Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trekking

Embark on the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek, a captivating journey through pristine trekking terrain south of the Annapurna Range.

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Good To Know

  • Duration 16 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Strenuous
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
  • Max. Altitude 3640 m
  • Accommodation Star Hotel and Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

The Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trekking adventure is an amazing journey featuring two of the majestic himalayan range of Nepal; the annapurna himalayan range and dhaulagiri himalayan range. This trek features Nepal’s most stunning landscapes. For instance, you’ll see lush rhododendron forests and scenic river valleys. Additionally, you will enjoy breathtaking mountain views along the way. Starting in the vibrant village of Ghorepani, you’ll ascend to Poon Hill. There, panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri await. Furthermore, the trek continues through remote trails and high-altitude passes. This blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences is truly unique.

As you hike through the Annapurna Conservation Area, you’ll encounter traditional teahouses, charming villages, and diverse wildlife. The journey also includes Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world, offering spectacular Himalayan vistas. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a nature enthusiast, the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek promises awe-inspiring scenery, challenging trails, and warm Nepali hospitality. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure that combines nature and culture in one of the world’s most beautiful trekking regions.

Embark on the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trekking- an epic journey through Nepal’s stunning landscapes. From Ghorepani and Poon Hill to remote trails and Thorong La Pass, experience breathtaking views, lush forests, and local culture. For more detailed information and to book your adventure, visit our Website Kalpa Holidays.

Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek Highlights 

  • Witness a Dhaulagiri and  Annapurna I. 
  • Climb to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4740 m).
  • Explore Modi Khola Valley and Ghandruk village for Gurung culture.
  • Ascents to the French Pass (5,360m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240m).

Annapurna dhaulagiri trekking

Best time for Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trekking 

The best time to trek the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek in the Annapurna Region, including the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is mild and pleasant. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations. Higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuichhre.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season, the Annapurna Dhaulagiri trekking trail remains more crowded than other treks in the Annapurna Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trekking. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, the Annapurna Dhaulagiri trail is more crowded compared to other treks.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter, on the one hand, offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes; however, temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Additionally, trails might become icy, and some teahouses could be closed, making it essential to plan accordingly.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Spring and autumn offer the best weather, views, and cultural experiences for trekking Annapurna Dhaulagiri. However, in the off-season, you should expect extra challenges. Therefore, check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal

Greetings and welcome to Nepal! This is a land of towering Himalayan peaks, lush greenery, rich cultural diversity, and stunning valleys. Upon your arrival at the airport, a representative from The Himalayan Trek will be there to meet you, aligning with your flight schedule, and they will assist in transferring you to your hotel. After you’ve checked in, a brief overview of your upcoming trip will be provided. If you wish to explore the city on foot, feel free to inquire with your guide, who will do their best to organize a suitable walking excursion based on your arrival time.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast

Today, after breakfast, we will embark on the exploration of Kathmandu with a local guide. In Kathmandu, first of all, we will visit Durbar Square, immersing ourselves in stories of ancient kings, and then we will head towards the Swayambhunath Stupa while enjoying the beautiful view of the valley. From here, we will visit Boudhanath Stupa and return to the hotel.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1070 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will catch a flight from Tribhuvan International Airport to Pokhara, which will take approximately 30 minutes. On arrival, we will have lunch and head towards Nayapul by trekking. Throughout the journey, we will be treated by a breathtaking view of the Himalayas, including the Annapurna Range, Machhapuchere, Dhaulagiri, and Hiunchuli. After one and a half hours, we will reach Nayapul. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1650 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After spending a night at Nayapul, we will start our trekking journey to Layngdi from Nayapul, located at 1650 meters. Starting from Nayapul, the trekking trail passes through beautiful villages like Birethanti, Sudame, Hille, Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Banthantie, etc. With a little ascending, decent, and experiencing the panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, dense rhododendron forests, and terraced fields, after 8 to 10 hours, we will reach Layngdi. Overnight, we will stay at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2300 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today’s journey starts from Layngdi to Sallijan, located at 2300 meters. The trekking journey from Layngdi to Sallijan offers us stunning views of the Himalayas, with rich biodiversity and cultural encounters along the way. After descending towards Sallijan, pass through alpine meadows, traditional villages, natural beauty, and local heritage. After a few hours, we will reach Sallijan. This trek demands good physical fitness, proper acclimatization, and appropriate gear. Overnight,  we will stay at a cozy tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2260 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Embark on a journey from scenic Sallijin to the charming Nangi. As we continue our journey, each step offers us beautiful landscapes. The journey promises us a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. As we descend from Sallijan, the trail passes through alpine meadows. After a few hours, we will reach Nangi. Overnight, we will spend a night at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3245 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

The trek from Nangi to Mohare  As we ascend, the surroundings provide a glimpse of the majestic Himalayas, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machapuchare, Nilgiri, Gurja Himal, and Hiunchuli. As we reach Mohare Danda, the vantage point offers us a breathtaking panorama, rewarding the day’s trek with a spectacular display of nature’s beauty. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2200 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast today, we will trek from Nohare Danda to Swanta,  2200 meters. This trek offers us a blend of diverse landscapes and a scenic trail near the Himalayan terrain. As we continue our journey through this scenic route, the breathtaking view of the surrounding environment treats us to beautiful views. After an hour of trekking, we will reach Swanta, and overnight we will stay here.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3026 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinnner

Join us on an amazing trek to Dhan Kharka/Chistibang, where we will explore a variety of beautiful landscapes. We’ll see lush green forests and stunning mountain views along the way. As we walk through dense woods and open meadows, we’ll enjoy the natural beauty around us. This trek offers a good mix of physical activity and breathtaking scenery, making it a memorable part of our adventure.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3640 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will trek to Khopra. The trekking trail takes us through the diverse landscapes and rich culture. Starting in Chistibang, the journey ascends gradually through lush rhododendron forests and breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks like Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South. After 7 to 8 hours of trekking, we will reach Khopra, where we will overnight stay.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3640 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today is the 11th day of our trek in the Annapurna Dhaulagiri region. Our destination is Khopra, known for its stunning views of the Himalayas. Our expedition team is making sure we have a great experience, showing us all the amazing places here. We’re seeing lots of different plants and animals, and feeling the calm of being so high up. Day 11 is a special part of our journey on the Khopra Discovery Expedition, giving us memories we’ll never forget with Nepal’s beautiful mountains all around us.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3420 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Embark on an exciting journey from Khopra to Dobato, which is 3420 meters high. As we walk through beautiful landscapes, we’ll see amazing natural sights. The area is incredibly beautiful, with fresh mountain air that makes us feel refreshed. Every step gives us new views, and we can see stunning Himalayan peaks like Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I in the background. Enjoy the peaceful trek, and when we reach Dobato, feel proud of our achievement in this stunning mountain setting.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1950 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we embark on a trek from Dobato to Ghandruk, which offers us a picturesque adventure through the Annapurna region. We will start our trek from Dobato’s lush forests and alpine fields. As we descend through rhododendron forests, occasionally we will be able to see the beautiful views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhare ranges. After 5 to 6 hours of trekking, we will reach Ghandruk Village, a charming Gurung village known for its terraced fields and diverse culture. Overnight,  we will stay at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 822 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will trek to Nayapul from Ghandruk which takes us approximately 4 to 5 hours and offers diverse landscapes, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. From Nayapul we will take an hour’s drive to Pokhara Upon arrival we will be transferred to the hotel. Overnight we will stay at a hotel.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After enjoying breakfast in the morning, we’ll start our journey back to Kathmandu. Our return trip offers the same two options as your journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you will be transported to your hotel for an overnight stay.

With the remaining time, you can explore the exquisite Kathmandu Durbar Square or other culturally significant sites within the city, which boast a wealth of heritage. Your night will be spent in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

As our mesmerizing Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek in Nepal concludes, we’ll arrange for your transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive approximately 3 hours before your flight. It has been our privilege to be a part of your enriching cultural and natural journey, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in the future.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek, including the drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Nayapool.
  • Domestic Flights (optional): If you choose to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the cost of the flight is included in the package.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • Hot Springs: Entry to the natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included in the package.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as paragliding or extra sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

A trek necessitates the acquisition of the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card, which can be obtained from an authorized trekking agency.

The Khair Ridge Trek's Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Panorama is categorized as a moderately challenging trek, making it suitable for beginners who have a bit of hiking experience.

The ideal periods for undertaking the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Panorama at Khair Ridge Trek are the spring months (March to May) and autumn months (September to November). These seasons typically offer clear and dry weather conditions.

While trekking, meals will be provided at the teahouses. Common menu options include noodles, rice, pasta, or potato-based dishes, accompanied by vegetables and choices of egg, chicken, or meat dishes. For breakfast, you can expect Tibetan, egg, pancake, bread, porridge, muesli, and toast with peanut butter and honey.

Along the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek, most teahouses are equipped with squat toilet facilities, and newer lodges may also offer Western-style toilets. With the growing influx of international trekkers, flush toilets are becoming more prevalent along the trail. It is advisable to carry your own toilet paper and essential toiletries. Hot shower amenities are typically available up to certain elevations, often provided in the form of bucket showers—standard buckets with taps filled with hot water in designated shower areas. The cost of a hot shower varies between US$ 4 to 15 per use, increasing at higher altitudes. Unlike in luxury lodges, attached bathrooms and toilets are not commonly found during the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek.

The Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek is a renowned trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, passing through diverse landscapes, traditional villages, and lush forests.

The best time for the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons, which fall roughly between March to May and September to November. During these periods, the weather is stable, and the views are breathtaking.

The Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek is considered moderate to strenuous, depending on the specific route and altitude gained. Trekkers should be physically fit and acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.

Trekkers need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card before starting the trek. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Yes, acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. The trek itinerary usually includes rest days at higher altitudes to allow the body to adjust gradually. Adequate hydration and a slow ascent are key to a successful trek.

Mobile network coverage is available in many parts of the trek, but it may be unreliable at higher altitudes. Teahouses and lodges may offer Wi-Fi, but the connection can be slow and intermittent.