• Trek
• Oct,13,2022
• Naveen Poudyal
• 1

• Seventh highest mountain in the world
• The whitest and greatest mountain in Nepal
• Until the discovery of Mt. Everest, Dhaulagiri was the highest mountain for 30 years.
• Breathtaking Himalayan views
• Rugged trial and isolated terrain
• slippery routes as well as challenging passes
• Magar ethnic culture and lifestyles

The Dhaulagiri Range is regarded as one of the highest mountains in the world at 8,167 meters. This trek takes you through various areas of the Himalayan foothills and through high passes. It features 15 peaks that are over 7000 meters high. The Dhaulagiri Range extends from the Kaligandaki River to the Bheri River. The Dhaulagiri Trek is a strenuous and challenging activity that requires prior experience. It is best suited for experienced hikers. During the trek, we stay at a tented camp. The best season for this trek is during spring and autumn.

 The remote western aspect of Dhaulagiri region trekking provides one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. The trails can be difficult, following glaciers and crossing high snow-covered passes which present a challenge suited only to fit individuals. The first few days are spent gaining altitude, through lush terraced hillsides, passing many villages before ascending to wild and rugged terrain west of Dhaulagiri (8167m). The trail leads through splendid gorges and then follows the Chhonbardan glacier to North Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek has recently reopened, and the amusement of exploration there is both beguiling and challenging. Mountain passes such as the French Pass is 5,360m high and Thapa Peak is 5,200m high and offers implausible views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Throng Peak, and Kali Gandaki River. The deepest gorge in the world, Gandaki Gorge is an unknown marvel.
Walks on icy tracks passing mountain sheep and yak, observation of the wild with frequent variations in landscape and vegetation, and majestic views of massifs of over 7,000m peaks make the trip equally rewarding and challenging.

 Starting off the Around Dhaulagiri Circuit trek 

Around Dhaulagiri Trekking circuit trek starts from Darbang some 6-7 northwest drive from Pokhara. The trek can also be initiated from Beni to Dharapani. Various beautiful mountains like Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Manaslu, and several other peaks can also be seen during the trek.

Best time for the trek

( September- November) Autumn season is considered the best season to trek Dhaulagiri. It has perfect weather with a clear blue sky and outstanding views. (March-May) Spring season makes the view a lot more fascinating with the blooming wildflowers and lush vegetation along with the trial. The extreme height of the Dhaulagiri trekking trial is dangerous, although the mountains are at their best in the winter. 

Physical fitness

As we know that Mt. Dhaulagiri was considered the highest mountain before the Mt. Everest for 30 years , a high level of stamina and fitness is required for the trek. One needs to walk over the high pass and trek along the remote terrain for several days. 

Food Around Dhaulagiri Trekking

Typical Nepali food is offered during the trekking trail. There are no selection options in the high range, better to pack snacks in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Drinking enough water is necessary as one will be burning excess calories. Beer, tea, soda, and coffee are available in almost all the tree houses but the price rises along with the altitude.

 
Accommodation Around Dhaulagiri Trekking

There are basic tree houses providing limited services and the accommodation is clean and cozy as the villagers haven't felt the impact of mass tourism. The trek is done in a combined teahouse and camping trek.  Trekkers will be sleeping on sleeping bags carried by the porters from the start of the trek. 

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a negative health effect caused by high altitude with less amount of oxygen, which is prone in the Dhaulagiri region trek as there is a sudden gain in altitude which cannot be avoided on this trek. Accompanying a professional guide is beneficial for proper acclimatization.