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Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek is considered to be one of the toughest and most challenging treks in Nepal. This challenging trek rewards any adventurer with stunning views of the high mountains of the Annapurna range, including Dhaulagiri I (8,167m/26,794ft), the seventh highest peak in the world.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek features exploration of some of the most remote and unspoiled areas in the region, and is a great way to experience the wild un fettered beauty of the Annapurna region. The trek starts in Beni and takes you through small villages, lush forests, and high passes. You will get to experience the unique culture of the Gurung people, and explore the diverse landscapes of the region.
Along the way, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna range. The trek is suitable for experienced hikers looking for a challenge, and is best done in the spring or autumn.
Along the way of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, you’ll have the chance to spot some of Nepal’s most impressive wildlife, including snow leopards, blue sheep, and Himalayan Tahrs. You’ll also pass through traditional villages, giving you an opportunity to experience the culture and tradition of the community residing in the region. The trek is physically demanding, but the rewards are worth it—the views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges are some of the bests in Nepal.
With its stunning panoramas, vibrant culture and incredible wildlife, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have while trekking in Nepal.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, also christened as the most challenging trek in Nepal, will offer you adventure of your life time. This trek will require you to push yourself beyond your limits. This arduous trek will take you through pristine geographical region and localities unscathed by modern world. While doing Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek one can expect to get soaked in natural and cultural enigma of the region. You will get astonishing panoramic view of Mt. Dhaulagiri(8167m/26794.62feet), Dhaulagiri II, III, IV and V, Annapurna Massif, and other numerous surrounding mountains. Traversing through unspoiled traditional village of the region you will get glimpse of culture, tradition and onerous lifestyle of the people inhabiting these villages. You can also expect to observe stunning glaciers, gushing rivers, amazing geographical marvel and breathtaking landscape sculptured by glaciers, snow, river, heavy showers and mountain winds. In addition to that, you will get to encounter flora and fauna unique to the Annapurna region. Conclusively, you can expect to get to experience unparalleled adventure, natural and cultural beauty from Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging trek, it requires trekkers and adventurers to be mentally and physically prepared. So, if you are physically fit and active, have previous experience of moderately difficult high-altitude treks, want to observe the enchanting natural and cultural beauty of this part of Annapurna Region, and finally want to challenge yourself and push your boundaries by embarking on the most difficult trek of Nepal then yes Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is undoubtedly for you.
If you don’t have any previous experience of trekking in high altitude, are not physically active and haven’t ever travelled to high altitude then you might want to skip this trek. Since, trekkers will have to spend significant amount of time in higher altitude, which have less oxygen concentration in atmosphere, the chances of an unexperienced trekker getting altitude sickness is high. Also, if you have any underlying health complications then Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek might not be for you.
With Breakfree Adventure we are always on the quest to make sure that you enjoy your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek to the fullest, and while you enjoy your trek, we will deal with all the thing that might bother you.
Definitely Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is not a standard trek. This trek requires any adventurer trekker to be physically and mentally prepared.
Keeping that in mind, if you have previous experience of doing moderately difficult trek, are physically fit and active, don’t have underlying health condition, want to push your boundaries and ready to take on a challenge of trekking on the most difficult trek trail in Nepal then you can do Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking.
For any adventurer trekker embarking on this challenging trek, it is a prevailing question. Sure enough it is important that you get what you paid for if not more, nevertheless Dhaulagiri circuit trek will not disappoint any trekkers. The enthralling Mountain views of surrounding Dhaulagiri peaks, mesmerizing geographical landscapes, glaciers and exceptional culture, tradition and lifestyle that you will witness along the trek assures that you get your money’s worth. Additionally, our guide, potter and entire Breakfree Adventures will provide uncompromising service that will no give you a single chance for you to regret having spend money for your adventure of lifetime.
We at Breakfree Adventures are always in mission to make every travel and trek you do with us worth your every hard-earned penny.
As Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is considered as one of the most challenging treks, it is physically exacting. One will spend significant amount of time traversing through high altitude areas where a person is more probable of getting altitude sickness.
For anyone who is thinking of embarking in this demanding trek, he/she must be physically active and fit. A trekker must not have any underlying condition especially related to cardiovascular and pulmonary disease, which compromise the efficiency oxygen carrying capacity of blood. Also a previous experience of moderately difficult trek in high altitude is a huge plus point, or if any person has experience of living in high altitude with rarefied atmosphere then they can do this trek.
There are numerous trekking agencies operating Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Its plausible to ask, why to trek with Breakfree Adventures, what do we offer that other operators don’t? These questions need to be answered so that we make it lucid to our clients that we stand out in this competitive market.
Apart from exploration of natural wonders, cultural enigma and for adventure of lifetime, trekking with Breakfree Adventures will allow you to have stress free trekking experience. Breakfree Adventures will be dealing with arrangements and possible issues that might occur during the trek. Our diligent team of experts will make sure that you will have best trekking experience with us. Our experienced guides, cognizant with the terrain and all its adversities will address any of your queries regarding the geography, culture and trek, similarly our porter will carry your belongings safely throughout your trek making sure you possess things that you might need while on trek.
We at Breakfree Adventures are always on our marks to resolve your questions regarding the service we provide. Our responsive communication team will reach out to you as soon as possible with answers if not immediately. Breakfree Adventures has been successfully able to established as name to be reckoned with in this industry. With over 15 years of experience of satisfying clients with travel and tour service, we are more eager than ever to serve more clients. You can find us at Trip Advisor and see for yourself reviews left by our invaluable clients we have served here and decide by yourself.
Welcome to the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, the land of pure mysticism and spirituality. The capital, Kathmandu is also known as the “city of temples”, is in itself a historical and cultural chronicle which encapsulates civil evolution of people of the region.
Our representative will welcome you at the airport and chauffer you to the designated Hotel. For early arrivals, after getting fresh if interested you can explore around the city or else you can rest and relax to recover from jetlag. At evening you can go shopping for Trekking gears and other essentials at Thamel.
Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.
Today you will be mesmerized by sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage sites inside Kathmandu valley. After breakfast, our team will contact you and pick you up in a private vehicle from your hotel, and take you to explore our first heritage site.
Swayambunath Temple also known as “The Monkey Temple” is a sacred religious site for both Hindu and Buddhist. Situated at top of the hill it offers a beautiful view of the Kathmandu and nearby areas. After exploring Sawyambunath, you will be heading toward Patan Durbar Square. It features temples, palaces and monuments which once belonged to kings and ruler of the region. These monuments embody outstanding architecture and beautiful work of craftmanship.
Next site you will be exploring is Pashupatinath temple, it is holy sacred place for Hindu people all over the world, adobe of Lord Shiva. You will get to witness the faith and cultural rituals that are being carried in temple premise.
Finally, to Boudhanath, the biggest Buddhist Stupa in Kathmandu Valley. After lunch in Boudha, you will head back to the hotel. In the evening, our office staff and trek guide will come to you and will briefly explain all the necessary information about the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek you will be going to embark on the next day.
Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.
After breakfast you will get on comfortable tourist bus, which will take you to Beni. The highway to Beni stretches to 251 km and the journey takes about 9 hours. If you intend to skip the long highway travel then upon your request, we can arrange you a flight which will cost you additional prices.
On the scenic drive you will catch sight of geographical wonders of hilly ridges, roaring rivers and glimpses of mountain vistas. You will be traveling mostly in Prithivi Highway on your way to Beni, after several rest breaks and lunch break you will reach Beni. You will be checked in at a Hotel where you will spend your night.
Overnight at hotel at Beni.
After the early breakfast we will commence our Dhaulagiri trekking. We will advance our footsteps, following the Myagdi Khola (river) and passing through several small villages, across suspension bridges, and through terraced fields. En route we can witness local life and explore the natural wonder of the area comprising trail sauntering to Babiachaur. We will check in at a hotel in Babiachaur where we will spend our night.
Overnight at lodge at Babiachaur.
After breakfast we will continue to amble on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek trail. The day hike today is from Babiachaur to Dharapani is an exciting and challenging trek. Trekking this section in Dhaulagiri trekking takes around 6 hours to complete. The trail winds through numerous villages and terraced fields, offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Along the way, trekkers will pass through lush forests, waterfalls, and traditional settlements. The trek also passes through the villages of Jagat, Tatopani, Kharka, and Chame before finally reaching Dharapani where we will be spending our night.
Overnight at lodge at Dharapani.
We will today start the trek passing along more villages until reaching Muri. Muri village is inhabited by Magar community. You can witness the culture, tradition and lifestyle of people of Magar community. Further the trial will cross a river again and ascends through forests to reach a ridge above. You will cross more rivers through suspension bridge and after another bit of a climb will reach Muri situated on a ridge. We will spend the night at Muri village.
Overnight at lodge at Muri.
Muri to Boghara is an approximately 12-kilometer journey. After having breakfast, we will start descending through zigzag path crossing small stream and following the trail. The trek will cross over a low pass from where you get a great view of Mt Ghustung South. The trail passes through pine and oak forests, walking along the Myagdi Khola. After marching in the trail for few hours we will finally arrive at Boghara. From Boghara enjoy mountain panorama of peaks like Dhaulagiri I and Gurja Himal, to name just two of the numerous mountains you can spot.
Overnight at lodge at Boghara.
The trek from Boghara to Dobang is a challenging one, and requires expertise of experienced guide to instruct through the trail. It covers a distance of approximately 16.7 km and takes around 5 hours to complete. The trek follows a rugged trail through thick forests, meadows and villages. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The trek culminates at Dobang, a beautiful village situated at the base of the Himalayas.
Overnight at teahouse at Dobang
From Dobang, we will follow the rail that leads to Choriban Khola. The trail is a bit rough and narrow but it is passable. As we start to gain elevation the vegetation starts to get sparse and distinct with oak and rhododendron trees. The trial goes through forests and along the Myagdi Khola until you reach the banks of the Choriban Khola.
Overnight at Choriban Khola.
After morning breakfast, we will resume our journey on the Dhaulagiri circuit trail. Today’s hike will take us to Italian base camp with elevation gain of more than 500 meters or 1,640 feet. The trek to Italian Base Camp from Choriban Khola is a challenging trek which rewards us with stunning view of mountain and lush forest of Dhaulagiri circuit trek trail. The trek starts from Choriban Khola, a small village in the Annapurna region. From here, you will trek up through lush green forests, and past several traditional villages and terraced fields
The trek continues through some of the most remote areas of the Annapurna region, where you will cross several streams and suspension bridges. As you trek further, you will pass through several villages and settlements, such as Thulobharkha, Chyamche, and Thamakoshi. As we approach elevation higher than treeline the vegetation gets sparse and temperature starts to lower. You will also get to enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna range and the Dhaulagiri range as you trek.
You will finally reach Italian Base Camp, which is located at an altitude of (3,660m/12,007ft). From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, Tukuche etc and the surrounding landscape which will make you forget your exhaustion.
Overnight at Italian Base Camp.
Acclimatization days are important. At Italian Base Camp, you will spend an acclimatization day adjusting to the altitude and environment before further ascent. During this time, you will rest, eat, hydrate, and prepare for their journey. The day usually begins with a light breakfast followed by a leisurely walk around the base camp and its surroundings. During this time, you should take advantage of the opportunity to take pictures and observe the stunning views. After lunch, you will typically take a nap or engage in light physical activities such as stretching or yoga.
Overnight at Italian Base Camp.
The day’s hike is going to be a treacherous one. We will be gaining significant elevation, reaching above treeline. The vegetation will start to disappear, leaving only small shrubs and bushes. The trail consists of steeps segments, with rocky section. We will be continuously ascending through difficulty trail with narrow path with rocky segments. We will follow the trail along the lateral moraine constructed by glacial movement occurring from several thousand years back. The day’s hike will take around 6-7 hours with rest breaks in between.
After arduous ascend through cold temperature and harsh rocky trail we will reach Glacier Camp. The demanding day’s hike will award us with stunning view of Dhaulagiri I, Manapathi Peak, Tsaurabong, Dhampus Peak and many more.
Overnight at Glacier Camp.
The trek from Glacier Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp is a challenging but rewarding adventure. The trek begins with a steep climb up the north face of Dhaulagiri, with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. After the initial ascent, the route follows the glacier for most of the way, with occasional sections of scrambling and rock climbing. The trek culminates in a spectacular view from the base camp of the world’s seventh highest mountain Dhaulagiri Mountain; Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
The trek can be done in roughly 7 hours, depending on your pace and the weather. The terrain is mostly through glacier and snow and can be slippery, so it is important to have proper equipment, such as crampons and ice axes, and to be comfortable on steep terrain. The trail is also very exposed, and can be dangerous in bad weather, so it is important to take extra precautions.
The trek is an excellent opportunity to experience a remote and untouched wilderness, and to witness the beauty of the Himalayas. The views of the surrounding summits are breathtaking, and the chance to camp near the base of Dhaulagiri is an experience that is not to be missed.
Overnight at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Today is planned for acclimatization at this high altitude so as to let your bodies acclimatize further. The Dhaulagiri range can be spotted in all its glory. It’s a great location to take a rest and click some stunning photographs.
Today the goal is to reach the highest point of this trek. Trek from Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley via French Pass is the hardest and most difficult section of the trek reaching the apogee of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. The French Pass is 5,360m/17,585ft high which is challenging and on its own a feat of your physical endurance and capabilities. But the rewards are well worth it; the spectacular panorama of snow-capped peaks like Tukuche Peak, Tashi Kang and Dhaulagiri I, to name just a few. Descending down from the pass you reach a grassy meadow where you spend overnight at the Hidden Valley.
Overnight at Hidden Valley.
Descend down from the Hidden Valley and head towards Dhampus Pass (5,200m/17,060ft). The views from this pass are equally remarkable with great panorama of lakes and glaciers spread before you, while mountains surround you. You will descend down crossing mountain ridges and following the rocky and narrow path. Slowly descending we will reach Yak Kharka where we will spend the night.
Overnight at lodge at Yak Kharka.
The descend continues today as well. We will lose significant elevation, reaching Marpha at 2,670 meters or 8,759 feet. Following the zigzag downhill trail, we will slowly descend, as we descend and enter treeline altitude we start to encounter vegetation mostly of pines and rhododendrons as we walk towards Marpha. Marpha is popular for both its beautiful monastery and apple orchards.
Marpha is located on the banks of the Kaligandaki River with its distinct traditional appearance heavily influenced by Tibetan Culture. Enjoy exploring and photographing Marpha. Apples grown in Marpha are turned into Marpha Brandy – another popular product which you might like to enjoy with dinner!
Overnight at lodge at Marpha.
After breakfast, we will drive to Pokhara from Marpha which takes about 7-hour drive. We will follow the road along the Kaligandaki River, observing the beautiful view of surrounding landscapes and visible mountains. After a long drive of 7hrs along the bumpy road we will crash at booked hotel for you to rest and relax.
Optionally if you want to get to Pokhara by air after your arduous trek then you can get on the flight to Pokhara which is a 40 min flight. If you intend to fly to Pokhara we request our clients to inform us at the beginning of the trek so that we can make arrangements.
Overnight at hotel at Pokhara.
Drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus or private vehicle tracing the same route back to Kathmandu and enjoying the sceneries along the way. You can also take a flight and avoid unnecessary traffic jam that you might encounter while on the road. At Kathmandu check-in at hotel. In the evening, we will host you for a farewell dinner at one of the authentic Nepali restaurants with the staff of the company.
Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.
Depending upon your flight time you will be dropped off at the International Airport three hours prior your departure for check in formalities. Our representative will be there assisting you, bidding you farewell and wishing you a safe flight back home as you head back towards your homeland with unforgettable experience and tons of memories you made while exploring the untouched Himalayan gem.
At Breakfree Adventures we are always seeking ways to improve travel and trekking experiences of our clients as we wish to provide best service in an unbeatable price.
All our hands are on deck to make your travel and trekking in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan an experience to last lifetime. You are a call/email away from booking a The Best Holiday with us.
The itinerary mentioned and explained above is a standard itinerary. Depending upon your requirements and need we can tweak things here and there to either shorten or lengthen the duration of your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Please inquire us at: [email protected] or call at +977-9851014557 for more information regarding Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
We also operated private trips.
No matter what season you are embarking in the trekking of Dhaulagiri region, it is going to be cold. The highest point of the trek, French Pass (5,360m/17,585ft) and hidden valley is at high altitude and you will be spending two whole day and one night at such high altitude. So packing list can be quite extensive, as you have to pack all the right equipment and clothes to keep you warm during day and night.
Packing list can make or break the Trek. It heavily influences how enjoyable and adventurous the trek was. So, it is necessary to have a good idea about what to pack depending upon the time of the year a person is doing the trek. Having extensive goods included in your packing list can make your bag pack cumbersome, whereas packing minimally excluding indispensable things can make the trek even worse. Using our decades of experience operating high altitude trek expedition we have curated a packing list best for Langtang Valley Trek which ensures optimum trekking experience.
Upper body
Lower Body
Head
Feet and Hands
Toiletries
Equipment
Electronic Devices
Including above mentioned goods will ensure that your bag pack is not cumbersome and consist thing that are essential for a good trek.
Click here to know more about packing list for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
Temperature varies from month to month during Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek but it is sure that the it will always be cold at higher altitude i.e. above 4,500 meters or 14,763 feet. The temperature during winter season at higher elevation can reach several Celsius degree below freezing point. During summer and other seasons besides winter the temperature at higher altitude is going to be around 5°C to 15 °C but during night it is going to be below freezing point because of its close proximity to mountain and high altitude. The temperature at lower elevation part of the trek is as follow:
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is considered as the most difficult trek in Nepal. There isn’t any settlement or tea houses after you ascend from Italian base camp, you will be camping in Glacier Camp and Hidden Valley. These two nights and 3 days you will have to spend your nights in camping tent inside your sleeping bag. You will be spending 2 days and 1 night in altitude above 5,000 meters or 16,404 feet, which is more than any other treks done in Nepal. Because of this it is physically very taxing and strenuous, chance of one getting altitude sickness because of rarefied atmosphere is high. If you are looking for comfort then it might not be the best choice for you. The teahouse and tourist establishments till Italian Base Camp are of a lower standard than in other trek regions but personal hygiene and cleanliness is not compromised. The hard and challenging trek does not hesitate to reward the adventurer. The hidden valley of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the most beautiful landmarks that any trekker can witness, with 360o panoramic view of Dhaulagiri Range, Tobuche, Dhampus peak and surrounding mountain peaks it is nothing sort of land of magical fiction stories. You will get the taste of unparalleled adventure while in trek, pushing your physical boundaries.
Trekking to such high altitude brings high chances of altitude sickness due to rarefied atmosphere. But our itinerary curated by industry leading guides and professionals comprises several acclimatization days that should make the trek less challenging.
If you intend to do Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek we require you to have a proper idea of trekking in higher elevation, active and sound physical fitness, a previous trekking experience of at least moderately difficult trek and no underlying health condition specially related to cardiovascular and pulmonary disease.
The best season for Dhaulagiri circuit trekking is during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). During these seasons the weather is likely to be at its finest and the temperatures are good for trekking (particularly at low and mid-elevations). We recommend you to not trek during winter as in higher elevation there will be heavy snowfall, the occurrence of avalanches is high, trail will be covered with snow 1-2 foot deep, passes might be blocked by heavy snowfall, the rocky path can be slippery due to ice formation and extreme cold with temperatures several degree Celsius below zero during night. If you are looking for other remote and off-the-beaten-path treks then opting for Makalu Base Camp trek is a good idea.
The permits required while doing Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek are:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit will cost around $20 USD per person, and TIMS will cost you $10 USD. Cost of both of these permits are covered when you book Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek package with Breakfree Adventures.
All foreigners, besides Indians, require a visa to enter Nepal. Visa is to be had on arrival at the Tribhuvan global airport in Kathmandu, and you may increase your visa on the valuable immigration office. Click here to know more about tourist visa in Nepal.
The visa application would require a passport legitimate for at the least 6- months and a passport-length photograph. The present-day visa rate costs USD30 for 15 days, which you need to pay in cash (Please bring the exact change USD30 per person) on arrival at Tribhuvan international Airport. Citizens of China and the SAARC nations will acquire a loose visa.
A few countries – Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan- may not get hold of an on-arrival visa. In case you are from those international locations, you should contact your local Nepalese embassy.
While operating challenging high altitude treks our first and foremost priority is Trekkers’ safety and we Breakfree Adventures put safety of our clients even before anything.
Our guides and potters are cognizant with the challenges and adversities of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trail. Our guides and potters well trained and tutored with proceedings to follow in case of any inauspicious happenings during the trail. Our guides will be measuring the blood oxygen level of the trekkers with oximeter regularly in order to detect early signs of altitude sickness. Also, there will be acclimatization days which obviate the chances of altitude sickness by allowing body adapt to rarefied atmosphere. In addition to that locals are very hospitable and friendly, and cases of assault, robbery and stealing on the trail is unheard of. We request our clients to not offend the culture, religion and lifestyle of natives to avoid confrontation. Sure, this is a perilous trek but we take no chances on our client’s safety, until it’s all green light no one is crossing the road. With Breakfree Adventure, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is as safe as it could get.
Insurance is mandatory for anyone doing high altitude trek. In case of emergency, insurance covers the cost for evacuation via helicopter and its better be safe than sorry. We Breakfree Adventures can help trekkers choose the ideal insurance for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
Nepal Tourism Board have made it mandatory for trekkers to have a licensed guide with them throughout the trek while doing high risk strenuous trek, which also includes Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. However, hiring a potter or is a personal choice. Our standard Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek provides Potter service but if you are okay carrying your own stuffs then you don’t need to hire a potter and it will also reduce the cost of the trek. Our guides all have comprehensive knowledge of the trail and very apt with communication skills that can understand needs and issues of even the most reticent person. They are familiar with all subtleties and nuances of the trail and are prudent when it comes to facing such difficult situations.
Similarly, our potters, simply put, are super humans. Even we cannot fathom their resilience, strength and stamina. In places where a person needs to pant on every few steps our potters can carry your goods and reach destination faster than any trekkers. They are just indefatigable physically and mentally. However, if you consider yourself strong enough to carry your own bag then you are more than welcome.
Breakfree Adventures provide both experienced guides and indefatigable potters with standard Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek package.
After completing the trek, you may join other extra adventure activities for one day or more. There are numerous stunning and adventurous places in Nepal. You may spend your extras days in Kathmandu various approaches, which includes, Everest Mountain flight, Everest Base Camp Heli Tour, Bhaktapur and Nagarkot day trip, Chitwan Jungle Safaris, 2 nights 3 days Chitwan jungle safari, Chitwan Luxury Tour , Trishuli River Rafting before flying back home.