About this Trip
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek represents the epitome of Himalayan adventure, offering a perfect combination of wilderness exploration, technical challenges, and cultural immersion. What distinguishes this trek is its remote character and the raw, untamed landscapes that remain largely unchanged by tourism infrastructure.
As you traverse the circuit, the landscape transforms dramatically from the lush, subtropical forests near Beni to the rugged, glacial moraines and snowfields of the higher regions. The trail circumnavigates the massive Dhaulagiri massif, crossing high passes and traversing alongside the Dhaulagiri glacier—one of the longest in Nepal. Each day brings new challenges and vistas, with Dhaulagiri's imposing north face gradually revealing itself throughout the journey.
The cultural aspect of the trek offers genuine insights into traditional mountain life. The Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities who inhabit these remote valleys maintain centuries-old practices, from traditional farming methods to ancient spiritual rituals. Their warm hospitality and resilience in this harsh mountain environment add profound depth to the trekking experience.
Physically, this trek demands strong endurance, with challenging high-altitude passes and occasional sections requiring basic mountaineering skills. The isolated nature of the route means facilities are basic, adding to both the challenge and the authentic wilderness experience. The sense of accomplishment upon completing the circuit—having conquered technical passes and experienced one of Nepal's most pristine mountain environments—creates an unforgettable feeling of achievement.
Throughout the journey, the camaraderie developed with your small trekking team becomes essential. The shared experiences of overcoming difficult terrain, braving mountain weather, and enjoying simple meals in remote tea houses forge connections that transcend the typical trekking experience.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek represents the epitome of Himalayan adventure, offering a perfect combination of wilderness exploration, technical challenges, and cultural immersion. What distinguishes this trek is its remote character and the raw, untamed landscapes that remain largely unchanged by tourism infrastructure.
As you traverse the circuit, the landscape transforms dramatically from the lush, subtropical forests near Beni to the rugged, glacial moraines and snowfields of the higher regions. The trail circumnavigates the massive Dhaulagiri massif, crossing high passes and traversing alongside the Dhaulagiri glacier—one of the longest in Nepal. Each day brings new challenges and vistas, with Dhaulagiri's imposing north face gradually revealing itself throughout the journey.
The cultural aspect of the trek offers genuine insights into traditional mountain life. The Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities who inhabit these remote valleys maintain centuries-old practices, from traditional farming methods to ancient spiritual rituals. Their warm hospitality and resilience in this harsh mountain environment add profound depth to the trekking experience.
Physically, this trek demands strong endurance, with challenging high-altitude passes and occasional sections requiring basic mountaineering skills. The isolated nature of the route means facilities are basic, adding to both the challenge and the authentic wilderness experience. The sense of accomplishment upon completing the circuit—having conquered technical passes and experienced one of Nepal's most pristine mountain environments—creates an unforgettable feeling of achievement.
Throughout the journey, the camaraderie developed with your small trekking team becomes essential. The shared experiences of overcoming difficult terrain, braving mountain weather, and enjoying simple meals in remote tea houses forge connections that transcend the typical trekking experience.

From $1,500
$2,000
Price Varies from Group Size
Success
Here goes about why the success toast occurred.
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m)
Pokhara to Beni (830m) to Babiachor (950m)
Babiachor to Dharapani (1,400m)
Dharapani to Muri (1,850m)
Muri to Boghara (2,080m)
Boghara to Dobang (2,520m)
Dobang to Italian Base Camp (3,660m)
Acclimatization Day at Italian Base Camp
Italian Base Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740m)
Acclimatization Day at Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley via French Pass (5,360m)
Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka (3,680m) via Dhampus Pass (5,244m)
Yak Kharka to Marpha (2,670m)
Marpha to Tatopani (1,190m)
Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850m)
Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3,210m) to Nayapul (1,070m)
Pokhara to Kathmandu
Departure from Kathmandu
Services
Includes
- Specialized bilingual mountain guide
- Private transport between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and trailheads
- Round-trip airport transfers and local transportation as outlined
- Daily meals on the trek: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Services of experienced guides, porters, and a cook for camp sections
- All essential trekking permits, including conservation area fees
- Accommodation throughout the trek (lodges, tea houses, and camping equipment)
Excludes
- Additional accommodation due to weather delays or itinerary changes
- Comprehensive travel and medical insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage
- Gratuities for guides, porters, and support staff
- International flights and entry visa fees for Nepal
- Personal trekking and camping equipment
- Extra food and drinks beyond the provided meals
Good To Know
Train rigorously 4-6 months in advance with cardio, strength training, and loaded hikes; gain previous high-altitude experience before attempting this trek; pack technical gear including crampons and an ice axe for glacier crossings; bring sufficient cash as there are no ATMs on route; and prepare for extreme temperature variations between day and night at high altitude.
Wildlife Encounters
Blue sheep (Bharal) on high mountain slopes
Himalayan tahr in rocky terrain
Musk deer in forested regions
Golden eagles soaring overhead
Snow leopards (extremely rare sightings)
Various high-altitude birds including choughs and Himalayan griffons
Pika (small mountain-dwelling mammals)
Reviews
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Your queries are answered.
Do I need mountaineering experience?
Some basic mountaineering skills are beneficial, particularly for the glacier crossings and high passes. Familiarity with using crampons and ice axes is recommended, though guides can provide basic training.
What is the best time of year for this trek?
Mid-April to early June (spring) and October to mid-November (autumn) offer the best conditions. Spring features blooming rhododendrons, while autumn typically has more stable weather patterns.
How do I prepare for such a challenging trek?
Begin training at least 6 months in advance with a combination of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and loaded hikes on varied terrain. Previous experience at altitudes above 4,000m is strongly recommended before attempting this trek.
What type of accommodation can I expect?
Accommodation varies from comfortable hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara to basic tea houses in villages and camping in tents at higher elevations, particularly around Dhaulagiri Base Camp and Hidden Valley.
Is it possible to shower during the trek?
Hot showers are available in tea houses at lower elevations but become unavailable in the higher, more remote sections of the trek where camping is required.
How reliable is the WiFi and phone connectivity?
Connectivity is limited to lower elevations only (primarily before Boghara and after Marpha). Expect to be completely out of communication range for approximately 8-10 days during the core circuit section.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
In tea houses, basic vegetarian options are available. During camping sections, the cook can accommodate most dietary requirements if informed in advance, though available supplies will limit variety.
How much should I budget for the trek?
Beyond the package cost, budget approximately $15-20 per day for additional expenses in tea house sections. The camping portions typically have fewer additional costs as most services are included.
Our Expertise
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
from $1,500 per adult