Overview

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Peaceful Treks is a memorable Himalayan adventure that takes trekkers on a complete circuit around Dhaulagiri Massif (8,167m), offering an unforgettable blend of remote landscapes, high-altitude passes, and enchanting traditional culture. This trek passes through deep river valleys, terraced farmland, dense forests, and glacial moraines, providing panoramic views of Dhaulagiri I, Nilgiri, Annapurna I, Tukuche, and Dhampus peaks.

The trail traverses traditional Magar and Gurung villages, offering opportunities to experience local culture, customs, and Buddhist heritage, including monasteries, prayer flags, and carved Mani stones. The journey includes crossing the famous French Pass (5,360m), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal, rewarding trekkers with sweeping Himalayan vistas.

With a carefully designed itinerary featuring acclimatization days, experienced guides, porter support, and comfortable teahouse accommodations, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is ideal for physically fit beginners and seasoned trekkers seeking a less crowded and immersive adventure. The best seasons for this trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the high Himalayan scenery is at its most spectacular.

This trek combines authentic trekking experiences, remote Himalayan adventure, and expertly managed trekking packages and customized travel packages by Peaceful Treks, making it one of Nepal’s most rewarding high-altitude circuits.

Key Highlights – Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

  • Complete circuit around Dhaulagiri Massif, providing stunning 360-degree mountain views

  • Cross the challenging French Pass (5,360m), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal

  • Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Tukuche, and Dhampus peaks

  • Explore remote Magar and Gurung villages and immerse in local culture

  • Walk through dense forests, terraced fields, glacial valleys, and alpine landscapes

  • Trek within Dhaulagiri Conservation Area, home to diverse flora and fauna

  • Planned acclimatization days for safe high-altitude trekking

  • Stay in teahouse accommodations along the route

  • Experience a less crowded trail offering a true Himalayan adventure

  • Best trekking seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for clear skies and ideal conditions

Itinerary

Day
1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Evening trek briefing. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Max Alt: 1350
Day
2
Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation

Visit Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Gear check and final trek briefing. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day
3
Drive to Beni (800m)

Drive to Beni, the starting point of the trek, along scenic river valleys and hills. Overnight in Beni.

Max Alt: 800
Day
4
Beni to Majhgaon (1,300m)

Begin trekking along the Myagdi Khola River, passing small villages and farmlands. Overnight in Majhgaon.

Max Alt: 1300
Day
5
Majhgaon to Jagat (1,300m)

Trek through terraced farmland and forest trails, passing traditional villages and suspension bridges. Overnight in Jagat.

Max Alt: 1300
Day
6
Jagat to Dharapani (1,860m)

Follow the trail along river valleys with gradual ascents into pine and rhododendron forests. Overnight in Dharapani.

Max Alt: 1860
Day
7
Dharapani to Chame (2,670m)

Continue trekking through villages and lush forest landscapes. Overnight in Chame.

Max Alt: 2670
Day
8
Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)

Ascend to Upper Pisang, with panoramic views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and surrounding peaks. Overnight in Upper Pisang.

Max Alt: 3300
Day
9
Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m)

Trek through alpine landscapes to Manang, a hub for trekkers and acclimatization. Overnight in Manang.

Max Alt: 3540
Day
10
Acclimatization Day in Manang

Short hikes to surrounding viewpoints, Gangapurna Lake, or nearby monasteries to aid acclimatization. Overnight in Manang.

Max Alt: 3540
Day
11
Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m)

Ascend through alpine pastures and glacial moraines. Overnight in Yak Kharka.

 

Max Alt: 4050
Day
12
Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,540m)

Prepare for the high pass crossing with gradual ascent. Overnight in Thorong Phedi.

 

Max Alt: 4540
Day
13
Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via French Pass (5,360m)

Early morning ascent over French Pass, enjoying panoramic Himalayan views. Descend to Muktinath for overnight stay.

 

Max Alt: 5360
Day
14
Muktinath to Jomsom (2,715m)

Descend to Jomsom through the Kali Gandaki valley. Explore the town and rest. Overnight in Jomsom.

Max Alt: 2715
Day
15
Jomsom to Pokhara (820m) via Flight

Morning flight to Pokhara, relax by Phewa Lake and enjoy the lakeside city. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day
16
Pokhara to Kathmandu

Drive or fly back to Kathmandu. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Kathmandu.

 

Day
17
Departure from Kathmandu

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for onward travel.

 

Map Route

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • Accommodation in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Teahouse accommodation during trekking
  • Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during trekking
  • Experienced English-speaking Peaceful Treks guides
  • Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • Domestic flight Jomsom–Pokhara
  • Dhaulagiri Conservation Area Permit and TIMS card
  • First-aid kit and emergency oxygen
  • Trek briefing, route planning, and ongoing support from Peaceful Treks

Excluded

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal expenses (hot showers, Wi-Fi, snacks, drinks)
  • Tips for guides, porters, or drivers
  • Equipment rental not listed in the gear section
  • Extra costs due to weather, flight delays, or itinerary changes
  • Any expenses not mentioned in inclusions

Gear List

    • Down or insulated jacket
    • Fleece or warm mid-layers
    • Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
    • Trekking pants
    • Waterproof jacket and trousers
    • Warm hat, gloves, scarf, or balaclava
    • Trekking socks
    • Sturdy trekking boots
    • Sandals or camp shoes
    • Daypack (30–40L)
    • Sleeping bag (rated to –15°C)
    • Trekking poles
    • Sunglasses with UV protection
    • Headlamp with spare batteries
    • Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
    • Sunscreen and lip balm
    • Personal medications and toiletries
    • Quick-dry towel and wet wipes
    • Camera and power bank
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