Group Size
Min 2 Max 12
Duration
20 Days
Grade
Max. Altitude
5,360m/17,581ft
Activity
Trekking in Nepal
Accomodation
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Highlights
- Explore the surreal amphitheater of Dhaulagiri Base Camp, surrounded by icy and snow-capped peaks.
- Navigate Fench Pass (5,360m), a high mountain pass offering a stunning view of Mukut Himal, Tukuche Peak, and the Dhaulagiri massif.
- Explore the Chhonbardan and Dhaulagiri glaciers for a thrilling experience.
- Experience the distinct Magar and their lifestyle, language, and hospitality.
- Trek along the Myagdi Khola, surrounded by deep forested gorges.
- Witness a spectacular sunrise view over the Nilgiri and Annapurna ranges.
- Pass through the varied terrain and witness the varied flora and fauna of Annapurna Conservation Area.
Your safety is of imperative concern while travelling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
Trip Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal. Your journey begins with a flight to Tribhuvan International Airport. Upon your arrival, our representatives from Highland Expeditions will pick you up from the airport and drop you off at your hotel. In the evening, we’ll meet you at your hotel for a briefing on your trekking schedule. Have a hearty supper of your desire, and sleep tight.
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,445ft
Fly to Pokhara
Are you ready to begin your adventure? If yes, pack your backpack and get ready for your flight to Pokhara, the starting point of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Our representatives will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at Kathmandu’s domestic airport for the flight to Pokhara. Getting to Pokhara from Kathmandu takes just 25 minutes, offering an aerial view of Nepal’s central locations. As you land at Pokhara’s airport, our team member will pick you up and drop you off at the hotel. Check in to your hotel, freshen up, and explore the lakeside. Overnight and dinner are at the hotel in Pokhara.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
827m/2,714ft
Drive to Darbang and trek to Dharapani
Day three begins with a hearty morning meal at Pokhara while enjoying the scenery of Phewa Lake and Machhapuchhre Mountain. After breakfast, the journey continues with a drive to Darbang, the starting point of the Dhaulagiri trek. The drive from Pokhara to Darbang covers approximately 70km and takes 4-5 hours. As you get to Darbang, you’ll have lunch and start your trekking journey towards Dharapani. The trail ascends terraced farmlands and dense forest, offering a glimpse of rural Nepalese life. It takes 3-4 hours to get to Darbang from Dharapani. Overnight and dinner are at the tented camp fixed on Dharapani.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
3-4 hrs
Max Elevation:
1,550m/5,084ft
Trek to Muri
Wake up in the heart of the Himalayas and have your breakfast. Then, pack your backpack and proceed with your trek towards Muri from Dharapani. The trail begins by crossing the river to the west bank. Then, it ascends to Takam through a steady uphill climb via terraced fields and traditional villages. Afterwards, the trail continues towards Sibang, Mattim, and Phalai Goan before reaching Muri. The distance from Dharapani to Muri is 10km, taking 5-6 hours. Overnight and dinner at Muri.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
1,850m/6,068ft
Trek to Boghara
The fifth day begins with a morning meal at Muri. Then, trekking begins downhill on steep trails, crossing several small streams. After an initial ascent phase, trekkers ascend to a ridge and reach a low pass at an elevation of 1,607m. From the pass, the view of Ghustung South is impressive. The trail continues through the lush forests and terraced fields, descending towards the west bank of the Myagdi Khola, taking to Naura village. From there, the trail follows the ascending route on the zigzag trails and reaches the day’s destination, Boghara.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,080m/6,822ft
Trek to Dobang
Day six begins with a charming forested trail alongside the Myagdi Khola. The path leads to dense forest, where trekkers can experience the beauty of biodiversity. The trek features sections of rugged terrain, including both uphill and downhill sections, which add to the challenge. After navigating the forested and rugged terrain, the trail takes you to Dobang, where trekkers stay overnight and have their supper. It takes 6-7 hours to travel from Boghara to Dobang, covering a distance of 12 km.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,500m/8,200ft
Trek to Sallagari
After finishing your morning meal, you’ll depart from Dobang. The trail meanders through lush forests of bamboo, rhododendron, and pine, following the Myagdi River. The path opens up to the pasture, changing the landscape. The latter part of the trek involves a steep ascent through a tough section, including an area prone to landslides, requiring a careful walk. A 5-6 hour walk from Dobang takes you to Sallagari, your night stay point.
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,100m/10,168ft
Trek to the Italian Base Camp
After filling your tummy with a yummy meal at Sallagari, depart from there. The trail ascends through dense rhododendron, birch, and pine forests, offering a peaceful atmosphere. The path becomes more rugged with the involvement of uneven sections, requiring careful navigation. Along the way, there’s the possibility of spotting Langur monkeys, adding the thrill of a trek. After 6-7 hours of walking, the Sallagari trail takes you to the Italian Base Camp. The base camp is situated on the lateral moraine, providing a mesmerizing view of the Dhaulagiri range. Overnight at Italian Base Camp.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,650m/11,972ft
Acclimatization and Rest Day
As you are already at an elevation above 3000m and will continue to rise over the next few days, your body needs rest to adjust to the changing surroundings. Thus, day nine is your acclimatization day, which allows your body to adapt to the changed temperature and surroundings. The day is all yours; you can rest, explore, gossip, or write a journal. Yet, physical activities are a key to more effective acclimatization so that trekkers can go for a short hike around the Italian Base Camp during the day.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Trek to Glacier Camp
Today’s trek is quite challenging, taking trekkers from the Italian Base Camp to the Glacier Camp. As usual, the journey begins after breakfast. The day’s trek begins with an ascent of a grassy slope that leads to the edge of a glacial moraine. As you reach the moraine’s edge, the trail becomes more harsh, involving rocky and uneven terrain. After navigating the tough section, the trail leads to Swiss Base Camp, and from there, the path is relatively easier. A 6-7 hour walk from the Italian Base Camp takes you to the Glacial Camp, covering a distance of 10km.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
4,200m/13,776ft
Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Finally, the day you’ve been waiting for is here. The eleventh day of the journey takes you to your ultimate destination, Dhaulagiri Base Camp. As you leave Glacier Camp, the trail steeply ascends along the central moraine of the Chhongarden glacier. As the trek involves navigating a glacier section, trekkers should be prepared for potential crevasses and shifting ice. Moving along, the trail opens up to a wide T-junction point between Dhaulagiri and Tukuche. After approximately 7 hours of walking from Glacier Camp, you’ll get to Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Reaching the base camp of Dhaulagiri rewards you with jaw-dropping views of mountain ranges and glacier terrain. The view of Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II, Dhaulagiri III, Dhaulagiri IV, and Dhaulagiri V, along with Tukuche Peak and Little Eiger, will appeal to trekkers’ eyes, making the journey and long trekking days worthwhile. Stay overnight at the Dhaulagiri Base Camp under the mountains and the stars.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
4,700m/15,417ft
Acclimatization and Rest Day
Day 12 is another acclimatization day on the journey to the Dhaulagiri Circuit. On this day, you’ll spend acclimatization at Dhaulagiri Base Camp, the foot of the world’s seventh-highest peak, Mt Dhaulagiri. On this acclimatization day, you can take more time to soak in the beauty and surroundings of the base camp. Additionally, trekkers can do short hikes, capture the moment, walk around the glacier, rest, and prepare for the upcoming challenges on this day.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Cross the French pass trek to Hidden valley
Have your morning meal while witnessing a mesmerizing sunrise view over the Dhaulagiri massif. After breakfast, prepare yourself for the day’s demanding trek. The day involves a trek from Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley via French Pass (5,360m). The trekking trail begins with a steep ascent from Dhaulagiri Base Camp, navigating moraines and glacial paths. After some hours of steep climb, you’ll reach the top of the French Pass, from where you can get a 360° panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, including Mukut Himal, Tashi Kang, Tukuche Peak, Sita Chuchura, Thapa Peak, Dhampus Peak, and Mukut Himal.
After enjoying the view from the Pass and feeling a sense of accomplishment, continue your trail towards your day’s destination, Hidden Valley. The trail descends towards the Hidden Valley, a barren landscape surrounded by towering mountain peaks. On the day, you’ll trek for 6-7 hours. Overnight and dinner at Hidden Valley.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,360m/17,581ft
Contingency Day / Optional Ascent of Dhampus Peak
In the Hidden Valley, we’ve added a contingency day on the fourteenth day. The weather on a high-altitude trek is unpredictable, so a contingency day is helpful in case of snow, wind, or any other delays. Likewise, the contingency day gives trekkers time to recover physically after the strenuous crossing of the French Pass. Additionally, trekkers can opt for an ascent to Dhampus Peak, which takes 6-8 hours on a round trip from Hidden Valley. The view of the Dhaulagiri range, Nilgiri, Annapurna, Tukuche Peak, and Hidden Valley, all visible from Dhampus Peak, is astonishing. Overnight at Hidden Valley.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
8-9 hrs
Max Elevation:
6,012m/19,719ft
Cross Dhampus pass to Yak Kharka
The day begins after a hearty meal at Hidden Valley. The trek starts with a steady climb through rocky alpine trails and possibly snow towards Dhampus Peak. After the Pass, the trail descends to Yak Kharka, which can be tough on the knees. The trail zigzags down steep ridges and scree-covered slopes. As the trek approaches Yak Kharka, the landscape becomes greener. It takes 7-8 hours to travel from Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka via Dhampus Pass.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
7-8 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,240m/17,188ft]
Trek to Marpha
As you have achieved your key locations, you are now descending to the lower region to resume your journey. As you finish your breakfast, you’ll reach the day’s destination, Marpha, a famous village in the Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail. After walking for the last few days through a rocky landscape, you’ll enter the pine and rhododendron forests, where the Kaligandaki River complements the scenic beauty of lush greenery. A 5-6 hour trek from Yak Kharka takes you to Marpha, where you’ll have an overnight stay and dinner.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Tented Camping
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,650m/8,692ft
Drive to Pokhara
It’s time to bid farewell to the Himalayas. Have your morning meal at Marpha and get ready for the drive to Pokhara. Leaving the apple town of Marpha behind, the drive moves towards the hustle and bustle of the city area. The distance from Marpha to Pokhara is 139.1 km, and takes 7-8 hours on a dusty yet spectacular road. As you get to Pokhara, check into your hotel, freshen up, and explore the city once again. Overnight at Pokhara’s hotel.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel
Duration:
7-8 hrs
Max Elevation:
827m/2,714ft
Fly to Kathmandu
Day 18 officially marks the end of the trek to the Dhaulagiri Circuit. Enjoy your morning meal and pack your backpacks for a scenic 25-minute flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. This flight offers a bird ‘s-eye view of Nepal’s picturesque landscape. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan Domestic Airport, a member of our team will meet you and escort you to your hotel. You’ll have plenty of time on the day to visit the nearby areas. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,445ft
Free day at leisure in Kathmandu
After a hectic day in the Himalayas, you must be tired, and your body must be aching; thus, the 19 days serve as leisure days. On these days, you can rest, explore, and shop. If you still wish to utilize this day, you can request a day trip, which we will arrange on your behalf according to your preferences. Likewise, you can stroll around the Thamel area and buy gifts for your loved ones. At night, you’ll be in your hotel for a pleasant sleep.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,445ft
International Departure
The hardest moment came: We had to say goodbye to you. Depending on your flight time, our representatives will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at the airport while bidding farewell. We hope you enjoyed the trip and will remember us for your future adventure in Nepal. Safe flight.
Meals:
Breakfast
Availability
Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.
If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.
If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.
Ready to create your perfect adventure? Use our trip planner to customize your itinerary and schedule according to your preferences. We’re here to help you tailor every detail to fit your unique needs.
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Cost Inclusion
- Twin sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 3 nights with breakfast
- Twin sharing accommodation at 3-star hotel in Pokhara for 2 nights
- Freshly prepared meals (B, L, D) with boiled water, tea, coffee etc.
- Twin sharing tent for accommodation during the trek. (High-quality 3 men tent)
- Experienced local trek leader with 1:4 assistant guide to client ratio
- Full support camping crew with 1 porter for every 2 trekkers
- All camping logistical arrangements for your comfort
- All ground transportation as mentioned in the itinerary on private vehicle
- All required permits for the trek
- Internal airfare (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
- International and domestic airport transfers as per flight time
- Comprehensive first aid kit with high altitude medicine
- Supplementary oxygen system and Thuraya satellite phone for emergency purpose
- Waterproof Duffel bag and use of the sleeping bag and down Jacket
- Staff wages, equipment, insurance and allowances
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare, Nepal Visa and travel insurance
- Meals at Kathmandu
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara or on the trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason)
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities for staff
- Personal trekking gears
FAQs
1. What is the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
2. How long is the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
3. What is the cost of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
4. What makes the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek different from other treks in Nepal?
5. Do I need a special permit for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
6. Is the technical climbing section involved in the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
7. Which one is tougher between the Dhaulagiri Circuit and the Everest Base Camp trek?
8. Is it possible to combine the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with others?
9. What is the level of remoteness in the hidden valley section along the Dhaulagiri Trek?
10. Can the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek be shortened or extended?
Majestic Glimpse of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Difficulty
Dhaulagiri circuit trek or Dhaulagiri round trek is a challenging trek reaching a maximum elevation of 5360m at French Pass and a maximum overnight elevation of 5050m at the Hidden Valley. This two-week trek includes crossing two high passes above 5000m and is fully camping-based. Due to the higher elevation, it is physically challenging and involves daily trekking of approximately 6–8 hours.
The altitude-related issues (acute mountain sickness, high-altitude cerebral edema, and high-altitude pulmonary edema) make it the primary factor that makes the trek challenging. Likewise, the steep, rocky, snowy, and icy section also adds to the trek’s difficulty. In addition, the remote location, long trekking days, long trekking hours, camping accommodations, technical sections, and unpredictable weather are the other factors that make the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek difficult.
Prerequisites
No previous trekking experience is required to participate in Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, but trekkers should be moderately fit, enjoy walking, and adapt to high-altitude conditions. Trekkers who are okay with long trekking hours for longer days don’t require previous trekking experience for the trek. Likewise, those with good physical fitness, stamina, and mental resilience can smoothly complete the trek without prior trekking experience. Still, a prior trekking experience is a bonus point for a challenging journey like Dhaulagiri Circuit.
Meals
All meals are included during the trekking period (Day 02 to Day 18 Breakfast). We will provide three meals a day (B,L,D) during the trek. Since this is a full camping trek, our kitchen crew will serve freshly prepared meals during the trek. We consider hearty and delicious meals as a key component to the overall success of our trip. You can and is encouraged to bring along comfort food which you enjoy eating – chocolates, power bars, dry fruits, candies, other snacks etc.
If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know in advance and we will be sure to pass your message to your guide. For a gluten-free diet, we highly recommend you bring extra foods especially for breakfast as your options for the breakfast will be limited. In Kathmandu, only breakfast will be provided to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where what and with whom to eat for lunch and dinner.
Accommodation
Hotel: 5 Nights & Camping: 14 Nights
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, we manage a three-star hotel offering a bed and breakfast plan on a twin-sharing basis. We can also manage a single room upon your request, but at an extra cost. Likewise, if you prefer more luxurious accommodations, it is also possible, but it costs more. Yet, due to the remote location and the lack of facilities at teahouses or lodges along the trek, trekkers must stay in a tented camp throughout the expedition.
Trekking: Camping
Your accommodation during the trekking period will be fully tented camping. A tent will be provided for every 2 travellers with a foam mattress. In the case of a single, we will arrange a single tent for you by default at no additional cost. There will also be a kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs, and more for your comfort. Our trekking team will carry all of the tent equipment for your worry-free and easy journey.
Length and Terrain of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is 160-230 km (100-143 miles) long and traverses varied terrain, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes. However, the length and terrain of the trek vary depending on the chosen path and side trips. Generally, the trek that begins in Dharapani and ends in Marpha covers 160-230 km, with a daily average hike of 10-12 km.
Additionally, the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek route is known for its varied terrain. The terrain of the region varies from location to location. During the journey in the lower areas, trekkers can witness fields and lush forests of rhododendron, bamboo, and pine. In contrast, as the trek moves to higher regions, trekkers experience alpine meadows and high mountain passes. Likewise, the trek involves navigating icy, snowy, and glacier terrain, adding the thrill and challenge of the trek.
Weather and Temperature of the Dhaulagiri region
The weather and temperature in the Dhaularigi region are variable and change throughout the year. Likewise, the region features varied weather conditions due to its altitude variations. While the region experiences four distinct seasons, each with its unique weather and temperature, Spring and Autumn are the best seasons for the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek. The season offers ideal weather and temperatures, making the trek favorable due to its well-maintained trekking trail.
Here is the table that shows the weather and temperature in the Dhaulagiri region according to the season and elevation:
| Season | Weather Condition | Temperature in the Lower Region | Temperature in the Mid Region | Temperature in the Higher Region |
| Summer (June to August) | Rainy, cloudy, leeches, landslides, poor visibility | 15°C to 25°C | 0°C to 10°C | Drop below 0°C |
| Spring (March to May) | Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, stable weather | 10°C to 20°C | 0°C to 10°C | -10°C to -20°C |
| Autumn (September to November) | Dry, clear views, stable weather, cool climate | 10°C to 15°C | 0°C to 8°C | -5°C to -15°C |
| Winter (December to February) | Cold, snow in high passes, harsh, and icy sections. | 5°C to 15°C | -5°C to 5°C | -15°C to -25°C |
Major Attractions of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Dhaulagiri Base Camp is one of the significant highlights of the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek below the north face of Mount Dhaulagiri. At an impressive height of 4,750m, the base camp is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, icefalls, and glaciers, offering a mesmerizing view. Trekkers reach the base camp after a challenging trek through icy moraine and rocky terrain, making the arrival truly a rewarding experience. The view of the rising and setting sun in the Dhaulagiri massif is impressive from the Dhaulagiri Base Camp, making the location a major attraction of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
Mountain Views
The panoramic view of the mountains is undoubtedly the major attraction of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. The view of the world’s seventh-highest peak, Mount Dhaulagiri, will accompany trekkers throughout the adventure. Majestic Dhaulagiri II, III, and IV, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, Mukut Himal, Dhampus Peak, and other peaks are astonishing throughout the trek to Dhaulagiri Circuit. Moreover, high passes, hidden valleys, and the Dhaulagiri Base Camp are key locations offering the closest and clearest views of the mountains.
French and Dhampus Pass
French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240m) are the other significant milestones on the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek. The French Pass is named after the French expedition that crossed it in the 1950s. Likewise, it serves as the gateway to Hidden Valley. Dhampus Pass, or Thapa Pass, connects the Hidden Valley to Kali Gandaki Valley and serves as the final high-altitude crossing on the Dhaulagiri Circuit journey. Navigating the passes is definitely tough, but worth it due to the 360-degree panoramic view of mountains, glaciers, and the Dhaulagiri region.
Italian Base Camp
Italian Base Camp is another picturesque spot on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, at 3,660m above sea level. It is the first high-altitude spot on the route to the Dhaulagiri Circuit and an acclimatization point. The base camp offers a jaw-dropping panorama surrounded by towering peaks, snowy ridgelines, and dense rhododendron forests. The Base Camp is attractive because it showcases the transition from thick forested trails to the wide-open alpine amphitheater. Additionally, the sunrise and sunset views from the Italian Base Camp are mesmerizing.
Can the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek be done independently?
If the Dhaulagiri Circuit weren’t a restricted area, the independent trek would be possible. However, according to Nepal’s restricted area rules and regulations, trekkers must be accompanied by at least one guide and a group of two trekkers. Even if independent trekking is possible, trekking in a restricted and remote location like the Dhaulagiri Circuit is challenging and comes with many hardships, and it is not recommended.
The Dhaulagiri region lies in remote, isolated terrain where permanent settlements and accommodation points are unavailable. Thus, trekkers must stay in a tented camp, which they must carry by themselves, which is not possible in independent trekking. Likewise, the high-altitude passes and glacier crossings are the other reasons why trekkers must not trek independently in Dharlagiri, as it is tough and risky to do so. Moreover, rules and regulations regarding independent trekking are in place, with a primary focus on the safety of trekkers, which must be followed.
