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Trip Overview
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging and remote trekking route that takes you around the Dhaulagiri massif in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek offers breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Dhaulagiri I, the seventh-highest mountain in the world at 8,167 meters. The best time to undertake this trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is mild and the skies are clear, offering the best views and trekking conditions. It's important to note that you will need to obtain the necessary permits, such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card, before starting the trek.
The trek typically starts from Beni or Darbang and follows a trail that winds through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes. But it's not just about the scenery. Along the way, you will encounter traditional villages inhabited by different ethnic groups, such as Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis. This unique cultural immersion allows you to experience their daily lives and traditions, taste their local cuisine, and truly understand the rich cultural heritage of this region, adding a whole new dimension to your trekking experience.
One of the highlights of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is crossing the French Pass at 5,360 meters, offering not just views, but a breathtaking panorama of the Dhaulagiri massif and surrounding peaks. The trek also takes you through the hidden valley of the Kali Gandaki River, a place of such unique landscapes and serene beauty that it will leave you in awe and inspire a deep appreciation for the natural world.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a remote and less-traveled route, offering an authentic wilderness experience away from the crowds. Due to the high altitude and rugged terrain, the trek is challenging and requires good fitness and acclimatization. Regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises, such as hiking, running, and weightlifting, are recommended to prepare your body for the physical demands of the trek. However, the effort is well worth it, as you will be rewarded with stunning views, untouched landscapes, and a profound sense of accomplishment that only a challenging trek like this can provide.
Highlights of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Enjoy stunning mountain views, including the 7th highest mountain in the world – Dhaulagiri.
- Experience crossing two high passes.
- Camp in the Hidden Valley at 5,200 m / 17,060 ft.
- Feel like an early explorer in this remote area.
- Pass through different landscapes, from forests and rivers to glaciers and snow.
- Witness how people live in remote settlements.
- Challenge your body with the trek.
- Camp under the stars and mountains in the wilderness of Nepal.
- Visit the village of Marpha, renowned for its apples and apple brandy.
- Relax in the lakeside town of Pokhara at the end of the trek.
Itinerary
Cost Include
- Airport Arrivals and departure transport by car (We will collect you from the Kathmandu international airport) and transfer to Hotel.
- Half-day sightseeing in Kathmandu (Boudhanath and Pasupatinath) with city guide and necessary transport.
- 3 nights’ accommodation (2 persons per room) in Kathmandu and 2 Nights in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Jomsom to Pokhara one way domestic flight ticket.
- All land transportations (a private car/bus)
- Full Camping trek with all meals and hot drinks during the trek serve by Cook and staff. Tented accommodation with dining, table, chairs, toilet tent, and shower tent. Salary,
- insurance, food, accommodation for guides, and porters. Supporters’ staff, cook, porters.
- All required permits for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek and national park entry permits.
- Group First Aid Kit.
Cost Exclude
- Meals & drinks during the trek and in Kathmandu (unless stated otherwise under ‘The trip cost includes’)
- Personal trekking equipment
- Travel/medical insurance
- Emergency rescue evacuation
- Phone calls
- Internet
- International air ticket
- Tips for your trekking guide & porters at the end of the trek
- If you’re forced to extend your trek due to bad weather or natural disaster circumstances, we are not liable to pay any compensation or otherwise be responsible for any
- expenses you may incur
- Anything not mentioned in the ‘includes section’
- Nepal entry visa Fee.
Equipment list for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
This checklist is designed to help you prepare for a trekking holiday in Nepal, with additional notes for those attempting to summit a trekking peak. It's reassuring to know that high-quality gear, including outdoor clothing and sleeping bags, can be conveniently rented in Kathmandu.
Most treks will be in lodges or teahouses, which offer basic rooms with two single beds and mattresses. These lodges, with their cozy rooms and provided blankets, ensure a comfortable stay, making your trek a more enjoyable experience. A good-quality three-season sleeping bag should suffice. However, for trekking peaks, you'll generally set up base camp with tents, necessitating a warmer sleeping bag, a liner to enhance its warmth, and a sleeping mattress.
| TRAVEL DOCUMENTS | HEAD |
| Debit/Credit Cards | Sun Cap |
| PP Size Photo (2 Pieces) | Fleece Hat/ Warm Hat (1-2 Pcs) |
| Insurance Paper And Contact Address. | Neck Gaiter (2 Pcs) |
| Family Members / Company’s Contact | Head Lamp with extra batteries |
| Address | Sun Glasses (UV Protection) |
| Travel Insurance | Balaclava |
| HANDS AND FEET | UPPER BODY |
| Light Liner & Down Gloves | Thermal Top Base Layer (2 Pcs) |
| Normal Socks (5-6 Pairs) | Fleece Jacket (1 Pcs) |
| Trekking Shoes | Gore Tex Jacket (1 Pcs) |
| Slipper (1 Pair) | Down Jacket (1 Pcs) |
| Camp Shoes | Quick Dry T-Shirt (2 Pcs) |
| Hiking Boot with ankle support | Wind breaker/Windproof Jacket |
| LOWER BODY | PERSONAL EQUIPMENT |
| Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 Pcs) | Down Sleeping Bag -10°C to -20°C |
| Fleece Trouser (1pcs) | Headlamp (Rechargeable Batteries) |
| Gore Tex Pant (1 pcs) | Trekking Pole |
| Light Weight Quick Dry Trekking Pants(2-3 Pairs) | Rucksacks 35L - 45L/Day Bag |
| Gaiters for trekking boots | Rain Pancho & Umbrella |
| Under Wear (4 pcs) | Powerbank |
| EATING & DRINKING | TOILETRIES |
| Energy Bar | Hand Disinfectant |
| Snacks | Wet Tissue |
| Water Bottle | Tooth Paste & Tooth Brush |
| Thermos | Soap & Shampoo |
| MEDICAL/FIRST AID | MISCELLANEOUS |
| Severe Pain Killer (Flexon) | Lip Balm |
| Mild Pain Killer (Paracetamol) | Sunscreen |
| Throat Lozengen (Strepsils) | Moisturizer |
| Lubricating Eye Drop (Artificial Tear) | Quick Dry Towel |
| Antacid Tab | Trails Maps |
| Electrolyte Tab | Trekking Poles |
| Handy Plast | Sun Cream (30-50 Spf) |
| Blister Blast | Lip Guard (30-50 Spf) |
| Crep Bandage (Elastic Bandage) | Sun Glasses (UV Protection) |
