The Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the wild and remote Himalayas. Towering at 8,167 meters, Mt. Dhaulagiri—the seventh highest mountain in the world—dominates the landscape, offering trekkers a raw and awe-inspiring experience far from the usual crowds.
This trek is for those who crave true adventure. It takes you through deep valleys, high alpine meadows, glacial moraines, and over the challenging French Pass (5,360 m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240 m). Along the way, you’ll witness the rich culture of the Magar people, untouched wilderness, and panoramic views that stretch across the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Though demanding, the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek rewards every step with unmatched beauty and deep personal achievement. And with our expert guides, well-planned logistics, and unwavering support, your journey is in the safest hands.
As the saying goes, “With the right guide, even the roughest road leads home.” With us, the path to Dhaulagiri will not only be possible—it will be unforgettable.
John F.K. International Airport (Google Map)
3 Hours Before Flight Time
The Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most challenging and rewarding adventures, offering an exceptional blend of high-altitude trekking, remote wilderness, and cultural immersion. Far removed from the crowds of more commercial routes, this trek takes you deep into the heart of the western Himalayas, where raw nature and towering peaks dominate the landscape. From glacier crossings and dramatic mountain passes to encounters with traditional mountain communities, every step of the journey brings something extraordinary. Here are the top five highlights that make the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek a truly unforgettable experience.
Your adventure begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital city. After landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted by a team member and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the city’s cultural landmarks, such as Durbar Square and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), or take a walk through the bustling streets of Thamel. In the evening, there will be a briefing session where your guide will go over the trek plan, equipment, and safety protocols.
Today, you’ll begin your overland journey to the starting point of the trek. The scenic drive from Kathmandu to Beni takes approximately 8–9 hours and passes through rolling hills, terraced fields, and traditional villages along the Trishuli and Kali Gandaki Rivers. Beni, a small market town in the Myagdi District, is where final preparations are made before heading into the mountains.
Your trek officially begins as you walk alongside the Myagdi River, passing through a series of charming villages and terraced farmland. The trail is relatively gentle today, giving you a soft introduction to the terrain ahead. You’ll pass through Mangalghat and Singa, eventually reaching Babiachor, a quiet village surrounded by lush hills. This is a good opportunity to interact with locals and observe daily life in rural Nepal.
The trail continues through picturesque villages and dense forests, with occasional views of snow-capped peaks peeking through the trees. As you gain altitude gradually, you’ll notice a shift in the vegetation and atmosphere. After crossing a few suspension bridges and navigating rocky paths, you arrive in Dharapani, not to be confused with the village of the same name on the Annapurna Circuit. This Dharapani is a peaceful settlement where you’ll spend the night.
This is a culturally rich day as you ascend to Muri, a traditional Magar village surrounded by terraced fields and ridges. The trail is steeper today, involving climbs up stone steps and narrow ridgelines. Along the way, you’ll pass through Takum and cross the Dhara Khola via a suspension bridge. Muri offers stunning views of Dhaulagiri IV and V, and the hospitality here is warm and authentic.
Today’s route takes you through dense forests and into more remote territory. You’ll descend to the Myrmya Khola, then climb again toward Boghara, a small settlement nestled amidst thick vegetation. The trail is narrower and more rugged, indicating your entrance into more isolated areas. It’s common to see monkeys and Himalayan birds in the forests here.
The trail becomes increasingly wild as you move deeper into the valley. Expect to trek through bamboo forests and narrow ridges, with several short climbs and descents. You’ll cross over streams and may even begin to see signs of the glacier ahead. Dobang is a beautiful campsite situated in the forest, with views of the surrounding peaks beginning to open up.
A significant day in terms of elevation gain and scenery. You’ll cross the Kalo Pokhari and Myagdi Khola, gradually ascending through the forest. As you approach the Italian Base Camp, the trees begin to thin out, giving way to alpine terrain. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with your first close-up view of Dhaulagiri I—an awe-inspiring moment. This is also your first high-altitude campsite, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
A much-needed rest day to allow your body to adjust to the altitude. Short hikes around the camp are encouraged to promote acclimatization, and you can spend the day relaxing and enjoying the serene mountain environment. The views of Dhaulagiri II, III, and IV, as well as Manapathi Peak, are phenomenal. This day is vital for preparing you for the higher altitudes ahead.
Today’s trek is both challenging and thrilling. You’ll leave behind tree cover as you move across glacial moraines and rocky terrain. The route is not well-defined, and conditions can vary, so this section requires extra care. You’ll reach Glacier Camp, a rugged campsite surrounded by icefalls and frozen landscapes, where you’ll feel truly immersed in the heart of the Himalayas.
One of the most dramatic days of the trek. You’ll traverse the Chhonbardan Glacier, walking between towering ice formations and crevasses. Reaching Dhaulagiri Base Camp is a notable accomplishment, and the views are overwhelming—the north face of Dhaulagiri I rises directly in front of you. The environment is raw and powerful, with glaciers rumbling and peaks soaring above 8,000 meters.
Another important acclimatization day to prepare for crossing the high passes ahead. You can explore the area or take a short hike toward the base of the Dhaulagiri Icefall. The rest day also gives you time to recover and appreciate your surroundings—towering ice cliffs, glacial lakes, and complete isolation in one of the world’s most remote mountain environments.
A challenging and rewarding day as you cross French Pass, the highest point of the trek. The climb is steady but demanding due to the altitude. At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Dhaulagiri I, Tukuche Peak, Mukut Himal, and beyond. Descending into the Hidden Valley, you’ll find a vast, windswept plateau—one of the most surreal and isolated locations in the Himalayas.
The day begins with a gradual climb to the Dhampus Pass, offering incredible views over the Annapurna and Mustang regions. The descent is long and steep at times, leading you down into the grazing pastures of Yak Kharka. The landscape here shifts from icy highlands to rolling alpine meadows, and the warmer altitude feels like a return to gentler terrain.
Today’s trail leads you into the Lower Mustang region, descending through rocky paths to the picturesque village of Marpha, known for its apple orchards, whitewashed houses, and Tibetan culture. After lunch in Marpha, you’ll continue to Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang and your final trekking stop. The airstrip here connects you back to Pokhara by flight.
After a short but scenic morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax and recover by Phewa Lake. Pokhara is a beautiful lakeside city with great cafes, views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and plenty of ways to unwind—whether it’s a massage, boating, or just a quiet evening by the lake.
Depending on your preference, you can either take a short flight or drive (6–7 hours) back to Kathmandu. Once there, you can spend your last evening enjoying a farewell dinner, shopping for souvenirs, or revisiting your favorite spots in the city. This marks the end of your incredible Himalayan journey.
Your Dhaulagiri adventure comes to an end. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. With memories of high passes, remote valleys, and towering peaks, you leave Nepal with a deep sense of accomplishment and wonder.
