The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is a long trek that passes through high alpine pastures, uninhabited valleys, high windswept passes, forests and cultivated terraced hills. Crossing two passes – the French Pass at 5,360m and Dhampus Pass at 5,200m, and including the Dhaulagiri Base Camp at 4,740m, this is a challenging trek which requires a high level of fitness. However, with good stamina and basic mountaineering skills, the rewards of this trek include stunning views of Tukuche Peak (6,920m), Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Dhaulagiri ii (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m) and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m).

After passing through some attractive settlements such as Takam, Sibang, Phaliyagaon, Mudi, Naura, Bagar, Lipse, etc., you get to Italian Base Camp (IBC). You rest one more day at Italian Base Camp. Reveling yourself in unmatched scenic vistas of amazing meadows, hanging glaciers, and towering peaks, you’ll make your way to Glacier and Dhaulagiri Base Camp. From the base camp, you’ll get a 360-degree breathtaking view of the entire Dhaulagiri range.

There are enough rest days before you cross French Pass and Dhampus Pass to ensure proper acclimatization in the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek itinerary. After enjoying the serenity around the Dhaulagiri Base Camp area, you head towards tranquil Hidden Valley via French Pass. In this trail section, you need to prepare yourself to negotiate your ways through treacherous trails, climbing massive boulders, ascending narrow paths with loose gravel and stones, and crossing large water streams.

With several days and nights spent above 5,000 meters, two 5000 meter-plus passes and snowy conditions, it is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal, but worthwhile for experienced trekkers.

This trek starts in Beni, a sizable town about 2-3 hours’ drive from Pokhara. The road to Beni is winding and through the mountains, but otherwise reasonably well-maintained. Many treks in the Annapurna region start from or pass through, Beni.

The trek ends at Jomsom. While it’s possible to extend the trek and walk back to Pokhara from Jomsom (part of the classic Annapurna Circuit route), road construction in the past few years has made this a dusty and decidedly unappealing option. Plus, this is a challenging trek and most trekkers will not want to extend it due to fatigue. It’s advisable to fly from Jomsom back to Pokhara. This is a short, spectacular flight, but can sometimes be delayed or canceled due to poor weather.