Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek Overview
Dhaulagiri Trekking is known as a long and strenuous trek across an off-the-beaten snow trail, which involves walking across snow and ice with stunning mountain views. The Dhaulagiri Trekking area consists of the massive mountain ranges of Dhaulagiri, with fifteen mountain peaks in the group standing at altitudes over 7000m. The trek is home to the mighty Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), the seventh-highest peak in the world. Dhaulagiri Trekking is also referred to as the White Mountain.
The trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness beautiful mountain views and encounter wild animals like the Himalayan Tahr, musk deer, leopards, and different species of birds. Trekking this route challenges you with mountain passes like the famous French Pass (5360m) and Dhampus Pass (5250m).
Dhaulagiri Trekking also takes you through forests of oak, juniper, and rhododendron. The deepest Kali Gandaki River in the world also lies in this region. On this trek, you’ll have the chance to explore the local lifestyles of the Gurung, Magar, and other communities, experiencing their unique culture.
We begin our 20-day excursion in Kathmandu with visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites before heading to the most beautiful mountains on the Dhaulagiri Trekking.
Aarohi Holiday will customize the details of itineraries according to the time and interests of your holiday, making your stay in Nepal the best experience possible.
Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Trek to the seventh-highest peak in the world, Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), also known as the White Mountain.
- Navigate demanding mountain passes like the French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,250m).
- Spot wildlife such as Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and leopards amidst stunning snow-capped mountains and diverse flora.
- Experience the local lifestyles of the Gurung and Magar communities along the trek.
- Enjoy breathtaking views and explore the deepest Kali Gandaki River and forests of oak, juniper, and rhododendron.
- Begin with a 20-day journey including Kathmandu and UNESCO World Heritage sites before tackling the Dhaulagiri region.
Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, we offer you pick up facility from the airport and manage your stay at the most comfortable hotel in the city. You get to meet the team of trekkers and together we prepare for the trek.
Today would be the most exhilarating day where you will be introduced to the most pious Hindu and Buddhist religious place that is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage sites and elucidates you to the entire mysticism over its existence Pashupatinath temple, Boudhanath stupa, Patan Durbar Square and Swayambhunath stupa.
After breakfast, we drive from Kathmandu to Beni, which takes around 10 hours. Beni is the district headquarters, and there is a police checkpoint where the trekking registration certificate is checked. Beni is located at the confluence of the Myagdi Khola and Kali Gandaki rivers. On the way, we enjoy the beautiful scenery. Overnight stay in Beni.
Leaving Beni and the Kali Gandaki, the trek heads west along the north bank of the Myagdi Khola through the village of Beni Mangalghat to Singa and Tatopani (hot springs). Crossing the bridge beyond the village to the south bank of the river, the trail makes a little half loop before crossing another bridge near the village of Simalchour, back to the north bank, from where it continues to the village of BabiaChaur. Overnight stay in BabiaChaur.
The valley widens, and terraced hills develop on both sides of the river. The trail is fairly level, passing the village of Shahashradhara, crossing the Duk Khola, and walking through fields to arrive at Ratorunga. From here, the valley narrows again, and terraces disappear on either side of the river. Continue to the village of Dharapani. Overnight stay in Dharapani.
After crossing the river to its west bank as you leave Phedi, the trail starts climbing in earnest with many switchbacks until you arrive at the ridge and the angle of ascent eases. The trail then climbs steeply to the villages of Muri. Continue the trek to Sibang and Mattim. From here, you continue up an incline to the snout of the ridge, descend to the Gatti Khola, and reach Phalai Gaon (1,810m). Cross the Dhara Khola to emerge on the west bank of the Myagdi Khola and then climb a ridge to the large Magar village of Muri. Overnight stay in Muri.
Descend a little, cross a stream, and continue through terraced fields before climbing a ridge to reach the pass from where you can see Mt. Ghustung South (6,465m). Descend to the Myagdi Khola and trek along its west bank to the village of Naura, where you will climb a little before traversing a grassy hill and climbing a steep slope with switchbacks. Then descend through a forest and terraced fields to Boghara. Overnight stay in Boghara.
The trail first descends through terraced fields to a small ridge, then through a forest to Jyardan, which is the most remote permanent settlement in this part. After the settlement, a high winding path crosses a rocky area, which then descends before climbing again to Dovang. Overnight stay in Dovang.
After crossing a wooden bridge out of Dovang, the trail ascends through a forested area. Soon, the west face of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) becomes visible through breaks in the trees. Descend to the Myagdi Khola and cross via a wooden bridge to the east bank, then continue to Chartare. Passing through forests again, you cut across a rocky area and cross a stream to Choriban Khola. Overnight stay in Choriban Khola.
Follow a trail to the terminal moraine of the Chhonbarban Glacier and enter the glacier from the right. Tukche Peak (6,837m) becomes visible straight ahead, while the impressive north flank of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) dominates the skyline to your right. After a short while, you will reach the Italian Base Camp (3,660m), which is also the site of your camp for the night. To the west are the peaks of Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m), and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m). Overnight stay at Italian Base Camp.
We will spend a day here to acclimatize and adjust to the thinning air. It is recommended that your body acclimatizes to the high altitude and be “tuned” for the even higher altitudes to come. Overnight stay at Italian Base Camp.
Set out early in the morning when the weather is expected to be clear. This trail is prone to stone falls, passing through a narrow gorge. Overnight stay at Glacier Camp.
This is one of the most adventurous days of our trek, as we head to Dhaulagiri Base Camp. From here, you can look up at the impressive north face of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m). To the west are peaks of Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m), and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m). In front of you is the impressive icefall that descends from the northeast col. Overnight stay at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Another rest day, but very important for acclimatization. Views from this place are superb, and there is plenty to explore. Overnight stay at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
After the glacier, you climb two terraced hills, the first of which runs along the glacier. Then, you cut across the mountain flank and moraine to enter a gentle incline on the left from an ablation valley. Climb this gentle slope to the French Pass (5,360m). A great vista opens up from the French Pass, where you will be able to see Mukut Himal (6,328m), Tashi Kang (6,386m), and Sita Chuchura (6,611m), all of which surround the Hidden Valley. To the south is Tukche Peak (6,920m), and beyond is the massive peak of Dhaulagiri I. From French Pass, you continue along the right edge of the Hidden Valley, losing a little altitude to Thapa Pass (5,250m) between Tukche Peak and Thapa Peak (6,012m). Descend from Thapa Pass to camp at 5,200 meters. Overnight stay in Hidden Valley.
Descend from the Hidden Valley to Dhampus Pass and continue to Yak Kharka. There is a perfect campsite to enjoy the surroundings. Overnight stay in Yak Kharka.
Descend to the village of Marpha on the west bank of the Kali Gandaki River. Marpha is home to many apple orchards and various food products made from the fruit. Apple Brandy is a local specialty that you may be lucky enough to taste en route. Continue north up the river valley to the town of Jomsom. Overnight stay in Jomsom.
In the morning, take a flight from Jomsom (2,800m) to Pokhara. Upon arrival, we will drive to the hotel. After refreshment, we will walk around the lakeside. Overnight stay at a hotel in Pokhara.
After breakfast, we head towards the tourist bus park and board a tourist bus back to Kathmandu. The bus ride will take around 7 hours through curvy roads of hilly terrain, with a couple of breaks in between for snacks and lunch. There will be a farewell dinner (Nepali Food) to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Your wonderful adventure in Nepal comes to an end today. We wish you all the best. A representative from Aarohi Holiday Pvt Ltd will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
Cost Includes & Excludes
Cost Includes
- Pick up and drop off from and to International airport.
- 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu (first two nights and last one night).
- 2 nights hotel in Pokhara.
- Annapurna Conservation Park permit.
- TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System).
- One porter for each two people.
- Accommodation in Guest House (Lodge)
- Provided tents during the trek as mentioned in the trek type.
- 3 Meals a day – breakfast, lunch, Dinner during the trek (Anything from the menu).
- Jomsom to Pokhara flight.
- All land transportation by bus / van / car.
- Sightseeing tour car A/C with driver.
- Farewell dinner at Nepalese cultural restaurant after the trek in Kathmandu.
- All taxes and Company service charges.
Cost Excludes
- Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport size photographs).
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
- Monument sites entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu.
- Excess baggage charges.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and earlier return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- Travel and rescue insurance.
- Personal expenses (phone calls, internet / Wi-Fi, laundry, bar bills - tea/coffee, hot chocolate, juice, beer, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled or boiled water, shower etc.).
- Tips for guides and porters (Tipping is expected, but not compulsory).
Packing List For Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek
Clothing:
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Fleece jacket or sweater
- Trekking trousers
- Trekking shirts (moisture-wicking)
- Warm gloves and inner gloves
- Beanie or thermal hat
- Sunhat or cap
- Gaiters (for snow or mud)
Footwear:
- Trekking boots (waterproof with good ankle support)
- Comfortable camp shoes or sandals
- Trekking socks (wool or synthetic)
Accessories:
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Headlamp (with extra batteries)
- Trekking poles
- Water bottles or hydration bladder
- Buff or scarf (for dust and cold protection)
- Power bank
Personal Gear:
- Sleeping bag (rated for -15°C or lower)
- Duffel bag (carried by porters)
- Daypack (for personal items)
Toiletries and First Aid:
- Sunscreen and lip balm (high SPF)
- Personal medications
- Basic first aid kit
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes and tissue paper
Miscellaneous:
- Passport and necessary permits
- Cash (for tips and personal expenses)
- Camera and spare batteries
- Energy bars or snacks
FAQs
The Dhaulagiri Trek takes you to the base camp of Mount Dhaulagiri (8167m), the 7th highest mountain in the world. The trek starts in Dharbang, Myagdi, and ends in Jomsom, Mustang, located in North-Central Nepal. The trek typically lasts 20 days, including 13 days of trekking with 1 acclimatization day.
Yes, the Dhaulagiri Trek is definitely worth it for adventurous trekkers. It is one of the most challenging treks, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the lush green midlands of Nepal. The trek leads to the base camp of Mount Dhaulagiri, the 7th highest mountain in the world. Since there are no tea houses or accommodations at higher elevations, most of the trek involves camping in tents. This trek is perfect for those seeking a remote, challenging adventure away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
During the Dhaulagiri Trek, trekkers are treated to breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range for the majority of the journey. Key peaks include Dhaulagiri 1 (8167m), Dhaulagiri 2 (7751m), Dhaulagiri 3 (7715m), Dhaulagiri 4 (7661m), Dhaulagiri 5 (7618m), Mukut Himal (6087m), Tashi Kang (6386m), Sita Chuchura (6611m), and Tukuche West (6848m). Towards the end of the trek, peaks from the Annapurna Himalayan Range become visible, including Annapurna 1 (8091m), Mount Tilitso (7136m), Nilgiri (6940m), Bharha Chuli (7647m), and Annapurna South (7219m). The stunning vistas of both ranges add to the trek’s allure, making it an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers.
The Dhaulagiri Trek is a challenging adventure, often passing through offbeat paths, some of which are prone to landslides and avalanches. Certain sections of the trek, particularly those affected by the 2015 earthquake, are in landslide zones, which can pose risks. However, trekkers need not worry too much as guides and porters, who are well-acquainted with the surroundings, assist in ensuring safety. The risk of landslides and avalanches is more pronounced during the off-season (monsoon, spring, and winter), but the threat is minimal during the spring and autumn seasons, which are considered safer. It is always advisable for trekkers to remain aware of their surroundings to further reduce the risk.
Yes, altitude sickness is a possibility during the Dhaulagiri Trek, especially as you will be trekking to high altitudes, such as 5360m at French Pass. At this height, the oxygen level is about 50% of sea level, and the atmospheric pressure is lower, so feeling light-headed is normal. If you experience symptoms, it’s crucial to inform your guides and group leaders immediately. The guides at Mountain Ram Adventures are experienced in handling altitude sickness and other emergencies. The team is well-equipped with first aid supplies to manage the situation. If the symptoms worsen, the guides will arrange for medical evacuation to ensure your safety.
The Dhaulagiri Trek is considered one of the most challenging trekking routes in Nepal, taking you to the base camp of the 7th highest mountain in the world. While the trek is demanding, it is possible for first-time trekkers with the right support. The trek can be tough for even experienced trekkers, but with the help of guides and porters from Aarohi Holiday, the journey becomes much more manageable. The guides will assist you with every step of the trek, offering tips on proper walking techniques and providing information about the terrain and surroundings. Without such support, the Dhaulagiri Trek would be extremely difficult for a first-time trekker.
The Dhaulagiri Trek remains relatively uncrowded even during the peak trekking season. Unlike more popular treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, the Dhaulagiri Trek is more complex and challenging, which deters many trekkers. The lack of accommodations in the higher regions, requiring camping, adds to the trek’s difficulty, making it less accessible compared to well-established routes. As a result, even during peak season, the Dhaulagiri Trek sees fewer trekkers, offering a more secluded and peaceful experience in comparison to the mainstream trekking destinations.
Clean drinking water is not easily available during the Dhaulagiri Trek, and trekkers are advised not to drink directly from the water sources. The guides and porters will boil the water or use filtration tablets to make it safe for consumption. Drinking untreated water from the natural sources can lead to severe health issues, so it’s crucial to follow the precautions provided by the trekking team to avoid any health complications.
During the Dhaulagiri Trek, the total distance covered is approximately 90 km. On average, trekkers will trek for 5-6 hours per day, covering around 7.5-8 km daily. Given the strenuous nature of the trek, even experienced trekkers may find it challenging, so it is recommended to trek at your own pace, taking time to enjoy the surroundings. Pushing too hard can lead to fatigue and increase the risk of complications, so it’s important to listen to your body throughout the journey.
Essential Info
Physical Fitness
Many people have questions as to what level of physical fitness is required for visiting Nepal, and that is extremely reliant on what activity the visitor is engaging in. With that said, for a standard trek of moderate grading (Everest Base Camp Trek is an example of moderate) the daily activity will be 7-8 hours, and elevation will generally not exceed 5,500 meters. The day’s trekking is sustained and will involve both long steep climbs, and descents with a variety of terrain underfoot from well-trodden paths, to rocks covered with ice or snow. A typical day would include a number of climbs or descents of 500 meters or more, starting after breakfast, resting at lunch, then continuous trekking until arriving at the teahouse.
In preparation for the trek, it is important to begin a training requirement at least 4 months before departing for Nepal. Three to four hours of aerobic exercise like running, walking, swimming, cycling & some gym work per week is the minimum and most will find it beneficial to add some basic strength training to their physical fitness routine. One of the best ways to prepare is to take practice hikes with a daypack roughly the same weight as what you will be taking on the trek. Do this only after a baseline of fitness has been reached. Moving fast is not the end goal, rather endurance is the focus, and will provide a more enjoyable and safe adventure.
Trekking Seasons in Nepal
There are two main seasons in which Nepal sees the most amount of visitors. Fall (September through November) being the most popular, and spring (March to May) coming in close behind. The summer months of June, July and August are the monsoon season and as such the trails are mostly washed out, and roads can sometimes be impassible due to landslide activates. Not to mention the view is non-existent. Still, there are a few places that lie in rain shadow areas and see significantly less rain if any at all, and summer can be a good time to visit these places.
Winter in Nepal is dry, with very cold nights where temperatures can drop to -20°C at the highest altitudes, but the days are pleasant and sunny. Additionally, the trails are much less crowded during this time of year. In Kathmandu, maximum daytime temperatures reach around 20°C.
Fall is the most popular because it’s after the monsoons, and the air is dry, the days are sunny, and everything is green in the lower valleys from the excessive rains. Spring is a popular choice because some rain returns, but the weather is generally warm and dry, and flowers are in bloom in the lower elevations.
Trekking Day
A typical trekking day begins with a cup of tea at around 6 in the morning. It is advised to pack your trekking gears in a duffle bag and essential supplies in your day pack in these early hours. After having breakfast, we begin the trek and head along the trail at around 8 am. The morning walk is designed to be longer as we begin with refreshed bodies and enthusiasm. Following a good morning’s walk, we make stop for lunch at around 11.30 am. The lunch involves group meals enjoying the vicinity around the stop. You can explore the surrounding or use the time according to your own consent. After resting for about an hour or two, we resume our trek to reach teahouse or camp by 3-4 pm. The afternoon walk is relatively shorter and can involve games and side trips as organized by the trekking guides. You also can enjoy breaks during the trek to relax, read or stroll around the area. You can converse with the local people and observe their lifestyle. Dinner is served around 7 in the evening to round off the day.
Meals and Accommodations
During the length of the trek, the accommodation style is commonly referred to as teahouse. These are family-run basic lodges that fill the role of the restaurant, meeting place, and boarding house for tourists. Electricity can be found in the rooms, which means one light bulb, and one or two outlets for charging electronics. The common areas are also lit by electricity. Teahouses may use solar, hydroelectric, or have electrical lines running into the village, so the commonality and availability of electricity may vary.
Most teahouses have private rooms, though if the trek is in a more remote or high altitude place dormitories are the norm. Each room has 1 or 2 single beds with basic bedding, and the bathroom is shared. Expect a mix of western and squat style toilets in the bathrooms.
Breakfast and dinner are taken at the teahouse and these lodges have large family style dining rooms centered on a stove to provide heat. The menu will have Nepali style western foods such as pasta, pizza, pancakes, burgers, and fries. Also on the menu is the traditional Dal Bhat meal. This is a lentil soup with rice and vegetable or meat curry. Most menus will also offer a smattering of local cuisine.
Internal Flight Delays
Nepal is an incredible country of mountains and valleys, rivers and green rolling hills. With this incredible diversity of landscapes, road travel can be extremely time consuming and flights within Nepal to reach popular trekking destinations is a must. Along with this mountainous terrain also comes the possibility of in climate weather. Not to mention the incredibly high number of visitors during peak seasons makes internal flight delays a very real possibility. To manage this possibility, it may be helpful to have a few extras days on either end of your tour. If any cancellations or flight delays do occur (high chances of flight delays from around Kathmandu to Lukla, Everest region), we also provide services to arrange helicopter to help you to be on your schedule on the premises of Civil Aviation Rules in Nepal which state that helicopters can fly if the visibility is 1500m. The cost ranges from USD350 to USD650 according to the number of passengers. The payment can be made either to the helicopter company or to us directly and can be made either by cash or using a credit card. It will also be helpful to purchase and review your insurance as some of the alternative measures for travel may be covered. Flight insurance too may cover changing your international flight if necessary.
Travel Insurance
Many expeditions and tours require that travel insurance is purchased prior to arriving in Nepal, but other treks and tours may not. However, travel insurance is definitely an important consideration. There are a number of reasons to consider insurance. Firstly, it may be required, so check to see what is being asked for by the company. Second, Nepal is a landlocked country, and there are few direct flights. Travel in and out can encounter some disruptions and if purchasing insurance, make sure flight delays and cancellations are included. The next reason to choose insurance is that, though every safeguard is in place during your tour, there are always extenuating circumstances that may result in an accident. Read the fine print of insurance policies to ensure trekking or any other activity you are engaging in is covered, as some policies have stopped covering trekking in certain places. It is impossible to have a relaxing trip without the comfort of good insurance, so do the research and choose carefully.
Nepal Visa Entry Procedure
For entry into Nepal, there are visa requirements everyone (except Indian nationals) must complete before being allowed to pass through immigration. This is for air travel as well as overland transportation. Most visitors may obtain a visa to enter Nepal, however, there are exceptions.
Three options are available for entry
15-day single entry: US $30
30-day single entry: US $50
90-day multiple entries: US $125
Please have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry, and have cash ready, preferably in US dollars, though there are other currencies Nepal Immigration accepts. If you are entering via overland, you must have US cash and 3 passport photos. For arrival by air, the kiosks at the airport take your picture for you.
For the most up to date list of exceptions for visa on arrival or to obtain the most current visa information, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
Acute Mountain Sickness is usually seen in un-acclimatized people shortly after ascent to high altitudes. The condition occurs due to the thinning of air as the altitude increases. The condition, if not taken seriously and treated immediately, can be life-threatening and its symptoms can be seen generally above 3000 meters. Some of the symptoms of AMS are nausea, vomiting, tiredness, shortness of breath and cerebral pain. The treks are designed to properly acclimatize you to the change in high altitude climate and sufficient precautionary measures too are taken to take utmost caution. We also equip our staffs with cell phones and satellite phones in occurrence of any emergency cases. We are greatly driven to keep the safety and security of our clients as our foremost concern.
Drinking Water
Water is essential for life, and clean water is imperative while on holiday. When choosing to visit less developed countries it is a concern that all travelers should consider. A few options are available when trekking or traveling in Nepal that will mitigate any chances of drinking contaminated water which could cause disruption of an otherwise fun adventure. The first consideration to take into account is that tap water should not be ingested. That even means when brushing your teeth. Most will choose to buy bottled water and if doing so make sure the cap has not been opened previously. Plastic bottle refuse is a problem, and with that being said there are other options on the market to assist in making water drinkable. Your local outdoor store can help with choosing what option might be best to use in conjunction with a reusable bottle. Your guide can also steer you to water that has been filtered and purified so ask him or her what is available.
Arrival Instruction
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives are stationed to welcome you to the country. We request you to carefully look for your name being held by our representatives following the events upon landing. The representatives are responsible to escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will see men offering you to carry luggage and take you to your destination as you exit the airport. We request you pay no attention to these people and follow the designated representatives and follow their instructions. You will also need to keep an eye on your luggage and belongings to avoid any complications.
Traveler Reviews
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