Trekking

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

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himal

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is an exciting and demanding trek that takes you to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp through some beautiful glaciers, hidden valleys, high mountain passes along with many snow-capped peaks like Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), Dhaulagiri II (7,751 m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715 m) and Dhaulagiri V (7,618 m), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m), Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Annapurna and many more. Dhaulagiri I is the seventh highest peak in the world. The Dhaulagiri trek is not only about mountain passes and peaks covered with snow, but the bounty of flora and faunas is a treasure it keeps in its forest, hills and unspoiled farmland. The people who live in this isolated region are an inspiration as they treasure their special culture. Dhaulagiri round trek begins from the Beni bank of Kali Gandaki and Myagdi Khola, following the Myagdi Khola west to Darbang and turning north on a tiny path that leads into the high country through woods. Most of the road around Dhaulagiri trek is on snow and ice as it traverses the French Col. Descending from the French pass, we reach the remote yet interesting region known as the Hidden Valley. This valley stretches to the north and finally narrows to a steep canyon that connects to Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang. The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek passes the Dhampus Pass from where you descend to the Marpha and enter the Annapurna Path. Dhaulagiri Trekking is the most popular trekking trail but it has few travelers who actually opt for this trek due to its remoteness and other qualifications. This trek is ideal only for those fit travelers with good stamina ability, owing to its rugged geography, secluded and off beaten path.

Overview

Destination Nepal
Altitude 5100m
Region Dhaulagiri Region
Season Spring and Autumn
Difficulty Moderate
Accomodation Hotel, Tea House & Tent
Duration 24 Days

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, our company representative will meet and welcome you to Nepal and then you'll be transferred to your confirmed hotel. Once you finish the check-in procedure, you can rest & relax at the hotel. Later you will be accompained by the office staff for a short tour of Thamel to make you familiar with some good restaurants, ATMs, money changer and other necessary places you might need during your stay in Thamel.

Day 2: Sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley

The very next morning, after breakfast you will leave for a full day sightseeing tour around Kathmandu valley. You can visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and Swyambhunath, very ancient and essentially enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

The biggest Buddhist Stupa at Boudhanath and the fine arts and historical architecture of Kathmandu Durbar Square reflecting the ancient Nepalese culture which is the highlights of our guided tour. 

A visit to Patan City will enchant you with its famous fine arts and historical architecture. On return to your hotel, you will have time to explore the local area, have dinner and perhaps take a leisurely stroll through the famous streets. Finally, day ends with a Authentic Nepalese Dinner in Nepali Cultural Restaurant.

Day 3: Fly to Pokhara (1,400m) & drive from Pokhara to Beni (850m)

After having your breakfast, we will drive you to the Domestic Airport to takes 25 - 30 minutes flight to Pokhara. During the short flight, you will have majestic views of glorious Manaslu Peaks and the snow-capped Annapurna and Langtang Himalaya range. Or you can take a Tourist bus to Pokhara about 6-7 hour drive via scenic Prithvi Highway. From Pokhara take a drive to Beni with the magnificent views of Annapurna Himalayas. Beni is a bustling town on a plateau above the junction of Kali Gandaki and Myagdi rivers.

Day 4: Trek from Beni to Babiyuchaur (990m)

We start our Dhaulagiri trekking along the Kali Gandaki River from Beni. Continue along the road past lush green rice fields, multicolored butterflies, and huge nightmarish spider webs. Pass by the villages of Mangalghat, Singa, and Tatopani. Crossing Tara khet, climb over a small ridge to Babiyachaur. Overnight in Tent

Day 5: Trek from Babiyuchaur to Dharapani (1565 m)

Today, our trail crosses the terraced hills; Shahashadhara Village Dudh Khola Ratorunga village. Tha river bank at Phedi offers a fine picnic spot. Cross the Danyga Khola on a big suspension bridge and grind up a series of steep switchbacks. Dharapani offers a good view of Dhaulagiri IV and V and Gurja Himal. Overnight in Tent

Day 6: Trek from Dharapani to Muri (1850m)

The path goes steep up to Muri. From here you have the spectacular views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and other mountains very closely.

Day 7: Trek from Muri to Boghara (2080m)

From Muri, the trail is easy and goes down for a few hours. After that, you’ll have some steep climb path to Boghara.

Day 8: Trek from Boghara to Dovan (2080m)

The trail descends down to a small ridge then crosses forest to Jyardan. Descend a long, steep, slippery stone staircase into a deep bamboo and rhododendron forest to the village of Dovan. Over night stay at the guest house

Day 9: Trek from Dovan to Upper Vongini (Italian Base Camp) (3800m)

You will reach the Italian Base Camp where you will camp just in front of the West wall of the Dhaulagiri. You’ll pass through beautiful forests trail and with the closer views of mountains panorama to Upper vungini which is the Italian Basecamp.

Day 10: Acclimatization Day at Italian Base Camp

The day is a rest day for the further climbs. You will have a little bit of hiking around or some sorts of exercises. Since, we are rapidly gaining altitude, keep yourself hydrated and take it easy.

Day 11: Trek from Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp (4250m)

Today you’ll make use of ropes for the crossing of glaciers in some tricky places. This part is a bit a dangerous trail so be careful and have patience. Set your camp beyond the glacier.

Day 12: Trek from Glacier Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp I (4750m)

We will have climb to the rough and chilling part of this trek with the spectacular view of Dhaulagiri all the way. Enjoy the magnificent face of Dhaulagiri I on the trail. We reach the Dhaulagiri Base Camp at the height of 4650m or 15252ft.

Day 13: Trek from Dhaulagiri Base Camp - French Col (5100m) - Hidden Valley (5000m)

Getting off the glacier above the base camp often requires a rope, but once over the steep moraine walls, we are in a safer and gentler country. After a breathless climb to the top of French Col (5300m) the views of Hidden Valley open out. The broad valley is reminiscent of Tibet and Ladakh and so are the temperatures, at least -20ºC at night.

Day 14: Rest Day at Hidden Valley Camp (5000m)

This is another rest day to admire the surrounding peaks and perhaps do some exploring in the hidden valley. A hidden snow valley gives you a heavenly test of the white world.

Day 15: Hidden Valley Trek to Yak Kharka (4400m)

After climbing over the 5200m Dhampus Pass, we traverse avalanche prone slopes and then descend steeply to Yak Kharka. The Dhampus Pass between Tukuche peak and Thapa peak is another heaven in the trip.

Day 16: Trek from Yak Kharka to Marpha (2665m)

From Yak Kharka we descend along the flank of the mountain to once again reach civilization. Marpha is the main inhabitants of the ethnic group of Thakalis favorite amongst the trekkers. It has kept its traditional narrow paved alleys and passageways and an extensive drainage system flows under the flagstone-paved street.

Day 17: Trek from Marpha to Ghosa (2000m)

The next day trail follows the Kaligandaki River through the narrow gorge, passing through traditional Thakali villages. You can visit the red-roofed Taglung Gompa, on a hillside beside a huge sacred tree. The village of Ghasa marks a cultural and ecological milestone. We spend our night here in Ghasa.

Day 18: Trek from Ghosa to Tatopani (1180m)

A lovely day walks along Kaligandaki riverside, gradually ascending with the transition into subtropical vegetation. Very interesting suspension bridges to be crossed which gives you the exciting sense of trekking. Tatopani is famous for natural hot springs – you can have time for a hot Scrub-up.

Day 19: Tatopani trek to Ghorepani (2775m / 9104ft) 6-7hours

The trail descends steeply through dense moss-covered rhododendron forest with rich bird life. We pass some small villages and walk alongside the Ghaja Khola. It’s about 7-8 hours work all the way up to Ghorepani. Ghorepani provides an unobstructed view of the sunrise over the high Himalayas.

Day 20: Trek from Ghorepani to Hille (1495m)

Early morning trek up to Poonhill, One of the best Himalayan viewpoints in Nepal Poonhill provides an unobstructed view of the sunrise over the high Himalayas. From Poonhill one can enjoy the spectacular view of Dhaulagiri I (8167m), Tukuche Peak Nilgiri (6940m), Annapurna South, Annapurna I (8091m), Hiunchuli (6441m) and Tarke Kang (7193m), Gangapurna (7454m), Lamjung Himal (6986m), Mt Fishtail ( Machhapuchhare 6997m), Tent Peak and many more High Himalayas. Trek down to Ghorepani and after breakfast start downhill trekking to Hille.

Day 21: Trek from Hille to Nayapul & drive to Pokhara

We start our journey to Pokhara from Hille (1510m) early morning. The trail follows the main street of Birethanti, winding through the bamboo forests and past waterfalls with plunge pools appealing you for a refreshing swim. From Nayapul you’ll have the car drive for about 1 and half hour through large village Lumle to Pokhara city.

Day 22: Fly to Kathmandu

We will fly to Kathmandu after having our breakfast. After arrival in Kathmandu you can have a very relaxing rest at the hotel. In the evening you can have your last night in Nepal enjoying the Nepali cultural dinner show exchanging greetings among friends and with the guide and WPP representatives.

Day 23: Leisure day in Kathmandu

 Leisure day at Kathmandu. You can ask your guide to take you on a sightseeing trip inside Kathmandu Valley. On this day you can go to the various museums around the valley including the Narayanhiti Museum which earlier used to be the residence of the last king of Nepal. You may also go to the hilltop of Nagarkot. After some sightseeing around the world heritage sites in the valley, you will have a farewell dinner and enjoy with your Nepali friends and guide. You might even make plans for extending your stay for Chitwan jungle safari, rafting activities, and more with your guide.

Day 24: Departure

Finally, it’s SEE OFF TIME. There is nothing to do but trade emails with your travel companions and organize your photos. You will be picked from the Hotel by representatives of Wongchhu Peak Promotion staff and dropped at Tribhuvan International Airport 3 hours earlier than your flight time with a hope to see you again. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Includes

  • Airport / Hotel / Airport transfers by private vehicle.
  • Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin sharing basis including breakfast.
  • Guided Tour of Kathmandu City with an expert tour guide and private vehicle
  • Hotel Accommodation in Pokhara on a twin sharing basis including breakfast.
  • Tented Camp During Trekking, Meals on full board (breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) with hot drinks tea and coffee.
  • All necessary camping gears like two men tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, all kitchen equipment, mattress
  • An experienced English speaking trekking guide, Cook, and Porters.
  • All necessary trekking permits
  • Group medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • Wongchhu Peak Promotion duffel bag and trekking map.
  • Daily Dispatches on : www.wppnepal.com
  • All ground transportation by Bus/Private Car/Van depends on group size
  • Welcome/Farewell Nepali Dinner in Kathmandu

Excludes

  • Meals in Kathmandu (except welcome and farewell dinner)
  • Extra night accommodations in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  •  If required to change from airplane to helicopter flight to/from Pokhara (i.e. weather) , additional costs will be shared amongst clients. 
  • Beverages and alcoholic drinks on trek - Personal trekking equipment
  • All personal expenses, including Nepal Visa (for country entrance)
  • Personal medical and evacuation insurance
  • All other additional charges for additional services, including recommended TIP.
  • Additional tips for tour guide, others as one sees fit.
  • Personal purchases

Equipments

1.0 Travel Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Credit/Debit card
  • Passport size photo (6 pieces)
  • Insurance paper and contact address
  • Family contact number

2.0 Upper Body Wear

  • Thermal Top Base Layer (2 Pcs)
  • Fleece Jacket (1 Pcs)
  • Gore-Tex Jacket (1 Pcs)
  • Down Jacket (1 Pcs)
  • Cotton T-Shirt (2 Pcs)

3.0 Lower Body Wear

  • Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 Pcs)
  • Fleece Trouser (1pcs)
  • Gore-Tex Pant (1 pcs)
  • Mid Weight Pants (1Pcs)
  • Light Weight Quick Dry Trekking Pants (2-3 Pairs)
  • Gaiters for trekking boots

4.0 Headwear

  • Sun Cap
  • Fleece Hat/ Warm Hat (1-2 Pcs)
  • Neck Gaiter (2 Pcs)

5.0 Handwear

  • Thin fleece gloves
  • Wind stopper/screen tap gloves

6.0 Footwear

  • Normal Socks (2-3 Pairs)
  • Trekking Shoes (Gore-Tex)
  • Slipper (1 Pair)

7.0 Sleeping Bags

  • Sleeping bag -20°c to -30°c for Base camp
  • Down Sleeping Bag -40°c for extreme comfort
  • Thermarests Mattress (Cell foam)
  • Sleeping bag Liner
  • Inflatable Pillow

8.0 Trekking Equipment

  • Power Bank
  • Pee Bottle
  • Altimeter watch
  • Pocket Knife
  • Walking Stick/Trekking Pole
  • Satellite Phone with credit
  • Battery
  • Headlight 500-700Lumens
  • Spare Tape Slings/240cm
  • Unlock Carabiner
  • Lock Carabiner

9.0 Bag packs

  • Rucksacks 35 L -50 L

10.0 Sun stuff

  • Banana Boat/ Nivea Sun Cream (-20 Spf)
  • Lip Guard -20 (Spf)
  • Sun Glasses (Uv Protection)

11.0 Toiletries (Personal)

  • Toilet Paper / Wet Tissue
  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrush
  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Towel
  • Garbage Bag

12.0 Eating & Drinkings

  • 1 ltr. Water Bottle
  • 1/1.5ltr. Thermos Mug (Opt.)
  • Spoon / Fork (opt.)
  • Bowl (opt.)

13.0 Medical / First Aid

  • Brufen / Ibuprofens
  • Antibiotic
  • Diamox
  • Paracetamol
  • Handy Plaster
  • Crack Bandage
  • Tincture Iodine
  • Ondem
  • Cetirizine
  • Electrolyte
  • Minil 10mg (Palpitation, anxiety)
  • Codopar (Headache & chest pain)
  • Salbetol 4mg (Breathless)
  • Azithromycin 500mg (chronic tonsillitis, fever, nose, throat infection-must take 5 days)
  • Flupen 250mg (prevent wound infection)
  • Allegra 120/180mg (Allergic tonsil)
  • Menstrual Products

14.0 Miscellaneous

  • Nail cutter
  • Umbrella /Raincoat
  • Hot water bag
  • Camera
  • Trails Maps
  • GPS Tracker (Recommended)
  • Hand & Toe Warmer

Map

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