| Duration | 13 |
| Max. altitude | 5242 m |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Transportation | Tourist bus + private vehicle. |
| Accommodation | Local teahouse/ Camping |
| Trip starts/ends | Kathmandu / Kathmandu |
Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking is an exciting and relatively new trekking trail in the Himalayas that has recently gained attention among adventure seekers. Nestled in the heart of Nepal, this trek leads you to the base of the majestic Dhaulagiri South Peak, standing tall at 8,167 meters. Unlike more crowded trekking routes, this trail offers a serene and peaceful trekking experience, surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, alpine forests, and traditional villages inhabited by diverse ethnic communities.
This trek perfectly combines natural beauty with cultural immersion. As you ascend through rhododendron forests and terraced fields, you’ll encounter local Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities, providing a glimpse into their rich heritage and traditional ways of life. Along the way, panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges will captivate you. The trek's diverse scenery, from lush green valleys to icy glaciers, offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for trekkers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
2. Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking Package by Asiana Treks and Tours
Asiana Treks and Tours provides a comprehensive trekking package that ensures a safe, comfortable, and memorable journey to Dhaulagiri Base Camp. The package includes experienced guides, porters, necessary permits, accommodation in teahouses or lodges, meals during the trek, and airport transfers. Asiana Treks focuses on responsible tourism, respecting local culture and minimizing environmental impact.
The package is designed for trekkers with moderate fitness and some prior trekking experience. It offers a mix of challenging high-altitude trekking and immersive cultural experiences, perfect for adventurers who want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations with reliable local support.
3. Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Heritage tour of Kathmandu (exploring historic temples and monuments)
Day 3: Kathmandu to Beni (830 m) – Flight or road trip, depending on weather
Day 4: Beni to Jhi (1680 m) – Trekking begins, gradual ascent
Day 5: Jhi to Ghyasikharka (1865 m) – Trek through lush forests and terraced farms
Day 6: Ghyasikharka to Phedi Camp (2466 m) – Scenic trail with panoramic mountain views
Day 7: Phedi Camp to Odar Camp (3189 m) – Higher altitude, alpine environment
Day 8: Odar Camp to Dhaulagiri South Base Camp (4055 m) – Main highlight, breathtaking glaciers and peaks
Day 9: Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Chhari (2020 m) – Descent into valleys
Day 10: Chhari to Dagnam (1720 m) – Relaxed trekking through rural villages
Day 11: Dagnam to Beni, then drive to Pokhara (B.L)
Day 12: Pokhara to Kathmandu (B)
Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
4. Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking Distance
The entire trek covers approximately 90-100 kilometers round trip, depending on variations in route and detours for sightseeing or cultural visits. The trekking days typically range from 5 to 8 hours of walking per day, balanced between gradual ascents and descents to help with altitude acclimatization. The varied terrain includes forest trails, mountain ridges, river crossings, and rocky paths, offering a physically engaging but rewarding trekking experience.
5. Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking Cost 2025/2026
The cost for the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking package by Asiana Treks and Tours in 2025/2026 typically ranges between USD 1,200 to 1,600 per person. The price depends on group size, season, and any additional services such as private guides or upgraded accommodations. This price includes permits, guide and porter fees, accommodation, most meals, and airport transfers, making it an excellent value for a Himalayan trekking adventure.
6. Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking Price Breakdown
Permits and Entry Fees: $100 – $150
Guide and Porter Fees: $350 – $450
Accommodation (Teahouses/Lodges): $200 – $300
Meals during Trek: $200 – $300
Transportation (Airport transfers, local flights, or road transport): $150 – $200
Miscellaneous (insurance, tips, gear rental): $100 – $150
Asiana Treks ensures transparent pricing with no hidden fees, offering flexibility based on trekker needs.
7. Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking Altitude Guide
Kathmandu: 1,400 m
Beni: 830 m
Jhi: 1,680 m
Ghyasikharka: 1,865 m
Phedi Camp: 2,466 m
Odar Camp: 3,189 m
Dhaulagiri South Base Camp: 4,055 m
Chhari: 2,020 m
Dagnam: 1,720 m
Trekking gradually from lower elevations to the base camp altitude of over 4,000 meters allows for proper acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Asiana Treks and Tours includes rest days and slow ascents to ensure safety and enjoyment throughout the trek.
Why Choose Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking?
Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking offers trekkers a rare and exhilarating Himalayan adventure away from the crowds. Unlike the more popular Annapurna or Everest routes, this trek is a hidden gem providing pristine natural beauty, untouched trails, and authentic cultural experiences. You will witness the towering Dhaulagiri massif, which boasts one of the world’s highest peaks, alongside panoramic views of the Annapurna range. The trail is a perfect blend of dramatic mountain landscapes, serene alpine forests, and traditional Nepali villages, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility and breathtaking scenery.
The trek also presents a moderate challenge with gradual altitude gain, which suits trekkers with a reasonable fitness level who want to experience high-altitude trekking without extreme exertion. Moreover, the opportunity to interact with indigenous ethnic groups such as Gurung, Magar, and Thakali enriches your journey with cultural insights. For nature lovers and adventure seekers, this trek promises an unforgettable experience with its spectacular vistas, peaceful paths, and genuine local hospitality.
Key reasons to choose Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking:
Less crowded, peaceful trekking route
Spectacular views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges
Rich cultural encounters with local ethnic communities
Moderate trekking challenge suitable for experienced beginners
Pristine nature and diverse landscapes
2. Preparing for Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking
Proper preparation is essential for a successful and enjoyable Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek. Physically, trekkers should build endurance through cardio exercises such as hiking, running, and cycling before the trip. It is advisable to practice long walks with a backpack to simulate trekking conditions. Since the trail reaches altitudes over 4,000 meters, understanding and preparing for high-altitude trekking is crucial. Basic knowledge of altitude sickness symptoms and prevention can ensure a safer journey.
Packing the right gear is equally important. Layers of warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a sleeping bag rated for cold weather, and rain gear are essential. Since the weather can vary dramatically from sunny valleys to chilly high camps, versatile clothing is recommended. Trekkers should also bring sun protection, a first-aid kit, water purification tablets, and a good camera to capture stunning landscapes. Mental preparation, such as setting realistic expectations and a flexible mindset, will help trekkers embrace the challenges and beauty of the trail.
Preparation checklist includes:
Build cardio and strength fitness
Familiarize with altitude sickness prevention
Pack layered clothing and sturdy boots
Carry essential trekking gear and first aid
Prepare mentally for diverse weather and terrain
3. What to Expect on the 12–13-Day Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking Adventure
This 12–13-day trek offers a comprehensive journey through the remote Himalayan region. Starting from Kathmandu, you’ll explore vibrant city culture before flying or driving to Beni, the gateway to the trekking route. The trek begins with gentle ascents through lush forests and traditional villages, gradually increasing in altitude to alpine meadows and rugged mountain passes. Along the way, teahouses provide cozy lodging and traditional Nepali meals, creating a warm atmosphere for rest and interaction.
As you approach the base camp, expect spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, massive glaciers, and cascading waterfalls. The altitude gain intensifies, and the terrain becomes more rugged, so proper acclimatization is built into the itinerary. Descending back through the same trail offers a different perspective of the landscapes and cultures. Overall, the trek is a balance of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion, promising lasting memories.
Highlights of the trek include:
City and cultural tour in Kathmandu
Gradual trekking from forests to alpine zones
Teahouse stays with local hospitality
Close-up views of Dhaulagiri massif and glaciers
Acclimatization days and varied landscapes
4. Oxygen Levels on Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking
At higher elevations, oxygen levels drop significantly, impacting physical performance and increasing the risk of altitude sickness. Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek reaches about 4,055 meters (13,300 feet), where oxygen levels are roughly 60% of what you experience at sea level. This reduced oxygen requires the body to adapt slowly, which is why the itinerary is designed with gradual altitude gains and rest days to facilitate acclimatization.
Asiana Treks and Tours prioritizes trekkers’ health by encouraging hydration, rest, and proper pacing. Guides are trained to monitor symptoms of altitude sickness and take necessary action if required. Supplemental oxygen is rarely needed on this trek, but it's always advisable to be aware of the signs of altitude sickness—headache, nausea, dizziness—and communicate openly with your guide.
Oxygen-related facts for trekkers:
Oxygen decreases with altitude; ~60% at 4,000m
Gradual ascent helps prevent altitude sickness
Monitor symptoms: headache, nausea, fatigue
Stay hydrated and rest often
Guides provide support and emergency assistance
5. Major Villages and Scenic Viewpoints on Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking Route
The trek passes through several charming villages, each offering a glimpse into the rural Himalayan lifestyle. Starting in Beni, a bustling market town, the trail leads to Jhi and Ghyasikharka, small settlements surrounded by terraced fields and forests. These villages showcase traditional stone houses, farming practices, and vibrant local culture. Higher up, camps like Phedi and Odar provide panoramic views of the valley and towering peaks.
Key scenic viewpoints along the route include the ridge above Phedi Camp, which offers sweeping views of the Dhaulagiri massif, and Odar Camp with close perspectives on glaciers and snowfields. The final approach to the base camp rewards trekkers with a spectacular 360-degree view of towering Himalayan giants, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. These viewpoints are perfect spots for photography and reflection, capturing the grandeur of the mountains and the serene environment.
Notable villages and viewpoints:
Beni: Trekking gateway, local market hub
Jhi and Ghyasikharka: Traditional villages with cultural charm
Phedi Camp ridge: Panoramic mountain vistas
Odar Camp: Close views of glaciers and snowfields
Dhaulagiri Base Camp: Spectacular Himalayan panorama
6. Flora and Fauna of Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking
The Dhaulagiri region boasts rich biodiversity, with flora and fauna varying dramatically as you ascend in altitude. Lower elevations are dominated by lush subtropical forests with rhododendron, oak, and pine trees. During spring, rhododendrons burst into vibrant red and pink blooms, transforming the landscape into a colorful paradise. As you climb higher, vegetation thins out into alpine meadows with hardy shrubs and medicinal herbs.
Wildlife sightings, though rare due to the remote and rugged terrain, can include Himalayan thar (wild goat), langur monkeys, and various bird species such as the Himalayan monal (national bird of Nepal) and snow pigeons. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will find the trek rewarding due to this diverse ecosystem. Asiana Treks and Tours emphasizes eco-friendly trekking practices to protect these natural habitats for future generations.
Flora and fauna highlights:
Rhododendron and pine forests at lower altitudes
Alpine meadows with shrubs and herbs higher up
Possible sightings of Himalayan thar and langur monkeys
Rich birdlife including Himalayan monal and snow pigeons
Eco-friendly trekking encouraged by guides
7. Festivals and Local Culture Along Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking Route
The region surrounding Dhaulagiri is home to multiple ethnic groups, including Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities, each with their own unique traditions and festivals. Depending on the season, trekkers may witness vibrant celebrations such as Dashain and Tihar, Nepal’s largest Hindu festivals, characterized by colorful rituals, feasts, and cultural performances. These festivals provide a fascinating window into the spiritual life of the locals.
Daily village life is equally rich in tradition, with agricultural practices, local crafts, and communal gatherings offering insights into a way of life deeply connected to nature and the mountains. The people are known for their warmth and hospitality, often inviting trekkers to share meals or tea. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures cultural respect and meaningful interactions with local communities, adding depth to your trekking experience.
Cultural highlights along the route:
Gurung, Magar, and Thakali ethnic communities
Traditional festivals: Dashain, Tihar
Local customs, crafts, and agricultural practices
Warm hospitality and communal life
Opportunities for cultural exchange and learning
8. Why Book with Asiana Treks and Tours for Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking
Asiana Treks and Tours is a trusted trekking company known for its professionalism, local expertise, and commitment to responsible tourism. They provide personalized services with experienced guides who are well-versed in the terrain, culture, and safety protocols of the Dhaulagiri region. The company emphasizes safety, comfort, and cultural respect, ensuring that every trekker enjoys a fulfilling experience.
Booking with Asiana Treks and Tours means you get quality accommodation, reliable logistics, and transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Their support team in Kathmandu and on the trail is always available to assist with any needs or emergencies. With a strong focus on sustainable tourism, they also engage with local communities and contribute to conservation efforts, making your trek not only memorable but also meaningful.
Advantages of booking with Asiana Treks and Tours:
Experienced, knowledgeable local guides
Focus on safety and acclimatization
Transparent, all-inclusive pricing
Commitment to responsible, sustainable tourism
Reliable support from start to finish
9. How to Book Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trekking
Booking your Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek with Asiana Treks and Tours is a straightforward process designed for your convenience. You can start by visiting their official website or contacting them directly via email or phone. They offer customized itineraries to suit your preferences, group size, and travel dates. Early booking is recommended, especially for peak trekking seasons (September-November and March-June), to secure permits, flights, and accommodations.
After confirming your itinerary and pricing, you will be asked to provide basic personal details and a deposit to secure your booking. Asiana Treks and Tours provides detailed pre-trek information and support to help you prepare. Payment methods are flexible, and they offer excellent customer service to answer any questions before, during, and after your trek.
Steps to book your trek:
Contact Asiana Treks via website, email, or phone
Customize your itinerary and confirm details
Secure your booking with a deposit
Receive pre-trek support and information
Enjoy your trekking adventure with full company support
Your trip day starts today when you arrive to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Upon your arrival, you will be received by our representative at the airport. He will be carrying a signboard with our company’s name on it. Then you will be transferred to the tour hotel and checked in. A trip briefing will follow later today and the time will be notified to you by the representative who picks you up from the airport. We will come to meet and brief you about the trip at the fixed time. Until then just relax or explore a bit of surrounding.
We take you for a day tour of cultural heritage monuments in Kathmandu valley after breakfast. The tour will give you a mixed insight of history, culture, art, architecture and spirituality of Kathmandu valley. The sites include; Swoyambhunath aka Monkey Temple: The oldest of all sites in Kathmandu valley, Swoyambhunath is an important Buddhist spiritual site having the history over two thousand years old. This site has gained a popular name as monkey temple as this small forested hill is a good habitat for hundreds of monkeys. The visit there will heighten your spiritual and cultural experience. Patan City including Patan Durbar Square: A tour to medieval city of Patan gives you a great insight about ethnic Newari culture, Budhhist spirituality, religious harmony, art and architecture while you stroll around the charismatic alleys taking you to magnificent local community squares known as Bahal and eventually leading you to an incredible medieval palace square. The monuments and skill of the local artisans displayed on those monuments in the square will stun you with their unbelievable charm. Boudhanath Stupa: The largest of its kind in the world, this magnificent stupa is a very important center of faith for the people following Tibetan Buddhism. This place is nice Circular Square with the stunning stupa in the middle of it which spreads a lot of spiritual vibrations around the atmosphere.
Take an early morning breakfast and go to the bus station to catch the bus to Beni, a beautiful town about 300 km west of Kathmandu. The drive will take through beautiful scenic places of Nepa. After about 9 hours of drive, you reach the town of Beni. Stay overnight there.
This is the first day of trek and it starts after a two-hour drive from Beni. Embark on the adventure early in the morning and head towards Jhi village as the destination for the day. Trek through beautiful surroundings and enjoy the serenity that the rural Nepal brings to you. You will also walk through some beautiful settlements. It’s a short trek of more or less two hours. Once you reach Jhi village, check into the overnight homestay and spend a relaxing time at leisure.
Get ready for a longer day of trekking. The trek today will take you to Ghyasikharka and you will walk for around seven hours to reach the destination. You will again walk through beautiful and peaceful surroundings with great views. The rural wonders of the mountains of Nepal become even more authentic as you trek towards the destination. Check into a home and experience another night of great home staying.
The third day of trek will take you to Phedi Camp for overnight stay. Trek through beautiful nature and surroundings and enjoy the wonderful experience of walking through Nepalese mountains. Although the destination today lies only at the elevation of 2,466 meters above sea level, you will have to use tented camp as you accommodation for the night. From today onwards, up to the base camp, you will use tents as your accommodations.
As you gain the elevation, you will experience the remoteness of the region. On the trek today to Odar Camp, you will pass through some tricky trails and yet wonderful surroundings. The view of mountains you come across is simply stunning. You reach Odar Camp and stay on the tented camp.
The day to reach the base camp has finally arrived. Another fascinating trail that leads you up to the base camp of Dhaulagiri south brings you the views of other mountain peaks. The surroundings of the trail that you walk through will also amaze you all the way through. You will eventually stand at the elevation of stunning 4,055 meters above sea level when you reach the base camp for overnight stay.
As you have reached the final destination of the trip, you will start the return journey from today onwards. You will trek all the way to Chhari today to stay overnight. Another day of beautiful trek to the lower elevation brings you peaceful and beautiful experience of walk.
Trek back to Dagnam and enjoy another day of lower elevation walk. The day will bring you beautiful nature and wonderful surroundings along the trail. Stay overnight at Dagnam. It is the last day of trekking adventure.
Take a jeep ride back to Beni and then drive to Pokhara. Once you reach Pokhara, enjoy the time at leisure wandering around the Lake side.
You will drive back to Kathmandu today by tourist bus. There is also an option to fly back with an additional cost. Once you reach Kathmandu, check into hotel and wander around at leisure.
We will drive you to airport for your departure flight.