Dhaulagiri Circuit
A tough camping circuit of Dhaulagiri over the French Col and Dhampus Pass.
Overview
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is one of Nepal’s most committing teahouse-free treks — an expedition-style camping loop around Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), the world’s seventh-highest mountain. It climbs the wild Myagdi Khola to a string of glacier base camps, then crosses two high passes, the French Col (5,360 m) and the Dhampus Pass (5,240 m), via the desolate Hidden Valley before descending into the Kali Gandaki at Marpha.
There are no lodges on the high section, so the trek is run fully supported with tents, a cook and porters. It demands strong fitness, acclimatisation discipline and a tolerance for rough, remote terrain — and rewards it with some of the most dramatic high-mountain wilderness in the Annapurna region.
Highlights
- ▸Two high passes: French Col (5,360 m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240 m)
- ▸Dhaulagiri Base Camp beneath the 7th-highest peak
- ▸The eerie, beautiful Hidden Valley
- ▸Full expedition-style camping wilderness
- ▸Finish in the apple village of Marpha, Kali Gandaki
Day-by-day itinerary
Fit, acclimatised trekkers on a tighter schedule
What's included — from $1,900
- ✓Government-licensed English-speaking guide
- ✓Porter support (1 per 2 trekkers)
- ✓Accommodation on the trail (lodge or tented camp)
- ✓Three meals a day while trekking
- ✓All listed permits and conservation/park fees
- ✓Ground/air transport to and from the trailhead as per itinerary
- ✓Guide and porter wages, insurance, meals and lodging
- ✓Government taxes and paperwork
- ✕International flights and Nepal visa
- ✕Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance (mandatory)
- ✕Personal trekking/climbing gear and clothing
- ✕Meals and accommodation in cities
- ✕Tips, drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi and charging
- ✕Personal expenses and anything not listed as included
Best time to go
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Dhaulagiri Circuit cost in 2026?
A guided Dhaulagiri Circuit trek typically costs USD 1,900–2,800 per person for 16–21 days. It is pricier than lodge treks because it is fully supported camping — tents, cook, kitchen crew and extra porters.
How hard is the Dhaulagiri Circuit?
It is graded Strenuous and is one of the toughest standard treks in Nepal — two passes over 5,200 m, glacier travel, full camping and no escape routes once committed. Excellent fitness and prior high-altitude experience are strongly advised.
How many days is the Dhaulagiri Circuit?
Typically 16–21 days from Pokhara, including acclimatisation days at Italian and Dhaulagiri Base Camps and weather buffer for the passes.
What permit do I need for the Dhaulagiri Circuit?
You need the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and a licensed guide; the trek is run as a fully-supported camping expedition. Lekaly arranges the permit and logistics.
When is the best time for the Dhaulagiri Circuit?
Late April–May and October–early November, when the passes are most likely to be open and stable. Snow can block the French Col and Dhampus Pass outside these windows.
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Plan Dhaulagiri Circuit with Lekaly
Get this itinerary, offline maps, verified teahouse contacts and permit help in the Lekaly app — or request a quote from vetted local agencies.