Dhaulagiri Round Trek

Duration: 16 Days

About Dhaulagiri Round Trek

For those forever longing for an exciting, thrilling experience to go on mountain expeditions and have the most adventurous journey of their life, the Dhaulagiri circuit trek is a blend of all the beauty in the world providing you with fun, exciting and challenging trails.

Dhaulagiri region trek is among the trodden areas that reside quietly among the Himalayan region of Nepal, hiding the best of nature within itself, unspoiled and undisturbed. It is known to be one of the most challenging and strenuous walks towards the mountains that offers you a heart full of beautiful destinations.  The trails to this trek lead you through the enchanted lands, small isolated villages, and tranquil valleys that are often overlooked.

Like all other high-altitude treks, this trek also offers you gorgeous destinations leading you to the wonders of nature that unfold as you go along the route. But what makes it different is the off-beaten trek experience it provides you with. Unlike other treks you will not be seeing many tea houses rather you will be camping completely during the trekking period. The thought of living among the soulless snow-capped mountain peaks, far away from the daily chaos of the cities you live in, having only a few people giving you company to sink in all the beauty that the cold rocky mountain ranges provide you is a heavenly feeling that you will actually be living on this trek to Dhaulagiri region.

Dhaulagiri round trek is a trek within the premises of Myagdi district leading you to the foot of the world’s seventh highest snow peak in the world, Mt Dhaulagiri. The route to this mountain range is pretty rough and challenges you to the risky adventure it upholds along the way. The trek is very fulfilling and worthwhile as it is not only a trek to Dhaulagiri base camp but is a compilation of various journeys to various destinations, as during this trek you will be crossing two challenging passes and three wonderful base camps all within the same trail and same expenses. . Majestic mountains, unwavering waterfalls, trickiest of rocky terrains, stony pathways, rivers and glaciers, narrow trails, dense forests, unexplored landscapes and more are what Dhaulagiri trek is all about.  Due to these many reasons, the Dhaulagiri circuit trek is a steal as you experience many travel destinations within one journey.

To add to this trek, it is also a junction to different treks such as the Annapurna circuit trek, and Jomsom Muktinath trek, which means not only does it showcases the magnificent Dhaulagiri massif but also the world’s tenth highest mountain peak, Mt Annapurna and the windiest town of lower Mustang. In the entire trek, you wander around the remote trek lines in the Myagdi district coming across hilly terrains, rough boulders, snow-clad glaciers, ice-frozen trekking paths, dense forests, and lush green meadows. As you step forward to this trek you need to prepare yourself to negotiate your way through treacherous trails, climbing massive boulders, ascending narrow paths with loose gravel and stones, and crossing large water streams. A trek that requires you to be courageous to overcome the remoteness and complexity that is essential, as you make your way up to the Dhaulagiri circuit.

Trekking in Nepal often means discovering new cultures and traditions along with the various lifestyles they follow. Likewise, in the Dhaulagiri round trek, you will come across people from varied ethnic groups and beliefs settling down in harmony and peace within the same localities. Among these varied groups of people, you will closely be encountering Magar and Thakali ethnic groups that reflects the diverse traditional and cultural aspect in every context such as food, clothing, architecture, and their ways of life.  On this trip, you explore the hidden valleys and villages of the western part of Nepal. Interaction with the locals and their food gives you an authentic Nepalese vibe.

The entire trek ranges from 900 m to 5,360 m including 2 passes namely; French pass and Dhampus pass, and 3 base camps namely; Italian base camp, Glacier base camp, and Dhaulagiri base camp, and walk through the woody forests of an infamous conservation area namely; Annapurna Conservation Area. The Dhaulagiri region trek is a 16 days long trek that begins with a road trip from Kathmandu to Beni of the Myagdi district. The first two days, after your arrival at Kathmandu, you roam around the chaotic city and explore the popular world heritage sites including getting the permit for the Dhaulagiri circuit trek. It is essential that the required preparation for the trek should be done here in the city as every necessity for your trip is found easily here.  Thereafter you leave for the trek. The initial hike of this trek actually begins after you reach Beni which takes you about 12 hours ride from Kathmandu. As soon as you arrive in Beni, you drive for Darbang which is at an altitude of 1,180 m by passing through the settlements of Tatopani and Babiya chaur. During this ride to Darbang, you transverse through scenic roads crossing the famous Beni Bazzar and the charms of the towns. The trek begins as you ascend towards Takum from Darbang via Dharapani. Here in Takum, you set up your camp for the very first time and thus begin your camping journey on a trek to Dhaulagiri as well. The next day you head towards Muri village coming across the Magar settlement, an ethnic group of Nepal. During the hike, you come across Sibang village from where an amazing panorama view of the snow-clad Dhaulagiri range and Gurja Himal is seen. On your way, you enjoy the incredible Myagdi Khola and Ghatte Khola.

Bagar also known as Boghara is the destination for yet another day in this trekking. Firstly downhill walk on a steep trail and come across some trails that lead you to climb a ridge and reach a pass. Here on this pass, you witness astonishing views of Mt Ghustung South. And during this hike to Bagar, you walk through the jungles and greeneries, passing through the villages of Mahatala and Naura. Staying at Boghara blesses you with the grand view of Manapathi peak. Following the trails of the Myagdi River with the exciting change in terrains, you continue to an isolated path where you merely see any human settlement as you head towards Dovan. Walking through the routes you encounter numerous waterfalls and beautiful campsites. Continuing on the trek you find yourself surrounded by pine forest by the side of the Myagdi River and finally arrive at Sallaghari. Keep your eyes on the extraordinary flora and fauna that you encounter throughout the woody trail. After the easy walk up until Sallaghari, the temperature slowly starts to drop and you find yourself among the cold mountain region. As the Italian base camp furthers the winds show you the authentic ice-cold weather in the Dhaulagiri region. Reaching the Italian base camp, you advance to Dhaulagiri base camp via Glacier base camp, completing 3 camps journey in a single trek. Furthermore, you will be hiking across the French pass that leads you into the valley which is known as Hidden valley. From here onwards you move on a trail that is Dhampus pass marking Yak Khark as your next camping destination.

Up until Dhampus pass which resides on an elevation of 5,244 m, continuous views of the snow-clad peaks throughout the entire Dhaulagiri circuit trek are expected. The infamous Annapurna massif is the world’s 10th and the Dhaulagiri massif is the world’s 7th highest peak along with other many mountain views such as Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal, Gustung South, Tukuche Peak, Mt. Gurja, Manapathi is what you witness. Moving on to the further journey, after camping in Yak Khark you leave for Marpha, in order to reach Jomsom where you catch a flight to leave for Pokhara. Marpha to Jomsom is a whole new exciting experience because you will be walking on the rocky terrains of mustang a very popular vacation destination that experiences local tourism as well as international tourism frequently. This walk among the barren rocky pathways of Mustang holding a religious value will leave a special memory in your heart that you will never forget. Finally, as you arrive at Jomsom, camping is no longer a necessity and you stay at a fine lodge. Pokhara awaits as of the next day. Then you leave for Kathmandu after exploring Pokhara. The journey to the Dhaulagiri circuit trek thus comes to an end. Hereafter you leave for your final departure.

The entire trek to the Dhaulagiri region however can be adjusted according to your plans and the days of the visit, either by extending it or making a short trip.

Highlights

  • Roam around the heart of culture the Kathmandu city
  • Stop by and explore various Natural UNESCO world heritage sites along
  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Darbang of Myagdi district.
  • Exploring the old and traditional pathways of Nepal.
  • Walking the trodden areas of the Dhaulagiri region.
  • Experiencing the diverse cultures residing within the country.
  • Hospitality and authentic cuisine of Magar and Thakali community.
  • Mesmerizing 360-degree view of the world’s 7th largest peak of the world, Mt Dhaulagiri.
  • Astonishing views of the world’s 10th largest peak, Mt Annapurna.
  • Hiking through the restricted Annapurna conservation area.
  • Accomplishing 3 different base camps namely; the Italian base camp, Glacier base camp, and Dhaulagiri base camp.
  • Crossing 2 different passes both with magnificent mountain views featuring various mountain peaks, namely; French pass and Dhampus pass.
  • Exploring the Hidden valley of Dhaulagiri region.
  • Walk through the beautiful apple garden of Marpha-Jomsom.
  • Never forgetting scenic views of the lower Mustang.
  • Roaming around the City of Pokhara.
  • Enjoy the various sites such as Fewa lake, Begnas lake, Peace Pagoda, Sarangkot, and many more in Pokhara.

Itinerary

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Day 01 : Arrival Kathmandu Airport & transfer to hotel

As soon as you arrive at TIA you will be picked up by an office representative. You will be transported to the hotel where you are briefed about the entire trek.

    In the morning, after breakfast, guided sightseeing of the entire Kathmandu valley including the renowned UNESCO world heritage sights – Monkey Temple, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. In between the sightseeing issue trekking permits, TIMS. In the evening, prepare for the trek. Overnight at the hotel. 

      Leave Kathmandu for Myagdi district. Arrive at Beni through a scenic road trip that takes about 12 hours to reach and leave for Darbang in order to start the trek. Stay at a guest house for the night.

        You begin your trek from Darbang and leave for Takum through the village of Tatopani and Dharapani. Here you camp for the very first time during the Dhaulagiri circuit trek. 

          Enjoying the beautiful Myagdi river and crossing sibling village you reach Muri as your next trekking destination. As you move higher and higher you cannot find a lodge or hotel during the Dhaulagiri round trek which is why you camp on almost all the destinations. 

            After 6 to 7 hours of hiking and crossing the villages of Mahatal and Naura you reach yet another destination of the trek which is Bagar. Bagar is also known as Bogahar and this is your next camping site. 

              Bagar to Dovan is 5 to 6 hours of the hike which takes you to an elevation of 2,520 m. as you ascend upwards you see less and less human settlement. Here you camp on a beautiful camping site awaiting the next day’s journey.

                On the eighth day, you leave for Pina which is Sallaghari which takes you about 6 hours to reach covering an altitude of 2920 m. walking through the pine forest really connects you to nature and makes you admire the surrounding. As the day comes to an end you set up your camp and rest for the day.

                  Continuing on the trek you find yourself in a chilly environment, experiencing the mountains getting closer and closer. As you reach the Italian base camp you witness the mesmerizing views of massifs including Dhaulagiri in front of you. You wrap up your day and camp for the night here.

                    The next morning you leave for Dhaulagiri base camp from the Italian base camp crossing the Glacier base camp. This day marks the accomplishment of 3 base camps during the Dhaulagiri round trek. Admiring the gorgeous mountains and never forgetting the surrounding you prepare your camp.

                      As you leave Dhaulagiri and hike towards the Hidden Valley you come across the French Pass which lies at an elevation of 5,200 m. Viewing various peaks you come to a settlement including few locals. You rest up for the day in the Hidden Valley.

                        Crossing yet another pass, the Dhampus pass which resides on an elevation of 5,244 m, you arrive at Yak Khark which is another gorgeous camping site. You rest up for the night camping in Yak Khark. 

                          Moving forward to the trek you find yourself in the lower altitudes of Mustang. With the additional views of the rocky terrains and the most amazing views of Mustang, you arrive at Marpha. Visiting various apple gardens on your way to Jomsom is yet another experience you collect in the Dhaulagiri circuit trek. This day marks the end of your camping days and you finally rest up at a lodge. 

                            The next day you fly for Pokhara from Jomsom, summing up your Dhaulagiri trekking and heading towards a fun night at Pokhara.

                              The official trek end here in Pokhara and you head back to Kathmandu for further departure.

                                Final departure to your onward destination or additional trip.

                                  What’s Included

                                  • International & Domestic airport pick up & drop by private transport.
                                  • Domestic flight tickets + Airport taxes for one way ( Jomsom to Pokhara) 
                                  • Guided tour in Kathmandu (Private car + tour Guide)
                                  • 3-night standard accommodation on a B/B plan at Hotel Himalaya Hub or a similar category in Kathmandu
                                  • Guide during the trek (his salary, food, insurance, accommodation, Our Company Sherpa guide, and their flight tickets)
                                  • Your food 3 meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek in the guest houses.
                                  • Porters (their salary food, insurance, accommodation, 1 porter for two clients)
                                  • Your accommodation in the mountain(Normal but neat & clean on twin sharing basis) in the teahouse during the trek
                                  • Permit fees (Annapurna conservation area)
                                  • TIMS card (Trekker’s Information Management System)
                                  • Medical kits
                                  • Sleeping bag & Down jacket during the trek (need to be returned after finishing your trek)
                                  • Rescue Arrangements for emergency evacuation (just in case you have any problem in the mountain during your trek rescue help from our company but money paid by your insurance company, need personal insurance)
                                  • Register your name in the embassy
                                  • Last Night's cultural/Farewell dinner at a typical Nepali restaurant
                                  • All Government tax
                                  • All bar bills during the trek (soft drinks, hot drinks & alcoholic drinks)
                                  • Monument entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu
                                  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu
                                  • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)
                                  • Travel insurance is required for emergency rescue and evacuation.
                                  • Sweets, Cigarettes, Telephone bills, hot shower, Battery Charge, Wi-Fi, Heater Charge, and your personal expenses, and equipment during your trek beyond I mentioned above in a price included a section
                                  • Any loss arising due to unforeseen circumstances is beyond Himalaya Hub Adventure.
                                  • Tips for field staff (Driver, Guide, Porter)

                                  FAQs

                                  There are multiple routes for the Dhaulagiri expedition. But it is among the most challenging trekking route in Nepal. So, people with moderate-level mountaineering skills are preferred or people can learn basic skills if they are willing to explore the Dhaulagiri circuit.

                                  The Dhaulagiri trek can last up to 16 days. The first half of the trek will be slightly easier than the second half. The second half of the trekking route will be covered in snow and extreme cold. Strong determination and consistency will finally bring you back with tremendous experience from ‘white mountain’, Dhaulagiri.

                                  Yes, you need a permit. Both an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card ($10 each) are required. These permits can independently obtain in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You also can get them arranged by your guiding company.

                                  To trek around Dhaulagiri, spring and autumn are the best seasons. From (March-may) and(September -November).In these seasons, the temperature will be mild, the weather is calm and perfect, and chances of clear views of mountains. For the daytime, the walking temperature will be pleasant overall.

                                  The trek can cost from $2500-$2700. This cost will include your accommodation, food, and transportation cost. This also includes the expenses of the guide provided for your journey.

                                  Yes, it is possible to trek solo in the Dhaulagiri circuit. You have to carry essentials such as light tents and food supplies for the last 4 or 5 days. Otherwise, you will get access to lodges or tea houses.

                                  Dhaulagiri is the seventh-highest mountain in the world and is located at an elevation of 8167m (26795 ft.). Dhaulagiri is also the highest mountain in the borders of a single country(Nepal). Mt. Dhaulagiri got its name from a Sanskrit word that means dazzling white mountain.

                                  Dhaulagiri is famous for its height. The Dhaulagiri circuit is one of the most challenging trekking trails in Nepal. It is first climbed by the Swiss-Austrian-Nepali expedition on 13 May 1960.

                                  No, you can trek independently. But due to the tough and most dangerous trail guide is highly recommended. A guide is someone who navigates the route for you. The guide will be helpful in case of emergency and also negotiate the cost with locals.