The Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most thrilling trekking routes, leading adventurers to the base of Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh-highest mountain at 8,167 metres (26,795 feet). Spanning approximately 120 kilometres (70 miles) from the Kaligandaki River in the east to the Bheri River in the west, the Dhaulagiri massif boasts a collection of peaks, including Dhaulagiri I to VII. The mountain’s name, derived from the Sanskrit word Dhaulagiri, meaning “dazzling white mountain,” reflects its pristine beauty. Historically, it was once believed to be the world’s tallest mountain before being surpassed by Kanchenjunga and Everest in recorded measurements. The route is an ideal blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge, making it a memorable Himalayan adventure.
Starting in the small town of Beni, 303 kilometres west of Kathmandu, the trek meanders through charming villages like Babiyachaur, Dharapani, and Muri, inhabited by diverse communities such as Gurungs, Chhetris, and Magars. The journey offers breathtaking landscapes, transitioning from lush green forests and terraced fields to stark alpine terrain. Key highlights include the Italian Base Camp, offering spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, and the challenging ascent to the Dhaulagiri Base Camp through the Glacier Camp. The trek’s toughest section is crossing the French Col (5,350 meters), leading to the Hidden Valley at 5,000 meters, a secluded paradise nestled in the shadow of towering peaks.
The trek concludes with a descent to Marpha, a picturesque village famous for its apple orchards, and a final stop in Jomsom. From Jomsom, trekkers take a short flight to Pokhara, followed by a return to Kathmandu by air or road. Beyond its striking mountain vistas, the trek offers a deep dive into Nepal’s rich cultural tapestry and the warm hospitality of its indigenous communities. The Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek is a challenging yet rewarding experience, promising a journey of awe and adventure for avid trekkers.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Meet our tour officer upon arrival and transfer to the hotel; relax with an evening yoga session to recover from your journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation
Explore Kathmandu’s heritage sites and prepare for the trek, starting the day with an energizing yoga session. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Beni (303 km)
Embark on a scenic drive to Beni and unwind with a calming evening yoga session to stretch out after the long journey. Overnight in Beni.
Day 4: Trek from Beni to Babiyachaur (950m/3116ft)
Begin the trek through vibrant villages, starting the day with a peaceful yoga practice. Overnight in Babiyachaur.
Day 5: Trek from Babiyachaur to Dharapani (1,565m/5,134ft)
Enjoy lush landscapes along the trail, followed by an evening yoga session to rejuvenate the body. Overnight in Dharapani.
Day 6: Trek from Dharapani to Muri (1,850m/6,068ft)
Experience panoramic views en route and begin your morning with energizing yoga to fuel the trek. Overnight in Muri.
Day 7: Trek from Muri to Boghara (2,050m/6,724ft)
Trek through picturesque paths and end the day with a restorative yoga session to ease the muscles. Overnight in Boghara.
Day 8: Trek from Boghara to Dobang (2,630m/8,626ft)
Start the day with mindful yoga before venturing through forests and scenic trails. Overnight in Dobang.
Day 9: Trek from Dobang to Italian Base Camp (3,500m/11,480ft)
Enjoy mesmerizing views of Dhaulagiri peaks, starting with a morning yoga practice to stay grounded. Overnight in Italian Base Camp.
Day 10: Rest & Acclimatization at Italian Base Camp
Spend the day acclimatizing with extended yoga and meditation sessions surrounded by serene mountain views. Overnight in Italian Base Camp.
Day 11: Trek from Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp (4,250m/13,940ft)
Trek across rugged terrain, starting your day with yoga to prepare for the challenging hike. Overnight in Glacier Camp.
Day 12: Trek from Glacier Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,650m/15,252ft)
Marvel at breathtaking glacier views, with a morning yoga session to connect with the tranquil surroundings. Overnight in Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Day 13: Rest & Acclimatization at Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Acclimatize with a soulful yoga session and meditation to fully immerse in the majestic surroundings. Overnight in Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Day 14: Trek from Dhaulagiri Base Camp to French Col (4,950m/16,400ft)
Cross rugged trails to French Col, starting the day with energizing yoga to boost endurance. Overnight at French Col.
Day 15: Trek from French Col to Hidden Valley Camp (5,000m/16,500ft)
Experience the beauty of Hidden Valley after beginning the day with a revitalizing yoga practice. Overnight in Hidden Valley.
Day 16: Trek from Hidden Valley Camp to Yak Kharka (4,200m/13,776ft)
Descend through alpine landscapes, concluding with an evening yoga session to relax the mind and body. Overnight in Yak Kharka.
Day 17: Trek from Yak Kharka to Marpha and Jomsom (2,715m/8,910ft)
Complete your trek to Jomsom via Marpha, starting with a morning yoga session to embrace the day’s adventure. Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 18: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
Enjoy a scenic morning flight to Pokhara, followed by a restorative yoga session to unwind. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 19: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu and Farewell Dinner
Drive back to Kathmandu and celebrate your journey with an evening yoga session and a special farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 20: Final Departure from Nepal
Conclude your trip with a serene yoga session before your transfer to the airport for departure.
