Plan)
- 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara (BB Plan)
- Kathmanduu2013Pokharau2013Kathmandu tourist bus (or private vehicle as per itinerary)
- Private 4WD Jeep from Pokhara to Darbang
- Private Jeep from Marpha/Jomsom to Pokhara
- 8 nights tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek
- 7 nights fully supported camping accommodation
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Tea or coffee with breakfast
- Experienced government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Professional cook and kitchen staff during the camping section
- Porters (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
What's Excluded?
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal visa fees on arrival USD 30 for 15 days USD 50 for 30 days UDS 125 for 90 days
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Travel insurance including emergency evacuation
- Tips for guide and porter
- Additional services not mentioned in the itinerary
- Additional costs caused by changes in itinerary (weather, flight delays, health issues, etc.)
- Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu (early/late arrival or return)
Packing List
Trekking Equipment
The following is a list of clothing and accessories that we recommend for treks and climbs in Nepal. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list, rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel are essential for your comfort and convenience. However we recognize that you may have your own personal preferences for clothing which may be equally as suitable.
- Sun hat or scarf
- Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Upper Body
- T-shirts (2)
- Light and expedition weight thermal tops
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
- Down vest and/or jacket (optional)
- Lightweight gloves
- Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
- Lower Body
- Underwear (4)
- Hiking shorts (2)
- Lightweight cotton long pants
- Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms
- Fleece or wool pants
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants
- Thin, lightweight inner socks (4)
- Thick, warm wool hiking socks (4)
- Hiking boots with spare laces
- Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
- Gaiters (Optional)
- Accessories
- Sleeping bag rated -10C. to -20C (Depending on trekking region)
- Headlamp (e.g. Petzl Zoom) with spare bulbs and batteries
- Small pad or combination lock-to-lock trek bag
- Basic First Aid Kit (see Health and Medicinal)
- Large plastic bags - for keeping items dry inside trek bags
- Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches)
- Thermarest sleeping pad (Only Camping Trek)
- Water bottles (2)
- Toiletries
- Small wash towel
- Optional items
- Binoculars
- Books (Highly Recommended)
- Compass
- Playing cards/backgammon/chess set
- Swiss Knife
Essential Information
Nepal Visa Information
All foreigners need visas, except people from India.
Any cancellation by a Client must be made in writing and acknowledged by the Company, the date on which the request to cancel is received by the Company, will determine the cancellation charge
Cancellation of Nepal,Bhutan and Tibet Trips deposit amount is ( Non- Refundable) But you can use That deposit anytime when you come to nepal.
a) The Client is strongly advised to take out cancellation insurance at the time of making the booking.
b) No refunds will be made if you voluntarily leave a trip for any reason after the trip has start on,No refunds will be made for any accommodation, transport, sightseeing, meals or services not utilized.
c) If you want to change the date of the tour, it is possible to change within our tour date (subject to availability) which may occur some additional cost for you.
d) We will take last minute booking till 5 day prior of tour date for Nepal trips and till 20 days prior for Bhutan and Tibet trips and you need to make full payment to book the tour in these cases.
Cancellation Of A Tour By The Company:
Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd reserves the right to cancel any trip, including a guaranteed trip, prior to departure due to reasons beyond our control (due to natural disasters, flight cancellation, , industrial action, Mountain sickness, weather conditions and Early back to kathamandu from Trek or any Tour in nepal,bhutan and Tibet trip. In such a case, Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd will not refund any money
Passport And Visas:
All clients must have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from return date, Nepalese visas can be obtained from the Nepalese Embassies or Consulate in your country or arrival in Kathmandu Airport. Please visit our Nepal Visa for the detail info.
Complaints:
If you have complaints about the trip, you can tell to operator/leader/guide at the earliest opportunity then he will take the appropriate action.
Acceptance Of Risk:
We are committed to provide the best services by performing our duties honestly & seriously to make your journey very smooth & successful. However, Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd and its related organization shall not be responsible for any changes in the itinerary due to unavoidable circumstance beyond our control such as govt. restriction, Land slide, road blockage, flood, snow political unrest, cancellation of flight, delay, sickness or accident and The nature of some of our trips is adventurous and risky as well, therefore may involve a personal risk. We would like to inform you that you have to take all risk on yourself such as damages or injuries or death resulting from these inherent risks.
We encourage you to read the terms and conditions carefully before booking any trips with us, by submitting the booking form you are agreeing to be bound by the conditions of the terms and please go through the following Terms and Conditions that govern the relationship between you (client) and Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd) (hereinafter referred as "The Company"), Registered Company Number 74068/066/067, both parties agree to these Terms and Conditions to resolve any legal or other disputes that may arise during the trip.
Trip Booking:
A 'trip' refers to any product itinerary or activities that are listed in our official website www.himalayaguide.com that you buy from us including Trekking, Tours, Expeditions, and/or other adventure and tour programs.
A booking is accepted and becomes definite only from the date when the Company sends a confirmation email then the contract between the Company and the Client comes into existence.
Before your booking is confirmed and a contract comes into force, the Company reserves the right to increase or decrease prices.
Please note that the company would not be liable to any warranty, collateral agreement, prior agreement, description of services, or conditions, other than as expressed herein.
Deposit Requirement For Booking Trip:
I) Nepal Trips: For Nepal Trips, you will have to make a deposit of 25% of trip cost at the time of booking. The Deposit amount is nonrefundable. the remaining 75% amount is payable upon your arrival in Kathmandu and before the trip departure from Kathmandu.
The deposit should be sent to the Company, The Tailor Made trips may require a higher deposit or full payment at the time of booking so, if deposit is different from that outlined in this clause, you will be advised by the company at the time of booking.
II) Tibet/ Bhutan Trips: For the Booking of Tibet and Bhutan Trips, you will make 35% of the trip cost at the time of Booking. The Deposit amount is nonrefundable. and the remaining 60% is payable upon arrival in Kathmandu and before the trip departure.
Method of Payment
Booking deposit can be made by bank transfer, by Credit Card (Visa or Mastercard) and western union:
Booking paying by any credit card is Free of charge
http://www.himalayaguide.com/payment.html
if you want to pay by credit card we are 100% online secure payment systems
Payment via Wire/Bank Transfer: Our Bank Details for wire Transfer:
- Name of the Account Holder: - Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. LTD
- Account Number: - 00207405260011
- Account Type: - Current
- Paying Bank- Himalayan Bank LTD.
- Bank Address:- Thamel, Kathamandu, Nepal
- Post Box No: - 14444
- Swift Code: - HIMANPKA
Note: Bank service charge should be paid by the clients themselves at the time of deposit.
Please note that we are not liable of any delay or loss during the transfer process, If in case due to use of mediator bank or any other reasons if the money received by us is less than the amount sent, you are requested upon arrival to pay accordingly so that the total is equivalent to the product cost.
E-mail us the bank reference number or remittance slipserence number/remittance slips and sender details, and it will be easy for us to check. after you initiate the transfer, sometimes bank forwards the money with different name; if we have ref
Final Payment:
(a) Nepal Trips: Final payment on trekking, tours, climbing, expedition or any kind of trips in Nepal can be made upon arrival in Nepal and before the trip departure; final payment can be made by bank transfer, cash or by Credit Card (Visa or Master Card) and there is 3% surcharge when the payment is made by cards (this applies to final balances and trip extension only.
b) Tibet and Bhutan Trips: Final payment of Tibet and Bhutan Trips should be made before the 30 days prior of the tour date and final payment can be made by bank transfer, or by Credit Card (Visa or Master Card) and there is 3% surcharge when the payment is made by cards (this applies to deposits, final balances and trip extension only
Visa Types: Nepal offers various types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and more.
Tourist Visa: Tourist visas are typically the most common type for travelers visiting Nepal for leisure or sightseeing purposes.
Visa on Arrival: Many nationalities can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and other entry points. You'll need to fill out a visa application form and provide a passport-sized photo along with the visa fee in USD or equivalent.
Online Visa Application: Some nationalities are eligible to apply for a tourist visa online through the Nepal Immigration website. https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/This allows you to complete the visa application in advance and obtain a visa approval letter, which you present upon arrival to receive your visa.
Print the Approval Letter: Print out the visa approval letter, as you'll need to present it upon arrival in Nepal along with your passport. Make sure to carry a copy of the approval letter with you during your travel.
Obtain Visa Stamp Upon Arrival: Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or other entry points in Nepal, present your passport, printed visa approval letter, and any other required documents to the immigration officer. They will stamp your passport with the tourist visa, allowing you to enter Nepal.
Duration and Extension: Tourist visas are typically issued for 15, 30, or 90 days. Extensions are possible for up to 150 days per visa year (January-December) at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu and certain other locations.
Visa Fees: The visa fee varies depending on the duration of your stay. There may be additional fees for visa extensions.
15 Days – USD 30
30 Days – USD 50
90 Days – USD 125
Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of departure from Nepal.
Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation in case of emergencies. Make sure to carry a copy of your insurance policy and emergency contact information.
Be Flexible: Weather conditions in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. Be prepared for flight delays or cancellations due to poor weather conditions in Lukla, which can affect your trekking schedule. Stay flexible and patient.
Permits:
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card: This card is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal to ensure their safety.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Packing List:
Clothing: Layered clothing for varying temperatures, waterproof jacket, trekking pants, thermal wear, gloves, and a warm hat.
Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots and comfortable trekking socks.
Gear: Trekking poles, a good-quality backpack, a daypack, a sleeping bag (if not provided by tea houses), and a headlamp with extra batteries.
Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and a reusable water bottle.
Personal Items: Toiletries, lightweight towel, and snacks.
Accommodation:
Tea Houses: The most common type of accommodation on the trek. They provide basic rooms, shared bathrooms, and meals.
Booking: Generally, you do not need to book tea houses in advance, but during peak seasons (spring and autumn), it may be wise to book a day or two ahead, especially at higher altitudes like ABC.
Food and Water:
Meals: Available at tea houses along the trail. Typical meals include dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), noodles, pasta, and various potato dishes.
Water: Bottled water is available, but using water purification tablets or a filter to purify tap or stream water is more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
Altitude Sickness:
Awareness: Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Prevention: Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take rest days if needed. Diamox can be used as a preventive measure (consult a doctor before use).
Health and Safety:
Travel Insurance: Make sure your insurance covers high-altitude trekking and possible evacuation.
Emergency Contacts: Have the contact information for local rescue services and your country's embassy in Nepal.
Guide/Porter: Hiring a guide and/or porter can enhance safety and comfort. They provide valuable local knowledge and carry your gear, allowing you to enjoy the trek more fully.
Best Time to Trek:
Spring (March to May): Blooming rhododendrons and moderate temperatures.
Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, stable weather, and excellent visibility.
Winter (December to February): Fewer crowds but colder temperatures and possible snowfall.
Monsoon (June to August): Heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and potential landslides, but lush greenery and fewer trekkers.
Cultural Etiquette:
Respect Local Customs: Greet locals with "Namaste," dress modestly, and ask for permission before taking photographs.
Environmental Responsibility: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Dispose of waste properly, use biodegradable toiletries, and avoid single-use plastics.
Final Tips:
Physical Preparation: Engage in regular cardio exercises, strength training, and hiking to build stamina and endurance before the trek.
Mental Preparation: Be ready for long days of walking and changing weather conditions.
Money: Carry enough cash in Nepalese rupees for the trek, as ATMs are not available along the route.
Travle insurance
Travel Insurance is mandatory for all customers who looking to travel in Nepal with the Mountain Hiking & Trekking .The Travel Insurance must cover both the evacuation and medical cost
There are many insurance companies that offer travel insurance services over the internet. You can choose from a wide variety of insurance companies as per your convenience. Especially when it comes to trekking in Nepal, there is always a narrow chance of minor health issues, injuries and most importantly – altitude sickness.
It is essential that you prefer an insurance rule that covers the cost of the helicopter rescue from the mountains in case of main accidents and delicate mountain sickness (AMS). through such great cases of an emergency evacuation, a helicopter service is the only way out of the mountains. This includes a rescue team for both – ground evacuation and rescue. Which is why we need your travel insurances to cover the cost of helicopter services and evacuation from the Himalayas
It is forever recovered to be safe than apologetic.
Before you plan your trip with Mountain Hiking & Trekking do make sure that your travel insurance covers all the costs mentioned above from a reliable company.
Suggested Travel Insurance Companies:
https://www.mondial-assistance.ca
https://www.travelassistnetwork.com/
https://www.travelex-insurance.com/
https://www.hccmis.com/atlas-travel-insurance
Route Map