Major Highlights of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Panoramic Mountain views of Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri I, Dhaulagiri II , Dhaulagiri III , Dhaulagiri V, and Annapurna
- Adventure across the two difficult high passes – French High Pass, and Dhumpus High Pass
- Camping in the Hidden Valley at 5,200 meters
- Explore the raw beauty of remote villages of western Nepal
- Traverse through varying landscapes from terraced farmlands, and rhododendron forests, to rugged terrains
- Immerse into the culture and lifestyle of the Magar residents of the region
- Challenging adventure
- Visit the breathtaking Marpha Village, and explore the apple orchids
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek takes you on an incredible journey through the remote and pristine wilderness of the western Himalayas. Upon completing this strenuous trek, you will experience the region's raw beauty, and adventure, and reap the rewards of a difficult journey.
Located above the Kali Gandaki Gorge, considered the deepest gorges in the world, this trek takes you around the Dhaulagiri range, giving you incredible views of its surrounding peaks such as Tukuche Peak (6,920 meters), Dhaulagiri I (8,167 meters), Dhaulagiri II (7,751 meters), Dhaulagiri III (7,715 meters), Dhaulagiri V (7,618 meters), and Annapurna (8,091 meters).
This iconic Dhauligiri Circuit Trek allows you to experience the lifestyle of the Magar community, get a glimpse of the Mustang region, and explore the base camp of the world’s seventh-highest mountain – The Dhaulagiri (8167 meters). Throughout the 17-day journey into the heart of the Himalayas, you will get an opportunity to take in the stunning Himalayan landscapes, high-altitude passes, dense jungles, and terraced farms.
As you climb to a higher elevation, the landscape changes from rich farmlands to rugged mountain terrain. Therefore, prepare to traverse the complex routes of alpine meadows, and mountain terrain as you enjoy the breathtaking panoramas of the snow-capped peaks along the way. This trek takes you to two high-elevation points.
The 5,360-meter French Pass and the 5,240-meter Dhampus Pass are the most challenging passes that demand physical fitness, high morale, strong mentality, and proper acclimatization. Coming well-prepared for the adventures along the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is highly recommended.
Also, remember that Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is not recommended for trekkers with no prior high-altitude trekking. You must overcome several challenges including snowy tracks, camping in tents, traveling to remote villages, and walking through dense forests.
Do you think you have it to conquer the Dhaulagiri Circuit? Book your adventure with Orbit Alpine Adventures and create unforgettable memories on the 17-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
Why Go on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
Though difficult, there are several reasons to take on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. We have listed the top 5 reasons below:
Round Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Adventurous French Pass and Dhaumpus Pass: Encircling the Dhaulagiri Peak in this 17-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek can be a challenging journey. However, this adventure around the world’s seventh-tallest peak offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and remote villages. The adventure also comprises two high-altitude passes – French Pass, and Dhampus Pass. Conquering both passes gives you an amazing panoramic Himalayan vista.
Spectacular High-Altitude Alpine Landscape: Situated over the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek promises spectacular views of the Himalayan landscape throughout the 17-day adventure. Find terraced farmlands gradually change to lush forests, alpine meadows, and rugged terrain as the elevation increases during the trek.
Witness the Raw Beauty of Western Nepal: The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is ideal for trekkers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure into the Himalayas. Apart from the rest of the country, this region is still spared from global modernization due to technological advances. Therefore, you can still experience the raw beauty of western Nepal as you take on the rugged paths, and lodge in minimal teahouses throughout the duration of your journey.
Fully Guided Camping Trek: Orbit Alpine Adventure offers a fully guided camping trek for the 17-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Our team of experienced guides will take you through the difficult French Pass and Dhumpus Pass, across the Magar villages, high-glaciers, and icy paths. We ensure your adventurous journey and camping experience are comfortable and collect unforgettable memories along the way.
Sustainable Travel: Our Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek aims to create sustainable mountain tourism by allowing travelers to contribute to economic growth. This encourages the locals to preserve the environment, and natural beauty to promote and preserve the beauty of the region to the world.
17-Days Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek: Memories along the Adventurous Trail
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an adventurous journey that mostly takes you along the off-the-beaten paths of the Himalayas and across the rugged terrain. However, upon completion, you will find a rewarding experience of achieving a difficult trekking fete.
Your journey into the remote region begins upon arriving in Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, you will drive to Durbang and enter the Dhaulagiri region via Beni. The first leg of the trek begins at lower altitude regions comprising terraced farms, charming Magar villages, and dense rhododendron forests. A week of trekking and acclimatization takes you to the most difficult passes – the French Pass and the Dhumpus Pass. Conquering these passes opens the panoramic Himalayan views with snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and pristine streams.
The descent following the two passes is equally stunning. Make sure you have your cameras ready to capture the essence of Marpha, home to famous apple orchards and monasteries. Here, you can also get a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Tibetan-inspired lifestyle and culture of the Mustang region.
All in all, the 17-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a journey that blends the beauty of the country and adventure. You also get an opportunity to immerse into the culture of the people of the Himalayas and get to know about their customs, heritage, and way of life.
This is an ideal choice for trekkers with prior experience in the high-altitude Himalayan region of Nepal if you are looking for a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Permits in Nepal
Trekkers must obtain government-authorized permits to complete the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking. The required permits are listed below:
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek falls under the Annapurna region. Therefore, trekkers need to obtain an ACAP permit before beginning the trek.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Project works to protect the natural and cultural resources of the area. For sustainable tourism, ACAP charges NRS 3000 (approximately USD 28) per person for the permit.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Ensure that you have your TIMS card before beginning your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. The permit costs NRS 2000 (approximately USD 20) per person.
Trek with peace of mind knowing that Orbit Alpine Adventure will take care of your trekking permits for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Cost for Transportation, Permits, Guides, and Porters
Several factors contribute to the cost of the Dhaulagiri Trek. The group size, preferred itinerary, trekking days, accommodation, etc are pivotal in determining the final cost. To get a general idea of the 17-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek costs, refer to our fixed departure treks.
Our 17-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek covers the cost of a guide and porter (one for two climbers), all ground transport, the Jomson-Pokhara flight, and all required permits. You may request additional support staff, or modify your transport at an additional cost.
17-Day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek: Alternative Trekking Trails in Nepal
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an adventurous journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Though exciting, and equally rewarding, this trek is recommended only for seasoned trekkers with prior experience in the high-altitude region of Nepal. Therefore, novices can take on some of the simpler routes.
For an exhilarating experience of the Himalayas, we recommend taking on the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It is suitable for travelers with good stamina and physical fitness but no prior trekking experiences. This trek shares a similar feature as that of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, where you visit the local Gurung and Magar villages, and walk past terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and the rugged terrain.
If you are looking for an even shorter trail in the Annapurna region, we would recommend the Poon Hill or Mardi Base Camp trek. Both treks can be completed in a week. Despite being short and comparatively simpler, it still takes you deep into the Annapurna region giving you impressive views of the tall mountains along the way.
Away from the Annapurna region, you can take on the luxury Everest Base Camp trek if comfort is your top preference. If not, you can still go on the classic EBC trek along the foothills of the world’s tallest peak – Mount Everest.
We also offer customized trekking packages where you can mix various circuits per your preference. Our tailor-made packages further allow you to spend extended days in your preferred destinations.
For further details, you can contact our representative at Orbit Alpine Adventure.
Best Time for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek in 2025 and 2026
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is only available in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). If you book your trek for the spring season, you can expect pleasant weather with clear skies. The trail is covered with blooming rhododendron flowers, adding vibrant colors to the Himalayas. However, there are still chances of snow in the higher-altitude areas. So, we recommend preparing well for the adventures that may lie ahead.
Likewise, autumn is the peak season. The autumn foliage takes over the Himalayas creating a plethora of colors along the trail. You will find more reliable and stable weather which is ideal for trekking the rugged trails of the Dhaulagiri circuit. But, watch out for the stronger winds as you reach higher elevations.
Considering the risks and dangers during the monsoon and winter, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is only possible in spring and autumn. The trails, including the high passes, are closed due to excessive snow and frigid winter conditions. In the monsoon, there are high possibilities of landslides and floods. As a result, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Treks cannot be operated in these seasons.
However, due to the change in global temperatures, we have been experiencing a season shift. All seasons start 4 to 6 weeks later than usual. Therefore, if you are in Nepal in the monsoon and winter months, you can check with Orbit Alpine Adventure and confirm the trekking possibilities at your desired times.
Customized Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek for 2025 and 2026
Take on the adventurous Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with a tailor-made package from Orbit Alpine Adventure. We create fully customized trekking itineraries that blend the beauty, cultural diversity, and adventures of the Dhaulagiri Circuit.
Contact our expert representatives to create a customized Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. We understand your needs and requirements to craft an itinerary that best suits your preferences.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Itinerary for 2025 and 2026
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a technical journey around the world’s seventh-highest peak. If you find the 17-day expedition strenuous, you can request a customized itinerary that allows you to trek at an easy pace.
Traditionally, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek would last between 20-22 days. However, due to road accessibility, the journey is cut short by approximately one week.
