Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking in Nepal

Dhaulagiri Circuit is one of the best off-the-beaten-track areas for trekking in Nepal. Consequently, it is one of the most challenging adventures Nepal has to offer. Situated in the west of the famous Annapurna range, the winding path of the trails leads trekkers to the base of the world’s seventh-highest peak Mount Dhaulagiri (8167m).

Main attractions of Dhaulagiri Circuit trekking in Nepal

Trekkers reach the Hidden Valley behind the Dhaulagiri massif crossing Dhampus Pass and Thapa Pass. The trail leads to the town of Jomsom passing the Marpha village, which is also famously known as Apple city. This trek is perfect for those who love technical hiking challenges, as this trek includes walking over creaking glaciers and crossing a high mountain pass. You will also have an opportunity to witness the world’s deepest gorge at Kali Gandaki River.

Difficulty of Dhaulagiri Circuit trekking in Nepal

If you are not an experienced multi-day trekker, this trek can be really difficult for you. The lack of proper accommodation facilities can make the trip further ascetic. However, due to secluded long walks, this trek can also be a highly rewarding experience for true adventure seekers.

Mountains seen during Dhaulagiri circuit trek

Following the river banks of Kali Gandaki River toward the Myagadi Khola, the trek walks us through snow-covered slopes, icy glaciers, and lateral moraine. Similarly, this trekking route offers the splendid and majestic views of the Dhaulagiri massif. Also, mountain peaks above the height of 7000m, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and Gangapurna are clearly seen during the trek.

Dhaulagiri circuit trekking route

The journey starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Beni. Upon reaching Beni, trekkers head to Babachaur and trek towards Darbang.  During the trek, you can pass through densely forested trails in a typical terraced hilly setting. The isolated Magar villages in between the trails allow you to understand their culture and lifestyle. Finally, the trek reaches three base camps, which are the Italian Base Camp, Dhaulagiri Base Camp, and Japanese Base Camp.  Dhaulagiri Base Camp offers trekkers a stunning view of an icefall descending from the north-east between Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak.

Chances of altitude sickness during the trek

Due to long exhausting walks, and changing altitude, trekkers can feel some effect of acute mountain sickness during the trek. This may be characterized by shortness of breath and possible light-headedness. For trekkers, we highly recommend hiring guides and porters before embarking on this journey. Also, you should carefully plan the trekking gears, essentials, and must-haves.

Permit required

The Annapurna Conservation permit, Annapurna National park Fees (ACAP), and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) are all the necessary permits needed for trekking.

TREKKING FACTS

Max Elevation: 5360 m

Days:   17 to 20 days

Average Walk: 7 to 8 hours trek per day  

Trekking Difficulty: Very Strenuous 

Pricing:   $2800 to $3500

Best Season:   April – May and Sept – Oct

Accommodation Type:   Hotel, Tea Houses and camping

Restricted Permits:   No

Required Permits:   Annapurna Conservation permit, ACAP fees and TIMS card