If you’re dreaming of a wild, high-altitude adventure that takes you away from commercial trails and deep into the Himalayan wilderness, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is the answer. Known as one of the toughest treks in Nepal, this circuit is not for the faint-hearted — but those who dare are rewarded with unmatched views of Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m), glacial valleys, high passes, and some of the rawest terrains in the Himalayas.
Mount Dhaulagiri is located in the Myagdi district of western Nepal, just northwest of Pokhara. It is the 7th highest mountain in the world and the highest mountain located entirely within Nepal.
The Dhaulagiri region borders Annapurna to the east, separated by the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the world’s deepest. This positioning means trekkers get mind-blowing contrast between sheer vertical reliefs and sprawling glaciers.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek covers about 170–200 km depending on the route and acclimatization extensions. The trek encircles the entire Dhaulagiri massif and passes through:
Traditional villages (Darbang, Muri)
Hidden valleys (Chhonbardan, Hidden Valley)
High-altitude passes like French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240m)
Massive glaciers (Chhonbardan, Dhaulagiri Icefall)
| Segment | Approx. Distance |
|---|---|
| Beni to Muri | 50 km |
| Muri to Italian Base Camp | 40 km |
| Italian BC to Dhaulagiri BC | 15 km |
| Dhaulagiri BC to Hidden Valley | 20 km |
| Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka | 25 km |
| Yak Kharka to Jomsom | 30 km |
The full Dhaulagiri trek takes 18 to 21 days. Below is a classic itinerary that ensures proper acclimatization and safety.
Day 1 – Drive Pokhara to Beni, then to Darbang (1,100m)
Day 2 – Trek to Muri (1,850m)
Day 3 – Trek to Boghara (2,080m)
Day 4 – Trek to Dobang (2,500m)
Day 5 – Trek to Choriban Khola (3,110m)
Day 6 – Trek to Italian Base Camp (3,660m)
Day 7 – Acclimatization at Italian BC
Day 8 – Trek to Glacier Camp (4,200m)
Day 9 – Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750m)
Day 10 – Acclimatization / Exploration
Day 11 – Trek over French Pass (5,360m) to Hidden Valley (5,200m)
Day 12 – Rest/Buffer Day at Hidden Valley
Day 13 – Trek over Dhampus Pass (5,240m) to Yak Kharka
Day 14 – Trek to Jomsom (2,720m)
Day 15 – Fly to Pokhara or buffer day
You can add extra acclimatization or side treks based on your fitness and season.
The Dhaulagiri trek is not cheap, mainly due to its remoteness, high-altitude logistics, and necessity for experienced guides and crew.
| Expense Item | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Trekking Permits | $40–$50 (ACAP & TIMS) |
| Guide & Porter | $25–$35/day each |
| Group Equipment (tent, cook, etc.) | $200–$300 total |
| Food & Lodging (Camping) | $30–$40/day |
| Domestic Flights (Jomsom–Pokhara) | ~$120 |
| Emergency Evac/Insurance | Highly recommended |
Very hard. This is a strenuous to extreme-level trek requiring:
Multi-day camping
High-altitude crossing over 5,300m passes
Glacier travel with crevasse risks
No tea houses in higher sections
You should have:
Prior experience with altitude (EBC, Annapurna Circuit, etc.)
Good physical conditioning
Basic mountaineering awareness
Verdict: The Dhaulagiri trek is one of the hardest treks in Nepal. It’s wild, unspoiled, and serious — for true explorers.
No. Solo trekking in the Dhaulagiri region is strongly discouraged and often not permitted by trekking agencies.
No tea houses after Italian Base Camp
Navigation difficulties (especially in snow)
Glacier and crevasse risks
No cell coverage in higher altitudes
Need for technical crew, gear, and cooks
Minimum safe team: 1 guide, 1 porter, cook, and ideally 2–3 trekkers.
There are smaller treks in the Dhaulagiri region, but nothing beats the full Dhaulagiri Circuit in terms of:
Adventure
Altitude
Seclusion
Epic mountain scenery
Other options:
Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek (shorter but skips French Pass)
Dhaulagiri to Dolpo traverse (very remote)
For thrill-seekers and seasoned trekkers, the Dhaulagiri Circuit is hands down the best Dhaulagiri trek in Nepal.
This is a camping trek, so you’ll need:
4-season sleeping bag (-15°C comfort)
Down jacket, waterproof gear
Crampons or microspikes (in snow)
Sunglasses, sunscreen, first-aid
Trekking poles, snacks, hydration salts
If you’re a serious trekker seeking raw nature, real solitude, and unforgettable views the Dhaulagiri Circuit is the crown jewel of Himalayan trekking. It’s not easy. It’s not for everyone. But it is, undeniably, one of Nepal’s most legendary treks.
For booking assistance, gear rental, or guided packages work with a trusted local operator with Dhaulagiri experience.
Q: How long is the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
The trek takes 18–21 days and covers approximately 170–200 km depending on route choices.
Q: Which is the toughest trek in Nepal?
Many consider Dhaulagiri Circuit the toughest non-technical trek in Nepal due to remoteness, altitude, and logistics.
Q: What permits do I need?
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
TIMS Card
Total ~$40–$50. No restricted area permit is required unless extending to Upper Dolpo.
Q: Can I get altitude sickness on this trek?
Yes. Proper acclimatization and hydration are essential. Spend rest days at Italian and Hidden Valley camps.
We are a government-authorized trekking agency in Nepal. We have strictly followed all necessary legal procedures and obtained necessary licenses and certificates to be liable to operate travel services in Nepal.
