| Duration | 21 |
| Max. altitude | 5240 m |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Transportation | Tourist bus / private vehicle |
| Accommodation | Hotel /Teahouse. |
| Trip starts/ends | Kathmandu / Kathmandu |
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek offered by Asiana Treks and Tours is one of Nepal’s most remote, rugged, and challenging high-altitude treks. Ideal for seasoned trekkers looking for a raw and immersive Himalayan adventure, this 21-day trek takes you into the heart of the Dhaulagiri massif, home to the world’s seventh-highest mountain, Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m). The trek starts in Beni and weaves through remote Magar villages, deep forests, glacial valleys, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the world.
The highlight of this trek is undoubtedly the Hidden Valley, an isolated and high-altitude alpine basin accessible only by crossing the treacherous French Pass (5360m). This adventure offers close-up views of Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, and V, along with the Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges. The journey also includes overnight stays at Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp, offering a true mountaineering feel without summiting.
Why Choose This Trek?
Remote and untouched trekking route
Stunning views of multiple 8000m peaks
Cross the French Col and Dhampus Pass
Visit to Hidden Valley – one of Nepal’s most isolated spots
Culturally rich Magar villages
Expedition-style trekking with camping support
2. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Package – What’s Included
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking package from Asiana Treks and Tours is designed to give you a worry-free, all-inclusive experience in this remote region. Since the trek goes far off the beaten path, where there are no teahouses or lodges for several days, this is a fully-supported camping trek with a dedicated crew of porters, cooks, and guides.
Package Inclusions:
Airport transfers in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (3-star hotels)
All necessary trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS, restricted area permits)
All domestic transport (private vehicle and flight from Jomsom to Pokhara)
Full camping gear and tents
All meals during the trek (prepared by camp cook)
Experienced trekking guide and support team
First aid kit and satellite phone for emergency communication
Package Exclusions:
International airfare and visa fees
Personal insurance and trekking equipment
Tips for guides and porters
Extra nights due to delays or changes
This package provides everything required to explore one of the most challenging treks in Nepal with full logistical support from Asiana Treks and Tours.
3. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Itinerary
The full itinerary covers a span of 21 days, with a carefully planned acclimatization schedule. Here's a detailed overview:
Day-by-Day Breakdown:
Day 1–2: Arrival and Kathmandu Heritage Tour
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Beni (850m)
Day 4–6: Trek through Babiyachaur, Dharapani, and Muri
Day 7–9: Ascend through Boghara, Dobang to Choriban Khola (3110m)
Day 10–11: Trek to Italian Base Camp (3660m) and acclimatize
Day 12–13: Continue to Glacier Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4740m)
Day 14: Second acclimatization at Base Camp
Day 15–16: Cross French Col to Hidden Valley (5200m), then descend to Yak Kharka
Day 17–18: Trek to Jomsom and fly to Pokhara
Day 19–21: Rest in Pokhara, return to Kathmandu, and departure
Each segment of the route is designed for gradual elevation gain, ensuring better acclimatization and allowing trekkers to fully absorb the natural and cultural landscapes.
4. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Distance
The total trekking distance of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is approximately 160–180 kilometers, depending on specific route variations and side trails taken during acclimatization.
Distance Highlights:
Beni to Italian Base Camp: ~80 km over 7 days
Italian Base Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp: ~20 km over 2 days
Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley: ~12 km (steep ascent over glacier and pass)
Hidden Valley to Jomsom via Dhampus Pass: ~50–60 km over 3 days
The daily walking time ranges from 5 to 8 hours, with some longer days during high-pass crossings. Due to the high altitude and remote terrain, this trek feels longer and more strenuous than typical treks of similar distance.
5. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Cost 2025/2026
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking cost with Asiana Treks and Tours is designed to reflect the remoteness, logistical complexity, and full camping support required. For the 2025/2026 season, the estimated cost per person is USD $2,950–$3,200, based on group size and customization.
Factors Affecting the Cost:
Group size (discounts for larger groups)
Time of year (peak season vs off-season)
Accommodation upgrades in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Optional services (porters for personal gear, gear rental, etc.)
What You Get at This Price:
All-inclusive trekking experience with meals, permits, flights, and camping gear
Experienced guides and safety protocols
Backup logistics like satellite phone and emergency evacuation arrangements
Compared to other high-altitude treks, the Dhaulagiri Circuit is slightly more expensive due to its isolation and need for a self-sufficient trekking approach.
6. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Price Breakdown
Here’s a transparent breakdown of what goes into the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking cost with Asiana Treks and Tours:
CategoryEstimated Cost (USD)
Accommodation (Hotels/Camps)$450
Meals and Snacks$350
Permits (ACAP, TIMS, etc.)$60
Domestic Transport & Flights$250
Guide and Porter Wages$600
Camping Equipment & Support$500
Logistics (Food, Gas, Supplies)$300
Emergency Backup and Fees$100
Admin and Taxes$100
Total Estimate$2,710 – $3,200
This cost structure ensures fair wages to the support team, safety backup, and high-quality service throughout the trek. For trekkers looking for a life-changing, off-grid experience, the price reflects the depth of adventure and professional service provided by Asiana Treks and Tours.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Altitude Guide
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the highest non-technical treks in Nepal, reaching elevations over 5,300 meters (17,388 ft). Understanding the altitude progression is essential for safe acclimatization. With a gradual rise from Beni (850 m) to Hidden Valley (5,200 m) and back down to Jomsom (2,710 m), this trek presents multiple altitude zones—each with unique terrain, climate, and risks.
The most critical high points of the trek include:
Italian Base Camp – 3,660 m
Dhaulagiri Base Camp – 4,740 m
French Pass – 5,360 m
Hidden Valley – 5,200 m
Dhampus Pass – 5,240 m
These elevations demand proper acclimatization, which is why Asiana Treks and Tours includes two full acclimatization days at Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp. These pauses help your body adapt to reduced oxygen levels and minimize the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Key Points:
Starts at 850 m, peaks at 5,360 m
Two acclimatization days included
Gradual altitude gain with careful pacing
Support staff trained in altitude safety
Why Choose Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking?
If you are seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path trekking experience in the Himalayas, then the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is second to none. Unlike commercialized trails such as Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, the Dhaulagiri route sees very few trekkers each year. This means untouched nature, raw wilderness, and deep solitude—a perfect combination for those who want an authentic Himalayan expedition.
Another key reason to choose this trek is the sense of achievement it offers. Navigating through deep gorges, crossing glaciers, tackling high mountain passes like French Col, and reaching the isolated Hidden Valley—this trek feels more like a mini-expedition than a typical trek. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures that all logistics are handled, so you can focus on the experience without stress.
Reasons to Choose This Trek:
Remote and less-traveled route
Epic high-altitude mountain views
Unique experience of camping-style trekking
Strong support team with full logistics
Rich Magar culture and authentic Himalayan life
Preparing for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is not a beginner’s trek. It’s a strenuous, high-altitude journey that demands physical endurance, mental preparedness, and proper gear. Preparation should ideally begin 2–3 months before the trek. Cardiovascular training (hiking, jogging, swimming), strength training (leg and core), and hiking with a backpack are excellent ways to get ready.
Asiana Treks and Tours provides detailed gear lists and personal consultations to ensure trekkers are fully equipped. You will need warm, layered clothing, a four-season sleeping bag, waterproof boots, and accessories like trekking poles, gaiters, and a headlamp. As the route involves glacier walking and rough terrain, you should be comfortable with long trekking days (6–8 hours daily) and variable weather conditions.
Pre-Trek Preparation Checklist:
Build cardio and strength endurance
Practice multi-day hikes with a loaded backpack
Prepare for camping and high-altitude conditions
Gear up with high-quality trekking equipment
Mental readiness for remote and rough terrain
What to Expect on the 20–21-Day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Adventure
This three-week-long journey is a total immersion into the majestic and rugged landscapes of western Nepal. The early days take you through warm valleys and culturally rich Magar villages like Muri and Boghara, where you’ll witness traditional life, terraced farming, and local hospitality. As you ascend, the environment shifts dramatically—lush forests give way to barren glacial valleys and icy mountain terrain.
From Day 10 onward, you’ll be trekking on and alongside glaciers. Camps are set up in wild alpine zones, far from settlements, with incredible mountain views all around. You’ll cross two major high passes: French Col (5,360 m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240 m), both of which offer jaw-dropping panoramas. Nights are spent in tents, and meals are prepared by the trekking cook team—creating a real expedition experience.
Trek Highlights:
Cultural encounters in Magar villages
Camping under the stars near glaciers
Crossing French Col and entering Hidden Valley
Isolation, silence, and raw beauty of the Himalayas
Descent into Jomsom and scenic flight to Pokhara
Oxygen Levels on Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking
One of the most critical elements of this trek is dealing with reduced oxygen levels at high altitude. At sea level, the oxygen concentration is about 21%, but by the time you reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740 m), available oxygen drops to around 60% of sea level levels. At Hidden Valley (5,200 m) and French Col (5,360 m), it’s even lower—hovering around 50%.
These low oxygen levels can cause symptoms like fatigue, headaches, nausea, or insomnia—signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). That’s why Asiana Treks and Tours places such a strong emphasis on acclimatization, slow pacing, and proper hydration. The guides are trained in altitude medicine, and oxygen cylinders or emergency support can be arranged if needed.
Understanding Oxygen Impact:
At 5,000m, oxygen is about 50% of sea level
Reduced oxygen leads to fatigue, slower pace, AMS risk
Proper acclimatization is built into the itinerary
Guides trained to recognize altitude-related issues
Major Villages and Scenic Viewpoints on Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Route
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek passes through a series of traditional villages and breathtaking viewpoints that add both cultural depth and scenic beauty to the adventure. Starting from Beni, the trail takes you through charming settlements like Babiyachaur, Dharapani, Muri, and Boghara—each inhabited predominantly by the Magar ethnic group, known for their warm hospitality and rich traditions. These villages are nestled in lush, terraced valleys surrounded by forested hills and give you a real taste of rural life in Nepal.
As the trek ascends, you move beyond human habitation and into the alpine wilderness. This is where the scenic grandeur begins to take over—starting with Italian Base Camp, a stunning amphitheater of mountains. Further up, Dhaulagiri Base Camp offers one of the most dramatic mountain vistas in Nepal, with towering ice walls and glacial formations. From French Pass (5,360m), you can see panoramic views of Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri I, and parts of the Annapurna range. The Hidden Valley and Dhampus Pass also offer incredible sunrise and sunset experiences.
Key Scenic and Cultural Highlights:
Traditional Magar villages: Muri, Boghara, Dharapani
Italian Base Camp: first high-altitude viewpoint
Dhaulagiri Base Camp: towering glacier and 8000m peaks
French Pass & Dhampus Pass: panoramic Himalayan vistas
Hidden Valley: remote and beautiful alpine basin
2. Flora and Fauna of Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek traverses a wide range of ecological zones, offering trekkers a fascinating insight into Nepal's rich biodiversity. In the lower regions near Beni and Babiyachaur, the trails are surrounded by lush subtropical forests, featuring rhododendron, oak, bamboo, and pine. During spring, especially in March and April, the rhododendrons bloom in vibrant red and pink, turning the forests into a natural garden.
As you ascend, the landscape changes dramatically to alpine meadows and high-altitude terrain, where the flora becomes more sparse but equally unique. You’ll encounter hardy shrubs, mosses, and lichens that thrive in extreme climates. The region is also home to diverse wildlife, though sightings depend on luck and quiet travel. Himalayan Tahr, blue sheep, langurs, snow leopards (rare), and a variety of birds of prey like lammergeiers and Himalayan vultures inhabit the area. The isolated environment around Hidden Valley and the glacial zones is especially important for conservation and pristine natural beauty.
Flora and Fauna Highlights:
Lush rhododendron forests in lower altitudes
Alpine meadows and glacial flora above 3,500m
Rare wildlife: blue sheep, Himalayan Tahr, langurs
Bird species: Himalayan monal, lammergeier, vultures
Remote, untouched ecosystem in Hidden Valley
3. Festivals and Local Culture Along Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking Route
The villages on the Dhaulagiri Circuit are primarily inhabited by the Magar community, one of Nepal’s largest ethnic groups known for their bravery, especially in Gurkha regiments, and rich cultural heritage. Their language, customs, and daily life are deeply connected to nature and the mountain environment. As you pass through villages like Muri, Boghara, and Dharapani, you'll witness a way of life that is self-sustaining and deeply spiritual.
Many local festivals are celebrated in these areas, the most prominent being Maghe Sankranti, Tihar, and Dashain. If your trek coincides with these festivals (mostly in October–November or January), you’ll get to experience colorful rituals, traditional dances, and local feasts. In some villages, Shamanic traditions and Bon practices are still observed, with local priests performing ancient rites. Asiana Treks and Tours makes efforts to connect travelers with cultural experiences—whether it’s visiting a local home, attending a village festival, or observing religious ceremonies.
Cultural and Festival Highlights:
Magar culture and traditions in mountain villages
Festivals: Dashain, Tihar, Maghe Sankranti
Traditional dances and communal rituals
Strong spiritual connection with nature and mountains
Opportunity to engage in local life through guided visits
4. Why Book with Asiana Treks and Tours for Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking
Asiana Treks and Tours specializes in remote, off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventures, making it the perfect choice for tackling the Dhaulagiri Circuit. With years of experience guiding treks in Nepal’s most challenging regions, Asiana provides unmatched logistics, personalized service, and deep local knowledge. Their Dhaulagiri itinerary is carefully designed to ensure both safety and enjoyment, including built-in acclimatization days, camping support, and emergency protocols.
What sets Asiana apart is their focus on responsible and ethical trekking. The company ensures fair wages, proper insurance, and welfare for all staff. They also practice eco-friendly trekking by minimizing waste and using sustainable supplies wherever possible. Trekkers benefit from experienced guides who are trained in first aid, high-altitude awareness, and cultural interpretation—making the journey both safe and enriching.
Why Choose Asiana Treks and Tours:
Expert in remote and challenging treks
Full-service camping with safety protocols
Ethical treatment of guides and porters
Eco-conscious trekking practices
Customizable itineraries with expert consultation
5. How to Book Dhaulagiri Circuit Trekking
Booking your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Asiana Treks and Tours is simple and flexible. You can either book directly through their official website or contact them via email or WhatsApp for a custom consultation. After your initial inquiry, the Asiana team will guide you through choosing your travel dates, group size, and any personal preferences. Once confirmed, you’ll receive a detailed itinerary and gear checklist.
To secure your booking, a deposit payment (usually 20–30%) is required, with the remaining balance payable before or upon arrival in Kathmandu. Asiana provides full customer support throughout the planning process, including help with visa information, flight recommendations, and insurance guidance. They also offer private treks, group departures, and even tailor-made trips for photographers or cultural explorers.
Booking Steps:
Contact Asiana via website or email
Confirm itinerary, dates, and customization
Pay deposit to secure your spot
Receive packing list, preparation advice, and pre-trip support
Arrival day briefing and meet your team in Kathmandu
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;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.
Start the trek to Babiyachaur today after breakfast. The trek goes along the beautiful bank of Myagdi Khola. The trail also passes through different local villages giving you a rich cultural experience; you will walk past the natural hot spring and eventually reach Babiyachaur. Stay overnight there.
The trek today will take you to Dharapani. Start the trek after breakfast and walk the trail along the valley. Reach Dharapani and stay overnight there.
The walk for today will go for about 5 hours in the trail that goes mostly uphill today. Passing through different villages, the trail heads towards Muri, a beautiful ethnic Magar settlement. Stay overnight there.
The walk today will involve a lot of walking on the uphill and downhill trail. About 6 hours of walk today will take you to the village of Boghara. You will experience a beautiful nature while walking towards Boghara passing through different other villages, forested area and beautiful terrains. You will also have beautiful view of Himalayan peaks. Stay overnight at Boghara.
The trek today also passes through local villages, terraced fields, forested area that you will come across while traversing the uphill and downhill trail. About 5 hours that you spend on the trail today will bring you across the wonders the nature has created. Reach Dobang and stay overnight there.
The trek today will bring you face to face with the west face of Mt. Dhaulagiri. You are still following the Myagdi Khola on your trails. Mostly uphill walk today takes you about 5 hours to reach the destination for today, Choriban Khola. Stay overnight there.
The walk today is very interesting as you will be walking on a glacier and the walk will also bring you the spectacular views of Tukche Peak, Dahulagiri and many other mountain peaks in the Himalayas. After about 7 hours of walk, you reach the Italian Base Camp to stay overnight.
Spend an extra day at the Italian Base Camp and take some small walks around to adjust yourself at the high altitude atmosphere. Stay overnight.
A careful walk to the Glacier Camp today will take you to the elevation of 4210 meters above sea level. After about 6 hours of walk takes you to the Glacier camp where you will spend the night today.
The walk to day will go to the Dhaulagiri base camp at the elevation of 4740 meters above sea level. You will witness the incredible views of the Dhaulagiri mountain peaks today. Stay overnight.
Spend a day here at the base camp to acclimatize yourself for an even higher altitude that you are going tomorrow. Overnight at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
After breakfast start the trek to the highest elevation of the entire trek, French Pass at 5360 meters above sea level, through the glacier and moraine. You will have a breathtaking view of the mountain peaks for the French Pass. All those mountain peaks surround the Hidden Valley which is the destination for today. All the impressive mountains in the Dhaulagiri range will leave you awestruck and make your stay at the Hidden Valley a fantastic one.
After an incredible time at the Hidden Valley, walk to Yak Kharka today crossing another beautiful mountain pass, Dhampus pass at the elevation of 5200 meters above sea level. Stay overnight at Yak Kharka.
Walk to Jomsom today vial Marpha village alongside the Kali Gandaki river. Jomsom is a beautiful mountain town which is about 5 hours trekking distance from Yak Kharka. Stop at Marpha village to have a look on the beautiful apple orchards and apple brandy which is very famous local product.
Take an early morning flight to Pokhara. A short mountain flight of 20 minutes will land you at the beautiful lake city of Pokhara. Drive to hotel and check in. Later, go for sightseeing tour of Pokhara. Boating, cave exploring etc.
Spend an extra day at Pokhara for some adventure sports like paragliding, zip lining, ultra-light flight, bungee jumping etc. or simply take a leisurely walk on the lake side; find some massage to relax.