Trip overview
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek that takes you around the Dhaulagiri massif in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a long and difficult trek that requires a good level of fitness and experience in high-altitude trekking.
The trek starts in the town of Beni and follows the Myagdi Khola river through a series of traditional Nepalese villages, terraced fields, and forests of rhododendron and oak. You will pass through the Italian Base Camp and French Pass, which offer stunning views of the Dhaulagiri range, including the seventh highest mountain in the world, Dhaulagiri I (8,167m).
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek also includes crossing the Hidden Valley, a remote and secluded valley that lies between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. This section of the trek is particularly challenging due to the high altitude and rugged terrain.
The trek ends in Jomsom, a town in the Mustang district of Nepal. From here, you can either take a flight to Pokhara or continue on to the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Overall, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers stunning views of the Dhaulagiri range and the Annapurna region. It is a great choice for experienced trekkers who are looking for a more remote and adventurous trekking experience.
Useful Info
Here are some useful pieces of information that may be helpful for planning a Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek:
- Trekking Permits: To do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, you will need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board or the ACAP office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Best Time to Trek: The best time to do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is from March to May and from September to November, which are the spring and autumn seasons. The weather during these seasons is generally stable, and the views of the mountains are clear.
- Difficulty Level: The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience. The highest point of the trek is the French Pass at an altitude of 5,360 meters. The trek also involves several long and steep ascents and descents and can be physically and mentally demanding.
- Accommodation: There are several teahouses and lodges along the trekking route, where you can stay and have meals. However, the accommodation facilities may be basic and may not have electricity and hot water.
- Altitude Sickness: Altitude sickness is a common problem for trekkers in the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek due to the high altitude. It is essential to acclimatize properly and to stay hydrated. In case of severe altitude sickness symptoms, it is advisable to descend immediately and seek medical attention.
- Hiring a Guide/Porter: It is possible to do the trek independently, but it is recommended to hire a guide or a porter, especially if you do not have prior experience in high-altitude trekking. A guide or a porter can provide assistance with navigation, carrying your bags, and managing any emergencies that may arise during the trek.
- Packing List: Some essential items to pack for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek include a warm sleeping bag, thermal clothing, a down jacket, trekking boots, trekking poles, a good quality backpack, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. It is also recommended to pack some snacks and water purification tablets.
I hope this information is helpful in planning your Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Enjoy your trekking adventure!
FAQs
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What is the duration of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek typically takes around 18 to 21 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and pace of the trek.
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What is the level of difficulty of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is considered to be a challenging trek, requiring a good level of fitness and prior experience in high-altitude trekking. The trek involves steep ascents and descents, and the highest point of the trek is the French Pass, standing at an altitude of 5,360 meters (17,585 feet).
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What is the best time to do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
The best time to do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is from March to May and from September to November, which are the spring and autumn seasons. The weather during these seasons is generally stable, and the views of the mountains are clear.
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Do I need a permit to do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
Yes, you need a trekking permit to do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. You will need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board or the ACAP office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
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Is it possible to do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek independently, or do I need a guide?
It is possible to do the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek independently, but it is recommended to hire a guide or a porter, especially if you do not have prior experience in high-altitude trekking. A guide or a porter can provide assistance with navigation, carrying your bags, and managing any emergencies that may arise during the trek.
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What is the accommodation like during the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
There are several teahouses and lodges along the trekking route, where you can stay and have meals. However, the accommodation facilities may be basic and may not have electricity and hot water.
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What should I pack for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek include a warm sleeping bag, thermal clothing, a down jacket, trekking boots, trekking poles, a good quality backpack, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. It is also recommended to pack some snacks and water purification tablets.
