Trip Facts

Duration

18 days

Trip Grade

Expert

Country

Nepal

Maximum Altitude

5,360m

Group Size

2–8

Starts

Beni

Ends

Marpha

Activities

Trekking, Expedition

Best Time

Spring, Autumn

Highlights

  • Off-the-beaten-path adventure around the world’s 7th highest peak – Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m)
  • Cross two major high passes: French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,200m)
  • Trek through dramatic landscapes: glaciers, alpine valleys, high pastures, and remote villages
  • Full camping experience in the true wilderness of western Nepal
  • Explore the traditional Magar and Gurung settlements with minimal outside influence
  • Overnight at the hidden Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp
  • Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri I–V, Annapurna, Tukuche, Nilgiri, and more
  • Less crowded than other popular routes – pure Himalayan solitude

Overview

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the most remote and physically demanding treks in Nepal. This 18-day trip goes around the huge Dhaulagiri mountain range and is a full camping trek into a remote Himalayan wilderness. The Dhaulagiri trail is clean and quiet compared to the Annapurna or Everest areas. It has stunning natural views, tricky passes, and huge ice walls that make every step feel like an adventure.

Starting from the lowland village of Darbang, the trail climbs through remote Magar settlements and into high alpine terrain. You’ll trek through dense forests, alongside the Myagdi Khola, and camp at the foot of glaciers. The high point comes with the crossing of French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,200m), offering 360-degree views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. After going up, the trail goes down into the peaceful Kali Gandaki Valley. It ends in the cute town of Marpha.

Trekkers with a lot of experience who want a remote, high-altitude task in the Himalayas should try Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking. It requires getting used to the altitude, being physically fit, and being ready for full camping arrangements. If you seek an authentic adventure far from crowds, this trek will deliver an unforgettable journey into Nepal’s untouched west.

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will be waiting to welcome you. After airport formalities, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu’s trekking hub. A pre-trek briefing, gear check, and welcome dinner will be arranged in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel • Dinner: Welcome Nepali set meal
Rest and relaxation after a long journey.

After an early breakfast, you’ll either take a short domestic flight or scenic drive to Pokhara. From there, we continue the journey by jeep to Darbang, a small settlement and trailhead near Beni. You’ll meet the trekking and porter team here.
Accommodation: Camping • Dinner: Prepared by camp chef

The trek start with a gentle ascent along the Myagdi River. You’ll pass terraced fields, cross suspension bridges, and walk through Magar villages such as Takam. The route provides early glimpses of the Dhaulagiri range.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours • Accommodation: Camping • Dinner: Camp-cooked meal
Overnight stay in Beni.

Today’s trail includes steep ascents and lush forests filled with rhododendron and oak. You’ll follow narrow ridges, cross small streams, and camp near Naura—a small summer pasture area used by local herders.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours • Accommodation: Camping • Dinner: Camp-cooked meal

The route to Bagar includes rocky trails, river crossings, and forested ridgelines. Bagar is the last permanent village you’ll see before entering the remote alpine zone.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours • Accommodation: Camping • Dinner: Camp-cooked meal

The trail becomes narrower and more rugged. You’ll hike through dense forests and alongside waterfalls and steep cliffs. The area becomes more isolated with no sign of modern civilization.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours • Accommodation: Camping • Dinner: Camp-cooked meal

This section includes wooden bridges and walking beside glacial streams. As you approach Choriban Khola, the valley opens up and offers incredible views of Dhaulagiri and nearby peaks.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours • Accommodation: Camping • Dinner: Camp-cooked meal

This is a big day as you leave the tree line and enter alpine terrain. The Italian Base Camp sits on a moraine ridge beneath the west face of Dhaulagiri I. The views here are spectacular and the environment remote.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours • Accommodation: Camping • Dinner: Camp-cooked meal

A full rest day is essential at this altitude. You can take short hikes or relax and enjoy views of Dhaulagiri II, III, and IV. Acclimatization is key for success in the coming days.
Accommodation: Camping • Dinner: Camp-cooked meal

Today, you'll have to find your way through icy moraines and walk on glacier ground. Depending on the weather, you might need crampons. The camp is right on the glacier, which makes it an exciting place to stop.
The trek lasts for 6–7 hours, and you stay in tents. • Dinner: food cooked in the camp

Today is one of the trek's most exciting days. When you get to the base of Dhaulagiri I, you'll see huge icefalls, cracks, and the tall peak itself. A real gem of the Himalayas.
The trek lasts for six hours, and you stay in tents. • Dinner: food cooked in the camp

Another rest and adjustment day before crossing high passes. Take time to recover, hydrate, and explore the nearby glacial ridges.
Accommodation: Camping • Dinner: Camp-cooked meal

Trek to Dhampus Pass and cross it, with stunning views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Descend to Yak Kharka for overnight stay.

Another high-altitude traverse awaits. From Dhampus Pass, you’ll descend along rocky trails into alpine pastures used by yak herders.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours • Accommodation: Camping • Dinner: Camp-cooked meal

A long descent through pine and rhododendron forests leads to Marpha, a charming Thakali village famous for its apple orchards and Tibetan culture. Hot showers and teahouse comforts await.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours • Accommodation: Teahouse • Dinner: Local meal

From Marpha, drive or take a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon by Phewa Lake.
Accommodation: Hotel • Dinner: Restaurant

Return to Kathmandu via tourist bus or domestic flight. In the evening, we’ll host a farewell dinner and certificate ceremony.
Accommodation: Hotel • Dinner: Traditional meal

You’ll be transferred to the airport for your international flight.

Cost Details

Included

  • Airport pickup and drop (private transport)
  • 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu & 1 night in Pokhara with breakfast
  • All camping equipment and logistics: tents, mattresses, kitchen, crew
  • Full board meals during trekking (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Licensed English-speaking trekking guide and necessary porters
  • Dhaulagiri Restricted Area Permit, ACAP, TIMS Card
  • Domestic flight Pokhara–Kathmandu (or drive option)
  • Insurance for guide and porters
  • Emergency medical kit and satellite phone (for guide use)
  • All government taxes and Eco Himalaya service charges

Excluded

  • International airfare and Nepal visa fees
  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Extra night accommodations in case of delays
  • Personal trekking gear (available for rent in Kathmandu)
  • Tips for guides, porters, and staff (expected)
  • Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage
  • Bar bills, snacks, and bottled drinks
  • Anything not mentioned in the “Cost Include” section

Useful Information

Level of Trekking: Hard to Very Hard:

This hike is only for expert hikers who have been to high elevations before. People often go for daily walks of 5–7 hours in rough, off-grid areas. To climb above 5,000 meters, you need to be physically and mentally fit.

Place to stay: 

Completely camping From Day 2 to Day 15, all of the accommodations are tents. Sleeping tents, dining tents, cooking tents, and toilet tents are all carried by our crew. Our trained trip cooks make sure that meals are made in a clean way.

Best Times to Go Trekking:

From April to May, the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and rhododendrons bloom.

Autumn (September–October): Clear mountain views and a fresh air after the rain

Winter and rainy seasons are not recommended at all because they are dangerous.

Preparing for altitude sickness: 

We include two days of getting used to the altitude and rise slowly. A simple first aid kit and an oximeter are carried by guides. But we suggest that you get in shape and talk to your doctor before the trip.

Meals and Water: 

On days when you go hiking, you get hot meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Every day, water is boiled or filtered. You could also bring purification pills just in case.

Energy and Phones: 

From Day 6 to Day 14, there is no energy or phone service. Your guide will have a mobile phone with them in case of an emergency. It is suggested that you use power banks and sun chargers.

Luggage and Porterage: 

Each trekker can bring up to 15 kg in duffel bags that are carried by carriers. You’ll carry a daypack with the things you need. The hotel in Kathmandu is a safe place to store any extra bags.

Trek Support Crew:

Your trek will be led by a licensed, experienced English-speaking guide, supported by porters and cooks. We maintain a high staff-to-client ratio to ensure safety and comfort.

Insurance and Permits: 

We take care of all permits, such as the TIMS card, the Dhaulagiri Restricted Area Permit, and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). You need to have full coverage insurance that covers high-altitude rescue.

Responsible Travel:

Eco Himalaya follows the Leave No Trace philosophy for responsible travel. We take out all of our trash and try to leave as little of an impact on the earth as possible.

Official Mt. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Map

FAQs

It is one of Nepal’s most strenuous treks with high passes, glacier walks, and no teahouse support. Suitable for advanced trekkers only.

French Pass at 5,360m is the highest altitude, followed closely by Dhampus Pass at 5,200m.

Yes, you’ll need a Dhaulagiri Restricted Area Permit, ACAP, and TIMS. We manage all permit arrangements.

Camping throughout the trek. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you'll stay in comfortable tourist-class hotels.

Only in lower villages like Darbang or Marpha. No charging options during the wilderness section.

Your guide will carry a satellite phone for emergency use.

Yes, custom itineraries are possible. You can exit via Jomsom and continue exploring Mustang or Annapurna.