Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Upon arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you must complete your entry/visa formalities. You will then be received by a representative from Marron Treks and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drinks will be served at the hotel, and then we will have a quick pre-trip meeting. You can then spend the remaining time resting or doing as you please. In the evening, you can stroll around the vicinity of your hotel just to get the feel of this wonderful city. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu

Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara & drive to Beni (850m) 20 min flight/4 hrs drive

We leave the hotel after breakfast and fly to Pokhara, which is about 20 minute’s flight. Upon reaching Pokhara, drive for about four hours until we arrive in Beni. There are various rest points along the route where we may get food and beverages, as well as pass through several settlements. We spent the night in a Beni guest home. Overnight at Camp or Lodge in Beni (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 03: Trek from Beni to Babiachaur (950m/ 5 hrs)

Beni Mangalghat, Singa, and Tatopani are all places we pass by as we go down the north bank of the Myagdi Khola, leaving behind Beni and the Kali Gandaki River. To go to Simalchour Village, where we spend the night, we cross a bridge over to the south bank of the river. Overnight at Camp in Babiachaur (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 04: Trek from Babiachaur to Dharapani (1400m/6 hrs)

Today's journey takes us into a valley and along the river's banks for five to six hours. We initially arrive in Shahashradhara, a village. We continue until we reach Ratorunga Village, after which the valley narrows, after which we cross the Duk Khola. Once we arrive in Dharapani, where we spend the night, we continue our ascent up the valley. Overnight at Camp in Babiachaur (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Muri (1800m/5 hrs)

Today, we'll hike for about five hours, ascending to higher altitudes through the settlements of Sibang and Mattim before tumbling down to Gatti Khola and Phalai Gaon. As we descend to the Magar village of Muri, where we spend the night, we bridge the Dhara Khola (river) and continue on the west bank of the Myagdi Khola. Overnight at Camp in Muri (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 06: Trek from Muri to Boghara (2080m/6 hrs)

Ascending to the ridge to begin the day, we then descend to Juge Pani, where we pause for lunch. After lunch, we hike up a difficult track before emerging high above the valley. After travelling along a cliff edge for approximately an hour, we arrived in Boghara Village and set up a tent for the evening. The journey today took roughly six hours. Overnight at Camp in Boghara (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 07: Trek from Boghara to Dobang (2520m/5 hrs)

Today's trek starts as we ascend to the ridge while passing through farmed fields. As the terrain becomes a little less strenuous, we arrive at Lipshe Village and make a lunch halt there. After two to three hours of hiking through a thick forest, we finally arrived at Dobang Village, where we set up camp for the evening. Overnight at Camp in Dobang (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 08: Trek from Dobang to Choriban Khola (3110m/5 hrs)

We start our five-hour hike today by crossing a wooden bridge and then ascending into a woodland. We soon get a glimpse of Dhaulagiri I's (8167m) west face. The Myagdi Khola is our next point of descent before reaching Chartare Village. We arrive at Choriban Khola after travelling through forests once more, where we spend the night in a tent. Overnight at Camp in Choriban Khola (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 09: Trek from Choriban Khola to Italian Base Camp (3660m7 hrs)

The journey takes almost seven hours today. We go down the path to the moraine at the foot of the Chhonbardan Glacier, where we cross it to the right. Directly in front of us is Tukuche Peak (6837m), and to our right is the stunning north face of Dhaulagiri I (8167m). We arrive at Italian Base Camp after a little hike, where we pitch our tents for the night. We have breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri II (7751m), Dhaulagiri III (7715m), and Dhaulagiri V (7618m) from this vantage point. Overnight at Camp in Italian Base Camp (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 10: In Italian Base Camp - Acclimatization Day

Before ascending to higher elevations, acclimatization is crucial for your safety. The acclimatization process might be aided by a little hike around and beyond the Italian Camp. Medical specialists advise staying active during the day. We'll spend the night here. Overnight at Camp in Italian Base Camp (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 11: Trek from Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp (4210m/6 hrs)

We rise early because our journey will take six hours. Early in the morning is typically when the weather is most favourable for climbing. Keep an eye out for rock falls because the trail we are travelling today runs through a confined gorge. We spent the night in Glacier Camp. Overnight at Camp in Glacier Camp (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 12: Trek from Glacier Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4740m/7 hrs)

The hike is significant today as we ascend to Dhaulagiri Base Camp. From here, the skyline is dominated by the north face of Dhaulagiri I (8167 meters), and to the west are Dhaulagiri II (7751 meters), Dhaulagiri III (7715 meters), and Dhaulagiri V (7618 meters). These breathtaking peaks are right in front of your eyes! The impressive glacier that falls from the northeast is just in front of us. Here at Dhaulagiri Base Camp, we set up camp for the night. Overnight at Camp in Dhaulagiri Base Camp (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 13: In Dhaulagiri Base Camp - Acclimatization Day

It is crucial that we stop here to rest and re-acclimate. Once more, it is advised to be as active as you can. Simply put, the vistas are spectacular. Overnight at Camp in Dhaulagiri Base Camp (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 14: Trek from Dhaulagiri Base Camp to Hidden Valley (5120m) via French Pass (5360m/7 hrs)

We have a six- to seven-hour hike ahead of us today, which will be physically taxing because of the greater altitude. To get to the snowy slopes leading up to French Pass, we first have to cross a moraine. On the opposite side of Dhaulagiri, we enter the Hidden Valley after crossing the pass, where we set up camp for the night. Overnight at Camp in Hidden Valley (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 15: Trek from Hidden Valley to Yak Kharka (4000m) via Dhampus Pass (3680m/7 hrs)

Today we go at a greater altitude to the slightly lower Dhampus Pass before returning to the height of French Pass at the opposite end of the valley. After passing across the pass, we start the descent to Yak Kharka, where we will spend the night. Overnight at Camp in Yak Kharka (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 16: Trek from Yak Kharka to Jomsom (2736m/5-6 hrs)

Today's five-hour hike offers some spectacular views of Dhaulagiri Peak in the southwest, Annapurna and Nilgiri in the east, the distant Mustang in the north, and the Kali Gandaki Valley, the world's deepest gorge. Up until we get closer to Yak Kharka, the track is very easy to follow. Then, it descends quickly to Marpha Village, where we can rest for lunch. We travel to Jomson after lunch, where we spend the night in a lodge. Overnight at Camp or Lodge in Jomsom (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 17: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (830m/20 min flight)

As we return on a spectacular trip to Pokhara, we soar above the hilly landscape and check into our hotel. Alternatively, we might sit by Phew Tal (lake) and take in the distant Annapurna Mountains, or we can put our feet up and relax while exploring the city's commercial district. Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 18: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (6-7 hrs drive)

On our return to Kathmandu, which will take about six to seven hours, we can relax and enjoy the view. We will return you to your lodgings after a farewell meal in the evening. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu (Breakfast)

Day 19: Final Departure

The trip concludes, and our office representatives will take you to the international airport in Kathmandu to catch your onward flight to your next destination or fly back home. You need to be at least 3 hours before your flight time at the airport.

Thank you for visiting Nepal, and we hope your Himalayan holiday has come true. Have a safe flight back home!

If you plan to extend your holiday, then other travel activities like jungle safaris, rafting, mountain biking, bungee jumping, etc. are also on the list.

EQUIPMENT CHECK-LIST

 

 

1. How long does it take to complete the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek?

Generally, it takes around 15 to 18 days to complete the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek depending on the trekker's pace, weather conditions, and acclimatization.

2. What is the best time of the year for the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek?

The best time to undertake the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek is during the months of April-May and September–October. These months offer stable weather conditions and clear mountain views.

3. What is the difficulty level of the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek?

Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek is considered challenging. It involves high altitude, steep ascents, and rugged terrains, requiring prior trekking experience and physical fitness to cope with the demands of the trail.

4. Can I hire a guide or porter for the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek?

Yes, hiring a guide or porter is highly recommended for the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek since, as per the new rule for trekking in Nepal, no individual treks are allowed and one must come through a registered travel agency. They will assist with navigation, provide local knowledge, and help carry your backpack, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trek.

5. What are the major highlights of the Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek?

Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek offers stunning views of Dhaulagiri I (8167m), the world's seventh-highest mountain. The trek also includes scenic landscapes, remote villages, terraced fields, hidden valleys, and an exciting crossing of the French Pass (5360m).

Accommodation
While you are in Kathmandu, we opt to accommodate you in 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3 star), Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar.

 

Throughout the trek, you will have the convenience of staying in a fully equipped camping setup, complete with dedicated support staff. This includes a personal tent for yourself, a dining tent, a toilet tent, and a separate tent for the accompanying staff. We strive to furnish you with top-notch tents and camping equipment to ensure a comfortable night's sleep in a clean and hygienic environment.

 

Meals
Meals are typically provided as part of the fully organized camping experience. The catering is handled by a support team accompanying the trek, and you can expect a variety of meals that cater to different dietary preferences and requirements. Commonly, the meals include a mix of local and international dishes, providing a balance of nutrition and taste. The dining setup usually involves a dedicated dining tent to enhance the overall camping experience. It's advisable to communicate any specific dietary restrictions or preferences in advance to ensure that the meals align with your needs.

Porter and Staff Care
When it comes to high altitude trekking, porters and staff members make up a pivot. Marron Treks ensures that all the porters and staff members going to high altitude conditions, are provided with adequate clothing and equipments.

 

Any Experience Required?
There is nothing hard and fast rule about trekking experience. Any adventure enthusiast, with a generic physical aptitude can definitely relish the thrill of this trek.

 

Difficulties
Difficulty here is actually synonymous to ‘high altitude’. As this trek involves some seriously high altitude climbing above 5000 meters, one is likely to experience some problem in breathing owing to the deteriorating oxygen level. But as this is something which is anticipated, we do have enough precautionary measures to tackle it.

 

Our Guides
Guides play a significant role during the trek. They are the ones who literally decipher the trekking codes for you so that you could actually connect with the nature, culture and people along the way. We have helpful and dedicated trekking guides, who are fairly literate, multilingual speakers and are very well versed to the culture, life patterns and every single detail pertaining to the Dhaulagiri region. Thus, in the company of our professional Sherpa guides, your trek becomes not only entertaining, but also equally informative.

 

Travel Insurance
It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both- medical as well as evacuation costs. Having a travel insurance with you, makes your trip secure and hassle free.

The provided trip plan by Marron Treks is customizable but subject to unpredictable factors like weather, political unrest, and flight disruptions in Nepal. Delays or changes might occur due to various reasons, and Marron Treks will prioritize client safety. However, they are not liable for resulting consequences, striving to maintain the essence of the original trip plan. 

Cost Inclusion

• Airport pick-up and drop-off services
• Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast as per itinerary
• Pokhara/Beni transfer by a private vehicle
• All trekking accommodation (in tented camps) with breakfast, lunch & dinner.
• Guide, porters, kitchen staff and helpers' wages for the trekking period.
• Kathmandu/Pokhara & Jomsom/Pokhara flight fares
• Four seasonal sleeping bags (to be returned after trip completion) & Marron Treks duffel bags.
• A comprehensive medical kit will be carried by the trekking guide.
• Personal insurance for crew members
• Permits for Annapurna Conservation Area and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
• Farewell dinner with a live Nepalese cultural program.
• All government and local taxes

Cost Exclusion

• International airfare.
• Nepal entry visa fee: A visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (USD30 for 15 days)
• Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara
• Personal travel insurance
• Emergency rescue evacuation (to be covered by the client's travel insurance)
• Excess baggage charges (the luggage allowance for domestic airlines in Nepal is 20 kg).
• Other expenses of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, extra porters, bottles of boiled water, showers, etc.)
• Bar bills, alcoholic drinks, and beverages
• Tips for guides and porters (tipping is expected).