Nepal: Dhaulagiri Circuit 18-DAY Guided Trek (5,360 Meters)

Embarking on the captivating Dhaulagiri Circuit 18-Day Guided Trek in Nepal promises an unforgettable adventure through the country’s majestic mountain ranges. Priced at €3,573.40 per person, this exhilarating journey leads trekkers on a challenging ascent to the French Pass, situated at an impressive 5,360 meters. With expert guides ensuring safety and success, you will enjoy diverse landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the thrill of high-altitude trekking. However, the demands of this trek require exceptional physical condition and preparation for the unpredictable weather conditions that can arise along the way.

Key Points

• This 18-day high-altitude trek in Nepal’s Dhaulagiri Mountains includes crossing the French Pass at an elevation of 5,360 meters.
• The trek is guided, and includes accommodation, meals, transportation, permits, and porter service, with a starting price of €3,573.40 per person.
• Excellent physical fitness and acclimatization are essential due to the strenuous nature of the trek and unpredictable weather conditions in the Dhaulagiri region.
• Necessary permits, such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Dhaulagiri Trekking Permit, must be obtained and carried at all times.
• The trek is not suitable for certain groups, including pregnant women, those with mobility or health issues, and infants under 1 year old.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Contents

• Key Points
• Trek Overview and Cost
• Detailed Itinerary Summary
• Trekking Inclusions and Exclusions
• Trekking Requirements and Considerations
• Essential Packing List
• Important Rules and Regulations
• Unpredictable Weather Conditions
• Permits and Identification Requirements
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I Bring My Pet on This Trek?
• Will There Be Any Opportunity to Buy Supplies During the Trek?
• Is It Possible to Extend the Trek Duration?
• Can I Split the Trek Into Multiple Shorter Hikes?
• What Is the Cancelation Policy for This Trek?
• Recap
• Our Top Picks in Kathmandu
• More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Kathmandu
• More Guided Tours in Kathmandu
• More Tour Reviews in Kathmandu
• Not for you? Here's more things to do in Kathmandu we have recnetly reviewed

Trek Overview and Cost

This challenging high-altitude trek in the Dhaulagiri Mountains offers an 18-day tour from Kathmandu. Priced from €3,573.40 per person, the trek features 17 nights of camping.

The highlight is crossing the French Pass at 5,360 meters and enjoying views of the impressive Dhaulagiri Himal (8,167 meters).

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The trek includes hotel pickup and drop-off, accommodation during the trek, meals (breakfast only), transportation, permits, an English-speaking guide, and porter service.

However, lunch, dinner, drinks, personal expenses, travel insurance, and tips are excluded.

Detailed Itinerary Summary

The 18-day Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek begins with a pickup from Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu on Day 1.

The following day, trekkers drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

On Day 3, they take a jeep ride from Pokhara to Darbang.

Days 4-15 consist of trekking through various villages and acclimatization days, including reaching the Dhaulagiri Base Camp.

The final hike is from Marpha to Pokhara.

On Day 16, trekkers drive back to Kathmandu, and on Day 17, they depart Nepal.

The trek covers highlights like crossing the French Pass (5,360 meters) and views of the Dhaulagiri Himal (8,167 meters).

Trekking Inclusions and Exclusions

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek includes a range of services and amenities to support trekkers throughout their journey.

The tour package covers hotel pickups and drop-offs, 12 nights of accommodation during the trek, and meals during the trekking days (breakfast only).

Ground transportation, necessary permits and taxes, an English-speaking guide, a first-aid kit, and porter service (one porter per two travelers) are also included.

However, lunch and dinner, drinks, personal expenses, travel insurance, and tips for the guide and porter are excluded from the package.

Trekkers are responsible for obtaining proper gear, maintaining good physical fitness, and ensuring they’re prepared for the challenging high-altitude conditions.

Trekking Requirements and Considerations

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek isn’t suitable for certain individuals, such as pregnant women, those with mobility impairments, heart problems, respiratory issues, altitude sickness, low fitness levels, and babies under 1 year.

Excellent physical fitness and proper acclimatization are essential for this strenuous high-altitude trek. Experienced guides are a must, as the weather can be unpredictable, and sudden changes are common.

Trekkers should pack appropriate cold-weather gear and carry all necessary permits and identification at all times.

The best seasons for this trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when weather conditions are more stable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Essential Packing List

When packing for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, trekkers should ensure they’ve all the necessary items to overcome the challenges of the high-altitude environment.

A sturdy pair of hiking boots, warm layers like jackets and gloves, and rain gear are essential. Trekkers should also pack sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as well as a water bottle and snacks to keep them fueled.

Other recommended items include a headlamp, camera, personal hygiene products, and a first-aid kit.

It’s important to pack light and only bring the necessities, as porters will be carrying the group’s supplies.

Trekkers should also carry their passport, permits, and cash for any purchases during the trek.

Important Rules and Regulations

During the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, trekkers must adhere to several important rules and regulations to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the entire group.

Smoking indoors and consuming alcohol or drugs are strictly prohibited. To preserve the natural environment, making fires and leaving behind any waste aren’t allowed.

Trekkers must always wear proper footwear and avoid walking barefoot. Noise pollution is also a concern, so participants are expected to be mindful of their volume levels.

Carrying all necessary permits and identification at all times is crucial. Failure to comply with these rules may result in penalties or even the termination of the trek.

Unpredictable Weather Conditions

Weather conditions in the Dhaulagiri region can be highly unpredictable, making it essential for trekkers to be well-prepared. Sudden changes in temperature, wind, and precipitation can occur, even during the best trekking seasons. Unexpected snowfall or heavy rain can make the trails slippery and dangerous. Fog can reduce visibility, hampering navigation. Strong winds can make crossing high passes challenging. Trekkers must always be ready to adapt their plans and have the right gear to handle whatever Mother Nature throws their way.

Weather Hazard	Impact on Trek	Mitigation Strategies
Sudden Storms	Slippery trails, poor visibility	Carry rain/wind gear, monitor forecasts
Temperature Drops	Increased risk of hypothermia	Pack warm, insulating clothing
High Winds	Difficulty crossing passes	Adjust route/schedule, use trekking poles

Permits and Identification Requirements

Proper documentation is crucial for trekkers undertaking the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Participants must carry their passports at all times, as they’ll be required to present them at various checkpoints and camps along the route.

Plus, trekkers need to obtain necessary permits, which include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Dhaulagiri Trekking Permit. These permits ensure compliance with local regulations and fund conservation efforts.

Failure to carry proper identification and permits can result in delays, fines, or even being denied access to the trek. Keeping all documents organized and readily available is essential for a smooth and hassle-free journey through the breathtaking Dhaulagiri Mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on This Trek?

Bringing pets on this high-altitude trek is not allowed. The trek requires extensive physical fitness and proper equipment, and pets would not be able to safely traverse the challenging terrain and conditions.

Will There Be Any Opportunity to Buy Supplies During the Trek?

There’ll be limited opportunities to purchase supplies during the trek. Hikers should bring all necessary items, as access to shops and markets will be scarce along the remote trail. Some basic items may be available in larger villages.

Is It Possible to Extend the Trek Duration?

It’s possible to extend the trek duration, but it would need to be arranged in advance with the tour operator. Additional days can be added to the itinerary for an extra fee, allowing more time for acclimatization and exploration.

Can I Split the Trek Into Multiple Shorter Hikes?

While the trek can’t be split into multiple shorter hikes due to the need for proper acclimatization, some travelers may be able to extend the duration to better manage the strenuous conditions and enjoy the experience at a slower pace.

What Is the Cancelation Policy for This Trek?

The trek offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for travelers who may need to cancel their plans at the last minute due to unforeseen circumstances.

Recap

The Dhaulagiri Circuit 18-Day Guided Trek offers an exhilesent challenge for trekkers in excellent physical shape. Traversing through Nepal’s stunning Dhaulagiri Mountains, this trek culminates in the difficult ascent to the French Pass at 5,360 meters. Priced reasonably at €3,573.40 per person, the trek includes essential amenities and experienced guides to ensure a safe and rewarding high-altitude adventure. Trekkers should prepare for unpredictable weather and adhere to necessary rules and regulations to make the most of this trekking expedition.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby