TICINO TREKS

Around Dhaulagiri Trek (5,360m French Pass & 5,230m Thapa Pass)
Mountain Vector

Around Dhaulagiri Trek (5,360m French Pass & 5,230m Thapa Pass)

Around Dhaulagiri Trek (5,360m French Pass & 5,230m Thapa Pass)

Country

Nepal

Duration

18 days

Max Altitude

5360

Group Size

2 - 15 Person

Difficulty

moderate

Best Seasons

Spring and Autumn

Description

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:

  • Spring (March–May): Best season for snow conditions, blooming flora, and clear skies.

  • Autumn (September–November): Excellent visibility, dry trails, and stable weather.

Permits Required:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

Experience Needed:

  • Prior high-altitude trekking experience strongly recommended.

  • Good physical condition required for glacier walking and long ascents/descents.

  • This is a fully supported camping trek with no lodges beyond early stages.

Acclimatization:

  • Includes acclimatization day at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.

  • Gradual altitude gain is designed into the itinerary to reduce AMS risk.

 

Itineraries

Your adventure begins with a 10–12 hour scenic drive west from Kathmandu. You’ll travel through lush hills, river valleys, and farming terraces, passing Pokhara and Beni before reaching Darbang. This small riverside village marks the start of your trek. You’ll set up your first camp near the Myagdi River, resting before heading into more remote terrain.

 

Begin your trek with a 5–6 hour hike along the Myagdi Khola (river), gently ascending through terraced farmland and Magar villages. The trail is pleasant, winding through forests and cultivated hillsides. You’ll reach the hilltop village of Sibang, offering great views of the valleys and distant peaks.

 

Today’s 5–6 hour trek ascends through farmland and dense forest. You’ll pass the village of Mattim, cross a suspension bridge over a deep gorge, and then climb steadily to Muri. This is the last major village on the route and provides beautiful views of Dhaulagiri IV and Gurja Himal.

 

Descend from Muri and cross a river, then climb up steep ridges and traverse through forests for 6–7 hours. You’ll pass the remote village of Naura before entering wilder terrain. Baghar is a grassy clearing near the river where you’ll camp under the stars.

The 5–6 hour trail leads deeper into the wilderness. You walk through dense jungle, along narrow paths carved into cliff sides. As you leave habitation behind, the surroundings become more wild and untouched. You’ll camp in Doban, a remote forested area near the river.

 

Ascend through a mix of alpine forests and rocky trails for 5–6 hours. You’ll start seeing fewer trees as you climb into higher elevations. Chartare (also called Sallaghari) is a forested glade surrounded by tall pines and birches, ideal for camping before entering glacial zones.

 

This short but steep 4–5 hour trek takes you above the treeline. The trail climbs through rocky and glacial terrain to Pakabon, a stark and windy campsite nestled among moraines. You’ll start to feel the thinner air and the raw power of the surrounding peaks.

 

A 3–4 hour trek brings you to Italian Base Camp, located on the edge of the Chhonbardan Glacier. This camp sits dramatically beneath the western face of Dhaulagiri I. It’s a relatively easy day that allows time for acclimatization and glacier view

 

Today’s 6–7 hour trek is one of the toughest yet most rewarding. You’ll cross rugged glacial terrain, crevasses, and lateral moraines. Careful footwork is needed as you climb toward the legendary Dhaulagiri Base Camp, perched beneath the icy north face of Dhaulagiri I.

 

A much-needed rest and exploration day. You can take short hikes around the camp to explore nearby glaciers or simply relax. The goal is to let your body adjust to the altitude before crossing high passes ahead.

 

Set out early for a 6–7 hour trek, climbing up to French Pass. The ascent is steady but demanding, offering breathtaking views of Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri I, and Mukut Himal from the top. After crossing the pass, descend into Hidden Valley, an isolated plateau surrounded by icy peaks.

 

Another high-altitude crossing today. You’ll climb over Thapa Pass in 6–7 hours, then descend steep scree slopes to reach Yak Kharka, a meadow used by local herders. The views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri are majestic along this route.

 

Descend steadily for 5–6 hours through alpine terrain, crossing ridges and forests until you reach Marpha. This charming village in the Mustang region is famous for its apple orchards, brandy, and neatly kept streets lined with whitewashed houses.

 

Today’s 5-hour trek follows the ancient trade route along the Kali Gandaki River. The trail is mostly flat, and you pass through windswept valleys and chortens. Kagbeni is a historic fortress town with Tibetan culture and ancient alleys to explore.

 

You’ll ascend steadily for 5–6 hours through barren, dusty terrain typical of the Mustang region. Reach the revered pilgrimage site of Muktinath, where you can visit temples, springs, and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

 

A relaxed 4-hour downhill trek leads to Jomsom, the main town in Mustang. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River, and strong afternoon winds are typical. You’ll celebrate the trek’s end with your team and enjoy your last night in the mountains.

 

Take a 25-minute scenic mountain flight to Pokhara. After days in the wild, Pokhara’s warm climate, restaurants, and lakeside ambiance offer comfort and well-earned relaxation.

 

Return to Kathmandu by tourist bus (6–7 hours) or opt for a 25-minute flight. Once back in the capital, enjoy a final evening exploring Thamel, relaxing, or enjoying a farewell dinner.

 

Cost Includes

Permits & Documentation

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

  • TIMS Card

  • Local taxes and trek documentation

Accommodation

  • Tent camping throughout trek (2-person tents, dining tent, kitchen, toilet tent)

  • Hotel stay in Pokhara and Kathmandu (typically 3-star standard)

Meals

  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee)

  • Meals during camping: prepared by trekking cook team

Logistics & Staff

  • Experienced trekking guide (licensed)

  • Trekking cook and support staff

  • Porters (carrying personal gear and group equipment)

  • Staff insurance, meals, wages, equipment

Transport

  • Private or public bus/jeep to Darbang

  • Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

  • Tourist bus or flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu

  • All airport pickups/drops

Equipment & Supplies

  • Group medical ki

  • All kitchen and group camping gear

  • Sleeping mattresses and dining setup

 

Cost Excludes

Personal Expenses

  • Nepal visa fee

  • Personal trekking equipment (sleeping bag, down jacket, etc.)

  • Tips for guide, cook, and porters

  • Extra snacks, drinks, and beverages

Meals & Stay in Cities

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara

  • Extra nights due to early return or weather delays

Emergency Costs

  • Travel insurance (required)

  • Rescue evacuation (helicopter if needed)

  • Personal medical expenses or hospital costs

Reviews

No reviews added yet.

Explore More

Similar Packages

We are associated with

Associations

We are affiliated with

Affiliations

Affiliation
GON
Affiliation
TAAN
NATTA

Subscribe

Welcome to the Beta Version of Ticino Treks and Expedition!

We're still working on some features, so check back soon for updates. Thank you for your patience!