NepalUpdated Nov 26, 2024
Manaslu Circuit Trek Guide
Manaslu suits experienced walkers who want a quieter restricted-area circuit. Permits, guide requirements, remoteness, and the Larkya La crossing shape the plan.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek via The French Pass
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek via French Pass: untouched trails, vibrant hamlets, warm Tamang population, away from crowded Himalayan trekking routes.
Duration
19 Days
Max elevation
5,360m
From group price
US$ 3,890
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Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek via The French Pass
Trip overview
The essentials, in one place
Journey overview
A quick read on the route, the comfort level, the pricing rhythm, and the details most travelers want before they get in touch.
01Service levelAmigo Plus02Comfort profileHigh-Altitude Trek
03Accommodation standardHotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara, teahouses and tented camps during the trek
Activities covered
1In short
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek via The French Pass is a guided trek in Nepal usually presented as a 19 Days itinerary. It is designed for travelers comparing route fit, pacing, inclusions, and booking support before sending an inquiry. Key route focus: Embarking on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek via French Pass will take you on a journey through untouched trails that showcase.
Quick route highlights
The four details travelers usually care about first.
Short, practical, and easy to scan before you dive into the longer trip description.
Highlight
Embarking on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek via French Pass will take you on a journey through untouched trails that showcase
This Himalayan adventure leads you to the foothills of the awe-inspiring Dhaulagiri mountain, located in the northwest region of Nepal
At Amigo Treks & Expedition, we take pride in offering exceptional services, including private transportation, comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and
The journey to the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek via French Pass begins in Kathmandu and continues with a scenic drive to
Embarking on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek via French Pass will take you on a journey through untouched trails that showcase vibrant villages and a warm Tamang community, far away from the crowded trekking routes in the Himalayas. As you trek through the off-the-beaten-path trails, you will come across the Hidden Valley, nestled in the shadow of the towering Mount Dhaulagiri, standing tall at 8,167 meters. At times, you will find yourself surrounded by the majestic Himalayas with no one else in sight, offering a sense of tranquility and solitude.
This Himalayan adventure leads you to the foothills of the awe-inspiring Dhaulagiri mountain, located in the northwest region of Nepal. Ranking as the seventh highest mountain in the world, Dhaulagiri gets its name from the Sanskrit words "Dhawala" meaning white, and "Giri" meaning mountain. This magnificent mountain, which is also the highest peak in the Gandaki River basin, presents an exciting challenge for those seeking an unforgettable experience in the Himalayas.
Useful details at a glance
- How many days do you need?
- 19 Days
- Where does this trip operate?
- Nepal
- What is the highest elevation?
- 5,360m
- When is the best season?
- March to May and October to Early December
- What type of trip is it?
- Remote Trek
- What accommodation is used?
- Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara, teahouses and tented camps during the trek
Why travelers plan with Amigo
Embarking on the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek via French Pass will take you on a journey through untouched trails that showcase vibrant villages and a warm Tamang community, far away from the crowded trekking routes in the Himalayas.
Day-by-day route outline
Open each day to see the route notes, overnight rhythm, altitude cues, and the small details that help you understand how the journey actually flows.
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Day details
Welcome to Nepal. One of the company representatives will meet and greet you and your group at the airport and transfer you to the hotel booked for you in Kathmandu. The hotel will be a 4 Star Standard Hotel and will be booked around the Thamel area. This person will help you with hotel check in formalities as well. If your flight is scheduled to arrive before noon, a short meeting will be conducted at your hotel to brief you regarding the trek, introduce you to your guide, check your equipment and settle the final payment, in the afternoon. After the meeting, you will go for a welcome dinner with your guide or a company representative, where you will be introduced to typical Nepali meals as well as culture of different regions in Nepal in the form of dance, songs and costume. You will then get back to your hotel for overnight stay. If your flight is scheduled to arrive in the afternoon, evening or later at night the meeting will be held the next morning and the welcome dinner will be in Pokhara. Meals: Welcome Dinner
Day 2
Trek preparation and fly or drive to Pokhara
Day details
Breakfast at the hotel and after final equipment check and trek preparation you will be transferred from the hotel to the domestic terminal of the Tribhuvan International Airport as per your airport reporting time in a private car/jeep/minivan (depending on the group size). After airport formalities, you will fly to Pokhara, a very beautiful lake city, that serves as one of the major tourist destinations and a gateway to most of the popular Annapurna Treks in Nepal. The flight time is roughly 30 minutes. From the Pokhara Airport, you will drive to the hotel booked for you in Pokhara, in a private car/jeep/minivan (depending on your group size). The hotel booked will be a 4 Star Standard and will be in the Lake area. You will check into the hotel and can spend the afternoon and evening at your leisure. The best way to spend time in Pokhara is to go on a boat ride around the Phewa Lake and visit Tal Barahi Temple, or simply stroll along the lake area. Overnight in a hotel in Pokhara Meals: Breakfast and Welcome dinner (if not done on the first day)
Day 3
Drive to Dharapani (1560m/5118ft) or Sibang (1780m/5839ft)
Day details
At the start of our adventure, we set out for the picturesque town of Pokhara, where we will spend the night. The journey is pleasant as we follow the lush green Himalayan landscapes through the Prithvi Highway's winding bends. The journey takes us to the western part of Nepal while enjoying the scenic natural beauty, meeting up with the stunning Trishuli highway mid-way. Meals Included: Breakfast Highlights of the day: beautiful natural landscapes, picturesque town of Pokhara
Day 4
Trek to Muri (1720m/5643ft),(12km and 7h from Dharapani) and (7.5km and 4.5h from Sibang)
Day details
We leave Pokhara and travel west to the hamlet of Darbang, where we will spend the night. The journey is pleasant as we pass through vibrant hamlets and lush green forests on our way to the banks of Modi Khola. The journey north along the Kali Gandaki River on the Pokhara-Baglung Highway takes us deeper into the valley. Finally, we travel west along the Myagdi River to Darbang. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: Journey alongside the stunning Kali Gandaki and Myagdi rivers
Day 5
Trek to Bagar (Boghara) (2080m/6824ft),(8.5km),(5.5h)
Day details
We begin our journey ascending toward the hamlet of Dharapani for the night at the start of our trek. As we follow the pleasant hilly trail through the lush green forests, the journey is pleasant. After Sauta, the trail descends to the Dang Khola, which leads to Tamal. The final section of the trek takes us through a narrowing valley on our way to Dharapani. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: Vibrant hamlets displaying unique local Magar culture, views of the Gurja Himal range
Day 6
Trek to Dobhan Kharka (2520m/8267ft),(8.5km),(5h)
Day details
We leave Dharapani and make our way to the western banks of the Dang Khola, then on to Phedi. The trail ascends through terraced farmlands before dropping down to the banks of Mudi Khola, passing through Sibang and Machhim. When we arrive in Sinbang, we follow the trail past Dharka Khola before reaching the western bank of Myagdi Khola, which also marks the final ascent to the Magar village of Mure. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the Day: Accompany the banks of the various river, Introduction to the Magar culture
Day 7
Trek to Sallaghari (2820m/9251ft),(8.5km),(5-6h)
Day details
After leaving Mure, the trail returns to the lush green forests before heading deeper into the valley. We continue our journey after crossing a small stream just below Mure, ascending to a ridgeline that leads to a small mountain pass. We descend to the banks of the Myagdi Khola while admiring the stunning views of Mt. Ghustung South (6,456m). We cross to the western bank of the river and make our way to Bagar for the night. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: Stunning views of Ghustung South (6,456m)
Day 8
Trek to Italian Base Camp(3660m/12007ft),(3.5km),(4h)
Day details
After leaving Bagar, the trail descends through a series of terraced farmlands to Jeltung. We stop for a brief rest at the region's most remote permanent settlement before ascending the winding mountain pass that leads to the hamlet of Lipse. We enter Pilangkos Kharka before climbing onto Dovan after passing through the lush green forests. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: Vibrant hamlets, Lush green forests, Windy mountain passes
Day 9
Acclimatization day in Italian Base Camp
Day details
We continue our journey through the lush green forests by dropping down to a stream just down from Dovan. As the majestic Dhaulagiri (8,167m) dominates the horizon, we descend to the banks of the Myagdi River. The final stretch of the journey follows the Myagdi River towards Chartare after crossing its eastern bank. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: Enjoy the stunning views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m)
Day 10
Trek to Japanese Camp (3890m/12,762ft),(3.5km),(4h)
Day details
We leave Chartare and ascend towards the banks of the Choriban Khola, deep in the Himalayan wilderness. After crossing the river, we follow the rugged Himalayan trail to the terminal moraine of Chhongardan Glacier. We continue our journey towards the tour campsite at Pakhaban, admiring the stunning views of Tukuche Peak (6,920m) and Dhaulagiri I (8,167m). Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: Stunning Himalayan views including Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m), and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m).
Day 11
Acclimatization in Japanese Camp
Day details
Today, we follow the majestic Himalayas deeper into the valley, eventually arriving at Dhaulagiri Base Camp at 4,750m. We begin our journey through the rocky Himalayan trail, admiring the views of Dhaulagiri's Eiger Wall. The journey on the snowy surface is dominated by views of majestic glaciers alongside the peaks of the Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: views of Dhaulagiri Base Camp surrounded by majestic Himalayan views
Day 12
Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4748m/15,577ft), (6km), (4-5h)
Day details
On one of the longer days of the trek, we set out for Hidden Valley, crossing the French Pass (5360m) along the way. As we ascend the rocky Himalayan trail, we pass through lateral moraines on our way to the summit of French Pass. As you near the summit, a stunning Himalayan panorama unfolds, with the Mukut Himal (6,328m), Tashi Kang (6,386m), and Sita Chuchura (6,611m) marking the horizon over the Hidden valley. We start our descent from the pass, heading towards the Hidden Valley campsite. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: French Pass (5,360m) and the stunning Himalayan panorama as seen from the summit.
Day 13
Acclimatization in Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Day details
Today, on the first of our rest days, we stop at the Hidden Valley to take in the beautiful Himalayan scenery. We also make certain that our bodies are well rested for the next journey on this particular day. With the majestic Himalayas dominating the skyline, we take a short hike up the hill to take in the scenery. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: A relaxing experience up in the Himalayas
Day 14
Trek to French Col (5360m/17,585ft),(7.5km),(5h) to Hidden Valley(5140m/16,863ft),(3km),(3.5-4h)
Day details
Back on the rugged Himalayan trail today, we make our way to the Yak Kharka campsite for the night. Following the snowy summit of Dhampus Peak, we begin our ascent from our campsite in the Hidden Valley (6,012m). The journey takes us to the mountain's western edge, where we will arrive at Dhampus Pass (5,244m). We take some time after summiting the Himalayan pass to enjoy the beauty of the Annapurna Range. The final leg of the journey is a downhill one as we make our way to the campsite at Yak Kharka. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: Dhampus Pass (5,244m), Views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri Range
Day 15
Exploration walk around Hidden Valley or climb Dhampus Peak (Optional)
Day details
Today, our final trekking day, we make our way to the hamlet of Marpha before driving to Jomsom. As we descend from Yak Kharka, we follow the western banks of the Kali Gandaki River. When we arrive in Marpha, we take some time to enjoy the local culture and traditions before continuing on to Jomsom. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Highlights of the day: Views of the Annapurna Range, Explore Marpha village, Experience the windy town of Jomsom
Day 16
Trek from Hidden Valley to Dhampus Pass (5244m/17204ft), (3km),(2.5-3h) to Alu Bari(3900m/12,795ft)/(9.5km),(5.5-6h)
Day details
We get an early start today as we make our way back to Pokhara. The 15-minute flight returns us to the lush green valley from the arid Himalayan landscape. When we arrive in Pokhara, we head straight to the hotel, bringing our Himalayan adventure to a close. You are free to spend the rest of the day exploring the valley's natural and cultural treasures. The valley's attractions include Davis Falls, Bat Cave, World Peace Pagoda, and Phewa Lake. Meals Included: Breakfast Highlights of the day: A relaxing experience at the city of Pokhara, views of the Annapurna range and Mt. Machhapuchhre (6997m)
Day 17
Trek to Marpha (2670m/8759ft), (5km),(2h) and drive to Pokhara (6-7h)
Day details
The short flight will last approximately 25 to 30 minutes. You will be escorted to your hotel once you arrive in Kathmandu. Meals Included: Breakfast/ Dinner Highlights of the Day: Journey back to Kathmandu
Day 18
Fly to Kathmandu
Day details
Breakfast at the hotel in Pokhara and you will be transferred to the airport in a private car/jeep/minivan (depending on the group size) to help you catch your flight to Kathmandu. The flight time is 30 minutes. From the airport you will be transferred to the hotel booked for you in Kathmandu. Spend the day at your leisure and in the evening one of the company representatives will meet you for farewell dinner and feedback. Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu. Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
Day 19
Departure day
Day details
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel in Kathmandu. The hotel check out time in Kathmandu is 12:00 noon. As per your airport reporting time you will be transferred from the hotel to the airport to help you catch your onward flight. If your flight is in the evening or later at night and if you need a late check out, kindly let us know in advance and we will arrange that for you. Late check out charge will be applicable. Meals: Breakfast
Group pricing tiers
Group rates by party size
Per-person rates adjust automatically with your party size. Member discounts apply where available.
2-16 travelers
US$ 3,890
per personTraveler suitability
Is this guided trek right for you?
This guided trek in Nepal is planned across 19 Days around route flow, support logistics, traveler comfort, and realistic operating conditions. The pace protects acclimatization, daily effort, and weather flexibility.
Best for
- Travelers comparing a guided trek in Nepal with local planning support.
- Guests with roughly 19 Days available who want route, permit, transport, and guide coordination handled together.
- Travelers whose timing can fit the stronger operating months: March to May and October to Early December.
Not ideal for
- Travelers only looking for the cheapest possible package.
- Guests who need every day to feel low-altitude, low-effort, or fully predictable.
- Travelers who cannot allow flexibility for weather, roads, flights, permits, or border processes.
- Duration
- 19 Days
- Max elevation
- 5,360m
- Best season
- March to May and October to Early December
- Destination
- Nepal
- Trip style
- Remote Trek
- Difficulty profile
- High-Altitude Trek
Why this itinerary is designed this way
We review Nepal routes around altitude or road rhythm, daily effort, guide support, permit timing, accommodation flow, and traveler comfort before confirming the final version.
