Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
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.


14 Days | 13 Nights | Route : Pokhara to Dhaulagiri |
Best Season : Spring and Autumn | Langauge - English, Nepali, Hindi |
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
Day 2 Babiyachaur to Dharapani
Day 3 Dharapani to Muri
Day 4 Muri to Boghara
Day 5 Boghara to Dobang
Day 6 Dobang to Choriban Khola
Day 7 Choriban Khola to Italian Base Camp
Day 8 Acclimatization day at Italian Base Camp
Day 9 Italian Base Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m)
Day 10 Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley (5,050m) via French Pass (5,360m)
Day 11 Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka (4,665m) via Dhampus Pass (5,155m)
Day 12 Yak Kharka to Jomsom (2,720m) via Marpha
Day 13 Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
Map
