DHAULAGIRI CIRCUIT TREK:
The Dhaulagiri circuit trek is a challenging trek on an off-the-beaten-trail that circles Mt. Dhaulagiri. Dhaulagiri was thought to be the highest mountain in the world from 1808 to 1848. Mt. Everest has been recognized as the highest mountain only since 1852. Dhaulagiri is now the seventh highest mountain in the world at 8,167 meters (26,795 feet). The Dhaulagiri Circuit and Base Camp trek is more challenging than the Annapurna Circuit Trek or the Manaslu Circuit Trek. It involves walking on a moraine for several days. Additionally, it involves hiking through a canyon with some rock fall danger. Past the moraine, the trek to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp is optional.
THE TREK
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek begins with a flight to Pokhara followed by a bus ride to the trail head. The trek begins in forested and terraced hills inhabited by the Magar people. Continue past permanent settlements through thickly forested jungle trails over the next couple days. The trek then continues on the seemingly never-ending Dhaulagiri moraine for several days. From here you map opt to trek to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp. Thereafter, cross the French Col (5,360m/17,600ft.) to enter the Hidden valley. From the hidden valley, you have the option to summit Dhampus peak (6,060m/19,850ft.). Finally, cross the Dhampus pass and descend to Jomsom where the trek ends.
ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is a CAMPING trek. This means you will sleep in tents and at local lodges but will eat meals prepared by our kitchen crew. We use Mountain Hardwear (Trango) and North Face (VE 25) 4-season tents which are quite spacious and effective against the elements. We also provide sleeping pads. Meals prepared by our trek are also quite varied with many options including rice with locally available vegetables, spaghetti, dumplings, noodles, local breads etc.
BEST SEASON
Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for trekking in the Dhaulagiri region are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November).
TREK RATING
The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is rated “CHALLENGING”. It is rated 5 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). The trek involves daily hiking of between 5-8 hours with lots of ascents and descents. The highest altitude reached is 17,700 ft. and the highest camp is at 16,700 ft. While the trek requires good physical fitness and involves walking through rugged terrain and landslides, no technical climbing experience is required. But you do have to be a very experienced hiker. Also, this is a relatively long trek in a remote area. Regardless of the rating, it is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.
WHY TREK WITH US?
All our Dhaulagiri Circuit and Base Camp Treks are private treks for a minimum of two participants. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services. All inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. And with over 30 years of experience, we employ the most professional and friendly staff.
We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…