The Dhaulagiri Round Trek is a challenging expedition around Nepal’s sixth-highest peak, promising a thrilling experience amidst breathtaking landscapes. Starting with a bus journey from Kathmandu to Beni, the trek encompasses diverse terrains, from cultivated fields to forests and villages inhabited by ethnic groups like Gurung and Magar. The Italian Base Camp offers stunning views of Dhaulagiri I to V, allowing trekkers to acclimatize before continuing to Dhaulagiri North Base Camp via the formidable French Pass and Thapa Pass. Encounters with wildlife and panoramic vistas of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and the Kali Gandaki River enhance the adventure.
Descending through Marpha, a city in the Mustang district, and reaching Tatopani with its natural hot springs, the trek provides a refreshing interlude. The journey concludes in Pokhara, showcasing the beauty of Mustang and Tatopani. The Dhaulagiri Round Trek is not just a physical challenge; it’s a captivating exploration of diverse landscapes and cultural encounters, offering an unforgettable trekking experience in the heart of Nepal’s mountainous terrain.
Overview
| Duration: | 24 days | Trip Garde: | 4 (Challenging) |
| Country: | Nepal | Activity: | Trekking |
| Arrival on: | Departure From: | ||
| Attractions: |
Short Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in kathmandu 1334m, transfer to hotel , Around Dhaulagiri trekking briefing with officially arrangements. overnight at kathmandu hotel.
Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing and prepare for Dhaulagiri Trekking.
Day 03: Kathmandu by bus or private vehicle to Beni(810m)
Day 04: Beni to Babichor (950m)
Day 05: Babichor to Darbang (1030m)
Day 06: Darbang to Sibang (1720m)
Day 07: Sibang to Muri (1840m)
Day 08: Muri to Boghara (1990m)
Day 09: Boghara to Dobang (2400m)
Day 10: Dobang to Chartare (2820m)
Day 11: Chartare to Pakabon (3585m)
Day 12: Pakabon to camp near glacier (3810m)
Day 13 : Dhaulagiri glacier camp to Dhaulagiri base camp (4750m)
Day 14 : Acclimatization at Mt. Dhulagiri Base Camp
Day 15 : Dhaulagiri base camp to Hidden valley (4900m), French pass (5360m) cross
Day 16: Trek to Yak kharka (3990m), Thapa pass (5230m) cross
Day 17 : Trek to Kaligandaki valley – Marpha (2667m)
Day 18 : Marpha to Kagbeni (2807m)
Day 19: Kagbeni to Muktinath (3802m)
Day 20: Muktinath to Jomsom (2713m)
Day 21 : Jomsom by flight back to Pokhara (915m)
Day 22: pokhara by bus or flight back to Kathmandu (1350m)
Day 23: Historical monuments sightseeing
Day 24: Kathmandu international
Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu [1400 m ]
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport (KTM), our representative will greet you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. After checking in, you can choose to relax, explore the city, or visit our office based on your preferences and condition. In the evening, we have planned a Welcome Dinner at a delightful traditional Nepalese restaurant. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a Nepalese cultural program and savor a delicious meal.
Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
After having breakfast today, we will commence a guided tour to explore several of Kathmandu’s most historical and spiritual landmarks. These include the World Heritage Sites: the historic Durbar Square, the revered Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath), and the Buddhist shrine (Buddha Nath), recognized as one of the largest Stupas globally. In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion, providing an opportunity to meet our trek leader and fellow team members. During this session, you will receive a briefing about the upcoming trek and have the chance to ask any questions you may have about our upcoming adventure.
Day 03: Driving from Kathmandu to Beni(850m)
To kick off your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, you will commence the journey by driving to Pokhara in the initial part of the day. This scenic drive takes you through picturesque landscapes, featuring soaring rivers, waterfalls, green hills, and vibrant settlements along the banks as you head towards Pokhara. The journey is facilitated in a comfortable tourist bus, and if you prefer a private vehicle, arrangements can be made accordingly. After a brief stop in Pokhara, the drive continues to Beni, a beautiful town situated at the confluence of two major rivers in Nepal, the Kali Gandaki River and Myagdi Khola. Your overnight stay will be in Beni.
Day 04: Trekking from Beni to Babiachaur(950m)
The trekking adventure kicks off on the second day of your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek 17 Day Itinerary. Leaving the charming village behind, you will follow the north bank of the Myagdi Khola, heading westward. Along this day’s trek, you will cross several suspension bridges and pass through villages like Beni Mangalghat, Singa, and Tatopani. In the final stretch of the trek, you will reach Simalchaur on the north bank, crossing two bridges. From here, it will take about an hour to reach Babiuachaur.
Day 05: Babiacharu to Dharapani trek (1,400m)
It’s another scenic day in your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Itinerary as you traverse the terraced hills, leaving Babiachaur behind. The trail is relatively flat during this day’s adventure as you make your way to Shahashradhara in the first part of the trek. Along the beautiful trekking routes, passing through lush greenery, you will cross a bridge over the Duk River to reach the farming terrains of Ratorunga. Continuing to follow the climbing trail, the valley narrows, and you will ultimately reach Dharapani. Today’s trek takes approximately 6-7 hours.
Day 06: Trek from Dharapani to Muri(1,800m)
Continuing the trekking momentum in the 17 Days Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, on the fourth day of your adventure, you will navigate the uphill climbing route across terraced farms, reaching the traditional Magar village of Takam. From here, the path stretches toward Sibang Village, providing stunning views of Gurja Himal and Dhaulagiri along this scenic route.
As you traverse the trail, you will also pass through Mattim Village and Phalai Gaon before descending to Gatti Khola, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the Myagdi Khola. Gatti Khola is renowned for its traditional water mill that grinds grain. After admiring this ancient craft, you will proceed along the route to reach Phalai Gaun. With majestic views of the mountains and lush green landscapes, you’ll make your way toward Dhara Khola, reaching the west bank of the Myagdi Khola. After a steep climb in the last leg, you will finally arrive at the large Magar village of Muri.
Day 07: Muri to Boghara trekking(2,080)
On Day 07 of your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Itinerary, your trekking adventure begins with a descent on steep trails, crossing some small streams. Following this, you will traverse a low pass that provides incredible views of Gustung South. Continuing through dense greenery and forest, you will descend to the west bank of the Myagdi Khola, heading towards Naura Village.
From Naura Village, the route ascends on zigzag trails, ultimately leading you to Boghara (Bagar). This day’s trek, lasting about 5 hours, will reward you with breathtaking views of Manapathi Peak, Gurja Himal, and Dhaulagiri I.
Day 08: Boghara to Dobang (2,520m)
After a hearty breakfast, your trek for the day begins by following a charming forested trail alongside the Myagdi Khola. Upon reaching Jyardan, a remote settlement, you will continue along a scenic trail, crossing a high-winding path across rocky segments to reach Lipshe. The journey progresses along an ascending trail as you head towards Lapche Kharka. Another ascending trail from here will take you all the way to Dobang. It takes approximately 5 hours to reach Dobang from Boghara as you follow an isolated route without any human settlements.
Day 09: Trekking from Dobang to Chroiban Khola(3,110m)
On Day 09 of your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, you will continue trekking alongside the densely forested area, following the course of the Myagdi Khola. Progressing along the trekking route, you will cross a wooden bridge over the Myagdi Khola and traverse pasture grazing lands. During the last leg of this day’s adventure, a steep climb awaits, and you will trek on a steep segment passing through several landslide areas until you finally reach Choriban Khola.
This day’s trek will last approximately 5 hours, and as you will be gaining significant altitude above 2,500 meters, it is recommended to take it slow and stay hydrated throughout the expedition.
Day 10: Choriban Khola to Italian Base Camp (3,660m) trek
Continuing this day’s adventure, you will ascend on a trail that passes through lush forests and scenic green landscapes. The trail then shifts toward the Chhonbarban Glacier, indicating that you have now entered the alpine environment of the Himalayan region. While the high-altitude trekking route may present some challenges, the breathtaking views of Tukuche and Dhaulagiri I along the trail will make you forget any weariness during your 17 days Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
Moving across the glacier from the right side, after a short trek, you will finally arrive at the Italian Base Camp. From this base camp, you will be able to enjoy stunning views of Dhaulagiri II, Dhaulagiri III, Dhaulagiri IV, and Tukuche.
Day 11: Acclimation and side exploration day at Italian Base Camp trek
Having ascended well above the altitude of 2,500 meters (above which there is a risk of altitude sickness), Day 11 of your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is designated as an acclimatization and exploration day. Engaging in physical activities is recommended for a more effective acclimatization process. You can embark on short hikes around the base camp, savoring the immense beauty of the Himalayan region from its base.
A popular activity among trekkers during the acclimatization day is the short hiking trail extending from the Italian Base Camp on lateral moraines to the grassy area leading to an ice cave. From here, you will enjoy close-up, spectacular views of the west face of Dhaulagiri, as well as the incredible sight of blue sheep grazing on the rocky cliffs. The overnight stay will be in tents at the base camp.
Day 12: Trekking from Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp(4,210m)
It is another day of alpine trekking in the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek 17 Days Itinerary. Traversing across steep segments and rocky trails, you will switch to routes of the glacial moraines. Continuously ascending through tricky trails with narrow and rocky segments, you will arrive at the Swiss Base Camp. The path becomes relatively easier from here. Making your way across the steep section and the lateral glacial moraine, you will finally reach the flat land covered with large rocks that stretches all the way to the Glacier Camp.
During this day’s trekking adventure, which is approximately 6-7 hours, you will witness incredible views of the Chhongardan Glacier as well as Himalayan massifs like Dhaulagiri, Manapathi Peak, Tsaurabong Peak, and Dhampus Peak.
Day 13: Glacier Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp(4,740m) trek
Finally, the main event is here! On Day 11 of your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, you will head toward the main objective of the trek: exploring the base camp and foothills of the seventh-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters). Following the inclining route, you leave the Glacier Camp behind and ascend the central moraine of the glacier, traversing the natural curves of the glacier. It is a slightly long day’s adventure, approximately 7 hours, and after trekking alongside the moraine for a few hours, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Tukuche Peak.
Continuing along the trail, the valley opens up to a wide T-junction point between Tukuche and Dhaulagiri. From here, it is a short distance hike to Dhaulagiri Base Camp. After arriving at base camp, you will enjoy spectacular views of Dhaulagiri I (8,167 meters), Dhauligiri II (7,751 meters), Dhaulagiri III (7,715 meters), and Dhaulagiri V (7,618 meters). You will also witness magnificent icefalls stretching from the northeast col at the base camp, adorned with bright colorful prayer flags.
Day 14: Second acclimatization day at Dhaulagiri Base Camp