Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Name: Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Brand: Highland Expeditions
SKU: HL24423
Price: 2999 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (10 reviews)

Classic Himalayan adventure in western Nepal

Group Size

Min 2 Max 12

Duration

20 Days

Grade

Challenging

Max. Altitude

5,360m/17,581ft

Activity

Trekking in Nepal

Meals Included

All Meals

Accomodation

Hotel/Camping

All inclusive cost

From USD 2,999

Durations
20 Days

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Trip Overview

Highlights

Round Dhaulagiri trek with an optional ascent of Dhampus peak
A spectacular high alpine landscape and remote lifestyle
Journey to the far-flung and unspoilt western Nepal
Fully guided and supported camping trek

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, also known as Dhaulagiri Round Trek, is a classic expedition-style trek around the world’s seventh highest peak, Dhaulagiri 8167m and its broad massif of 7000m peaks.

Dhaulagiri Circuit is a challenging trek in the western part of Nepal, offering full adventure and off the beaten path experience in the remote and unspoilt region of Nepal. Dhaulagiri circuit trek itinerary travels through serene, isolated regions full of natural beauty, crossing through highlands and high passes with astonishing viewpoints. The route offers constant mountains views while passing through remote villages and astonishing landscape including several high passes, dense forests and glaciers.

Our 20 days Dhaulagiri circuit trek is a fully guided and supported trek with camping accommodation throughout the trek. Our journey to Dhaulagiri round trek starts with a short flight to Pokhara and then followed by an off-road drive to Darbang the next day. Our actual trek commences from Darbang as we follow the well-paced itinerary which we have meticulously devised keeping every important aspect in mind.

Itinerary Overview

The two weeks trek around Dhaulagiri begins by following the newly identified trekking route along scenic rivers and tumbling waterfalls, and terraced fields surrounding picturesque villages with people following a rural lifestyle. As we ascend leaving the human inhabitance away, the views get more and more exhilarating. Mesmerizing landscape views come into the screen as we reach the Italian base camp, west of Dhaulagiri. Camping overnight at the actual glacier at the Glacier base camp/Japanese camp gives you the sense of being right in the heart of the Himalaya and then we reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp where we are face to face with the high peaks.

Two important rest days at the Italian base camp and the Dhaulagiri base camp have been kept in the itinerary to ensure proper acclimatization. Our itinerary also includes a contingency day, which can be used in case you wish to climb Dhampus peak 6012m.

Another major highlight of this trek is the high passes. From Dhaulagiri base camp, the route traverses French Pass and into the serene Hidden Valley, an isolated region in the middle of the Himalaya. The route makes a traverse of one more pass, Dhampus pass and descends to the Annapurna Circuit. The last section follows along the Annapurna Circuit Trek route. We then finish the journey off by taking a drive to Pokhara.

Is this trek for you?

Dhaulagiri circuit trek or Dhaulagiri round trek is a challenging trek reaching up to a maximum elevation of 5360m at French pass and a maximum overnight elevation of 5050m at the Hidden Valley. This two weeks trek includes crossing two high passes above 5000m and is a fully camping based trek. Physically challenging due to the higher elevation, involves daily trekking of approximately 6–8 hours. No previous trekking experience is required but you should be moderately fit and must enjoy walking and adaptable to high altitude conditions.

Trek Map

Important Note::

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.

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

1,350m/4,445ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

827m/2,714ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

3-4 hrs

Max Elevation:

1,550m/5,084ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

1,850m/6,068ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

2,080m/6,822ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

2,500m/8,200ft

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,100m/10,168ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

3,650m/11,972ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

4,200m/13,776ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

4,700m/15,417ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

6-7 hrs

Max Elevation:

5,360m/17,581ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

8-9 hrs

Max Elevation:

6,012m/19,719ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

7-8 hrs

Max Elevation:

5,240m/17,188ft]

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Tented Camping

Duration:

5-6 hrs

Max Elevation:

2,650m/8,692ft

Meals:

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel

Duration:

7-8 hrs

Max Elevation:

827m/2,714ft

Meals:

Breakfast

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

1,350m/4,445ft

Meals:

Breakfast

Accommodation:

Hotel

Max Elevation:

1,350m/4,445ft

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.

Have a big group? We’re here to assist! Contact us to discuss availability and group pricing options.

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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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

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

Difficulty

Prerequisites

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

Kathmandu: Kathmandu Guest House:
In Kathmandu, we stay at Kathmandu Guest House, a well-known hotel where many famous celebrities like Beatles, Ricky Martin, Jeremy Irons, and others have stayed. Centrally located in Thamel, the hotel also boasts of a beautiful garden where you can relax and enjoy the greenery. Breakfast will be provided in the hotel and your accommodation will be on a twin sharing basis and if you would like to have a single room, upon request you are required to pay a single supplement price as stated in the trip costing. If in case of a single by default, we will arrange a single tent for you at no additional cost.

Regardless of whether you’re coming back from the mountains or touching base from the airport, come and unwind at the hotel beautiful garden, request some fine Italian espresso or a chilled Beer, and escape in the memorable surroundings of Kathmandu’s most adored guesthouse.

Pokhara: 3-star hotel

In Pokhara, your accommodation will be at a 3-star hotel located in the lakeside area. Your accommodation will be on a twin sharing basis and if you would like to have a single room, upon request you are required to pay a single supplement price as stated in the trip costing. If in case of a single by default, we will arrange a single tent for you at no additional cost.

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. If in case of a single by default, we will arrange a single tent for you at no additional cost. There will also be a kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs and more for your comfort.

Best season

The best seasons to trek the Dhaulagiri circuit are Autumn (from October till November) and Spring (April until May). The weather during these months tends to be clear and nice allowing us to enjoy the trekking to the fullest. Since this trip includes high mountain passes exceeding 5000m and remote location, we strictly do not recommend going during poor weather conditions.

Temperatures will drop considerably as you ascend higher every day. The nights are cold (between -10C to 5C) and the days are sunny and hot (between 10C to 20C). Mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up in the afternoon and disappearing at night.

Guides

We possess a deep passion for alpine adventure & the outdoors, and with the small professional group we have on board, we’ve notched up experience that spans almost 3 decades on some of the most isolated trails and highest peaks.

We take great pride in calling ourselves a ‘high-altitude adventure specialist’ and all this is due to our diverse and qualified team of guides. Most of our guides were born in the Himalayan regions of Nepal & have relatives living in other parts of the regions where they were born in. We know that locally born staffs are a vital cog in that wheel of sometimes dangerous adventure where anything can happen.

Group size

Our emphasis is always on maintaining the small group so that it will be easy to coordinate and cooperate with each other. Our group size is small and we only take up to 12 pax in one group. If you opt to join our ‘fixed departure trip’, you are likely to be joining people from different countries of any age group except minors. The size of the group varies, the minimum no of persons required to operate a trip is 2 the maximum is 12 people.

Travel Insurance

It’s mandatory and highly recommended to get travel insurance before embarking on any adventurous trips in Nepal. We advise all our clients to get travel insurance that covers up emergency helicopter evacuation that may be needed in case of the occurrence of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) or any other reasons in high altitudes where there are no other means of transportation available. It is advisable to review carefully the insurance and its coverages before making the final decision. Carry proof of your insurance with you on the holiday and leave a copy next to your kin. You must ensure that your insurance provides an adequate level of protection and covers you for the activities involved.

More information: Travel Insurance

Drinking water

We provide boiled water for drinking purpose on all our treks and climbs. During mealtime, you can ask the boys to fill the hot water for you. We strongly discourage the use of single-use plastic bottles such as mineral water on all our trips. Carrying a hot water bottle is highly recommended.

Safety measures

Safety is always a priority while travelling with Highland Expeditions. Our Dhaulagiri circuit trek itinerary is devised keeping every aspect in mind, allowing proper acclimatization, rest days, and walking hours. On all our high altitude treks including the Dhaulagiri circuit trek, we send a supplementary oxygen system, satellite phone and a comprehensive medical kit be it a group of 2 or 12 for an emergency purpose. Besides, we also have a high staff to client ratio on all our treks.

Typical day on trek

Daily wake up calls will be between 6.00 am to 7.00 am while on the trek. The wake-up time and breakfast time will be decided the night before during the briefing time. The time table for each day will entirely depend on your walking duration for that particular day.

Tea will be served at your tent as a wake-up call. After a hearty breakfast, we set off on the day’s walk. Before breakfast, you are required to pack your duffel bag as it will be loaded by the porter while you are having your breakfast. After 3-4 hours of walk, we stop for lunch mid-day. The afternoon’s walk is generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea. On some days, we will arrive at our destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and reliving the day’s adventures, before heading off to bed for a well-earned sleep.

Will I have to carry my own stuff?

You will only carry your day pack carrying the essential items (Water, Cameras, Extra Fleece, Rain jacket, Sunscreen, Snacks, Valuable Items etc.) that you may need during the walk. Rest of your stuff will be carried by the porter. We provide 1 porter to every 2 participants and we also provide a duffel bag to put your trekking gears.

Equipment list

The gears listed below are required for this trek. We encourage you to get all equipment listed below and kindly ensure you check and try every equipment. You can also buy or hire the same in Kathmandu as they are available in the many trekking shops from branded to local manufacturers in Kathmandu.

Head:
– Warm Hat and Bandana/Scarf
– Baseball cap
– Thermal Balaclava
– Sunglasses with UV protection
– Headlight with spare batteries

Upper Body:
– Long-sleeved shirts
– T-Shirts
– Baselayers
– Warm Jackets/Sweater/Pullover
– Waterproof GoreTex Jacket
– Down Jacket with hood (800m fill)
– Primaloft or light down jacket

Lower Body:
– Thermal
– Inner-wears / Baselayers
– Undergarments
– Waterproof Gore-Tex pant
– Trekking Trousers/Pants
– Down or Primaloft pant

Feet:
– Warm socks (4 pair thin socks and 4 pair thick socks)
– Trekking Boots (Preferably full to protect/support your ankle)
– Camp Shoes
– Gaiters
– Down shoes (Optional)
– Flipflop

Hands
– Liner Gloves
– Primaloft Mitten
– Down Mitten

Others:
– Sleeping bag
– Backpack 40-50 litres
– A pair of trekking poles
– Water bottle one (1) litre X 2
– Multi-tool knife
– Inflatable sleeping mattress (For additional comfort)
– Laundry bag to keep dirty clothes
– Large plastic bags to keep the clothes dry
– Padlock
– Sewing kit
– Duct tape
– Reading materials notebooks and pens
– Extra clothes to wear in Kathmandu when you come back from the trek.
– Camera with charger or spare batteries

Documents:
– Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion
– 4 copies of passport size photos for permits and official formalities
– Travel Insurance (Please refer to the general information page for more detail about it)
– Flight tickets
– Credit cards in case of emergencies
– Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport.

(Please carry the photocopy of all the documents along with you and leave a copy to next of kin)

Toiletries and hygiene
– Quick-drying towel
– Small face towel
– Toothbrush &Toothpaste
– Deodorants, Soap and Shampoo (Smaller bottle)
– Face and body moisturizer, Sunscreen and lip balm
– Hand sanitiser/Antiseptic wipes
– Hygiene products
– Basic first aid kit

Climbing equipment (For Dhampus Peak)
– Climbing helmet
– Harness
– Mountaineering boots (Lightweight and comfortable size)
– Ascender/Jumar (Large handle)
– Descender
– Carabiners (4 screw gate and 4 snap gate)
– Prussik cord X 2
– Slings X 2
– Ice Axe
– Steel crampons

Additional Information

Other information such as (Insurance, Arrival Instructions, Visa and Passport, etc) required for the trip will be provided after your trip confirmation. Please get in touch with us via email/phone to get more information about the trip.