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Stand beneath the mighty peaks of the Dhaulagiri Range on one of Nepal’s most remote and challenging adventures, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Journey through wild valleys, glaciers, and high mountain passes while experiencing authentic Himalayan culture far from crowded trails. Discover breathtaking landscapes and the raw beauty of the Himalayas on this unforgettable expedition.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a spectacular journey around Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167 m / 26,795 ft), the world’s seventh-highest peak. This remarkable trek offers an adventurous and challenging experience, taking trekkers from warm subtropical valleys to cool alpine hills covered with forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron.
The route gradually leads into high Himalayan terrain where trekkers walk across glacial moraines, ice fields, and rugged landscapes near Dhaulagiri Base Camp. One of the most exciting highlights is crossing the high French Pass, which opens into the spectacular Hidden Valley, surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan panoramas.
Located in the remote north-western Himalayas of Nepal, the Dhaulagiri Circuit remains one of the least-visited and most challenging trekking routes in the country. The trail passes through traditional farming villages and follows the upstream course of the Myagdi Khola to its source near Dhaulagiri Base Camp, offering insight into authentic rural mountain life.
Trekkers experience an incredible diversity of landscapes—from lush vegetation and terraced hillsides to barren high-altitude terrain covered with snow, glaciers, and moraines. Along the way, the trek provides stunning views of the mighty Dhaulagiri massif from several different angles.
Another major highlight is crossing the high Dhampus Pass (also known as Thapa Pass) at 5,244 m, where trekkers are rewarded with magnificent panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri Range and the neighboring Annapurna Range. This dramatic crossing marks the final high point of the adventure before descending toward the famous Kali Gandaki Valley.
Overall, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a true wilderness adventure—perfect for experienced trekkers seeking remote trails, challenging high passes, and unforgettable Himalayan scenery.
Trekking Overview
Location
Situated in the remote western Himalayas of Nepal, the trek circles the mighty Mount Dhaulagiri and passes through the wild landscapes of the Dhaulagiri Range and the Myagdi District region.
Key Elevations & Viewpoints
Top Places Along the Trek
Top Elevation / View Points
Cultural Insights
Optimal Seasons
Essential Tips
Trekking Permits
Key Viewplaces & Area Highlights
Why choose Glacier Nepal Treks highlights:
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek itinerary is carefully planned to provide a safe and rewarding high-altitude adventure while allowing proper acclimatization in one of the most remote regions of Nepal. The journey usually begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Beni, the gateway to the Dhaulagiri region. From here, the trail gradually ascends through terraced farmland, dense forests, and traditional villages inhabited by local communities such as the Magar people.
As the trek progresses, the route follows the valley of the Myagdi River, leading through remote settlements and lush landscapes before reaching the spectacular Italian Base Camp and eventually the dramatic Dhaulagiri Base Camp. Here trekkers are surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, glaciers, and massive icefalls beneath the mighty Mount Dhaulagiri. Acclimatization and rest days are often included along the route to help trekkers adjust to the high altitude before crossing the challenging mountain passes.
One of the most exciting sections of the trek is the crossing of the high French Pass, which opens into the breathtaking Hidden Valley surrounded by snow-covered peaks. The adventure continues over the scenic Dhampus Pass, offering magnificent views of both the Dhaulagiri Range and the nearby Annapurna Range.
The descent follows beautiful alpine trails toward the famous Kali Gandaki Valley, passing picturesque villages such as Marpha before concluding the journey. This well-paced itinerary combines remote wilderness trekking, glacier crossings, and authentic Himalayan culture, making the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek one of the most challenging and rewarding trekking adventures in Nepal
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by a representative from Glacier Nepal Trek and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After settling in and relaxing from your journey, you will meet your trekking guide at our office for a detailed briefing about the Everest Base Camp trek, including safety measures, equipment checks, and travel tips. You can ask questions and clarify any concerns. The rest of the day is free to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Accommodation Three-star Hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu
Meals Welcome Dinner
Max. altitude 1,350m / 4,429ft. After breakfast, you will begin your scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes approximately six to seven hours. The road winds through picturesque valleys, terraced fields, and small villages, offering glimpses of local life and the Himalayan foothills. Alternatively, you may choose a short 30-minute flight to Pokhara for a more leisurely start. Once in Pokhara, you will have free time to explore the beautiful Lakeside area, enjoy the serene Phewa Lake, and take in the tranquil environment before preparing for the trek ahead. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Accommodation Three-star Hotel in Pokhara
Max. altitude 830m / 2,723ft. After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our journey with a jeep drive toward Darbang, located about 100 km from Pokhara. The road passes through Beni, a lively town situated at the confluence of the Kali Gandaki River and Myagdi Khola. From Beni, the route follows the scenic valley alongside the Myagdi Khola, gradually heading deeper into the mountains. Along the way, we stop to visit the natural hot springs at Tatopani, a perfect place to relax before continuing the drive. After enjoying the beautiful countryside and mountain scenery, we arrive at Darbang, the gateway to the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Overnight stay at Darbang.
Accommodation Tea House / Lodge
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 1,110m / 3,642ft. The day starts after breakfast in Darbang, from where the trail follows the scenic Myagdi Khola valley. Trekkers walk through terraced fields, small villages, and lush forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. The trail gradually ascends, crossing streams and small footbridges, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Dhaulagiri Range. Midway, the path steepens, revealing more expansive vistas of snow-capped peaks and traditional hillside villages. After 6–7 hours of trekking, you reach Sibang, a peaceful Magar village perched on the hillside, ideal for rest and soaking in the Himalayan scenery. Overnight stay in Sibang.
Accommodation Tea House / Lodge
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 1,780m / 5,840ft. After breakfast in Sibang, the trek begins with a gentle descent through terraced fields, farmland, and forested hillsides. The trail follows small streams and narrow paths, offering views of the surrounding Dhaulagiri Range and distant snow-capped peaks. Along the way, trekkers pass traditional Magar villages, observing local farming practices and rural Himalayan life. The hike takes about 4–5 hours, gradually reaching Naura, a quaint village nestled in the hills. Overnight stay in Naura, enjoying the peaceful village atmosphere and scenic mountain surroundings.
Accommodation Tea House / Lodge
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 1,570m / 5,151ft. After breakfast in Naura, the trek begins with a steady ascent through terraced fields, forests of pine and rhododendron, and small rural settlements. The trail gradually climbs along the hillside, offering panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri Range and surrounding peaks. Trekkers pass traditional Magar villages, crossing small streams and footbridges along the way. The hike takes approximately 5–6 hours, leading to Dobhan, a serene high-altitude village surrounded by forests and terraced farmland. Overnight stay in Dobhan, soaking in the Himalayan scenery and experiencing local village life.
Accommodation Tea House / Lodge
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 2,520m / 8,268ft. After breakfast in Dobhan, the trek begins with a steady climb through lush forests of pine, rhododendron, and oak, gradually leaving behind the lower alpine villages. The trail follows the hillside, crossing streams and small ridges while offering panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri Range and surrounding snow-capped peaks. Trekkers pass through remote settlements and open alpine meadows, experiencing the peaceful wilderness of the western Himalayas. The hike takes approximately 5–6 hours, leading to the Italian Base Camp, located near moraine fields and glaciers at the foot of the Dhaulagiri peaks. Overnight stay at Italian Base Camp
Accommodation camping
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 3,660m / 12,008ft. Today is a rest and acclimatization day at Italian Base Camp, allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude before continuing higher on the trek. You can take short hikes around the camp to explore nearby ridges, moraine fields, and small glacial streams, enjoying stunning close-up views of the Dhaulagiri Range. This is a great opportunity to photograph the towering peaks, observe the alpine flora, and experience the serene high-altitude environment. Trekking guides may suggest light exercises or walks to aid acclimatization and prevent altitude sickness. Overnight stay at Italian Base Camp.
Accommodation camping
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 3,660m / 12,008ft. After breakfast at Italian Base Camp, the trek continues with a steady ascent through moraine fields and alpine terrain, gradually gaining altitude. The trail offers spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri Range, surrounding glaciers, and snow-capped peaks along the way. Trekkers pass scattered high-altitude camps and rocky ridges, experiencing the remote wilderness of the western Himalayas. The hike takes approximately 4–5 hours, leading to Japanese Base Camp, a scenic high-altitude camp surrounded by panoramic mountain vistas. Overnight stay at Japanese Base Camp.
Accommodation camping
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 3,890m / 12,762ft. After breakfast at Japanese Base Camp, the trek begins with a gradual climb over rocky trails, moraine ridges, and small glacial streams. The path steadily ascends, offering breathtaking close-up views of Mount Dhaulagiri and the surrounding peaks of the Dhaulagiri Range. Along the way, trekkers experience the high-altitude alpine environment, with snow patches and icy terrain becoming more frequent. The hike takes approximately 4–5 hours to reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp, a dramatic setting beneath massive glaciers and icefalls. Overnight stay at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Accommodation camping
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 4,748m / 15,577ft. After breakfast at Dhaulagiri Base Camp, the day begins with a challenging ascent toward the French Pass (5,360 m / 17,585 ft), one of the highest and most dramatic points on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. The trail traverses rocky moraine, glacial terrain, and occasional snowfields, offering stunning close-up views of Mount Dhaulagiri and surrounding Himalayan peaks. After reaching the summit of French Pass, trekkers descend carefully through high alpine ridges into the spectacular Hidden Valley (5,140 m / 16,863 ft), a serene and scenic high-altitude valley surrounded by towering mountains. The trek takes approximately 6–7 hours, with opportunities to photograph glaciers, icefalls, and panoramic vistas along the way. Overnight stay at Hidden Valley
Accommodation camping
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 5,140m / 16,864ft. After breakfast at Hidden Valley, the trek begins with a gradual descent through high alpine terrain, moraine fields, and scattered glacial streams. The trail passes open ridges and rocky slopes, offering spectacular views of Mount Dhaulagiri, surrounding peaks, and the scenic Hidden Valley itself. Trekkers often encounter grazing yaks along the way, reflecting the valley’s high-altitude pastoral lifestyle. The hike takes approximately 5–6 hours, leading to Yak Kharka, a high-altitude pasture and campsite nestled below the peaks. Overnight stay at Yak Kharka.
Accommodation camping
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 4,200m / 13,780ft. After breakfast at Yak Kharka, the trek begins with a gradual descent through alpine meadows, terraced fields, and pine and rhododendron forests. The trail offers panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri Range and surrounding peaks, passing small villages and grazing lands along the way. Trekkers follow the valley down toward the Kali Gandaki River, witnessing traditional mountain settlements and the unique landscapes of western Nepal.gradually reaching Jomsom, a bustling town and popular stop on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Accommodation Tea House / Lodge
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Max. altitude 2,743m / 8,999ft. After breakfast, enjoy a quick and scenic flight back to Pokhara. The aerial views of mountains, rivers, and valleys provide a final glimpse of Mustang’s stark beauty. Once in Pokhara, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure. You can stroll along Phewa Lake, visit the World Peace Pagoda, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil setting. This day serves as a gentle transition from the trekking environment to a more urban setting, giving your body time to rest and recover from the altitude and physical exertion.
Accommodation Three-star Hotel in Pokhara
Meals Breakfast
Max. altitude 830m / 2,723ft. Today, embark on the return drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The journey provides a final chance to enjoy Nepal’s scenic landscapes, including terraced fields, rivers, and small villages along the highway. Arrive in Kathmandu in the afternoon, check into your hotel, and spend the evening at leisure. This is a good time for souvenir shopping, visiting local markets, or enjoying a farewell dinner with the Glacier Nepal Trek team. Reflect on the trek’s highlights and experiences while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Nepal’s capital city.
Accommodation Three-star Hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu
Meals Farewell Dinner
Max. altitude 1,350m / 4,429ft. On the last day, after breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Take with you memories of the awe-inspiring landscapes, unique culture, and spiritual experiences of Mustang. The team at Glacier Nepal Trek ensures a smooth departure and is available for any last-minute assistance. Whether returning home or continuing your travels, this trek offers a lifetime of stories and photographs, from the arid mountains of Mustang to the serene temples of Muktinath and the bustling streets of Kathmandu.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most adventurous and remote high-altitude trekking journeys, circling the majestic Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167 m). Located in the wild western Himalayas of Nepal, this demanding trek offers dramatic mountain scenery, glacier crossings, and an authentic wilderness experience far from crowded trails. The route passes through traditional villages, dense forests, alpine meadows, and eventually reaches high glacier terrain at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
The trek is considered challenging to strenuous due to its remote location, long trekking days, and high mountain passes. Trekkers cross the spectacular French Pass and the scenic Dhampus Pass, both offering breathtaking panoramas of the Dhaulagiri Range and the nearby Annapurna Range. Along the way, trekkers experience diverse landscapes ranging from subtropical valleys and terraced farmland to glaciers and icy high-altitude valleys such as the beautiful Hidden Valley.
Unlike many popular treks in Nepal, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is mostly a camping-style expedition, as the remote region has limited teahouse facilities. Proper physical fitness, acclimatization, and experienced guides are essential for a safe and enjoyable journey. The best time to undertake this trek is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is stable and mountain views are clear. Necessary trekking permits are required and are usually arranged by trekking agencies to ensure a smooth expedition.
Key Points to Know
Your Start Date is the day you land in Nepal, and your End Date is when you fly home.
If the set Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek group dates don’t suit your schedule, we can offer alternative dates upon request.
Proper layering is important to stay warm and comfortable in changing mountain weather.
Good footwear makes trekking easier and safer.
The right gear keeps you safe, comfortable, and prepared.
Lightweight but important items keep you clean, healthy, and comfortable.
Keep important items safe and easy to reach.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek was one of the toughest and most rewarding trekking experiences I have ever had. This is a challenging camping trek with steep trails, remote landscapes, high passes, and incredible Himalayan scenery. Our guide, Narayan, was experienced, supportive, and always attentive to our safety and comfort. Despite the difficult terrain and long trekking days, the entire journey was very well managed by Glacier Nepal Treks. The camping arrangements, meals, logistics, and overall organization were excellent, which made a demanding adventure much easier and more enjoyable. The remote beauty of the Dhaulagiri region was absolutely spectacular, and crossing the challenging sections made reaching each destination even more satisfying. I highly recommend Glacier Nepal Treks for this amazing adventure
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $2,100 |
| 2 - 4 | $1,999 |
| 5 - 7 | $1,949 |
| 8 - 15 | $1,899 |
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $2,500 |
| 2 - 4 | $2,350 |
| 5 - 8 | $2,320 |
| 9 - 16 | $2,299 |
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $2,500 |
| 2 - 4 | $2,399 |
| 5 - 8 | $2,300 |
| 9 - 15 | $2,199 |
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