Overview

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a 21-day journey that offers trekkers a breathtaking encounter with Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and the surrounding Himalayan ranges. This off-the-beaten-path trek explores remote Magar villages, their rich culture, and pristine landscapes, providing a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion. The trek also showcases the majestic Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Gurja ranges, leaving every adventurer awestruck with panoramic mountain vistas.

The main highlight of the trek is the towering Dhaulagiri Peak, but equally fascinating are the Magar villages along the trail, which offer insight into traditional rural Nepali life. Trekkers also encounter several high-altitude base camps, including the Italian, Japanese, and French Base Camps, all situated above 4,000 meters. Another must-see is the Hidden Valley north of the Dhaulagiri massif, known for its untouched natural beauty and traditional lifestyles.

The trek starts with a scenic 9-hour drive to Beni, followed by a trail along the Myagdi River through small villages like Darbang, Dharapani, Muri, and Dobhan, leading to Sallaghari. From there, trekkers ascend to the Italian Base Camp (3,660m), which opens the path to the Japanese Base Camp (4,100m) and the Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,748m). Along the way, the views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Gurja Himal ranges are simply spectacular.

The journey continues to the Hidden Valley, offering glimpses into the local lifestyle and natural serenity, before passing through Yak Kharka and descending toward Jomsom. A flight from Jomsom to Pokhara provides a relaxing conclusion, allowing trekkers to enjoy modern comforts after an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

Whether you seek adventure trekking, cultural exploration, or Himalayan photography, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Eternal Himalaya is a complete Himalayan experience for every explorer.

Highlights

  • Journey to the foothills of the majestic Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range
  • Cross two stunning mountain passes, namely: French Pass (5360m) and Dhampus Pass (5244m)
  • One of the best off-the-beaten tracks in the Nepalese travel scene
  • Unique and unspoiled Thakali culture alongside the authentic way of life

Itinerary

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Day 1:Arrival at Kathmandu international airport and transfer to hotel

You will arrive in Kathmandu and our correspondent will greet you at the airport. You will be escorted to your hotel. You can spend the day resting or exploring the city. Meanwhile, you can also prepare for the trek.

  • Maximum Altitude1300m

The second day for the trek and we make sure all our preparations are on point before we depart for the trek. Gathering all the required permits for our journey, we also make an entrance to the local markets gathering all the necessary equipment. You can rent or buy any equipment as per your need before we depart. If time permits, we also journey to the UNESCO world heritage sites around the valley.

    An early day as we begin the journey making our way towards Beni. Exiting the capital city we make our way away through the winding bends of Prithvi Highway to find the Trishuli River to reach Pokhara. Past Pokhara, the journey sets off through pleasant forests and hillsides to reach Beni. Located at the bank of Kali Gandaki River, Beni offers stunning views of the Annapurna Ranges.

      The first day of our trek and we follow the northern banks of the Myagdi River. Heading west, the journey approaches Mangal Ghat and Singha in quick succession before breaking into Tatopani. Home to a relaxing hot water spring, we take some time off to soak in before setting off on the trail. Crossing Myagdi Khola, we reach Simalchaur and continue west to Babiyachaur.

        Trekking through the Myagdi valley, we make our way out of Babiyachaur once again following the Myagdi Khola. We trek through picturesque landscapes of terraced farmlands on either side. Past Ranbang, we head over the Dhuku River to reach Rato Dhunga. The trail once again turns narrow ascending through ridgeline to reach Dharapani.

        • Maximum Altitude1470m

        Crossing the Myagdi Khola to its western banks, the trail heads ascends through a high ridge line towards Sibang and Mattim. Climbing on the ridgeline once again, the journey heads to the summit of the hill before descending all the way to Gatti Khola. Eventually, we arrive at Phalai Gaon and cross the Dhara River. The trail once again brings us to Myagdi Khola before climbing one final ridgeline to reach Muri.

        • Maximum Altitude1850m

        Exiting Muri, we begin our trek with a lovely descent to meet a stream. Beyond the stream, the trail steadily climbs through terraced farmlands all while boasting views of the Ghustung range. Descending back to Myagdi Khola, we trek to reach Naura which marks the beginning of our final stretch of trekking for the day. Heading through lush green forests, we head north towards Boghara.

        • Maximum Altitude2080m

        The day kicks off with a lovely descend heading first through the terraced farmlands onto a small ridge and then through the lush green forests to reach Jeltung Past Jeltung, we climb through the rugged Himalayan trail only to descend to reach Lipse. Past the lush green forests, the trail brings us to Pilangkos Kharka and then to Dobhan.

        • Maximum Altitude2500m

        Making our way out of Dobhan, we cross a wooden bridge above the Myagdi River. We reach the lush green forests from where the trail ascends steeply to the hill summit. Hereon, we will have the majestic west face of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) as our constant companion. We descend back to Myagdi Khola following the river east to reach Choriban Khola and then onto Sallaghari.

        • Maximum Altitude2820m

        One of the longer days of the journey today we make our way o towards Italian Base Camp. Crossing the terminal moraine of Tsaurabong Glacier, we enter the trails filled with moraines. Enjoying the Himalayan views including the Tukuche Peak (6920m) and the northern face of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m). Ascending through the rugged Himalayan landscapes, the journey takes us to Italian Base Camp.

        • Maximum Altitude3660m

        Today, we take a day off at the Italian Base Camp. The day begins with lovely views of the sunrise as the majestic summits of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), and its entire range is colored golden by the early morning sun. We take some leisure time off to enjoy the Himalayan landscapes alongside the gorgeous surrounding landscapes. We can also hike to nearby vantage points for better views. Overnight at Italian Base Camp.

          A high altitude journey in complete solitude, today, we make our way from the Italian Base Camp and over to the Japanese Base Camp. Ascending through the rocky slope, we make our way past glacier moraines. The glorious views of the Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range provide some consolation on our arduous journey. The entire area is prone to stone fall and vigilant trekking is always recommended.

          • Maximum Altitude3890m

          One of the challenging section of the trek, today, we make our way over to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp. For the majority of the journey, the Himalayan trail guides us on the glacier switching between lateral moraines and rugged pathways. However, the toiling trek is rewarded with the views from Dhaulagiri Base Camp. Surrounded by the majestic Dhaulagiri Range on all sides and an impressive icefall descending from the Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Tukuche Peak (6,920m) the trek is certainly worth it.

          • Maximum Altitude4748m

          At the very edge of the Himalayas, we take a day off at the Dhaulagiri Base Camp to let our bodies rest from the grueling climb. Making a late start to the day we journey around the base camp exploring the Himalayan landscapes. If you are up for it, we can make our way to the nearby viewpoints for an acclimatization hike. Overnight at Base Camp.

            Crossing the first of our two major Himalayan passes, today, the trail heads over the French Pass (5,360m). Exiting the base camp, we make our way past the glacier to join the slope leading towards the French Pass (5360m). Enjoying the stunning views of the Dhaulagiri Range alongside Mukut Himal (6,328m), Tashi Kang (6,386m), and Sita Chuchura (6,611m). Referred to as Hidden Valley this Himalayas is bordered by the Himalayas on all sides marked by Tukuche Peak (6,920m) and Dhaulagiri I (8,167m).

              The second of our major Himalayan pass today we make our way towards the summer settlement of Yak Kharka. We continue our ascending journey to reach Thapa Pass (5,244m) marked by Tukuche (6,920m) and Thapa Peak (6,012m) on either side. Enjoying the Himalayan landscapes, we cross the Himalayan pass descending towards the summer settlement of Yak Kharka.

                Wrapping up things at Yak Kharka, we begin our steep descent towards Marpha following the Kali Gandaki River. One of the more popular stops in Mustang region, Marpha hosts an impressive number of apple orchards and apple products. We continue our journey north reaching Jomsom for the night. High within the Mustang valley, Jomsom is a perfect example of the arid Himalayan landscapes which forms the majority of Mustang.

                • Maximum Altitude2720m

                Exiting Jomsom, we make our way towards the Pokhara Valley flying over the Himalayas. Touching down at Pokhara, we first head to our hotel freshening up from the days of travel. With all our trekking activities coming to a close, you are free to enjoy the rest of the day on your own. In the evening, you can make your way down to the Lakeside and enjoy a pleasant boat ride on the Phewa Lake.

                  Making our way out of Pokhara early, we set off for the capital city of Kathmandu. Finding the familiar bends of Prithvi Highway, the journey takes us away from the Himalayas and over to the pleasant hilly landscapes. Accompanying the Trishuli River, we break into Kathmandu headed straight for our hotels for a well-deserved rest.

                    The final day of the journey today and you are free to make your own way down to the capital city either touring the local heritages or shopping. Either way, a day in Kathmandu is rarely not enjoyable; even more so when a lovely farewell dinner is waiting for you back at the hotel.

                      We will bid you farewell with the best of wishes. A representative will come and pick you from your hotel and make sure you reach the airport on time. Your journey ends today as you fly to your next destination.

                        Cost Details

                        IncludedExcluded
                        • Airport picks up and drop by private vehicle.
                        • 4 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu with bed and breakfast basis.
                        • 1 nights’ accommodation in Pokhara with a bed and breakfast basis.
                        • Kathmandu sightseeing by Private guide and private transportation
                        • Jomsom to Pokhara flight fare.
                        • All ground transportation by private vehicle.
                        • Your standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
                        • All necessary paper works, conservation area, and restricted area entry permits.
                        • All accommodations in hotels, lodges/tea houses during the trek.
                        • An experienced Government licensed guide and porters.
                        • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
                        • Farewell dinner with typical Nepali restaurant
                        • All government taxes.
                        • International Airfare
                        • Nepal entry visa
                        • Personal Expenses
                        • Travel and Rescue Insurance
                        • Extra accommodation and food charges in Kathmandu
                        • Tips and gratitude to the guide, porters and drivers

                        Useful Info

                        Although it a challenging trip, the trek rewards with many beautiful sceneries. April-May or September-October are the best time to embark on this trek. It includes the elements of thrill and expedition-style trekking which is unique on its own. Hence, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a must-try trip in Nepal.

                        At Eternal Himalaya, we put your safety and comfort above anything else. We have expert guides and porters to help you with every issue on the trips. Likewise, we also have many other trips in Nepal that you can choose from.