20-Day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek in Nepal with French and Dhampus Pass

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Witness the stunning Dhaulagiri massif
• 02 Conquer high mountain passes like the French Pass and Dhampus Pass
• 03 Encounter glaciers, including the impressive Dhaulagiri Icefall
• 04 Explore the enchanting Hidden Valley, a unique and serene alpine plateau
• 05 Interact with diverse ethnic communities along the way, including Gurungs and Thakalis
• 06 Visit picturesque villages such as Marpha and Tukuche for insights into local life

Experience the challenging 20-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, a remote and rugged adventure in the Himalayas of Nepal starting from Beni. Trek through pristine forests, picturesque villages, steep terrain, glaciers, and high mountain passes while taking in dramatic views of the Dhaulagiri massif, the world's seventh-highest peak. Cross the demanding French Pass and Dhampus Pass, explore the serene Hidden Valley, and immerse yourself in the cultural diversity of local communities along the way.

Cross the demanding French Pass and Dhampus Pass, explore the serene Hidden Valley, and immerse yourself in the cultural diversity of local communities along the way.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 20 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Dhaulagiri, Yak Kharka, Jomsom, Dharapani

Languages Dutch, English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Nepali, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Days 1-3: Kathmandu to Beni Journey

• Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu.
• Day 2: Drive or fly to Pokhara.
• Day 3: Drive from Pokhara to Beni.

2

Day 02

Days 4-7: Trek from Beni to Italian Base Camp

• Day 4: Trek to Babichaur.
• Day 5: Continue to Dharapani.
• Day 6: Trek to Muri.
• Day 7: Reach Italian Base Camp.

3

Day 03

Days 8-10: Acclimatization and Glacier Camp

• Day 8: Rest and acclimatization at Italian Base Camp.
• Day 9: Hike to the glacier for acclimatization.
• Day 10: Trek to Glacier Camp.

4

Day 04

Days 11-14: French Pass and Hidden Valley Crossing

• Day 11: Cross the challenging French Pass.
• Day 12: Trek to Hidden Valley.
• Day 13: Rest and explore Hidden Valley.
• Day 14: Cross Dhampus Pass and reach Yak Kharka.

5

Day 05

Days 15-18: Descent to Jomsom via Marpha and Tukuche

• Day 15: Trek to Marpha.
• Day 16: Continue to Tukuche.
• Day 17: Trek to Jomsom.
• Day 18: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara.

6

Day 06

Days 19-20: Return to Kathmandu

• Day 19: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu.
• Day 20: Depart from Kathmandu.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Trekking Permits: Necessary permits for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
• Accommodation: Tea house or lodge accommodation during the trek.
• Meals: Meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
• Guide: Professional trekking guide.
• Porter: Porter to carry a limited amount of personal gear (typically 10-15 kg per trekker).
• Domestic Flights: Domestic flights between Jomsom and Pokhara (if applicable).
• Transportation: Transportation between Kathmandu and Beni, and Pokhara and Kathmandu (if applicable).
• First Aid Kit: Basic first aid kit.

What's Not Included

• International Flights: International airfare to and from Nepal.
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking and medical evacuation.
• Nepal Entry Visa: Nepal entry visa fees.
• Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara: Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara, except for welcome and farewell dinners.
• Personal Trekking Gear: Personal clothing, gear, and equipment.
• Personal Expenses: Expenses for additional snacks, drinks, hot showers, and charging devices during the trek.
• Tips and Gratuities: Tips for guides, porters, and support staff (tipping is customary and appreciated).
• Additional Costs: Costs associated with unforeseen events, delays, or itinerary changes due to weather conditions or other factors.

What to bring

• Clothing:
  • Weather-appropriate layers (moisture-wicking).
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket.
  • Trekking pants and shorts.
  • Gloves and hat.
  • Underwear and socks.
• Footwear:
  • Sturdy hiking boots.
  • Comfortable trekking socks.
• Gear and Equipment:
  • Backpack with rain cover.
  • Sleeping bag suitable for lower temperatures.
  • Headlamp or flashlight.
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Passport, permits, and travel insurance.
• Personal Toiletries:
  • Minimal essentials (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.).
• First-Aid Kit:
  • Basic medical supplies (bandages, pain relievers, blister treatment, etc.).
• Sun Protection:
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with sun protection.

Know before you go

• Permits: Obtain the necessary trekking permits for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
• Travel Insurance: Secure comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking and medical evacuation.
• Nepal Entry Visa: Obtain a Nepal entry visa either in advance or upon arrival.
• Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of and respect local customs, culture, and traditions.
• Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions, including cold temperatures at higher altitudes.
• Physical Fitness: Ensure you are physically prepared for trekking at higher elevations.
• Altitude Sickness: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and acclimatize properly.
• Emergency Contacts: Carry information on emergency contacts and the location of the nearest medical facilities.
• Trekking Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with basic trekking etiquette and safety guidelines.
• Flexibility: Be flexible with your itinerary in case of weather-related changes or unforeseen circumstances.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Kathmandu, Nepal

Tour start

Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.