Description
Overview:
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trip takes you through high alpine meadows, deserted valleys, high windswept mountains, woods, and cultivated terraced slopes. This tough journey crosses two crossings, the French Pass at 5,360m and the Dhampus Pass at 5,200m, and includes the Dhaulagiri Base Camp at 4,740m. But for those who have the endurance and fundamental mountaineering abilities, this climb offers amazing views of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m), and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m).
The circular path offers amazing views of the whole Dhaulagiri range, rising over the world's deepest valley, the Kali Gandaki. Standing at 8,167 meters when it was discovered in 1808, Dhaulagiri was believed to be the tallest peak in the world until Kanchenjunga overtook it thirty years later, only to be surpassed by Mount Everest! A French crew found the Dhaulagiri Circuit route in the 1950s, which is why the French Pass leads into the desolate Hidden Valley.
The circuit path passes past communities and terraced farmland, as well as rivers and gorges, glaciers, and moraine. Enjoy many opportunities to soak in the breathtaking mountain views, with time to acclimate before taking on the high passes.
Best season to trek:
The best time to trek the Dhaulagiri Circuit is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season and post-monsoon (autumn) season. These periods offer favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures, providing optimal trekking experiences.
Major highlights:
- Dhaulagiri Massif Views : The trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri massif, which includes several peaks over 7,000 meters, with Dhaulagiri I being the seventh-highest mountain in the world.
- Hidden Valley : The trek takes you through the mystical Hidden Valley, surrounded by high mountain passes, including the challenging French Pass and Dhampus Pass. This area is isolated and offers a unique, tranquil atmosphere.
- Italian Base Camp and Glacier Camp : Explore Italian Base Camp, a key acclimatization spot, and take optional side trips to Glacier Camp or Dhaulagiri North Base Camp for spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
- Challenging High Passes : Traverse challenging high mountain passes, including the French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,155m), providing a sense of achievement and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Detailed Itinerary
Explore our comprehensive day-by-day itinerary to discover the
highlights and activities planned for each day of your trek.
Day 1 Drive from Pokhara to Babiyachaur
Begin your trek with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Darbang or Beni, the starting points for the Dhaulagiri Circuit. Enjoy picturesque views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges during the journey. AAscending through terraced fields and traditional villages you will reach the village of Babichaur, situated at an elevation of 950 meters at the end of the day.
Day 2 Babiyachaur to Dharapani
Today you will trek along many streams as you travel through woodlands of oak and rhododendron. At the end of the day, you’ll reach Dharapani, a village that provides cultural insights into the way of life in the area.
Day 3 Dharapani to Muri
There are a lot more villages to visit and explore today before we get to Muri, a Magar village. Once further across the river, go up through woodlands to arrive at an above-ground ridge. You cross many more rivers and ascend a little before reaching the hilltop where Muri is located.
Day 4 Muri to Boghara
We go across a low pass today, from where we have fantastic views of Mount Ghustung South. After some zigzagging and passing through forests of oak and pine, the route leads to Boghara. Among the mountains visible from this location are Dhaulagiri I and Gurja Himal, which are situated above the terraced fields.
Day 5 Boghara to Dobang
Even though the altitude is starting to increase, the road still passes through rural settlements and terraced fields, and we are still below the tree line. Jyardhan, which is regarded as distant in this area, is one of the intriguing places we come across. Spend the night at Dobang.
Day 6 Dobang to Choriban Khola
Once more, we go through woods and beside the Myagdi Khola till we arrive at the Choriban Khola's banks, where we set up camp for the night.
Day 7 Choriban Khola to Italian Base Camp
For the first time, we can see glaciers today! We stroll along Chhonbarban Glacier's glacial deposits, and it feels as though we have entered the Himalayas. Wonderful views of Tukuchen and the Dhaulagiri Massif can be seen from Italian Camp. These are breathtaking sites to see first thing in the morning.
Day 8 Acclimatization day at Italian Base Camp
We are taking today off to let our body to acclimate as the altitude is rising into the upper zone. Discover the neighborhood, get some relaxation, get to know your friends better, or just take in the beautiful view of the mountains.
Day 9 Italian Base Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m)
Today is going to be more difficult with rough trails and sharp ups and downs. Even though we have to cross small valleys and glaciers, we are content when we arrive at Glacier Camp. It will be a magnificent day with several peaks, including Dhaulagiri I and II. Even though the campground is on an open, rocky area, remember to look up! Here, beneath the majestic peaks, we set up tent.
Day 10 Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley (5,050m) via French Pass (5,360m)
One of the trek's highest peaks, the French Pass, must be crossed on this difficult day. Make your way to the enigmatic Hidden Valley and spend the night there.
Day 11 Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka (4,665m) via Dhampus Pass (5,155m)
Pass across the Dhampus Pass and descend to Yak Kharka, where you will be encircled by expansive vistas of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges.
Day 12 Yak Kharka to Jomsom (2,720m) via Marpha
Continue descending, going through Marpha's apple orchards. When you get at Jomsom, you may enjoy finishing your hike.
Day 13 Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
Enjoy one more chance to appreciate the Himalayan scenery as you take a pleasant flight from Jomsom to Pokhara to wrap up your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.