Overview

Trip introduction

Dhaulagiri Round Trek aka Dhaulagiri Circuit is an opportunity to explore an amazing off-the-beaten-path around the world’s seventh-highest snow-capped peak Mt. Dhaulagiri standing tall at an altitude of 8,167 meters above sea level. Mt. Dhaulagiri is also referred to as White Mountain in the local language. Located in the western region of the Himalayan country Nepal, Dhaulagiri Round Trek is a challenging adventure passing through high passes, unspoiled tracks, and alpine vegetation with spectacular views of glorious Himalayas like never seen before.

Journey: Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

We initiate our Dhaulagiri Round or Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport followed by cultural sightseeing around the capital city of Kathmandu Valley. Initially, we will travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a short flight or 6-hour drive. On the very next day drive continues to Darbang which is the starting point of trekking activity.

For the next couple of days, we travel through Sibang, Jugapani, Dobang, and Soligari before we set an acclimatization day at the Italian Base Camp. As we are crossing an altitude of 4000 meters, acclimatization is a must to make our bodies adapt to the surrounding atmosphere. We will not find permanent settlements beyond this point.

Further making our way towards the north we go around Chhonbardan Glacier Camp. And then Dhaulagiri Base Camp before taking the second acclimatization day of the trip. Dhaulagiri Base Camp offers wonderful views of the nearby snow-capped Himalayas. From the base camp, we put our efforts into climbing a steep incline towards French Col between Tukuche Peak and Sita Peak.

Then after we descend a little passing through Hidden Valley via Dhampus Pass. Finally, we will trek from yak pasture land to Jomsom and take a flight or drive back to Pokhara. In this way, our Dhaulagiri Round or Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek ends after we return from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Physical Fitness and Best Season: Dhaulagiri Round

Dhaulagiri Round Trek is a challenging adventure suitable for those travel lovers who possess excellent physical fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience. This trek takes you through rugged trails and even comprises walking through the snow for a few days.

Therefore, this Dhaulagiri Round/Circuit Trek must be embarked on with experienced travel and trek operator like Nepal Mountain Trekkers. The best seasons would be both autumn and spring which offer clear views with favorable weather conditions. We also advise a few more days to plan extra for acclimatization and bad weather. Contact us now to inquire about this trip

Overview

Detail Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival Kathmandu. (1,350m/4,428ft)::

It is a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay with you for a long, long time. A representative of Nepal Mountain Trekkers will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The representative will help you check into your designated hotel. At the hotel, you will be briefed about your daily activities. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Kathmandu Sightseeing & Preparation for the Climbing::

Today you will have a full day for a sightseeing tour of the valleys’ popular UNESCO World Heritages. Kathmandu is the historical and cultural heart of Nepal and has been a popular destination for tourists ever since Nepal opened its doors to visitors. The city presents a wonderful mix of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, and Western influence. There will be a guided tour to the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal Boudhanath and after that to the most popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva- Pashupatinath. We take a tour to Patan or Lalitpur (the City of Artisans), which is 5km away from Kathmandu. We walk through Patan Durbar Square, and delight in the architectural wonders of the Malla era. Mahaboudha Temple, Kumbeshwor Temple, Krishna Temple, and Golden Temple are the major attractions at the square. And stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Drive from Kathmandu to Beni | Drive to Tatopani (985m): 8–10 hours + 1 hour:

After an early breakfast, you set off on a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu toward the western region of Nepal. The journey follows the Prithvi Highway alongside the Trishuli and later the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki rivers. You’ll pass through terraced hillsides, small towns, and glimpses of rural Nepali life. Upon reaching Beni, you switch to a local jeep and continue another hour toward Tatopani, a small riverside settlement known for its natural hot springs. The day concludes with a relaxing evening near the warm springs, preparing for the trek ahead. Overnight in Tatopani.

Day 4 : Hot Spring Dip & Drive from Tatopani to Muri (1,720m): 4–5 hours:

This morning, you may enjoy a refreshing dip in the Tatopani hot springs—believed to ease muscle tension and promote relaxation. Afterward, you board a jeep for a scenic drive toward Muri, the last significant Gurung village on this route. The trail winds through cultivated fields, forests, and dramatic hills as the Dhaulagiri massif gradually becomes visible. Muri welcomes you with traditional stone houses, terraced farms, and warm village hospitality. The atmosphere here marks the transition from lower hills to the more remote stretch of the trek. Overnight in Muri.

Day 5 : Trek from Muri to Bagar (2,080m): 5–6 hours:

Your trekking journey truly begins today as you depart Muri and ascend through lush forests and terraced farmlands. The trail gradually climbs while offering beautiful views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and neighboring peaks. You pass through small settlements and cross suspension bridges over glacial rivers. The route becomes more rugged as you approach Bagar, a sparsely populated area that serves as a traditional grazing and farming region. The quieter environment and changing landscape provide a taste of the remote wilderness ahead. Overnight in Bagar.

Day 6 : Trek from Bagar to Dobhan Kharka (2,520m): 5–6 hours:

Leaving Bagar, the trail today takes you deeper into the forested region, where the dense vegetation and the sound of rushing streams create a peaceful trekking environment. You’ll ascend gradually through mixed rhododendron and oak forests while following the Myagdi Khola upstream. The path becomes narrower and steeper, reflecting the shift from inhabited villages to high mountain terrain. Dobhan Kharka, surrounded by high cliffs and forested slopes, is a quiet campsite used by shepherds and trekking groups. Overnight at Dobhan Kharka.

Day 7 : Trek from Dobhan Kharka to Italian Base Camp (3,660m): 8–9 hours:

Today is a challenging yet rewarding trekking day as you gain significant altitude. The trail moves through dense forest and eventually opens up to reveal towering views of Dhaulagiri II, III, and V. As you ascend, the landscape transitions from green forested hills to rocky, alpine terrain. The long climb is compensated by the stunning arrival at the Italian Base Camp, perched on a grassy flat below the immense west face of Dhaulagiri. This is your first major campsite with breathtaking mountain views all around. Overnight at Italian Base Camp.

Day 8 : Acclimatization Day at Italian Base Camp:

Today is reserved for proper acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitude before heading into even more remote terrain. You may take a short hike around the camp area to higher ridges for better views of the Dhaulagiri range. The incredible mountain amphitheater surrounding the camp offers countless photographic opportunities. Resting here helps prepare you for the challenging glaciers and higher elevation camps ahead. Overnight at Italian Base Camp.

Day 9 : Italian BC to Chhonbardan Glacier Camp (4,200m): 4–5 hours – Tent Camp:

After leaving Italian Base Camp, you make your way toward the glacier region. The trail becomes steeper and more rugged as you approach the terminal moraine of the Chhonbardan Glacier. The scenery becomes stark and dramatic, dominated by icefalls, rocky ridges, and towering peaks. Trekking across the glacier requires caution, but the panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri massif make the journey unforgettable. You arrive at Chhonbardan Glacier Camp, positioned below the massive Dhaulagiri icefall. Overnight in tents.

Day 10 : Chhonbardan Glacier Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,748m): 4–5 hours – Tent Camp:

Today’s trek takes you directly onto the glacier and higher into the heart of the Dhaulagiri range. The route involves navigating icy terrains, loose moraine, and uneven surfaces, making it one of the more technical sections of the trek. As you approach Dhaulagiri Base Camp, the enormous north face of the mountain reveals itself in awe-inspiring detail. This spectacular setting is the central highlight of the entire Dhaulagiri Circuit. You will set up camp amidst a dramatic amphitheater of towering peaks. Overnight at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.

Day 11 : Acclimatization Day at Dhaulagiri Base Camp – Tent Camp:

Another essential acclimatization day is spent at Dhaulagiri Base Camp to help your body adapt before crossing the high-altitude passes. You may take short hikes around the glacier or simply relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. The base camp is one of the most magnificent spots in the Himalayas, with rugged ice formations, glistening snowfields, and uninterrupted mountain scenery. This rest day ensures that you are physically well-prepared for the upcoming ascent over the French Col. Overnight in tents.

Day 12 : Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley (5,140m) via French Col (5,360m): 6–7 hours – Tent Camp:

This is one of the most exciting and challenging days of the trek. You ascend steadily along the glacier and make the final push to the top of French Col, a high mountain pass marked by prayer flags and sweeping views of the Dhaulagiri range. Standing on the pass, you’ll feel the dramatic scale of the Himalayas surrounding you. After enjoying the panorama, you descend onto the broad, high-altitude plateau known as Hidden Valley. Its barren, moon-like landscape offers a surreal and peaceful setting. Overnight in Hidden Valley.

Day 13 : Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka or Alu Bari (3,900m) via Dhampus Pass (5,244m): 8–10 hours – Tent Camp:

Today involves crossing another major pass, Dhampus Pass, which presents long ascents followed by a steep descent toward the lower valley. From the top, the view opens up toward the Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges, contrasting beautifully with the Dhaulagiri peaks behind you. The trail can be windy and cold, but the scenery is spectacular. After descending from the pass, you reach either Yak Kharka or Alu Bari, seasonal grazing pastures used by herders. This long day concludes with camping under a vast Himalayan sky. Overnight in tents.

Day 14 : Yak Kharka/Alu Bari to Marpha (2,670m): 2–3 hours:

The trail gradually becomes easier as you continue descending from alpine terrain into the lower Mustang region. You eventually join a well-worn path leading toward Marpha, one of the most charming Thakali villages in Nepal. Known for its whitewashed houses, narrow stone-paved lanes, and famous apple orchards, Marpha offers a refreshing change after days in the high wilderness. Here you can enjoy comfortable teahouse lodging, warm food, and perhaps a taste of the region’s renowned apple brandy. Overnight in Marpha.

Day 15 : Drive to Pokhara (820m): 6–7 hours:

Today you leave the mountain trails behind and enjoy a scenic drive along the Kali Gandaki Valley toward Pokhara. The route passes by dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, lush hills, and scattered settlements. As you approach the lakeside city of Pokhara, the atmosphere becomes more relaxed and temperate. Pokhara’s serene Phewa Lake, cafés, and stunning skyline of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre create the perfect setting to unwind after your long trek. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 16 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 7–8 hours:

After breakfast, you board a tourist bus or private vehicle for the return journey to Kathmandu. The drive retraces the highway along rivers, forests, and terraced farmlands. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can spend the evening shopping for souvenirs, enjoying a celebratory dinner, or simply resting after the long expedition. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 17 : Departure Day:

Depending on your flight schedule, you may enjoy a final stroll through Kathmandu or relax at your hotel before your departure. Your team will take you to the airport with enough time to board your flight home. As you say goodbye to Nepal, you carry with you memories of one of the Himalaya’s most remote and thrilling treks—the Dhaulagiri Round. Safe travels and farewell!

Price Includes

• Airport pick-up and drop service
• 3 nights Hotel in Kathmandu (Hotel Green Horizon or similar standard)
• 2 nights Hotel in Pokhara
• All accommodation during the trek in the best hotels/tea houses in the area (differing according to the price you wish to spend)
  • Sanitation: The accommodation we provide will be neat and clean with warm hospitality and quality services.
  • Single Accommodation: You won’t have to share your accommodation with anyone else so your privacy is protected.

• All foods during the trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner; any items on the menu as much as you wish to consume.
  • We provide hygienic and safe meals to re-energize you.
  • We request you not to waste your meals for it is difficult to transport food in the rural area.
  • You are not allowed to share your meals with anyone else from another group.

• Transportation costs: Either drive or domestic flight in (Ktm – Pkr- Ktm). With other driving fares such as driving from Pokhara to Beni and back from Naya Pul to Pokhara

• Professional and Highly experienced English-speaking Trekking Guide licensed by the Government. Including their lodging and food.
  • Local Staff: Our guides are locals of the region which ensures that you will surely get to explore a bit more during the trek than with any other guides.
  • Experienced: With the experience of more than a decade of working in this field, our trekking guides possess excellent knowledge of briefing during the trek as well as they are experts in handling all kinds of critical situations that might occur during the trek.
  • Insurance: Nepal Mountain Trekkers have an insurance policy for all our trekking staff.
• Porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers with a max load of 25 KG). Including their lodging and food.
  • Local Staff: The porters we hire belong to the same region where we trek in order to provide employment opportunities to the locals as well as to make you explore every prospect of the region.

• Trekking permits: TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area(ACAP) fees
• First aid medical box
• Rescue Arrangement Service
• Trekking gear like a sleeping bag and down jacket made available on rent
• 13% VAT and 10% company service charge
• Farewell Dinner

Price Excludes

• Visa fee to enter Nepal (Visa Information)
• International flight tickets and extra baggage charges
• Extra night accommodation and meal costs in Kathmandu due to any change in the scheduled itinerary
• Travel insurance/ Rescue operation costs
• All personal expenses
• Tip for guides and porters is expected but not mandatory

Trip Gallery

Trip Map:

Equipments