17 days
Nepal
Trekking
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spring, Autumn
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is one of the most difficult and well-known trekking routes in the world, that crosses through high alpine, meadows, uninhabited valleys and mountain deserts, Himalayan Forest, and cultivated terraced slopes and calls for a high level of physical condition. A French team first learned about the Dhaulagiri Circuit trial in 1950. French Pass, at 5355 meters, and Dhampus Pass are two of its high passes (5155m). The trail is breathtaking, offering breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, as well as Mt. Fishtail.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is one of Nepal’s less popular trekking routes. The seventh-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Dhaulagiri, was found in 1808 AD. Before Mt. Kanchanjunga and Mt. Everest were discovered, Mt. Dhaulagiri was thought to be the world’s tallest peak for 30 years. The world’s deepest gorge, Kaligandaki George, which divides the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, may be observed on the trail. Every hiker’s thoughts are captured by two mountains confronting one other at over 800 meters each: Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. The Dhaulagiri range, which has 15 peaks rising beyond 700 meters above sea level, is essentially unique.
Dhaulagiri Circuit is inhabited by different ethnic groups like Gurung, Magar, and Thakali. Trekkers can discover the locals’ culture, traditions, and natural beauty. They have maintained their own traditions and culture to this day and still do so.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trail passes through villages, terraced farms, rivers, gorges, glaciers, and moraines as it travels. There is plenty of opportunity to admire the stunning mountain scenery because there is time to acclimatize before climbing the high passes.
Starting the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek was a beautiful drive from Pokhara to Durbang. Starting at Durbang, the trip takes you through Magar settlements, a variety of flora and animals, farmed terrain, and a challenging ascent to the Italian base camp. Basic tea house in Italian Base Camp with a breathtaking mountain view and terrace. Following Italian Base Camp, a hike via a glacier and snowfields. The last ascent over French Pass (5355m), the highest point of the walk, is not very long but can be difficult. You’ll enter the solitary but captivating Hidden Valley area as we descend from French Pass. The Dhampus pass, which leads to the Marpha town, known for its apples, is crossed by hikers after they have passed the French Pass. After Marpha, you’ll be returned to Pokhara crossing Kalapani, Tatopani, and Beni through a drive.
Graceful Adventure travel is a registered adventure travel company from Pokhara, Nepal that organizes adventure activities for valued guests all around the globe. As a company, we assure your safety by providing a qualified and well-experienced guide. If you need any more services, we can arrange for them as well. We can plan the entire vacation for you, including hotel reservations, meals, and lodging. Since you could be unfamiliar with this wild land, managing your time and schedule will be simpler for you. Our company will be happy to be part of your thrilling experience.
Early in the morning, you prepared for a trip. You take morning breakfast at the hotel and then leave the hotel. You’ll drive through Beni to get to Darbang from Pokhara. You’ll be astounded by the picturesque winding roads, charming tiny villages, and the tranquil sound of free-flowing rivers as you go. Beni serves as the administrative center for the Myagdi district, which is located where the Kali Gandaki and Myagdi rivers converge.
Overnight in Darbang.
On both sides of the river, terraced hills grow as the valley widens. The path is relatively flat, and it takes you past the Sahastradhara settlement, across the Dukh Khola, and through farms until you reach Ratorunga. Terraces on either side of the river vanish as the valley narrows once more from here. Continue on to Dharapani village.
Overnight in Babiyachaur.
On this day, you travel by foot through Takum and Sibang villages, which provide a breathtaking view of the Gurja Himal and the snow-covered Dhaulagiri Mountain. You pass through traditional farming communities with stunning mountain views along the route. You go to Muri after passing the suspension bridge across the Dhara Khola. This village is primarily populated by members of the Magar caste.
Overnight in Dharapani.
The trail descends from Muri to the bridge that crosses the Muri khola. You’ll climb up a ridge and arrive at a pass, another well-known vantage point, after navigating a few minor streams. You may see the stunning views of Mt. Hustung South from the pass’s summit. Bhogara is reached after travelling via the villages of Mahatala and Naura. The village offers breathtaking views of Manapathi peak.
Overnight in Boghara
Have breakfast before continuing your hike along the Myagdi River. The trail leads to Jyardan, the farthest permanent community in this area, after first descending via a terraced field to a tiny ridge.
After passing through the hamlet, a steep, winding path descends before ascending once more to Lipshe, where there is only one hut. To reach Lapche Kharka, the trail continues through a forest before ascending to the flat land at Dhobang.
Overnight in Dhoban.
The trail ascends a forested area after leaving Dobang by way of a wooden bridge. Through gaps in the forest, the west face of Dhaulagiri may soon be seen. Drop down to the Myagdi Khola, cross across to the east side using a wooden bridge, and carry on to Chartare. You travel through more forests before cutting through a rocky area and crossing a stream to reach Choriban Khola.
Overnight in Choriban Khola
Follow a trail to the Chhonbarban Glacier’s terminal moraine, then enter the glacier from the right side. The majestic north flank of Dhaulagiri dominates the skyline to your right, and Tukche Peak is seen straight ahead and at the far end.
As you come closer to Italian Base Camp, the climate will start to change, and you’ll start to feel cold. Additionally, you’ll see changes in the surroundings. You will be at Italian Base Camp shortly.
Overnight in Italian Base Camp.
Acclimatization is essential for your body to acclimate to the high altitude when you are trekking in high elevation.
You are free to move about and explore Italian Base Camp on this day. You can take a short stroll from Italian Base Camp to a little ice cave via the extended lateral moraine grassy area. A very close-up view of Mt. Dhaulagiri will be provided.
Overnight in Italian Base Camp.
Magnificent mountain vistas will welcome you in the morning. Your mind is blown away by the mountain scenery. After leaving Italian Base Camp, use the trail that ascends a grassy slope behind the camp until you reach the glacier moraine’s border. You’ll arrive at Swiss Base Camp after a time of walking along the challenging, muddy, and slippery trail. From here, the trail is straightforward, passing a more difficult stretch of the lateral moraine until arriving at a flat area covered in big rocks. You’ll see the Chhongardan Glacier and the breathtaking mountain vistas of Dhaulagiri, Dhampus Peak, Manapathi Peak, and Tsaurabong on the route to Glacier camp.
Overnight in Glacier Camp.
Finally! A momentous day of your trip. You’ll hike to reach the Dhaulagiri massif’s massive base camp. You’ll proceed up the central moraine once you leave the glacier camp. You’ll go by walking in the direction that the glacier’s natural curves point. You’ll also be rewarded with a stunning view of Tukuche mountain after a few hours of trekking.
Then, between Dhaulagiri and Tukuche, the valley widens to a T-junction. After a short climb from here, you can cross the rocky terrain to get to Dhaulagiri Base Camp. As soon as you arrive at the base camp, you will notice how the surroundings and the vibrant prayer flags are moving in the gentle air. Enjoy the striking sight of the icefall that cascades from the northeast col and the Dhaulagiri Mountain that encircles the base camp.
Overnight in Dhaulagiri Base Camp
While trekking at a high elevation, acclimatization is crucial to allowing your body to adapt to the high altitude. Being active is the most effective approach to acclimate.
You can visit Dhaulagiri Base Camp today to prevent getting sick from the altitude because you’ve already ascended 4500 meters.
Overnight in Dhaulagiri Base Camp
As you cross French Pass, one of the high mountain passes, it is one of the hardest and longest days of the Dhaulagiri Circuit. You continue your ascent to Hidden Valley after a quick joyful moment at French Pass.
Overnight in Hidden Valley
You’ll leave Hidden Valley today and go via Dhampus Pass to reach Alubari. The Dhaulagiri Circuit’s next most thrilling pass to cross is this one. After difficult ascents and descents, ascend the rocky trail to Dhampus Pass. You will climb down to Alubari while taking in breathtaking mountain vistas. You must travel through a forest to reach Alubari.
Overnight in Alubari.
On the 16th day of the trek, the trail descends to Marpha, which is located on the west bank of the Kali Gandaki River. Apple orchards and other fruit-based food items can be found in abundance in Marpha. You might be fortunate enough to taste apple brandy, a regional specialty while traveling.
Overnight in Marpha.
Today, you go from Marpha to Tatopani by bus or Jeep, passing via Kalapani and the Kali Gandaki Valley. To reach the breathtaking Rupse waterfall, the route dips steeply. Tatopani has a hot spring where you can relax.
Overnight in Tatopani
After breakfast, you’ll drive back to Pokhara following the same way. Then you’ll be escoted to your respective hotel.
Overnight in Pokhara.
What makes Dhaulagiri Base Camp trek special?
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is one of Nepal’s most challenging and daring hikes. For experienced trekkers looking for an expedition-like experience, this walk is a true adventure. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and other peaks that are higher than 7000m are visible. Trekkers are energized by the stunning views that can be seen at every turn. The Dhaulagiri trip is a fantastic chance to discover the unspoiled natural beauty, rural way of life, and culture of the locals.
Equipment Required for Dhaulagiri Circuit
General
Upper Body
Body
Hands
Lower Body
Feet
Medicine and First Aid Kits
(Our guide will carry a first aid kit bag during the trek. We will recommend to carry your personal first aid kit bag if necessary)
Dhaulagiri Circuit Difficulty
Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is the hardest trek in the world. The trekker must be physically and mentally fit to complete this journey. One shouldn’t have heart and lung conditions while also experiencing knee or ankle pain. Without a simple way to descend, three days in a row are spent walking over snow above 5000 meters. The walk will be more difficult due to the frigid weather. You have to go on a camping excursion because there aren’t any cozy lodges to return to at night.
5 to 6 hours of walking per day, with adequate breaks, is required to complete this excursion. A month or two before the journey date, you should start exercising and getting ready for this hike. These could include daily walking, going on hikes, taking a big walk once a week, practicing breathing techniques connected to yoga, etc
Food and Accommodation at Dhaulagiri Circuit
During the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek, every traveler’s top priorities are food and lodging. Dhaulagiri is located in a rural section of the country where there aren’t always tea houses or lodges. But we always work to make your time at the tent comfortable.
Food is necessary during the hike. The primary source of energy for this expedition is food burning. In Nepalese, the phrase “Dal Bhat power, 24 hours” refers to the ability to endure for practically a day after consuming dal bhat. The national dish is dal bhat, but other dishes can be made, including vegetable soup and noodle soup. Food will be made in a camp kitchen while guides and porters make sure all the ingredients are carried to make the filling, wholesome, and delicious meals.
Avoiding dairy items, hard drinks, and beverages with a lot of caffeine is strongly advised because they could negatively affect your physiology and health at higher altitudes.
Best Time for Dhaulagiri Circuit
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is thought to be most enjoyable in the spring and fall. The nicest weather is usually experienced in the spring, which is between February and April. Rhododendrons are in blossom and lush green forests greet you in the spring. The best time to see blossoming flora and gorgeous mountain views is now. Lower elevations have mildly hot temperatures, whereas higher elevations have chilly temperatures.
Similarly, the greatest time to visit Dhaulagiri Circuit is during the autumn, which lasts from September to November. The enormous snow-covered mountains are stunning throughout the autumn, when the skies are typically clear. The temperature is pretty consistent during the day. It can get a little chilly at night and in the early morning. But the trek is pleasant on bright, sunny days.
The rainy season, which lasts from early June to late August, can be used for Dhaulagiri circuit hiking, though it is not generally recommended. The weather during this season can shift rapidly from clear to wet. Since there is no snow during this season and one can enjoy the monsoon together with the rough mountain environment, the period is not the toughest.
The time from late November to early February is not recommended because it is winter and has the coldest weather. This time of year sees the greatest number of casualties. This walk is nearly hard because to the constant icefall and temperatures that drop to zero degrees Celsius in a matter of minutes. Therefore, picking the ideal timing is essential when undertaking this deluxe journey in Nepal.
Tipping During the Trekking
Tipping is a personal way for you to express your appreciation for your services. You may want to leave a tip for the services you appreciate, or you may just want to express your gratitude in Nepali by saying “DHANYABAD.”
The final day of the vacation is typically when tips are given. Trekkers may also leave tips at any time for the hotel, lodge, or individual. Tipping is purely a matter of personal preference and perspective.
Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms can appear at elevations above 2000 meters above sea level because there is less oxygen in the air, which makes breathing difficult. The signs of AMS include nausea, fatigue, headache, and dizziness.
Remember that the Dhaulagiri Circuit will involve hiking over 5000 meters, which increases the risk of developing AMS. To help your body adjust to the thin air, walk gradually and gently. There is a danger of getting altitude sickness if you try to move quickly and cover a lot of ground quickly. To prevent the situation from getting worse, vigilance should be exercised. Drink a lot of water to keep your body hydrated, and eat a healthy diet full of foods that will give you energy.
Acclimatization is part of our itinerary to prevent AMS. Because of the great altitude of our destination, acclimatization is crucial. In the worst case, clients may bring something back.
Travel Insurance
A quality travel insurance package that provides adequate coverage for all of your activities is crucial for the Dhaulagiri Circuit. During the voyage, anything may happen. Even though we are more concerned with safety, accidents and emergencies can sometimes happen where we are going.
Physical injuries, helicopter evacuation, medical costs, and any other situations you can encounter while trekking should all be covered by your travel insurance policy.
Drinking Water on Dhaulagiri Circuit
Trekkers must drink plenty of water to keep their bodies hydrated and avoid altitude sickness (AMS) (Acute Mountain Sickness). Three to four liters of water per day should be used while trekking the Dhaulagiri Circuit.
Instead of purchasing bottled water, we strongly advise you to carry one reusable water container that can hold hot water. In addition to being costly, bottled water can cause thrashing issues on the Dhaulagiri Circuit. Water purification tablets can be used to clean water. But after taking tablets, the flavor will change. Water should always be consumed after sufficient purification. Both the teahouse and the tent have access to boiled water
Entrance Permit and Requirement
The permits you need for Dhaulagiri Circuit are:
Important Documents and Information to get these permit
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7 nights Nepal site seeing Tour
I would like to thank Mr. Padam Lal Timsina the owner and founder of Graceful Adventure Travels Pvt. Ltd. who organized a packaged tour in Nepal for us. The tour covered Kathmandu, Pokhara, Nagerkot and Dhampus. Hotel, sight seeing, guide, domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara & back, all arranged by Padamji and it was awesome.
