Join us for an unforgettable 21-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Ghale Treks, where you’ll experience the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Nepal. This challenging yet rewarding trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush valleys and traditional villages to alpine meadows and the stunning Dhaulagiri Base Camp. You’ll traverse high passes, enjoy panoramic views of majestic peaks, and encounter unique flora and fauna along the way. With ample opportunities for acclimatization, cultural exploration, and a chance to experience the vibrant local lifestyle, this trek promises an adventure of a lifetime while ensuring comfort with our carefully selected accommodations and expert guidance. Conclude your journey with a relaxing day in Kathmandu, featuring a city tour and a festive farewell dinner, celebrating your incredible journey through the majestic Dhaulagiri region.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Private Tour
On the 21-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, trekkers can expect an exhilarating adventure through some of the most diverse and stunning landscapes in the Himalayas. The trek combines the thrill of challenging mountain pathways with the serenity of lush valleys, promising an intimate experience of Nepal’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. You will traverse high mountain passes, including the famous French Pass and Dhampus Pass, while enjoying spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri range and surrounding peaks. The journey provides ample opportunities for acclimatization and cultural interaction with local communities, showcasing their traditions and lifestyles. Along the way, trekkers will camp in picturesque settings and have the chance to explore ancient monasteries and revered pilgrimage sites.
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative from Ghale Treks who will escort you to your hotel. After settling in, take the rest of the day to explore the vibrant Thamel area, filled with shops, cafes, and street vendors. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu (1,400 m).
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before you attend a trip briefing where you’ll receive important information about the trek and meet your guide and fellow trekkers. Afterward, you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Travel by private vehicle or tourist bus to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city, which will take approximately 7-8 hours. Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas along the way. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax by Phewa Lake. Overnight in Pokhara (820 m).
In the morning, drive to Darbang (1,200 m), the starting point of the trek (approx. 6-7 hours). After lunch, begin your hike to Gatti Khola, enjoying scenic views of terraced fields and rural villages. Arrive in Gatti Khola, where you will spend the night in a local lodge (1,300 m). Walking hours: 3-4.
After breakfast, begin your trek to Nisi Dhor (1,500 m), passing through lush forests and beautiful landscapes. The trail ascends gently, and you’ll witness the local culture and their daily routines. Expect to walk for about 5-6 hours today. Overnight at a local lodge.
Continue your trek toward Bagar (2,040 m). The trail winds through picturesque villages and terraced fields, providing an insight into the local lifestyle. After about 6-7 hours of walking, reach your destination and stay overnight in a local guesthouse.
Today, trek to Dobang (2,520 m), which is approximately 5-6 hours away. The trail gradually ascends through rhododendron forests, and you can enjoy the stunning views of the Dhaulagiri range. Overnight at a local lodge in Dobang.
After breakfast, embark on a trek to the Italian Base Camp (3,600 m), taking around 5-6 hours. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri massif. Upon arrival, set up your camp and explore the surrounding area. Overnight in tents.
Take a day to acclimatize and explore the area around the Italian Base Camp. You can hike to nearby viewpoints for stunning vistas of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range. Overnight in tents.
Begin your ascent to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740 m), approximately 6-7 hours away. The trek is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking mountain views. Spend the night at Base Camp in tents and enjoy the serene environment.
Today’s trek involves crossing the French Pass (5,360 m) and Dhampus Pass (5,200 m). Expect a long day of trekking (8-9 hours), with incredible panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri range and the pristine landscape. Camp overnight near Dhampus Pass.
After breakfast, descend to Hidden Valley (4,600 m), which is known for its stunning scenery and tranquility. The trek takes around 5-6 hours, and you will camp in this picturesque location surrounded by mountains.
Depart from Hidden Valley and trek to Yak Kharka (4,000 m). The trail takes you through lush meadows and offers stunning mountain views. The trek will take approximately 5-6 hours. Overnight at a local lodge.
Today, descend towards Jomsom (2,700 m), a lively town in the Mustang region. The trek is about 6-7 hours long, and upon arrival, you can explore the local market and enjoy the scenery. Overnight in Jomsom.
On this day, trek from Jomsom to Muktinath (3,710 m), an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The trek takes around 6-7 hours. Visit the Muktinath Temple and enjoy the stunning landscape. Overnight in Muktinath.
From Muktinath, descend to Kagbeni (2,810 m), a charming village in the Mustang region. The trek will take around 3-4 hours. Explore the ancient monastery and the unique architecture of Kagbeni. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Return to Jomsom (2,700 m) from Kagbeni. The trek takes approximately 4-5 hours. Spend the afternoon relaxing, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying the beauty of the area. Overnight in Jomsom.
In the morning, take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Enjoy a free day to explore Pokhara, including activities like boating on Phewa Lake, visiting the World Peace Pagoda, or hiking to Sarangkot for panoramic views. Overnight in Pokhara.
After breakfast, take a private vehicle or tourist bus back to Kathmandu (7-8 hours). You’ll check in at your hotel upon arrival and have the evening free for personal activities. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Enjoy a full-day city tour of Kathmandu, including visits to key heritage sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square. In the evening, celebrate the end of your trek with a farewell dinner featuring a traditional Nepali cultural show, curated by Ghale Treks. Overnight in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you can do some last-minute shopping or explore the streets of Kathmandu. Ghale Treks will provide transportation to the airport for your departure home or onward journey.
Know Before You Go: Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Embarking on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an exhilarating adventure that requires careful preparation. Here’s what you need to know before you go:
Documentation
Travel Insurance
Health and Fitness
Packing Essentials
Cash and Currency
Environmental Considerations
Communication
Weather Conditions
Local Cuisine and Hydration
What to Bring on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
Packing wisely for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is essential for a comfortable and safe experience. Here’s a comprehensive packing list divided into categories:
Trekking Gear
Clothing Layers
Sleeping Gear
Accessories
Personal Items
Water and Hydration
Electronics
Food and Snacks
Important Documents
Miscellaneous
Additional Tips
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your adventure on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, ensuring a more enjoyable and comfortable trekking experience. Happy trekking!
Our recent experience on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek was nothing short of spectacular! As a trio from Spain, we were captivated by the breathtaking mountain trails and stunning vistas that this trek offers. Organized by Ghale Treks, the entire experience was seamless, from the initial itinerary planning to the final day of our trek. Our guide, Mr. Ghale, was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights about the local culture and geography while ensuring our safety and comfort throughout the journey. Each day brought new challenges and awe-inspiring views of the Dhaulagiri massif, as well as encounters with warm and welcoming local communities. This trek is truly an adventure of a lifetime, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore Nepal’s magnificent landscapes.
