Major Highlights

  • Destination

    Nepal

  • Region

    Dhaulagiri Region

  • Trip Type

    Trekking

  • Trip Duration

    19 Nights/20 Days

  • Group Size

    Minimum 04 Pax

  • Season

    Spring and Autumn

  • Maximum Altitude

    5,360m/17,580ft

  • Overview
  • Itinerary
  • Map
  • Include
  • Exclude
  • Gears List
  • Gallery
  • Reviews

Introduction

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most challenging and rewarding trekking adventures, taking you deep into the heart of the world’s seventh-highest mountain, Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m). This off-the-beaten-path journey is designed for experienced trekkers who are seeking raw adventure, dramatic landscapes, and a true sense of remoteness in the Himalayas.

The trek begins through lush villages, terraced farmlands, and dense forests before gradually ascending into the wild and uninhabited high mountain terrain. The route circles the massive Dhaulagiri range, crossing two high passes – French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,200m) – both offering breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri I, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Annapurna, and beyond. Along the way, trekkers traverse the stunning Italian Base Camp, the icy Chhonbardan Glacier, and the secluded Dhaulagiri Base Camp, where towering icefalls and rugged peaks create an awe-inspiring setting.

This trek is demanding due to its high altitude, long walking days, and remote nature, but the reward lies in its unmatched mountain scenery, sense of wilderness, and the accomplishment of completing one of Nepal’s toughest classic treks.

Highlights of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

  • Circle around the world’s seventh-highest mountain, Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m)
  • Visit the dramatic Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp
  • Cross two challenging high passes – French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,200m)
  • Experience diverse landscapes from fertile farmlands and forests to glaciers and high alpine deserts
  • Witness panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, and more
  • Trek through remote and less-traveled regions, away from commercial trekking crowds
  • A true adventure for experienced trekkers seeking wilderness and challenge

 

What we offer on Trekking?

  • Private 4WD vehicle for ground transfers.
  • Strong and Reliable Team of Guide, Assiatant Guides, strong porters, and other trekking support team.
  • Pre-booking of Accommodation on best available teahouse lodges facilitated with attached bathrooms (wherever possible).
  • During the trekking, we offer free of charge to explore every possible sites such as Monastery, Cultural Museum, National Park Museum, art and exhibition centre.
  • Emergency survival kit such as rope coil, first aid medical kit, oxygen concentrator with modern masks and regulators.
  • Duffle Bags, Booklets of Detailed Itinerary, souvenirs, local SIM cards, and many more.
  • Sleeping bags and Down Jackets on rent.

 

Best Season 

Spring Season (March-May) and Autumn Season (September to Early December) are considered as the best time to go Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek as we can expect mild temperature in the day and night and clear blue sky. However, the unpredictable weather pattern of mountain can cause frequent changes in the weather of specific places. Before trekking, we will inform the estimated weather pattern and temperature for trekking period during briefing session.

 

Essential Trekking Gears

As we do trekking from temperate to snowline regions upto 5,106m, we will experience difference in  temperature, so we must be prepared to tackle the hazardous situation. The right choice of right gears will definitely help us to reach to the targeted points. For the more details, you can click here for essential trekking gears. You can also print the checklist of trekking gears as you need to pack each and every gear that will be useful for the trekking.

For more details of trekking, please refer to the trekking notes, You can find them on Gears Sections as well.

We focus on the safety and healthy performances of trekkers above 3000m with ample acclimatization days to minimize the risk of High Altitude Sickness. We provide a wilderness first aid treatment and backup oxygen concentrator with modern masks and regulators.

Infusion Trip Adventure team operates responsible tours and trekking and provides all-inclusive travel services. You will get worry-free services regarding the permits, fees, meals and accommodation along the trail. We are concerned with the pre-arrangement and booking for smooth operations of your trip. Your safety and enjoyment are always our main concern. With the experiences of travel, trekking and expedition for more than 7 years, we value the difference between a good experience and a great experience. Our reputation speaks for itself, we provide high-quality professional services to continuously exceed customer’s expectations and reinforce its market position in the field of trekking, expedition and tour-related services.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m/4,428ft)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by a beautiful garland of seasonal flowers at the gate of the International Arrival Terminal. With the final counting and loading of luggage into the vehicle, you will transfer to the hotel and check in.
After welcome refreshments, there will be a short briefing with the Infusion Trip Adventure Representative. You will get general information and orientation about the tour or trek. Then you have free time in Kathmandu. You can explore the city.

In the evening – welcome dinner and traditional show in an authentic Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu. You will enjoy your dinner with different types of dances.

  • Accommodation

    Premium Hotel

  • Meals Included

    Welcome Dinner

Day 02: Trek Preparation Day

After breakfast, proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu City including the World Heritage Sites. It includes a tour of two sites below:
Pashupatinath Temple – the Temple of Lord Shiva situated on the bank of the holy Bagmati River. The temple is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bouddhanath Stupa– an ancient colossal stupa and the center of Tibetan Buddhism in the world.

The rest of the day is free for trekking preparation, such as trekking gear shopping, packing on a duffle bag, etc. Moreover, we will assist you to get Permits for Dhaulagiri Trek.

  • Accommodation

    Tourist Standard Resort

  • Meals Included

    B, D

Day 03: Fly to Pokhara (820m) and Drive to Beni(850m/2,789ft)

In the morning, check out from the hotel and transfer to Kathmandu Domestic Airport to board an onward flight to Pokhara. 

Upon arrival in Pokhara, meet the waiting vehicle and start a scenic drive towards Beni. En route stop at Kushma, home to thrilling adventure activities. Here you can experience the adrenaline rush of a bungee jump from one of the world’s highest suspension bridges, along with options for sky-cycling, giant swings, and zipline rides. After enjoying the adventure, continue the drive through charming hillsides, terraced fields, and riverside landscapes until you reach Beni, a bustling town at the confluence of the Myagdi and Kali Gandaki rivers, where you will rest for the night.

  • Accommodation

    Teahouse Lodge

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Flight Time

    25 minutes

  • Driving Distance

    80 Km

  • Driving Duration

    4 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    -500m

Day 04: Drive to Darbang (1,100m/3,609ft)

After breakfast at Beni, continue the journey towards Darbang along the banks of the Myagdi Khola. The road winds through terraced farmlands, forested hillsides, and scattered villages, offering beautiful views of the rural landscape and glimpses of the surrounding mountains.

  • Accommodation

    Teahouse Lodge

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Driving Distance

    21 Km

  • Driving Duration

    2 hours

  • Elevation Variation

    +250m

Day 05: Trek to Naura (1,520m/4,986ft)

The trek from Darbang to Naura is a scenic introduction to the Dhaulagiri Circuit, starting with a gentle walk along the Myagdi Khola, passing through small villages and terraced fields before reaching Naura. The trail offers a gradual climb with glimpses of the surrounding hills and distant peaks, crossing suspension bridges over rivers and winding along narrow cliffside paths. This section takes around 6–7 hours and combines the charm of traditional villages, lush landscapes, and the first dramatic views of the Dhaulagiri region, making it a memorable start to the circuit.

  • Accommodation

    Teahouse Lodge

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Walking Distance

    18 Km

  • Walking Duration

    8 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    +420m

Day 06: Trek to Bagar (1,880m/6,168ft)

Leaving Naura, the trail begins with a gradual ascent along a narrow mountain path, offering sweeping views of the lush Myagdi valley below. The walk passes through terraced fields and patches of forest, where you may encounter mule caravans and villagers carrying supplies along the route. The trail continues with a few steep climbs and descents before reaching several small hamlets that showcase the traditional lifestyle of the Magar people. As you approach Boghara, the landscape becomes wilder and more remote, with fewer settlements and denser forest surroundings. Boghara itself is a charming village, known for its warm hospitality and terraced farmlands, making it an ideal resting spot before the trek ventures into more rugged and isolated terrain toward Dobang.

  • Accommodation

    Teahouse Lodge

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Walking Distance

    5.4Km

  • Walking Duration

    5 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    +360m

Day 07: Trek to Dovan (2,500m/8,203ft)

From Boghara, the trail heads deeper into the remote Myagdi valley, gradually leaving behind the larger villages and cultivated fields. The path winds through dense forests of bamboo, oak, and rhododendron, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature and may even spot birdlife along the way. The trail includes both ascents and descents, with sections that can be narrow and exposed, requiring careful footing. Passing by small herders’ shelters and clearings used for grazing, the route steadily climbs higher into the wilderness. After several hours of trekking, you finally arrive at Dobang, a small settlement surrounded by thick forest and crossed by glacial streams. Dobang serves as an important campsite and staging point before moving further into the higher, more rugged terrain of the Dhaulagiri region.

  • Accommodation

    Teahouse Lodge

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Walking Distance

    7 Km

  • Walking Duration

    6 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    +620m

Day 08: Trek to Italian Base Camp (3,630m/11,910ft)

From Dobang, the trail continues through dense rhododendron, pine, and birch forests, following the Myagdi Khola upstream. You gradually ascend past forest clearings and cross several wooden bridges over glacial streams, enjoying occasional glimpses of the Dhaulagiri massif through the trees. The path becomes steeper as you climb toward Sallaghari, a forested campsite where trekkers often rest before heading higher. From here, the trail grows more rugged and alpine, leaving behind dense vegetation and entering a landscape of rocky cliffs, glacial moraine, and open pastures. As you ascend, the views of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) and its surrounding peaks become increasingly dramatic. After a steady uphill climb, you finally reach Italian Base Camp, situated at the foot of the massive west face of Dhaulagiri. This breathtaking campsite offers a spectacular panorama of snow-capped peaks and serves as the gateway to the high-altitude adventure ahead.

  • Accommodation

    Tented Camp

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Walking Distance

    9.4 Km

  • Walking Duration

    7 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    +1130m

Day 09: Acclimatization Day at Italian Base Camp

Today is reserved for acclimatization at Italian Base Camp, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude before continuing towards higher camps. Surrounded by towering peaks and dramatic glaciers, the day can be spent exploring the area, taking short hikes to nearby ridges for better views of Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II, and the surrounding snowfields. These gentle side trips not only help with acclimatization but also reward you with panoramic vistas of the Himalayan giants. The rest of the day is ideal for relaxing, capturing photographs of the breathtaking scenery, and preparing for the challenging trek ahead. Spending an extra night here ensures proper adaptation and boosts your energy for the demanding journey toward Glacier Camp.

  • Accommodation

    Tented Camp

  • Meal Included

    B, L, D

Day 10: Trek to Japanese Base Camp (4,190m/13,744ft)

From Italian Base Camp, the trail continues along a mix of rocky slopes and glacial streams, gradually gaining altitude while offering spectacular views of Dhaulagiri I and the surrounding peaks. The path traverses moraine ridges and alpine terrain, occasionally crossing small ice patches and crevasses, requiring careful footing. Along the way, trekkers pass through open areas with panoramic vistas of snow-capped mountains and glacial valleys. After a steady climb, the trail reaches Japanese Base Camp, a high-altitude campsite situated in a relatively flat area amidst glaciers and rugged cliffs. This camp provides a closer view of Dhaulagiri’s west face and serves as an important stop for acclimatization or preparation before venturing higher toward the summit or nearby high camps.

  • Accommodation

    Tented Camp

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Walking Distance

    6.2 Km

  • Time Duration

    6 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    +560m

Day 11: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,660m/15,284ft)

From Japanese Base Camp, the trail descends slightly along glacial moraines and rocky slopes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Dhaulagiri peaks. The path traverses rugged terrain with occasional ice patches and small streams, requiring careful footing. As you make your way down, you pass through open glacial valleys interspersed with alpine meadows and scattered boulders. The descent is steady but manageable, allowing trekkers to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Dhaulagiri’s west face and nearby glaciers. After several hours of trekking, you arrive at Dhaulagiri Base Camp, a well-known campsite surrounded by towering cliffs and expansive ice fields. This base camp serves as a key staging area for further exploration, acclimatization, or as a starting point for treks toward higher alpine routes.

  • Accommodation

    Tented Camp

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Walking Distance

    5.2 Km

  • Time Duration

    5 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    +470m

Day 12: Cross French Pass (5,370m/17,619ft) and Trek to Hidden Valley Camp (5,100m/16,733ft)

From Dhaulagiri Base Camp, the trail begins with a steep ascent toward the French Pass, one of the most challenging and scenic sections of the region. The route climbs over rocky ridges, moraines, and occasional snowfields, requiring careful navigation and steady pacing. As you approach the French Pass (5,370m/17,619ft), dramatic views open up of surrounding peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys carved by the Dhaulagiri massif. After crossing the pass, the trail descends gradually into the Hidden Valley, a secluded alpine area characterized by pristine meadows, glacial streams, and rugged cliffs. Hidden Valley Camp, nestled amidst this remote landscape, offers a tranquil setting surrounded by towering mountains, making it an ideal resting point after the demanding passage of the French Pass.

  • Accommodation

    Tented Camp

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Walking Distance

    9.2 Km

  • Time Duration

    8 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    +710m/-270m

Day 13: Reserved Day

Today is kept as a buffer or reserve day at Hidden Valley Camp, located at an altitude of around 5,000 meters. This extra day ensures proper acclimatization after the challenging French Pass crossing and prepares for the next demanding section of the trek via Dhampus Pass. Depending on weather and physical condition, you may either rest fully to recover from the strenuous days or explore the surroundings of Hidden Valley with short hikes. The valley offers wide alpine meadows, panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche peaks, and an opportunity to experience the raw wilderness of the trans-Himalayan landscape.

  • Accommodation

    Tented Camp

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

Day 14: Trek to Yak Kharka (3,780m/12,402ft) via Dampus Pass (5,290m/17,356ft)

From Hidden Valley Camp, the trail begins with a steady ascent toward Dhampus Pass (5,290m/17,356ft), winding through rocky slopes, alpine meadows, and occasional snow patches. Along the way, trekkers are treated to panoramic views of surrounding peaks, glaciers, and the Hidden Valley below. Crossing Dhampus Pass, the path gradually descends into the Yak Kharka area, passing through high-altitude grazing lands dotted with yak herders’ shelters. The terrain opens up into expansive meadows, where flocks of grazing yaks create a picturesque alpine setting. Yak Kharka serves as a scenic and peaceful campsite, surrounded by towering mountains, making it an ideal stop for rest and acclimatization before heading further along the trekking route.

  • Accommodation

    Tented Camp

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Walking Distance

    13.6 Km

  • Time Duration

    10 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    +190/-1,510m

Day 15: Trek to Marpha (2,700m/8,859ft)

From Yak Kharka, the trail begins with a gentle descent through alpine meadows and yak grazing lands, gradually leading into forested slopes and terraced fields as you move lower in altitude. The path passes through small villages and traditional settlements, offering glimpses of local life and culture. As you continue, the landscape transforms from high-altitude pastures to lush valleys dotted with apple orchards and cultivated farmland. The trail eventually descends to Marpha, a charming town known for its traditional stone houses, narrow lanes, and apple-based products. Marpha provides a perfect spot to rest, enjoy local hospitality, and explore the cultural richness of the region before continuing further along the trekking route.

  • Accommodation

    Standard Hotel

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Walking Distance

    3.7 Km

  • Time Duration

    3 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    -1,080m

Day 16: Drive back to Tatopani (1,250m/4,101ft)

From Marpha, start a scenic drive along the Kali Gandaki River, following the well-maintained road that winds through the valley between the towering Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The route passes through small villages, terraced fields, and orchards, offering picturesque views of the river and surrounding cliffs. Along the way, you may cross charming suspension bridges and enjoy glimpses of local life in riverside settlements. The drive gradually descends, with occasional stops for photography or refreshments, until you reach Tatopani, a town famous for its natural hot springs. Upon arrival, you can relax and soak in the warm waters, rejuvenating after the drive while enjoying the scenic riverside setting.

  • Accommodation

    Standard Hotel

  • Meals Included

    B, L

  • Driving Distance

    40 Km

  • Driving Duration

    4 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    +1,450m

Day 17: Drive back to Pokhara (820m)

From Tatopani, begin a scenic drive back toward Pokhara, following the Kali Gandaki River valley. The road winds through terraced fields, riverside villages, and lush farmland, offering continuous views of the surrounding Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Along the way, you may stop at small towns or viewpoints to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and capture photographs of the river gorge and cliffside settlements. The drive gradually descends toward lower altitudes, passing through towns like Beni, where you can take short breaks for refreshments or local sightseeing. Continuing along the well-maintained highways, the journey finally leads to Pokhara, where you arrive in the evening to enjoy the city’s lakeside ambiance, shops, and restaurants after a fulfilling Himalayan drive.

  • Accommodation

    Premium Hotel

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Driving Distance

    96 Km

  • Driving Duration

    6 Hours

  • Elevation Variation

    -430m

Day 18: Fly Back to Kathmandu

Timely check out from the hotel and proceed to transfer to Pokhara Airport to board an onward flight to Kathmandu and check into the hotel. You will have time to relax after the long journey, breathe easily and just rest at your hotel before completing your Himalayan Adventure with us.

  • Accommodation

    Premium Hotel

  • Meals Included

    B, L, D

  • Flight Duration

    25 Minutes

  • Elevation Variation

    +530m

Day 19: Contingency day on trek or Kathmandu in case of bad weather or health issues

Free day in Kathmandu for leisure activities or sightseeing tours (on your own), last-minute shopping, bag packing, etc.
Eve: Farewell dinner at an authentic Nepali Restaurant in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation

    Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals Included

    B, D

Day 20: Transfer to International Airport for final departure

Timely transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport to board an onward flight to home country 3 hours earlier than the scheduled flight departing time. We wish you a happy journey during your flight from Nepal to your home country with the hope to see you on your next visit to Nepal.

  • Meals included

    B

Services Included

  • Services of all arrival/departure and ground transfers in a private vehicle accompanied by an English-speaking tour representative/escort/guide.

  • Four-night accommodation at a Hotel in Kathmandu on a Twin/Double Room Sharing on a bed and breakfast basis inclusive of all applicable taxes.

  • One-night accommodation at a Hotel in Pokhara on a Twin/Double Room Sharing on a bed and breakfast basis inclusive of all applicable taxes.

  • 14 Nights’ accommodation during the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek at the best available trekkers lodges & Tented Camp served with all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) at all places.

  • Sightseeing Tour in Kathmandu with an experienced English Speaking Tour Guide inclusive of all monument fees.

  • Welcome and Farewell Dinner at Authentic Nepalese Restaurant in Kathmandu featuring a cultural program.

  • A team of Experienced trekking guide, assistant guide and porters (as required in the ration of 2:1) with their daily wages, equipment, meals, clothing, and insurance, etc.

  • Updated and Detailed Trekking maps with contour lines of Dhaulagiri Region.

  • Permits & Documents – TIMS Permit, Restricted Area Permits, ACAP Permits

  • Safe Drinking water (2L per person per day), Local SIM Card, Souvenirs.

  • Comprehensive First Aid Medical Kit with a backup Oxygen Cylinder with mask & regulators.

Services Excluded

  • International Airfare from/to Kathmandu

  • Nepal Entry Tourist Visa (USD 50 for 30 days)

  • Lunch and Dinner while you are in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except Welcome and Farewell Dinner)

  • Cost of Adventure Activities in Kushma

  • Any additional stay in Kathmandu before and after the trekking (in case of any reason)

  • Personal Equipment including trekking gear, clothing, toiletries, Personal Medical Kit, and any other items

  • Personal Porters can be arranged on request in advance and charge USD 25 per day

  • Personal expenses such as; laundry, bar bills, tips and gratuities to the trekking support team, alcoholic beverages, telephone calls, internet services, toiletries, battery charges, soft drinks, etc.

  • Comprehensive Travel Insurance or “Umbrella Insurance” covering; Illness, hospitalization, travel medicines, loss of valuables, thefts, change of itinerary, flight and tour cancellations due to unavoidable circumstances and most of all Emergency Helicopter Charter for evacuation purposes

  • Any items that are not mentioned in the above ‘Services Included Section'

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