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- Swoyambhu, Kathmandu, Nepal
Dhaulagiri Round 2 Col Pass Trek. The long, difficult trek around Dhaulagiri( 8167 m)starts from Beni on the Kali Gandaki. The first few day follow the Bein to Dolpo treks along the Myagdi Khola, before swinging north on a tiny trail through dense forest into the high country at Italian Camp at around 3650m. much of the next week is on snow and glaciers above 4500m and subject to avalanches as it crosses the Chhonbarang Glacier to French Col (5240m), traverses the head of Hidden Valley and crosses 5250m.
Dhaulagiri rises above the deepest gorge in the world, The Kali Gandaki, and the circuit route provides stunning views of the whole Dhaulagiri range. Discovered in 1808, standing at 8,167m, Dhaulagiri was thought to be the highest mountain in the world until 30 years later when Kanchenjunga took those honors; later to be taken away by Mount Everest! The Dhaulagiri Circuit route was discovered in the 1950s by a French team, hence the French Pass, which leads into a lonely area known as Hidden Valley.
The trek ends with a steep descent to Marpha and a return to Pokhara either via the Kali Gandaki Valley or a flight from Jomsom.
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) trekking seasons.
Our staff will be there at the airport to welcome you by holding the company name and transferring you to the hotel. At the hotel, you will have a meeting with the guide where he describes about your trip.
In the morning, we take a flight/drive to the Pokhara. If the weather will be good and fine then we would be able to see the descent view of mountains and terraced fields during the flight/drive. After lunch, we will do some sightseeing and prepare ourselves for the trek to Pokhara.
After early morning breakfast, take a drive to Darbang with the magnificent views of Annapurna Himalayas via Beni. Beni is the junction of Kali Gandaki and Myagdi River. From Beni, the road is rough, passing green rice fields and small charming villages, we reach Darbang where we check all the things before, we start our memorable trek.
After morning breakfast, the trail continues along the Myadgi Khola and crosses the suspension bridge. From here, the trail ascends to Dharapani. Dharapani is a large village mostly inhabited by Gurung communities. With the fabulous views of Dhaulagiri IV, V, and Gurja Himal, the trail gradually ascends up to Dharapani where we stay overnight.
Today the trail passes several villages including Sibang village, a village of Magars. We can see the stunning views of snow-capped mountains like Gurja Himal and Putha Hiunchuli and the beautiful greenery terrace fields. After crossing Dhara Khola with a suspension bridge, the path steeply goes to Muri. Muri is a village in the Magar community from where we can see the beautiful view of Mt. Dhaulagiri and other snow-capped mountains. Overnight stay here.
From Muri, the trail is easy and steep down to the bridge over Muri Khola. After that, the path steep goes to Bagar with the passes of bamboo forest and the charming terrace fields and farmhouses. We overnight stay there in camp.
The trail descends down to a small ridge and then follows the west bank of Myagdi Khola through the forest to Jyardan. You can see honeycombs during the trail and get the chance to look, at how they collect the honey and taste too. The trail passes the beautiful village called Jyardan and Lipshe where we take some rest. After a long, steep, and slippery stone staircase into bamboo and rhododendron forest finally, we reach Dobhan and Overnight camping.
The trail continues through the dense bamboo and rhododendron forest crosses the Myagdi Khola through a bridge and reaches Sallaghari. From here, the trail passes through the forest of Pine trees, rhododendron, and birch and climbs to grassy greenery areas i.e. Italian Base Camp. You can see the impressive West face of Dhaulagiri with other snow-capped peaks from here. Overnight enjoy at Camp.
Today is the rest day for the further climb to Dhaulagiri Base Camp. This is given to you for relaxation, exploration, and acclimatization. You can explore the area around the Italian Base Camp. You need to be healthy, fit, and fine for a further climb and to adjust to a higher altitude.
Today, the trail descends steeply down the lateral moraine to the glacier. With the help of the ropes, we cross the gorge and the glacier which is the most chilling part of the trek. The trail continues with the spectacular as well as the magnificent face of Dhaulagiri I and reaches at Japanese Base Camp at the height of 4650m.
Today the trail is rough along the moraine, covered by the glacier. So, we use a rope to reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp. From here, the views are impressive with Dhaulagiri I, Tukuche Peak, and Little Eiger in front of us. Dhaulagiri II and IV can see to the west. You will get outstanding nature views from here that are out of your imagination.
Today after having breakfast, the trail ascends to the top of French Pass. During this trial, we often use rope till the steep moraine walls from where you can see the mouthwatering view of the hidden valley down with the fabulous view of Dhaulagiri I & Tukuche Peak. After some climbing from moraine ridge, we summit the French Pass from where we can see the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of Tukuche Peak, Tashi Kang, Mukut Himal, and Dhaulagiri massif. From here, the trail descends on moderate snow slopes to Hidden Valley. Hidden Valley resembles Laddakh and Tibet and the temperature too. You can see the sparse vegetation, and isolated patches of moss and grass as this valley is under the rain shadow effect of Mt. Dhaulagiri.
The trail ascends on the moderate snow slope to get to Dhampus Pass. You can enjoy the beauty of two peaks, one is Dhampus peak to the left and another is Tukuche Peak to the right. Then the trail descends steeply to Yak Kharka where crampons may be needed depending upon snow and ice condition. During the trail, you can see the breathtaking views of Nilgiri and Annapurna Massif.
The trail descends along the flank of the mountains to reach Marpha, inhabitant by the ethnic group Thakali. Marpha is a well-civilized village that boasts of a Buddhist Monastery, Tibetan whitewashed houses, and flagstone paved streets.
The trail is flat along the Kali Gandaki River passing through the beautiful apple garden. You can enjoy a glass of apple juice during the trail with the fabulous views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. Once reach Jomsom, you can explore it overnight at camp.
On the morning flight, we come back to the Pokhara and you will get free time there. You can spend your free time at Pokhara by doing your personal activities and overnight stay there.
Depending upon your interest, you can fly or drive to Kathmandu. The flight takes 30 minutes. Dive takes 6-7 hours with the great opportunity to experience the highway of Nepal.
A free day in Kathmandu. In the evening join with Nepali cultural dinner program [Farewell Dinner]
Today, as per your international flight time, Explore Nepal Trails staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure.
The best seasons to do the Dhaulagiri Round Two High Pass Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, perfect for trekking in the high-altitude region.
The Dhaulagiri Round Two High Pass Trek typically takes 16 to 18 days, depending on the pace, acclimatization, and specific route taken. This is a longer and more strenuous trek compared to other routes.
The challenges include:
High altitude: With passes over 5,000 meters, proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness.
Difficult terrain: Steep, rocky, and sometimes snowy trails, especially near French Pass and Dhampus Pass.
Weather conditions: The weather can change rapidly at high altitudes, and trekkers should be prepared for cold temperatures, snow, and strong winds.
No, the Dhaulagiri Round Two High Pass Trek is not recommended for beginners. This is a challenging trek suited for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness, prior high-altitude trekking experience, and the ability to navigate difficult terrain.
Some key highlights include:
French Pass and Dhampus Pass: Breathtaking high-altitude passes with panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machapuchare, and other surrounding peaks.
Dhaulagiri Base Camp: A close-up view of the Dhaulagiri massif, one of the highest mountains in Nepal.
Hidden Valley: A secluded and serene area offering spectacular mountain vistas and a peaceful trekking environment.
Traditional Villages: Trek through remote villages like Beni and Ghorapani, experiencing local culture and hospitality.
The trek involves:
Rocky paths and steep ascents, especially when crossing the high passes.
Snow and ice: There’s a chance of encountering snow and ice at higher altitudes, especially near French Pass and Dhampus Pass.
Alpine meadows and forests at lower elevations and glacial valleys as you approach the higher passes.
Essential items to pack include:
Warm clothing: Layered clothing including a down jacket, fleece, and thermals for colder temperatures.
Trekking boots: Durable and comfortable boots for long trekking days and rough terrain.
Sleeping bag: Rated for cold weather, especially for higher camps.
Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for high-altitude sun exposure.
Water purification system: A filter or purification tablets to ensure clean drinking water.
First aid kit: For minor injuries and altitude sickness medication.
Mobile network coverage is limited on this trek, especially as you move into higher altitudes. There is coverage in Beni and some areas of Ghorepani, but it becomes more unreliable as you trek towards Dhaulagiri Base Camp and the high passes.
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