Dhaulagiri
In Nepali: धौलागिरि
Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), 'white mountain', was for some decades after its measurement in 1808 believed to be the highest in the world. It was first climbed in 1960 by a Swiss-led team. Its huge south and east faces dominate the view from Poon Hill, Khopra and the Kali Gandaki.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is a demanding camping trek from Beni up the Myagdi Khola, over the French Pass (5,360 m) and Dhampus Pass, through Hidden Valley to Marpha. It suits experienced trekkers with a guide and full camping support.
Where to see it
The best views are from Poon Hill, Khopra Ridge, the Kali Gandaki valley between Tukuche and Larjung (where the icefall towers overhead), and from Jomsom's airstrip at dawn. The mountain's name comes from Sanskrit dhavala (white) and giri (mountain).
Good to know
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is one of Nepal's toughest treks, crossing glaciers and high passes in remote country. Go only with an experienced agency, guide and camping crew, and allow two to three weeks.
Quick answers
- Where is Dhaulagiri?
- Dhaulagiri is in Myagdi district, Gandaki Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Dhaulagiri?
- About 8,167 m (26,796 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Dhaulagiri?
- For a 17-day trip from Pokhara, about NPR 104,000 (≈ US$770) per person on a budget, or NPR 138,000 (≈ US$1,020) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 51,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Dhaulagiri?
- Plan 15 nights there for the trek; with travel from Pokhara and back, about 17 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Dhaulagiri?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Dhaulagiri?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Dhaulagiri?
- October–November; April–May
- How do I get to Dhaulagiri?
- Circuit starts from Beni/Darbang; views from Poon Hill and Jomsom road. It is about 73 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Dhaulagiri called in Nepali?
- धौलागिरि
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