The Around Dhaulagiri Trek is one of the most demanding and remote high-altitude treks in Nepal, offering an unmatched combination of rugged wilderness, dramatic mountain scenery, and deep cultural immersion. Encircling the Dhaulagiri Massif, home to Mt. Dhaulagiri ww(8,167m), the 7th highest mountain in the world, this route takes trekkers far off the beaten path into the heart of the western Himalayas. With limited infrastructure and few fellow trekkers, this expedition offers a raw and authentic Himalayan experience unlike more commercialized routes.
The journey begins in the warm, subtropical lowlands of Darbang, gradually ascending through traditional Magar villages, terraced fields, and lush forests before reaching the icy terrain of the Chhonbardan Glacier and remote alpine zones. The trek features challenging passes, including French Pass (5,360m) and Thapa Pass (5,230m), and leads through the surreal Hidden Valley, a remote and barren plateau surrounded by towering peaks. Nights spent in high-altitude camps beneath the stars bring a rare sense of isolation and awe, while the diverse landscape, from deep gorges to glaciated basins, keeps every day of the trek visually striking and physically rewarding.
This is a full camping expedition requiring solid trekking experience, proper gear, and a good level of fitness and acclimatization. The trail demands endurance but compensates with dramatic views of Dhaulagiri I, Tukuche Peak, and Nilgiri, as well as encounters with isolated communities that still preserve ancient Himalayan traditions. After emerging from the highlands, the route joins the Kali Gandaki Valley, where the terrain and culture shift toward Tibetan-influenced Mustang. For seasoned trekkers in search of solitude, challenge, and a wild alpine adventure, the Around Dhaulagiri Trek stands as one of Nepal’s last great remote circuits.
Travel Notes:
Best Time to Trek:
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Spring (March–May): Best season for snow conditions, blooming flora, and clear skies.
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Autumn (September–November): Excellent visibility, dry trails, and stable weather.
Permits Required:
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
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Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Experience Needed:
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Prior high-altitude trekking experience strongly recommended.
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Good physical condition required for glacier walking and long ascents/descents.
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This is a fully supported camping trek with no lodges beyond early stages.
Acclimatization:
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Includes acclimatization day at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
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Gradual altitude gain is designed into the itinerary to reduce AMS risk.