Dhaulagiri Base Camp With Circuit Trek via French Pass
Itinerary
Your Journey, Step by Step
Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
After breakfast, we will explore the city as well as prepare for our adventurous trek. Kathmandu is the cultural and historical capital of Nepal. Many places here symbolize art, history, architecture, and the culture of Nepalese traditions. We will visit the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu.
They are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swyambhunath), and the Buddhist Stupa (Bouddhanath) which is one of the largest stupas in the world.
The city life is vibrant as the culture and heritage reflect their ethnic identity. Later, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader, guide, and other team members. Bold Himalaya will give us brief detail regarding our trek as well as provides us an opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. You can also go for last-minute shopping for your trek. You will find every branded trekking gear at Thamel. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Drive to Beni from Kathmandu
We will be heading towards Beni which is also the beginning point of our trek. We will drive on Prithivi Highway from Kathmandu. The drive will last for about 9 hours. The drive will be long and passes through the mountains along the banks of Trishuli and Marsyangdi River but the views along the highway are beautiful and will pass through the famous lake city of Pokhara.
On the way, we will get to observe the spectacular ranges of Annapurna and gorgeous Mt. Macchapuchrey. We will drive further from Pokhara deeper into the mountains with the magnificent views of the Annapurna Himalayas. Driving further along the banks of the Mardi River, we will continue to Beni.
Trek from Beni to Babiachaur
Our trek starts today. After having breakfast, we will trek to Babiachaur. It takes around five hours to reach. We will head towards the western region along the northern bank of Myagdi Khola. We can see several villages during the trek.
During the trek, we will cross by the two suspension bridges near the village of Simal Chaur along with Mangalghat, Singa, and Tatopani villages. Then, walking ahead for some hours, the trail takes us to Babiachaur. Reaching Babiachaur village, we will explore the daily living style of local people with their unique traditions and norms.
Trek from Babiachaur to Dharapani
We will Cross the river Myagdi Khola and head north to Phedi. The route to Darbang is soft, wide, and graveled. The trek is moderate and we will pass the village of Shahashradhara, a traditional village. Passing through the villages, we will also cross by the suspension bridges. Waking through the trail of green hills and forests, we can see the beautiful rhododendron flowers along with oak and pine trees.
Then comes Duk Khola and after crossing this river we will reach Ratorunga. From here, the valley narrows, and the route continues to the large village of Dharapani. The main inhabitants of this place are Gurung and Chettri. If the weather is clear, we will get our first view of the Dhaulagiri massif to the north
Trek from Dharapani to Muri
From Dharapani, we will walk through the villages of Takum and Sibang. These are prosperous places with numerous terraced fields growing rice and wheat. We will cross the river and along the way we get to observe great views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Gurja Himal (7193m).
Then, we will ascend up to the hill, walking constantly for some hours through the lush green forests and terraced fields and we will reach a large and dense village, Muri. Muri is a Magar community where we will get a chance to explore the cultural traditions and daily living style of local Magar people following their own norms and beliefs. If the weather is sunny, we can get sight of Manapathi Himal (6380m) and the whole of the Dhaulagiri range.
Trek from Muri to Boghara
Starting from Muri, it will take us about 6-7 hours to reach Baghara. Today, we will cross a river called Dhora Khola. Alongside Dhora Khola there is terraced farmland. From here, we will climb the mountain right to us until we reach Ghorban Dhara. Ghorban Dhara provides the perfect view of Ghustung south which is elevated at 6,465m. We will then start following the trail alongside Myagdi Khola until we reach Naura.
We will ascend right up the mountainside to Ghorban Dhara. From Ghorban Dhara, we will get to see Ghustung South (6,465m). Before reaching the Naura we will follow the river bank path of Myagdi Khola. From Naura, we will ascend the mountainside, some of the uphill climbing, and a path that traverses the steep grass-covered hills. Moving further away in well-constructed zigzag stone steep paths while descending through a forested area, emerging to a ridge snout Baghara becomes visible elevate at 2,050m
Trek from Boghara to Doban
From Boghara, we will reach Doban in around five hours. We will leave the village behind and start our challenging trail from here which is with many ups and downs. During the trek, we will descend to the small ridge before crossing the forests of Jyardan which is the most remote permanent settlement in this part. After that, a tall, winding route leads to a stony area and reaches Lipshe, where there is no hut.
The track goes through a forest to Lapche Kharka and then climbs to Dobhan through tough trails. Doban is a capacious clearing in the forest with two huts and a large area for camp. This trek is considered slightly more challenging than the other days.
Trek from Doban to Sallaghari
After having our breakfast, we will trek down through the bamboo forest, along with this we will get to see the beautiful rhododendron flowers in lush green forests of pine and oak tree. Trekking through many ups and downs during the walk we will reach the bank of the Myagdi River and camp at Sallahghari.
Trek from Sallaghari to Italian BaseCamp
Today, we will trek from Sallahghari to Italian Base Camp after having breakfast. We will walk through a beautiful trail surrounded by lush green forest and mountainous views. In some places, we will cross small bridges and jungles which make the track quite active, risky, and difficult. We will slowly gain altitude, pass by the beautiful laden flowers and reach the open field called Italian Base Camp.
Here, we will camp in front of the west side of stunning Mt. Dhaulagiri. At this base camp, we will experience wonderful views of the Dhaulagiri range, Manapathi Peak (6380m), Dhaulagiri II (7751m), and other snow-covered mountains
Acclimatization Day
It is essential to adjust ourselves to the climate for our safe trek. And for that purpose, we will acclimatize to the Italian Base Camp and explore the area. So, today we will go for a short hike, the trail is surrounded by beautiful laden flowers. On the way, we will cross some suspension bridges and get excellent views of Manopathi Peak, Dhaulagiri II, and many others.
We can visit the surrounding camps like Puchhar Base Camp, Swiss Base Camp, French Base Camp, American Base Camp, and Japanese Base Camp, all of which present amazing views of the Dhaulagiri range along with Tsaurabong (6395m)
Trek to Glacier Camp
After breakfast, we will start our trek and cross the first glacier using ropes. We will climb onto the main glacier, where the surroundings are outstanding amid the rough and unsteady trail. This is a tough day where the route gets more difficult as we go further, for the trail is covered in icy moraines of Dhaulagiri Glacier
Trek from Glacier camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Today, we will head towards Dhaulagiri Base Camp. The trail to Dhaulagiri Base Camp is rough but the happiness of reaching the destination is nothing compared to the trail. The route is steady up along the smooth ice with mountain views. Reaching the top surrounded by the white part of the glacier offers unexpected moments in our lives.
The views from here are mesmerizing, could literally stop our breath for a few seconds. We will experience the stunning view of Dhaulagiri I (8167m), II (7,751m), III (7,715m), and IV (7,661m). Stay overnight at Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Trek from Base Camp to Hidden Valley via French Pass
Today, we will be in need of rope to complete the trek. We will climb over steep moraine walls and reach a less strenuous place. This breathless climb leads us to French Col (5,360m) and the views of Hidden Valley finally open out giving us the full view. We will witness the astonishing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
We will be able to see Tashi Kang (6,386m), Mukut Himal (6,328m), and Sita Chuchura (6,611m), all of which surround the Hidden Valley, and to the south is Tukche Peak (6,920m). The Hidden Valley is very cold reaching at least -20 degrees at night. As the day is also for acclimatizing, we will not spend the time resting or being idle, instead, we will explore the hidden valleys of this region along with the daily living style of local people. From the French Pass, we will sustain along the right edge of the Hidden valley losing a little altitude to the Thapa Pass (5,250m) between Tukche Peak and Thapa Peak (6,012m). Going down from the Thapa Pass we will make it to the camp at 5,200m.
Trek from Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka
To reach Yak Kharka, first and foremost, we need to cross the Dhampus Pass and the trek will last for about seven hours. Trek to Dhampus is hard as we should ascend steep uphill. Not only uphill is challenging but downhill is as stiff as uphill. While descending, we will pass through avalanche-prone slopes and rocky slopes.
After going down through a challenging trail, we will reach an open space where yak grazes. This open grazing arena is known as Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka
Trek from Yak Kharka to Jomsom
An easy descent leads us to Marpha by a narrow route through the middle of a pine forest. A very beautiful village, Marpha showcases Tibetan culture and is also popular for its cider.
It has a Buddhist monastery, whitewashed houses, and paved streets. We will cross the Kaligandaki Valley, a little downstream of Marpha, and come across a village full of Tibetan refugees. We will reach Jomsom and enjoy superb views of the Kali Gandaki Valley, all the Nilgiri peaks as well as the Tilicho peak, and more.
Scenic flight to Pokhara
After morning breakfast, we will check in at the airport to fly back to Pokhara, a 30-min dramatic flight to Pokhara between the gorge of the two huge mountains, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. After reaching Pokhara airport, the guide will transfer to the lakeside hotel.
We will make use of the rest afternoon for discovering the beautiful Pokhara valley. We will walk along the bank of Fewa Lake, the second biggest lake of Nepal enjoying the Fish Tail Mountain reflected in the lake. We can also ride a boat around Fewa Lake or just can take an hour’s walk to the World Peace Pagoda. Evening time, we will explore the lakeside
Drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara
Today, we will drive back to Kathmandu bypassing Damauli, Dumre, Mugling, and Kurintar. We will enjoy the green sceneries, small settlements, and glimpses of local people. From Naubise, we will ascend to Thankot, the entryway of Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Final Departure
You are bidding goodbye to the mountains as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today. We will take you to the airport for your flight time. We hope you enjoyed the trek, and are sure you will be back to trek somewhere in the Himalayas again.
Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from Bold Himalaya will take you to the airport. On your way home you’ll have enough time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Inclusions
What’s Covered in Your Adventure
- All ground transport including airport transfers as per the itinerary.
- Guided city tour in the world heritage by private vehicles.
- Four-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis on BB (Bed and Breakfast) plan.
- Three meals a day (Breakfasts, Lunch, and Dinners with tea or coffee) during the trek.
- Full board Accommodation of Lodges, Guesthouses on twin Sharing Basis during the trek.
- Private ground transportation will be available as per the itinerary.
- TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System) restricted area trekking Permit.
- Necessary staff during the trekking period With Experience Guide and Porter.
- Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Walking Poles be returned after the trip is completed.
- The facility of Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medicine for all trekking staff.
- All expenses of the staff (Guides/Porters) that includes Food, Accommodation, Salary, Insurance, Equipment during your trekking period.
- Jomsom - Pokhara flight ticket with Airport Tax.
- Group medical supplies (First Aid medical kit will be available)
- Necessary fixed and dynamic ropes will be available during the pass.
- All necessary paper works, office Service charges and Government Taxes.
- Complete pre-departure information, flight ticket reconfirmation, and extend visa service(if necessary).
- Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu before departure.
- Trekking Map, special Souvenir
- Extra Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
- Dessert & any types of drinks during the trip.
- Your international air ticket & travel insurance.
- Tips for the trekking crew members
Good to Know
Your Journey, Step by Step
Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m/26,795ft) lies at the western crest of the world’s deepest gorge – Kali Gandaki. The Dhaulagiri Circuit via French Pass is located in Myagdi district, Nepal. It is a lovely community with stunning mountain vistas, a diverse spectrum of cultural traditions, and a variety of natural landscapes. While trekking, you may discover the breathtaking Himalayan panoramas and the valleys in Nepal’s high mountains by undertaking the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek. Starting from the Beni (850m), crossing Babia Chaur (950m), Dharapani (1,400m), Muri (1,850), Boghara (2,050m), Dovan (2,520m), and Sallaghari (3,110m), Italian Base Camp (3,660m), Glacier Camp (4,940m), Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750m), Hidden Valley via French Pass (5,360m), Yak Kharka (3,680), Jomsom and ending after a scenic flight to Pokhara – this entire route falls under Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit via French Pass trek. The seventh-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Dhaulagiri, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. Wonderful trekking is made possible by a lovely synergy of unmatched natural beauty and cultural diversity along the route.
While trekking, there might be various factors that make difficult in trekking such as high altitude, cold weather, limited facilities, unpredictable weather, physical fitness, and altitude-related issues. The trek reaches an elevation of 5,360 meters. At such high altitudes, harsh weather, and altitude sickness are a significant concern, and acclimatization is crucial to prevent severe effects.
For doing Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit via French Pass, previous trekking experience is advantageous. If not it is essential to be prepared physically and mentally. The temperatures can drop significantly at high altitudes, so proper clothing and gear are important to stay warm, be prepared to face any weather changes such as rain, snow, and strong winds, and finally, as the trekking requires a long day of walking, build the solid level of physical fitness to handle challenging routes at high altitudes.
It is recommended to join gym classes or participate in physical exercises such as running, jogging, swimming, cycling, and a long day hike 3 months before attempting Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit via French Pass trek.
The Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit and French Pass trek is recognized as a safe trekking destination and the presence of experienced guides and porters ensures that trekkers receive expert guidance and support throughout the journey. The gradual ascent and acclimatization, along with communication facilities and emergency evacuation services, ensure safety and security in case of unforeseen circumstances.
To ensure your safety, our guide diligently checks the weather conditions every day before embarking on the trek. Group trekking also adds overall safety and trekkers are encouraged to be cautious, follow the guidance of their guides, and respect the environment and local customs to ensure a safe and memorable trekking adventure in the majestic Dhaulagiri region.
For Dhaulagiri Base Camp with a circuit via French pass trek, Bold Himalaya provides you with an experienced and license holder guide. They provide enormous support and assistance and help with navigation while on trekking. They offer valuable insights into the surroundings ensure proper acclimatization to prevent altitude-related issues, and help with food and accommodation facilities.
Porters are the right choice for light and comfortable trekking as they will carry your gear, equipment, and luggage throughout the trekking trail. Energetic, dedicated, and experienced porters are hired as they carry a maximum weight of 20 kg ensuring you have a comfortable journey.
To adjust the body at higher altitudes and prevent altitude sickness, trekkers take an acclimatization break for a certain day. For the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek, trekkers acclimatize at the Italian Base Camp (3,660m) on the 11th day as per our itinerary. Trekkers can explore the area by doing short hiking around the trail surrounded by beautiful laden flowers. Other best options for a day include visiting the surrounding camps like Puchhar Base Camp, Swiss Base Camp, French Base Camp, American Base Camp, and Japanese Base Camp.
On this day, trekkers pass through French Pass (5,360m) – the highest elevation to experience during the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek. The trekkers wake up early in the morning and start climbing over steep moraine walls to avoid strong wind. The breathtaking climb leads the trekkers to French Pass from where trekkers witness the best view of Hidden Valley, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Trekkers will encounter the view of Tashi Kang Peak (6,386m), Mukut Himal (6,328m), and Sita Chuchara (6,611m).
Travel insurance is essential for Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit via French Pass trek as it assists with medical and evacuation facilities. Make sure your insurance covers the costs of air ambulance, treatment, and all the travel-related risks such as lost, stolen, damaged, or delayed baggage and flight delays. Your insurance policy should cover entire activities during your stay. Also, ensure that your insurance policy covers all unexpected expenses up to the height of 5,500 meters.
After reaching an altitude higher than 3,000 meters, trekkers are at risk of suffering altitude sickness if the body doesn’t get enough time to adjust to the environment. To avoid altitude sickness, it is recommended to take a gradual ascend and acclimatize properly.
Similarly, keeping the body hydrated by drinking enough water, avoid smoking and alcohol, spending some nights at lower altitudes, consuming high calorie foods, not gaining an altitude more than 500 meters a day also can prevent trekkers from altitude sickness.
Drinking Water
Normally, trekkers must drink around 3 to 4 liters of water per day to stay hydrated and save energy. Drinking enough water can reduce the risk of high-altitude sickness. Teahouses or lodges along the trail offer bottled water or boiled water at some price, but the price rises with altitude.
Some locals drink water directly from the tap, but we recommend trekkers use a water purifier before drinking the water from streams or taps. To clean water from natural sources, trekkers can also utilize water sterilizing pills or portable filters. It is advised to carry 3 or 4 water bottles for refilling purposes.
Food and Accommodation
During the Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit Trek via French Pass trek, typical foods such as noodles, rice, pasta, potato dishes, fresh vegetables, eggs, Tibetan bread, pancakes, porridge, and chicken items are served.
The accommodation takes place at teahouses, lodges, or tents along the trail.
Electricity and Internet
Along the trekking trail, the availability of electricity and internet may decrease with the ascend to higher altitudes. However, charging electronics such as mobile, phones, and cameras and the access to the internet through WiFi routers in the teahouses come with some additional charges.
It is recommended to bring power banks, universal adapters, or portable chargers along with you.
ATM and Money Exchange
ATM and Money exchange facilities can be found while at Kathmandu and Beni. The trekking trail does not have any ATMs or money exchange facilities so it is recommended to withdraw enough money and carry enough Nepali rupees for your Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit via French Pass trek.
Clothing
Base layer t-shirts, waterproof or windproof jackets, down jackets, waterproof trousers, underwear, base-layer trousers, trekking shorts, gloves, sunhat, bandana, or scarf.
Footwear
Trekking boots, thick woolen socks, gaiters, and lightweight inner socks
Accessories
Trekking poles, duffel bag 50L, and sleeping bag
First Aid
Sunglasses, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, towel, and water bottles
Toiletries
Toilet papers/tissue, contact lenses, toothbrush, toothpaste, face and body moisturizer, small mirror, and feminine hygiene products.
Miscellaneous items
Binoculars, cameras, power banks, universal adapters, and portable chargers
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
For Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit via French Pass trek, trekkers should walk for 5 to 7 hours per day on average.
For Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit via French Pass trek, the permits required are a TIMS card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
The difficulty level depends on weather conditions, high altitude, and physical fitness of the trekkers. The trail to Dhaulagiri Base Camp with a Circuit trek via French pass involves a long day trek through steep ups and downs. The experienced and a good level of physical fitness trekkers slowly hiking up with proper acclimatization can make the trek without difficulties.
The duration to complete the trek depends on the starting and ending points, acclimatization breaks, weather conditions, and physical fitness of the trekkers. As per the planned itinerary, the Dhaulagiri Base Camp with French Pass trek takes around 19 days to complete starting from Beni and ending at Jomsom including an acclimatization day at Italian Base Camp.
It is always a good idea to involve yourself in doing physical exercise before trekking. A good level of physical fitness will make the journey less stressful. Start doing cardio exercises like running, jogging, long walks, cycling, and swimming at least two months before the trek.
Even if you are new to hiking at this altitude, no need to worry as you are accompanied by our experienced guide and porters. Beginner trekkers with physically and mentally prepared can do Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit and French Pass trek without any experience however you should be able to walk 5 to 7 hours a day for 13 days.
In case of a medical emergency, we handle basic medical situations. For serious emergencies, helicopter evacuation services can be arranged to airlift trekkers to Kathmandu for advanced medical treatment. Travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking is highly recommended to ensure proper assistance in such situations.
Yes, Bold Himalaya offers a flexible extension of trips after a long day’s walk at Dhaulagiri Base Camp with a Circuit via French Pass trek. Extended trips like excursions around the beautiful city of Lake, Pokhara. You can also join adventurous activities like paragliding and bungee jumping while at Pokhara.
The world’s seven highest mountain, Mt. Dhaulagiri stands with a height of 8,167 meters/26,794 feet.
The highest elevation you’ll experience during Dhaulagiri Base Camp with Circuit via French Pass trek is at French Pass with a height of 5,360 meters/17,585 feet.
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