Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek – One Of Nepal’s Most Demanding Treks
On this page you will find a comprehensive and impartial guide to the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.
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Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most demanding treks and requires previous experience of high altitude trekking. Rope, ice axe and crampons are usually required and you might need to wear a helmet as some stretches of path are susceptible to small rockfalls.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is said by some to be the toughest three-week trek in Nepal. The bare minimum duration is 13 trekking days plus two more for acclimatisation, but most trek options are over 20 days long. This can be extended with some side trips such as the option to climb the non-technical Dhampus Peak (6,060m). Since many of the trails on the first half of the trek are rarely used, the services of a guide are highly recommended.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek takes you around the towering form of Mount Dhaulagiri (26,795 feet). Mount Dhaulagiri is the seventh-highest mountain on Earth and was first climbed in 1960. From 1808 to 1848 it was thought to be the highest, although that honour has been held by Everest since 1852.
In the extinct Indian language of Sanskrit, the language of the Kama Sutra, “dhavala” means “white” and “giri” means “mountain.” While other mountains have the same name, this particular white mountain is perhaps the most spectacular. The trek winds up through high alpine pastures, even higher passes and serene, remote valleys.
Please Note
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a big risk on the Dhaulagiri Trek as sudden increases in altitude cannot be avoided on this trek – the ground rises by 23,000 feet in the space of less than 20 miles.
Trekking at such an altitude is a challenge even for fit and very experienced hikers. Acclimatisation is essential, but it cannot guarantee a risk-free completion of the Dhaulagiri Trek.
Warning: Due to the altitude and remoteness, the consequences of bad weather are much more severe.
Regional Map
Dhaulagiri is northwest of Pokhara, in the Dhaulagiri region as seen in the map below.
Recommended Map
There are slim pickings for guidebooks on the Dhaulagiri Trek.
The 2001 guidebook called Trekking & Climbing in Nepal dedicates a chapter to the trek, however, this may be a little out of date.
There is a trekking map available here.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Itinerary
There are several Dhaulagiri Circuit trek itineraries that can be done. Below we have laid out the most popular version – 23 days, leaving from Kathmandu. If you want to make your own way to Pokhara or Beni then you could probably organise this with your operator or guide.
Click each day to read more...
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14
Day 15
Day 16
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Day 21
Day 22
Day 23
Video Overview
A beautiful video overview of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek by All The Fish Are Dead.
It’s just over 3 minutes long. A little shaky camera but good overview of the route and views.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Important Information
Recommended Guidebook
There are no specific guidebooks on this trek, but you can have a look at our recommended list of Nepal books and guidebooks Library, perhaps you can find something helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the trek cost?
Are permits required for this trek?
When is the best time to trek?
Is altitude sickness a risk?
How difficult is the trek?
What gear do I need?
Insurance Information
Climbing insurance is vital for Dhaulagiri Trek. If an accident or incident should occur that requires immediate medical assistance and evacuation you will most definitely want adequate trekking insurance that can cover the costs of air ambulance and treatment.
Make sure you have insurance that covers you for any travel related risks, like lost, stolen, damaged or delayed baggage; interruptions and flight delays and tour operators default.
Please read our article on travel and trekking insurance in Nepal. The article provides great information on what type of insurance you'd need.
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