Round Dhaulagiri Trekking
A journey shaped by the landscapes, people and experiences of Nepal.
Offered by Mountain Hiking & Trekking Pvt.Ltd
NEPAL · TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
Discover the journey
Read the full journey overview
The Round Dhaulagiri Trek is a challenging and adventurous trekking route in the Dhaulagiri region of Nepal. Dhaulagiri is the seventh highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,167 meters (26,795 feet), and the trekking route takes you around the base of this majestic peak. This trek is known for its rugged and remote nature, offering trekkers a unique and less crowded experience compared to some of the more popular trekking routes in Nepal, such as the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit treks. Trekking Route: The trek usually starts and ends in Beni, a town located in the Kali Gandaki River Valley. The trail takes you through various villages and settlements, including Darbang, Dharapani, Muri, Boghara, Dobang, Italian Base Camp, and Dhaulagiri Base Camp, among others. The trek also involves crossing two high mountain passes: the French Pass (5,360 meters) and the Dhampus Pass (5,200 meters). Duration: The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek typically takes around 18 to 21 days to complete, depending on the specific itinerary and the trekking agency you choose. It's a challenging trek that requires good physical fitness and acclimatization to the high altitudes. Highlights: Dhaulagiri Massif: Experience breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, and V throughout the trek. Remote Villages: Visit remote and traditional villages inhabited by various ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis. Diverse Landscapes: Trek through dense forests, terraced fields, and alpine meadows, experiencing the diverse flora and fauna of the region. High Mountain Passes: Cross the challenging French Pass and Dhampus Pass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs in Tatopani, a welcome relief after days of trekking. Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture, traditions, and hospitality of the people living in the remote Himalayan villages. Permits: To trek in the Dhaulagiri region, you need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. Additionally, if you're planning to visit the Dhaulagiri Base Camp, you'll need a special permit from the Nepal Tourism Board. Best Time to Trek: The best time to trek the Dhaulagiri Circuit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is stable, and the skies are clear. These months offer excellent visibility and comfortable temperatures for trekking. Difficulty Level: The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is considered a strenuous and challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness. The high altitude, rough terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions make this trek demanding and require proper preparation and acclimatization.
The memorable moments
Diverse Landscapes: The trek offers a variety of landscapes, including terraced fields, dense forests, serene rivers, and high alpine meadows. Trekkers also cross several mountain passes. Cultural Experience: You will have the opportunity to interact with local communities such as Gurungs, Magars, and Thakali people, experiencing their unique culture, traditions, and hospitality. Panoramic Views: The trek provides breathtaking panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and other surrounding peaks. The views are especially stunning from high mountain passes. Challenging Passes: Trekkers will cross challenging mountain passes like French Pass (5,360 meters) and Dhampus Pass (5,155 meters), which offer both a physical challenge and spectacular views. Natural Beauty: The route takes you through beautiful forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, as well as alongside rivers and waterfalls, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Isolation: The trek is relatively less crowded compared to the popular routes like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, offering a more secluded and serene trekking experience. Why Travel With Us Customer Support With 24-hour customer service, customers can get help whenever they need it, which can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. Safety Equipment We carry all necessary safety equipment including hyperbaric chambers, automated external defibrillators, pulse oximeters, and general first aid kits. Our first priority is your safety on the mountain. Our purpose To provide our customers with unforgettable and safe trekking experiences that connect them with natural beauty, and support local communities and local culture. Certified Tour Operator We are a certified Trek and Tour operator with Nepal Tourism Board, Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal, and Nepal Mountaineering Association. And we are local Sherpa tour company of Nepal. No Extra Fees There is no additional fee for paying by credit card. Airport transfers are included both on arrival and departure. All taxes and government fees are included in all our packages. Free Nepali & Sherpa Food Cooking Classes - The Best Way to Learn! Start a culinary journey with our free Nepalese and Sherpa cooking classes. Discover authentic recipes, hands-on cooking, and cultural insights into Himalayan cuisine. Explore Traditional Cuisine: Learn to prepare iconic dishes like momos (dumplings), dal bhat (lentils and rice), thukpa (noodle soup), and more. Perfect for food enthusiasts and travelers alike. Join us for an unforgettable experience! Social Media Updates During every trek, we do our best to post social media updates with photos to our Facebook Group or our Instagram Stories. This way your family and friends can watch your progress during your trek.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 3: kathamandu to Beni drive (830m) via Pokhara — Morning Departure: You will start your day early in the morning from Kathmandu. Depending on your preferences and arrangements, you may choose to have breakfast in Kathmandu or stop for a meal on the way.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 4: Drive to Darbang & Trek to Dharapani (1,560m) — In the morning, after breakfast, you will depart from Beni. The drive from Beni to Darbang takes a few hours, depending on the road conditions. Darbang is the starting point of your trek.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 5: Trek to Muri (1,720m) — Morning Start: Begin your day early in the morning with breakfast at your tea house or lodge in Dharapani.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 6: Trek to Bagar 2080m — Morning Start: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast in Muri to fuel up for the day's trekking.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 7: Trek from Bagar to Dovan Kharka — Morning Start: Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast at your accommodation in Bagar, ensuring you have enough energy for the day's trek.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 8: Trek from Dovan to Khola Camp (3,445m) — Morning Start: Begin your day early with breakfast at your accommodation in Dovan Kharka. It's important to fuel up for a day of trekking at higher altitudes.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 9: Trek from Khola Camp to Italian Camp — Morning Start: Begin your day early with a nourishing breakfast in Khola Camp, as you prepare to continue your trek to Italian Camp.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 10: Rest Day - Excursion to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,748m) — Morning Start: Although it's a rest day, you'll start your day early in the morning with a light breakfast and prepare for your excursion to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (DBC).
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 11: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp 4748m — Morning Start: Begin your day with an early breakfast at Italian Camp as you prepare for the trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (DBC).
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 12: Trek to Hidden Valley 5100m via French Pass — Early Start: Begin your day very early in the morning before sunrise. Have a quick and hearty breakfast to fuel up for the challenging day ahead.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 13: Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka via Dhampus Pass — Morning Start: Begin your day early in the morning with breakfast at your campsite in Hidden Valley.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 14: Yak Kharka to Marpha — Morning Start: Begin your day with a wholesome breakfast in Yak Kharka, preparing for the trek to Marpha.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 15: Marpha to Pokhara drive by bus — Morning in Marpha: Enjoy your last morning in Marpha with a leisurely breakfast. Take in the beautiful surroundings, and if you have time, explore any parts of the village you may have missed the previous day.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
Day 16: Pokhara to Kathmandu (Drive) by tourists bus — Morning in Pokhara: Enjoy your morning in Pokhara with a leisurely breakfast. If you have time, you can explore more of Pokhara or do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.
What's included in your experience
Included
- Airport Pick and Drop in Kathmandu by Private vehicle.
- Welcome/Farewell dinner with cultural program as listed in the itinerary.
- Tourist Standard Hotel Accmmodiation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in B/B Basis.
- Half day guided city tour with world heritage entrance permit as listed in itinerary.
- Private transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek.
- Jomsom - Pokhara flight ticket with Airport Tax.
- Standard Lodge/Guest House accommodation (best available) with twin sharing basis during the trek.
- Full Board Meals (3 Meals a day) while on the trek.
- Trekking Permit and Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card fees.
- Professional & highly expertise government licensed holder local Trekking Guide.
- All expenses of the staffs (Guides/Porters) that includes Food, Accommodation, Salary, Insurance, Equipment during your travel period.
- All the necessary trekking gear for porters like jacket /trousers, trekking shoes, gloves, shocks, sunglasses etc.
- Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Walking Poles and Duffel Bag, to be return after trip completed.
- Comprehensive First Aid Kit.
- Arrangement of all rescue and evacuation promptly, in Worst Conditione
- Trekking Map
Not included
- Any packed food/snacks, aerated drinks, energy drinks, mineral water, alcohol, cigarettes, chocolates, nutria-bars.
- All desserts, sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Items of personal nature, Laundry Expenses, Tips.
- Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears.
- Any additional staff other than specified.
- Medical and Travel Insurance and Emergency rescue by any means of Transportation including Helicopter evacuation if required.
- Rescue, Repatriation, Medicines, Medical Tests and Hospitalization expenses.
- Airfare of international flights.
- Nepal entry visa fee (Visa issuance is easy at the arrival).
- Hot shower and battery charging on the tea houses.
- Any other item not included in "Cost Includes" Section.
Essential trip information
Before you go
Nepal Visa Information All foreigners need visas, except people from India. Visa Types: Nepal offers various types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and more. Tourist Visa: Tourist visas are typically the most common type for travelers visiting Nepal for leisure or sightseeing purposes. Visa on Arrival: Many nationalities can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and other entry points. You'll need to fill out a visa application form and provide a passport-sized photo along with the visa fee in USD or equivalent. Online Visa Application: Some nationalities are eligible to apply for a tourist visa online through the Nepal Immigration website. https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/This allows you to complete the visa application in advance and obtain a visa approval letter, which you present upon arrival to receive your visa. Print the Approval Letter: Print out the visa approval letter, as you'll need to present it upon arrival in Nepal along with your passport. Make sure to carry a copy of the approval letter with you during your travel. Obtain Visa Stamp Upon Arrival: Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or other entry points in Nepal, present your passport, printed visa approval letter, and any other required documents to the immigration officer. They will stamp your passport with the tourist visa, allowing you to enter Nepal. Duration and Extension: Tourist visas are typically issued for 15, 30, or 90 days. Extensions are possible for up to 150 days per visa year (January-December) at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu and certain other locations. Visa Fees: The visa fee varies depending on the duration of your stay. There may be additional fees for visa extensions. 15 Days – USD 30 30 Days – USD 50 90 Days – USD 125 Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of departure from Nepal. Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation in case of emergencies. Make sure to carry a copy of your insurance policy and emergency contact information. Be Flexible: Weather conditions in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. Be prepared for flight delays or cancellations due to poor weather conditions in Lukla, which can affect your trekking schedule. Stay flexible and patient. Permits: TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card: This card is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal to ensure their safety. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. Packing List: Clothing: Layered clothing for varying temperatures, waterproof jacket, trekking pants, thermal wear, gloves, and a warm hat. Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots and comfortable trekking socks. Gear: Trekking poles, a good-quality backpack, a daypack, a sleeping bag (if not provided by tea houses), and a headlamp with extra batteries. Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and a reusable water bottle. Personal Items: Toiletries, lightweight towel, and snacks. Accommodation: Tea Houses: The most common type of accommodation on the trek. They provide basic rooms, shared bathrooms, and meals. Booking: Generally, you do not need to book tea houses in advance, but during peak seasons (spring and autumn), it may be wise to book a day or two ahead, especially at higher altitudes like ABC. Food and Water: Meals: Available at tea houses along the trail. Typical meals include dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), noodles, pasta, and various potato dishes. Water: Bottled water is available, but using water purification tablets or a filter to purify tap or stream water is more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Altitude Sickness: Awareness: Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Prevention: Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take rest days if needed. Diamox can be used as a preventive measure (consult a doctor before use). Health and Safety: Travel Insurance: Make sure your insurance covers high-altitude trekking and possible evacuation. Emergency Contacts: Have the contact information for local rescue services and your country's embassy in Nepal. Guide/Porter: Hiring a guide and/or porter can enhance safety and comfort. They provide valuable local knowledge and carry your gear, allowing you to enjoy the trek more fully. Best Time to Trek: Spring (March to May): Blooming rhododendrons and moderate temperatures. Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, stable weather, and excellent visibility. Winter (December to February): Fewer crowds but colder temperatures and possible snowfall. Monsoon (June to August): Heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and potential landslides, but lush greenery and fewer trekkers. Cultural Etiquette: Respect Local Customs: Greet locals with "Namaste," dress modestly, and ask for permission before taking photographs. Environmental Responsibility: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Dispose of waste properly, use biodegradable toiletries, and avoid single-use plastics. Final Tips: Physical Preparation: Engage in regular cardio exercises, strength training, and hiking to build stamina and endurance before the trek. Mental Preparation: Be ready for long days of walking and changing weather conditions. Money: Carry enough cash in Nepalese rupees for the trek, as ATMs are not available along the route. Travle insurance Travel Insurance is mandatory for all customers who looking to travel in Nepal with the Mountain Hiking & Trekking .The Travel Insurance must cover both the evacuation and medical cost There are many insurance companies that offer travel insurance services over the internet. You can choose from a wide variety of insurance companies as per your convenience. Especially when it comes to trekking in Nepal, there is always a narrow chance of minor health issues, injuries and most importantly – altitude sickness. It is essential that you prefer an insurance rule that covers the cost of the helicopter rescue from the mountains in case of main accidents and delicate mountain sickness (AMS). through such great cases of an emergency evacuation, a helicopter service is the only way out of the mountains. This includes a rescue team for both – ground evacuation and rescue. Which is why we need your travel insurances to cover the cost of helicopter services and evacuation from the Himalayas It is forever recovered to be safe than apologetic. Before you plan your trip with Mountain Hiking & Trekking do make sure that your travel insurance covers all the costs mentioned above from a reliable company. Suggested Travel Insurance Companies: https://www.travelguard.com https://www.worldnomads.com https://www.mondial-assistance.ca https://www.travelassistnetwork.com/ https://www.travelex-insurance.com/ https://www.travelite.com/ https://www.tugo.com https://www.hccmis.com/atlas-travel-insurance
Accommodation
3 Star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara on bed and breakfast and tented camp during the trek with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Fitness & eligibility
1
Meeting point
Kathmandu
What to bring
- The following is a list of clothing and accessories that we recommend for treks and climbs in Nepal. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list, rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel are essential for your comfort and convenience. However we recognize that you may have your own personal preferences for clothing which may be equally as suitable.
- Sun hat or scarf
- Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Upper Body
- T-shirts (2)
- Light and expedition weight thermal tops
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
- Down vest and/or jacket (optional)
- Lightweight gloves
- Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
- Lower Body
- Underwear (4)
- Hiking shorts (2)
- Lightweight cotton long pants
- Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms
- Fleece or wool pants
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants
- Thin, lightweight inner socks (4)
- Thick, warm wool hiking socks (4)
- Hiking boots with spare laces
- Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
- Gaiters (Optional)
- Accessories
- Sleeping bag rated -10C. to -20C (Depending on trekking region)
- Headlamp (e.g. Petzl Zoom) with spare bulbs and batteries
- Small pad or combination lock-to-lock trek bag
- Basic First Aid Kit (see Health and Medicinal)
- Large plastic bags - for keeping items dry inside trek bags
- Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches)
- Thermarest sleeping pad (Only Camping Trek)
- Water bottles (2)
- Toiletries
- Small wash towel
- Optional items
- Binoculars
- Books (Highly Recommended)
- Compass
Cancellation terms
Any cancellation by a Client must be made in writing and acknowledged by the Company, the date on which the request to cancel is received by the Company, will determine the cancellation charge Cancellation of Nepal,Bhutan and Tibet Trips deposit amount is ( Non- Refundable) But you can use That deposit anytime when you come to nepal. a) The Client is strongly advised to take out cancellation insurance at the time of making the booking. b) No refunds will be made if you voluntarily leave a trip for any reason after the trip has start on,No refunds will be made for any accommodation, transport, sightseeing, meals or services not utilized. c) If you want to change the date of the tour, it is possible to change within our tour date (subject to availability) which may occur some additional cost for you. d) We will take last minute booking till 5 day prior of tour date for Nepal trips and till 20 days prior for Bhutan and Tibet trips and you need to make full payment to book the tour in these cases. Cancellation Of A Tour By The Company: Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd reserves the right to cancel any trip, including a guaranteed trip, prior to departure due to reasons beyond our control (due to natural disasters, flight cancellation, , industrial action, Mountain sickness, weather conditions and Early back to kathamandu from Trek or any Tour in nepal,bhutan and Tibet trip. In such a case, Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd will not refund any money Passport And Visas: All clients must have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from return date, Nepalese visas can be obtained from the Nepalese Embassies or Consulate in your country or arrival in Kathmandu Airport. Please visit our Nepal Visa for the detail info. Complaints: If you have complaints about the trip, you can tell to operator/leader/guide at the earliest opportunity then he will take the appropriate action. Acceptance Of Risk: We are committed to provide the best services by performing our duties honestly & seriously to make your journey very smooth & successful. However, Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd and its related organization shall not be responsible for any changes in the itinerary due to unavoidable circumstance beyond our control such as govt. restriction, Land slide, road blockage, flood, snow political unrest, cancellation of flight, delay, sickness or accident and The nature of some of our trips is adventurous and risky as well, therefore may involve a personal risk. We would like to inform you that you have to take all risk on yourself such as damages or injuries or death resulting from these inherent risks.
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