21 Days

Dhaulagiri trekking route with Dhampus Peak

Price per person $3800

Altitude 6012m

Difficulty Moderate

Group size 2-20

Climb Style Normal

Overview
Itinerary
Cost Inclusion & Exclusion
Travel Notes

Overview

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Optional Dhampus Peak Climbing

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with optional Dhampus Peak Climbing is one of Nepal’s most remote and rewarding high‑altitude trekking adventures. This 21‑day expedition loops around Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), offering dramatic Himalayan panoramas, the challenge of crossing French Pass (5,360 m), and deep immersion in pristine wilderness far from crowded trails.

Trekking through Magar and Gurung villages, lush forests, alpine meadows, glaciers, and Hidden Valley (5,050 m) brings cultural connection and natural serenity that appeals to adventure seekers and wellness travelers alike. Carefully planned acclimatization days, mindful rest, and recovery periods support health and altitude adaptation, while opportunities for sound healing, gentle hikes, and relaxation enhance your overall wellness experience in nature.

For experienced trekkers, the optional ascent of Dhampus Peak (6,012 m) adds a peak‑climbing thrill and panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna ranges. The trek concludes with a scenic descent into the Kali Gandaki Valley and a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, leaving you with unforgettable Himalayan memories.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu – Airport Pickup & Hotel Transfer for Trekking Adventures

Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal, and enjoy a smooth airport pickup with transfer to your hotel. Rest and prepare for your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek or Himalayan expedition.

Day 2

Preparation Day & Local Experiences in Kathmandu

Today is dedicated to preparing for your upcoming expedition while immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Kathmandu. You will have time to double-check your trekking gear, organize equipment, and finalize any last-minute arrangements under the guidance of your expedition team.

In addition, enjoy a leisurely walk through the bustling streets of Kathmandu, exploring local markets, temples, and handicraft shops. Savor the flavors of Nepal with authentic street food tastings, including momo dumplings, chatamari, and local sweets, giving you a true taste of Nepalese culture before your adventure begins.

This day perfectly balances expedition preparation and cultural immersion, ensuring you are ready for the trek while connecting with the local traditions and cuisine of Kathmandu

Day 3

Drive from Kathmandu to Beni (8–9 hrs) – Overnight Hotel Stay for Dhaulagiri Trek

Drive from Kathmandu to Beni, Nepal (8–9 hrs), and settle into your hotel. Rest and prepare for the start of your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek .

Day 4

Drive from Beni to Darbang(2 hrs), then trek to Dharapani (1565m) 4-5 hrs and camp overnight amidst Himalayan scenery.

Drive from Beni to Darbang (2 hrs) and trek to Dharapani (1565m) (4–5 hrs) for overnight camping. Enjoy Himalayan landscapes and traditional villages.

Day 5

Trek 5–6 hrs from Dharapani to Muri (1850m) and camp overnight in the Himalayan wilderness.

Trek from Dharapani to Muri (1850m) (5–6 hrs) through scenic forests and traditional villages. Overnight camping amidst the Himalayan landscapes of the Dhaulagiri Circuit.

Day 6

Trek 5-6 hrs from Muri to Boghara (2050m) and camp overnight in the Himalayan wilderness.

Trek from Muri to Boghara (2050m) (5-6 hrs) through forests, rivers, and traditional villages. Overnight camping amidst the serene Himalayan landscapes of the Dhaulagiri Circuit.

Day 7

Trek 5–6 hrs from Boghara to Dobhan (2020m) and camp overnight in the Himalayan wilderness.

Trek from Boghara to Dobhan (2020m) (5–6 hrs) through scenic forests, rivers, and traditional villages. Overnight camping amidst the Himalayan landscapes of the Dhaulagiri Circuit.

Day 8

Trek 5–6 hrs from Dobhan to Sallaghari (2820m) and camp overnight with Himalayan panoramas.

Trek from Dobhan to Sallaghari (2820m) (5–6 hrs) through alpine forests and traditional villages. Overnight camping with stunning Himalayan views on the Dhaulagiri Circuit.

Day 9

Trek to Italian Base Camp (3660m) (6–7 hrs) – Camping on Dhaulagiri Circuit

Trek from Sallaghari to Italian Base Camp (3660m) (6–7 hrs) through alpine terrain and high-altitude landscapes. Overnight camping amidst breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

Day 10

Rest and acclimatize at high camp with optional short hikes (2-4 hrs) while camping.

Rest and acclimatize at high camp on the Dhaulagiri Circuit. Short hikes (2-4 hrs) help adjust to altitude while camping amidst Himalayan peaks.

Day 11

Trek to Glacier Camp (4200m) (5–6 hrs) – Camping on Dhaulagiri Circuit

Trek from Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp (4200m) (5–6 hrs) through alpine terrain and moraine landscapes. Overnight camping amid majestic Himalayan peaks.

Day 12

Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4700m) (5–6 hrs) – Camping on Dhaulagiri Circuit

Trek from Glacier Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4700m) (5–6 hrs). Experience high-altitude trekking and camp overnight amid the towering peaks of the Himalayas.

Day 13

Rest & Acclimatization Day at High Camp (2-4 hrs trekking) – Camping on Dhaulagiri Circuit

Rest and acclimatize at high camp on the Dhaulagiri Circuit. Short hikes (2-4 hrs) help adjust to altitude while camping amidst the majestic Himalayas.

Day 14

Trek to Hidden Valley (5050m) via French Col (5360m) (7–8 hrs) – Camping on Dhaulagiri Circuit

rek from Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley (5050m) via French Col (5360m) (7–8 hrs). Camp overnight amid stunning Himalayan peaks and high-altitude landscapes.

Day 15

Hike & Explore Hidden Valley (4–5 hrs) – Camping / Optional Dhampus Peak Climb on Dhaulagiri Circuit

Spend the day hiking and exploring Hidden Valley (3–5 hrs) at 5050m. Optional Dhampus Peak climbing for experienced trekkers. Overnight camping with Himalayan views.

Day 16

Summit Dhampus Peak (6012m) (10–12 hrs) & Return to Hidden Valley – Camping on Dhaulagiri Circuit

Summit Dhampus Peak (6012m) (10–12 hrs) under IFMGA guidance and descend back to Hidden Valley (5050m) for overnight camping. Experience breathtaking Himalayan views.

Day 17

Trek to Yak Kharka (3600m) via Dhampus Pass (5240m) (7–8 hrs) – Camping on Dhaulagiri Circuit

Trek from Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka (3600m) via Dhampus Pass (5240m) (7–8 hrs). Camp overnight in Himalayan landscapes with stunning panoramic views.

Day 18

Trek to Marpha (2600m) (5–6 hrs) & Drive to Jomsom – Hotel Stay on Dhaulagiri Circuit

Trek down to Marpha (2600m) (5–6 hrs) and drive to Jomsom (1 hr). Overnight hotel stay in Jomsom after completing this scenic section of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.

Day 19

Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (30 min) & Hotel Transfer in Lakeside – Dhaulagiri Circuit

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (30 min) and transfer to your hotel in Lakeside. Relax by Phewa Lake and enjoy the serene views after completing the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.

Day 20

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu (25 min) – Relaxation, Sound Healing & Nepali Cultural Evening

Fly early from Pokhara to Kathmandu (25 min). Relax with sound healing, trekkers massage, and enjoy dinner with traditional Nepali dance after your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.

Day 21

Final Departure from Kathmandu – International Flight after Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, for your international flight. Conclude your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek and Himalayan adventure in Nepal.

Cost Inclusion & Exclusion

4 star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu for 3 nights with B/B service
4 star hotel accommodation in Pokhara within in trip with B/B service
Freshly prepared meals along the during trip with boiled water, tea, coffee etc.
Enough space tent with service with very comfort environment
Well prepared camping logistic arrangements for Members comfort
IFMGA certified mountain guide for your high concern of safety and security
Enough staff members for your comfortable trip
All required permits for the treks and climbing
Essential knowledge of first aid service and kit
Staff members wages, equipment, insurances and allowances
All transportation service during the travel
Supplementary O2 and its required system in case of emergency
Water proof duffle bag if required
Highly experienced chef for your hygienic and delicious food during camping module trek
Domestic flight service

International airfare, arrival visa and your travel insurance
Personal expenses
Extra nights in city area
Tipping for staff members
Your personal trekking gears
Soft and hard drinks

Travel Notes

Key Information – Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Dhampus Peak Climbing

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Dhampus Peak Climbing is a remote and demanding high-altitude adventure in western Nepal, circling Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the world’s seventh-highest mountain. This trek combines wilderness trekking, glacier travel, high mountain passes, and optional Himalayan peak climbing, making it one of the most challenging trekking routes in Nepal.

Trip Duration
The standard Dhaulagiri Circuit itinerary takes approximately 20–22 days, including acclimatization, rest days, and the optional Dhampus Peak (6,012m) ascent.

Maximum Elevation
The highest point of the trek is the French Pass (5,360m). For those choosing the climbing option, Dhampus Peak reaches an altitude of 6,012m.

Trek Difficulty
This trek is classified as strenuous to very challenging. It involves long trekking days, steep ascents and descents, glacier crossings, and camping in remote high-altitude terrain. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended.

Accommodation
Accommodation includes basic teahouses in lower villages and full camping support in remote sections of the trek, particularly between Boghara and Yak Kharka.

Best Season
The best seasons for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek and Dhampus Peak Climbing are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), offering more stable weather and safer conditions.

Group Size
Group sizes are generally small due to the technical nature and remoteness of the route, allowing for better safety management and personalized support.

Permits Required
Required permits include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card. Dhampus Peak climbing requires a Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) permit.