Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is a thrilling trekking destination in the Myagdi district. Reputed as an adventurous and thrilling trek, it can be challenging for inexperienced trekkers. Sections between the Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp are infamous for being risky routes. Unpredictable weather, moraine trails, and windy valleys can hinder your walk. Here are 6 reasons why a few sections of the Dhaulagiri Trek fall under technically difficult routes in Nepal.
The unpredictable nature of glacier movement makes the trek challenging. Glacier movement causes gradual changes to the route every year. This makes it difficult to navigate the path to Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
You often end up walking on moraines and crossing streams. Unlike other popular trekking destinations like Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Base Camp Trek, the route sections above Sallaghari to Dhaulagiri Base Camp are a walk on moraines. Moraines are rock deposits formed by moving glaciers.
An avalanche is another factor that makes walking difficult in the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. The trek from Italian Base Camp to Japanese Base Camp is an avalanche-prone zone. There is no certainty when you will be covered in snow by an avalanche. The world’s temperature is rising. Its direct impact is seen on the mountains of Nepal. The snow is melting, resulting in disasters like avalanches and dry erosion.
The weather above Sallagahri (3,110 m) is quite unpredictable. This is a common phenomenon in the mountain region. The weather keeps changing and altering even though you follow the standard itinerary for the Dhaulagiri trek. The snowy high mountains block the movement of air and wind, which creates its microclimate in the valleys.
Therefore, the weather keeps changing even if you walk a few distances. The Dhaulagiri region is no exception. It is difficult to navigate trails in the altering ambiance of the Dhaulagiri region. You have to be careful during the hazy days; you might end up in the crevasses.
As you trek to an elevation of 3,000, the air becomes thinner. Oxygen concentration is low at high altitudes. This increases the risk of suffering from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or Altitude Sickness during the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. Difficulty in breathing, headache, and fatigue are a few symptoms of AMS. It is advised to descend if you feel any of these symptoms. The highest point you reach is French Pass at 5,360 m (17,585 ft).
The upper region of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is full of glacier lakes. These glacier lakes have existed for more than a century. Since the late 19th century, the effects of Global warming have been felt all over the world. Glaciers have started melting, resulting in the loosening of the terrain structure of the land.
The rocks have loosened due to glaciers' movement, resulting in dry erosion and rockfall from the hills. They carry the debris and rocks, eroding the terrain. There is constant erosion of dry rocks and stones, increasing the risk of getting injured. Over the past years, many casualties have been reported in the Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Network coverage is poor. The strength of network communication declines after ascending to the Italian Base Camp. It is difficult during the evacuation process and medical help. This is when professional and certified guides are needed the most. Their experience and knowledge will make the Dhaulagiri Base Camp trek full of adventure and unforgettable.
Efforts have been made by local authorities to maintain the pre-existing route of the Dhaulagiri trek. However, the surrounding landscape is such that it is difficult to maintain the trail every year. It is challenging to maintain the course of glaciers and other natural phenomena. You know, nature has its way of revolting.
The glacier lake often disrupts the route, resulting in trail changes once every three years. The terrain from Italian Base Camp (12,008 ft) to Dhaualgiri Base Camp (4,748 m) is fragile. The erosion blocks the route now and then. Despite the challenge, efforts are being made for an easily accessible route.
Here are a few tips and advice from the North Nepal Trek to lower the risk of getting injured or lost while trekking the Dhaulagiri Trek.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is one of Nepal’s most remote and beautiful treks. It is suitable for adventurous individuals seeking solitude, challenging trails, and the unfiltered beauty of nature. Here is a brief of the 11-day Dhaulagiri Circuit trek itinerary.
The journey begins with a long, scenic drive from Pokhara to the remote village of Takam. It is a 6-7 hour drive covering ~120 km of distance.
Trekking starts from Mudi. It is a steep hike, but worth the pain. Walking for 5-6 hours, you will reach Mudi. It is a beautiful Magar village. The mountain views here were our first real taste of Dhaulagiri’s grandeur. Overnight stay at the hotel in Muri.
The trail continues through dense forests and river crossings. Bagar offers you a tranquil atmosphere and the feeling of being deep in the wilderness. It is a 5-6 hour walk covering over 10 km.
The trek to Dovan Kharka takes around 6-7 hours of trek. You will cover around 8.5 km of distance. Overnight stay at Camp.
A gradual climb through forests brought us to Sallaghari, a peaceful alpine meadow. The landscape began to change as we gained altitude, with glimpses of glaciers and towering peaks. It is a 5-6 hour hike. Overnight stay in camp.
The terrain transitions from forest to icy. The challenge and difficulty level increase. After trekking for 4-5 hours, you will reach the Italian Base Camp. It is surrounded by soaring cliffs and snow-covered ridges.
We spent the day resting and acclimatizing. Short hikes and stretching were essential to prepare our bodies for the higher altitudes to come.
You will trek for 4-5 hours, covering ~4.6 km of distance. A challenging trek across rocky terrain and moraines takes you to Japanese Base Camp. You will witness dramatic landscapes. Night stay in the Camp.
You will cross glacial valleys to reach Dhaulagiri Base Camp beneath the seventh-highest mountain in the world. Trek duration is 4-5 hours, covering approximately 11 km of distance.
You will cross the French Pass at an altitude of 5,360 m. Challenging and rewarding. Fierce winds, but the panoramic views are out of this world. Descend to the wide Hidden Valley.
You will trek for 7-8 hours on a mixed trail. Cross the Dhampus Pass at an elevation of 5240 m. A long descent through high-altitude deserts and rocky trails leads us to Yak Kharka. Overnight stay in the teahouse of Yak Kharka.
Trek over. A 7-8 hour drive to Pokhara makes a full circle. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek ends.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is paradise for adventure seekers. The trek does not sound as terrifying as marketed. It is just a certain section filled with a challenging trail that fuels an adrenaline rush. Despite the challenge, the Dhaulagiri trek has a lot to offer.
Exotic landscapes, flora, and fauna along the way replenish your heart. This trail will expose you to the lesser-known nature and culture of the western Himalayas. The majestic view of the Dhaulagiri ranges, Tukuche Peak, purple-colored Primula, and streamlined Pine forest are captivating views. If adventures and exploration awaken your spirit, the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is your call. The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is doable with excellent physical fitness, professional guides, mental resilience, and prior trekking experience. It is a thrilling adventure through dense forests, glacial moraines, high-altitude passes, and wide valleys crossing multiple climate zones.
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