Trip Facts
Off the Beaten Treks
17 days
English, Hindi, Japanese, Urdu
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel.
Day 02: Guided tour around world’s Heritage sites of Kathmandu.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Day 04: Drive to Beni and Trek to Tatopani.
Day 05: Trek from Tatopani to Dharapani.
Day 06: Trek from Dharapani to Muri.
Day 07: Trek from Muri to Baghar.
Day 08: Trek from Baghar to Dobang.
Day 09: Trek from Dobang to Sallaghari.
Day 10: Trek from Sallaghari to Italian Base Camp.
Day 11: Rest and acclimatization day–free exploration.
Day 12: Trek from Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp.
Day 13: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Day 14: Trek to Hidden Valley via French pass.
Day 15: Trek from Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka via Dhampus Pass.
Day 16: Trek from Yak Kharka to Jomsom.
Day 17: Fly to Pokhara. Sightseeing, boating or free for any other personal activities.
Day 18: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu.
Day 19: Farewell, departure transfer to Tribhuwan International Airport.
Any
- Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) – World’s seventh-highest peak, the “Dazzling White Mountain”
- Kali Gandaki Valley – Dramatic backdrop of the world’s deepest gorge
- Dhaulagiri Circuit – One of Nepal’s most challenging full camping treks
- French Pass & Dhampus Pass – High-altitude crossings through glaciers and snow ridges
- Dhaulagiri Base Camps – Italian BC & Dhaulagiri BC with close-up Himalayan views
- High Himalayan Panorama – Dhaulagiri I, II, IV, Annapurna range, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak
Pick up from airport
Drop back at the airport
- Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic). All required transfers in Kathmandu too.
- 3 Night’s accommodation in touristic town of Kathmandu in BB Plan (one can choose budget, standard and deluxe).
- Kathmandu – Pokhara – Beni in private/sharing vechicle.
- Jomsom – Pokhara in Flight and back to Kathmandu by flight/drive.
- Standard tea house (lodge) accommodation during the entire trekking as per mentioned in itinerary.
- Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the entire trek as per mentioned in itinerary.
- A duffel bag, Trekking Map .
- Trekking pole, Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Nepali SIM card (Rental basis, if needed).
- TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit.
- Required Permits.
- An experienced government certified local Trekking Guide.
- Required numbers of highly experienced trekking porters (2:1 ratio).
- Staff’s foods, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation etc.
- General first Aid Kit.
- A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek.
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
- All government taxes and applicable paperwork.
- International Airfare.
- Personal Travel Insurance (essential for high altitude trekking).
- Personal expenses (bar, laundry, personal shopping, internet usages during the trek, hot shower during the trek, battery charge during the trek etc.).
- Alcoholic beverage.
- TIPS for Staff.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek Introduction
Towering at 8,167 meters, Dhaulagiri ranks as the seventh-highest mountain globally. Its name originates from Sanskrit, meaning “Dazzling White Mountain,” a fitting description for this majestic peak first summited in May 1960. It forms a dramatic western wall of the Kali Gandaki Valley, the world’s deepest gorge, which separates it from the Annapurna massif to the east.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a premier expedition, renowned as one of Nepal’s most challenging and adventurous full camping treks. This demanding journey navigates high passes like the French Pass and Dhampus Pass, explores hidden valleys and glaciers, and offers staggering views of numerous peaks soaring above 7,000 meters. Due to the remote, high-altitude terrain involving snow ridges and potential use of basic climbing gear, it is recommended only for experienced trekkers with excellent physical fitness.
Trek Features:
- A complete circuit around the world’s seventh-highest mountain on one of Nepal’s most rigorous trails.
- Ascend to key high points including Italian Base Camp, Dhaulagiri Base Camp, and cross the French and Dhampus Passes.
- Witness unparalleled, close-range panoramas of Dhaulagiri I, II, and IV, Tukuche Peak, the Annapurna range, Nilgiri, and countless other summits.
- Designed for seasoned adventurers with prior high-Himalayan trekking experience.
Please note: This itinerary is a flexible outline that can be customized based on your schedule, interests, and travel style. The final cost is contingent on your chosen service level and group size. We welcome your inquiries at any time to tailor this journey to your vision.
Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 km
Our company representative will welcome you at Tribhuwan International Airport and drive you by private vehicle to hotel. Preparation and briefing about the trip.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 02: Guided tour around world’s Heritage sites of Kathmandu.
After breakfast at the hotel, we will tour UNESCO sites including Swayambhunath, Patan, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath, with an overnight stay in Thamel.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs drive
Distance: 200 km
Your guide will collect you early from the hotel. The drive to Pokhara provides scenic views of the Nepalese countryside, rivers, terraced hillsides, and local villages. Stops will be made for breakfast, lunch, and refreshments. After checking into your hotel in Pokhara, relax. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll around the shores of Phewa Lake.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 04: Drive to Beni and Trek to Tatopani.
Duration: Approx. 3 hrs drive and 3-4 hrs walking
Distance: Approx. 10.2 km walking
Drive through the town of Beni to the trailhead, where your trek begins.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Tatopani (2,380m/7,808ft)
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 05: Trek from Tatopani to Dharapani.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 km
Follow a gradually ascending trail that passes through villages and forest.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Dharapani (1,470 m/4,821 ft)
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 06: Trek from Dharapani to Muri.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 km
The path involves steep ascents and descents, with views of the Dhaulagiri mountain range.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Muri (1,850m/6,068ft)
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 07: Trek from Muri to Baghar.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14 km
Enter a remote valley with sparse settlements, walking through continuous forest.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Baghar (2,080m/6,822ft)
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 08: Trek from Baghar to Dobang.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 km
Follow the course of the Myagdi River, trekking through dense forests of pine and rhododendron.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Dobang (2,500m/8,200ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 09: Trek from Dobang to Sallaghari.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 10 km
A steady ascent continues through alpine forest, with several river crossings.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Sallaghari (2,820m/9,249ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 10: Trek from Sallaghari to Italian Base Camp.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 km
Hike through forested terrain that opens to provide your first close-up views of Dhaulagiri I.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Italian Base Camp (3,660m/1,204ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 11: Rest and acclimatization day–free exploration.
A rest day for acclimatization includes options for light hiking or exploring nearby ridges.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Italian Base Camp (3,660m/1,204ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 12: Trek from Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp.
Duration: Approx. 4-5 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 6 km
Navigate across moraines and ice slopes—a particularly challenging section of the trek.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Glacier Camp (4,200m/13,776ft)
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 13: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 9.3 km
Walk alongside the Chhonbardan Glacier, encircled by towering snowy peaks.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,700m/15,416ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 14: Trek to Hidden Valley via French pass.
Duration: Approx. 6-7 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 12 km
A major day crossing a high pass rewards you with breathtaking panoramic Himalayan views.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Hidden Valley (5,050m/16,564ft) via French pass (5,360m/17,580ft).
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 15: Trek from Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka via Dhampus Pass.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 15 km
Another day involves crossing a high pass, followed by steep descents through alpine meadows.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Yak Kharka (3,680m/12,070ft) via Dhampus Pass (5,240m/17,187ft)
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 16: Trek from Yak Kharka to Jomsom.
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hrs trek
Distance: Approx. 14 km
The final trekking day follows the windy path of the Kali Gandaki valley.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Jomson (2,720 m/8,924 ft)
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 17: Fly to Pokhara. Sightseeing, boating or free for any other personal activities.
Duration: Approx. 20 minutes flight
A short, scenic flight takes you to Pokhara. Once there, you can relax and explore this lakeside city. Overnight accommodation is in Pokhara.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Pokhara (822 m/ 3947 Ft)
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 18: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu.
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hrs drive / 20-30 minutes Flight
Distance: Approx. 200 km
After an early breakfast, return to Kathmandu by drive or flight. The drive offers beautiful views of rivers, green hills, and rural villages. A transfer will take you to your hotel for a relaxing evening upon arrival.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,592 ft)
Accommodation: Teahouses/ Lodges
Day 19: Farewell, departure transfer to Tribhuwan International Airport.
Duration: Approx. 20-30 minutes drive
Distance: Approx. 7 km
Our representative will drop-off as per flight schedule.
Meals: BB/ Full Board
Max Altitude: Tribhuvan Internation Airport (1,338 m/4390 ft)
Equipment Checklist
Embarking on the Annapurna Seven Pass trek is a thrilling adventure that requires meticulous preparation. Ensuring you have the right gear can make the difference between a comfortable journey and a challenging one. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential equipment needed for the trek, from clothing layers to personal items. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, our comprehensive packing list will help you get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
1. Clothing
Base Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms for warmth.
Mid Layers: Fleece jacket for insulation.
Outer Layer: Insulated down jacket (recommended for high altitudes).
Rainproof/Windproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for unpredictable weather.
Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants for daytime trekking.
Warm Hat and Sun Hat: A warm beanie for cold weather, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
Gloves: Waterproof insulated gloves and lightweight inner gloves.
Socks: Wool socks for cold weather and moisture-wicking socks for trekking.
Gaiters: To keep mud, snow, and debris out of your boots.
2. Footwear
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Camp Shoes/Sandals: For comfort when relaxing in the tea houses or lodges.
3. Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C to withstand cold nights in higher altitudes.
Sleeping Bag Liner: Adds warmth and keeps your sleeping bag clean.
4. Backpack and Accessories
Daypack (25-30 liters): For carrying essentials like water, snacks, and layers.
Duffel Bag: Large, durable bag for porters to carry; waterproof covers are recommended.
Rain Cover: For protecting your daypack from rain.
Trekking Poles: Helpful for stability and reducing stress on knees.
5. Hydration and Nutrition
Water Bottles and/or Hydration Bladder: With at least 2-3 liters capacity.
Water Purification Tablets or Filter: To treat water on the trail.
Snacks: High-energy snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates.
6. Personal and Miscellaneous Items
Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for early morning treks or dark trails.
Sunglasses: UV-protective, high-quality sunglasses to protect against the intense high-altitude sun.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF for sun protection.
Basic First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, blister treatment, antiseptics, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and any personal medications.
Toiletries: Eco-friendly soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes.
Camera and Extra Batteries: Since charging can be costly and unreliable at high altitudes.
7. Documents and Money
Passport and Permits: Passport, visa,TIMS card, and entry permit.
Cash: ATMs are not reliable in the mountains, so bring enough Nepali cash for personal expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best season for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking is during Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (October and November). During these seasons the weather will be clear, you will get long sunlight hours, fewer bugs, flowers will bloom on the way, the charm of the atmosphere can be felt by the heart, magnificent views of the Himalayas can be seen and you can escape the crowd and enjoy the pleasure of trekking.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking is considered as most challenging trek of Nepal. There are numerous challenges like the rugged terrain, steep slopes, trekking route through stone stairs and continuous walk of 5 to 6 hours per day. That being said, Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking can be done by travelers who have the right attitude, have previous trekking experience and are physically fit.
Yes!! The Internet is accessible during Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continuous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited WiFi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.
The permits required for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking are:
- Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)
All the equipment/accessories required for trekking will be arranged for you. You will have to pay the amount for equipment. If you personally want to manage any equipment by yourself it’s fine. We have created The Ultimate Trekking Checklist page for your help as It is always better to carry the essential gears and accessories.
Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring power bank with you which will be helpful.
Didn't we answer your questions? Visit our help center.
Cancellations
Full refund if cancelled 15 days prior; 50% refund if cancelled 8–14 days prior; no refund if cancelled within 7 days due to finalized arrangements. Cancellations to be made in writing (email/message); in cases of severe weather, natural events, or government restrictions, tours may be rescheduled/credited for future use; travel insurance is recommended.
Read more terms & conditions