Dhaulagiri Round Trek
From
Duration
Tour Type
Explore Tours
Dhaulagiri Round Trek – Extreme Adventure in the Himalayas
Conquer the High Passes Around the 7th Highest Peak on Earth through Dhaulagiri Round Trek.
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek is one of the most challenging and remote high-altitude treks in Nepal, perfect for experienced trekkers seeking true wilderness adventure. Standing at 8,167 meters, Mt. Dhaulagiri is the seventh-highest mountain in the world, and this 16-day expedition circles its massive bulk—crossing glaciers, snowy passes, and some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Himalayas.
Route Overview
Organized and guided by Navigate Outdoor, this unforgettable journey begins in Beni, a town nestled in the Kali Gandaki Valley. From there, the trail follows the Myagdi Khola river, winding past terraced farmland and into thick forests, before gradually veering northward through increasingly rugged and remote terrain. As you trek higher into the Dhaulagiri region, the environment transforms dramatically, offering a true sense of isolation and immersion in nature.
Your first key acclimatization stop is Italian Base Camp (3,650m), where you can rest and take in early views of Dhaulagiri’s stunning ice-covered ridges. The journey continues upward through a series of progressively more demanding campsites. Eventually, you’ll find yourself camping on glaciers and expansive snowfields above 4,500 meters, where the true challenge begins.
Crossing the treacherous Chhonbardan Glacier, you’ll approach the iconic French Pass (5,240m)—a thrilling and physically demanding segment of the journey. Shortly after, you’ll traverse Dhampus Pass (5,250m), gaining access to the legendary Hidden Valley, a mysterious and high-altitude basin tucked between massive Himalayan giants. This region, once considered a Tibetan refuge, adds a mystical element to your trek.
The Dhaulagiri Round Trek concludes in Marpha, a picturesque village located in the Mustang region. Known for its apple orchards and charming stone-paved lanes, Marpha is the perfect place to unwind after days of extreme adventure. From here, you can either return to Pokhara by a scenic 9-hour drive or opt for a short domestic flight from Jomsom, located nearby.
Trekking Highlights
- Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri I–V, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, and Annapurna ranges
- Remote, rugged terrain – minimal crowds, true backcountry experience
- High alpine adventure: glaciers, snowfields, and passes over 5,000m
- Rare opportunity to visit Hidden Valley, a region once considered a Tibetan refuge
- Memorable nights in expedition-style camping under Himalayan stars
Tour Amenities
Begin your Nepal trekking experience in Kathmandu, the gateway to Himalayan base camp trekking routes including Everest Base Camp trek, Annapurna Circuit, and Upper Mustang trek.
Enjoy the scenic drive to Pokhara, the starting point for Annapurna region treks and Himalayan base camp adventures.
Enter deeper into the Annapurna trekking region with a journey through traditional villages and mountain landscapes.
Start your Annapurna Circuit trek on Nepal hiking trails with gradual ascent.
Explore local culture while trekking through terraced farmlands on your Nepal trekking route.
Ascend along classic Annapurna Circuit trekking trails surrounded by lush forests.
Experience traditional mountain village life and scenic landscapes on your Himalayan base camp trek.
Higher elevation trekking with stunning Himalayan views.
Approach the heart of the Dhaulagiri Himalayan base camp trek.
Acclimatize and enjoy the panoramic mountain scenery on your Annapurna region trek.
Continue your Himalayan base camp trek through dramatic mountain terrain.
Traverse beautiful alpine landscapes as part of your Annapurna base camp trek.
Reach the Dhaulagiri base camp, one of the highest Himalayan base camps in Nepal.
Enjoy breathtaking views and prepare for the challenging passes ahead.
Cross one of the highest trekking passes in the world on your Himalayan base camp trek.
Descend through spectacular mountain valleys along your Annapurna Circuit trekking route.
Experience the cultural richness of the Annapurna region.
Complete your Annapurna base camp trek and prepare for your return.
Relax in the beautiful lakeside town, gateway to Nepal trekking and Himalayan base camp treks.
Return to Kathmandu for your final days in Nepal.
Explore local markets and cultural sites or relax after your Himalayan trekking adventure.
Conclude your Nepal trekking journey with lasting memories of the Annapurna Circuit, Dhaulagiri base camp trek, and Himalayan base camp experiences.