The Annapurna Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, offered by Hairy Yak Adventures, is a 20-day, approximately 220–250 km camping and teahouse trek in Nepal’s Annapurna and Dhaulagiri regions, combining the classic Annapurna Circuit with a challenging Dhaulagiri Circuit extension. Priced at $4,195 per person for a group of two or more, this strenuous trek reaches altitudes up to 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass) and crosses high passes like French Pass (5,360 m) and Dhampus Pass (5,240 m). Starting from Besisahar (760 m / 2,493 ft) and ending in Pokhara (830 m / 2,723 ft), it traverses the Marsyangdi Valley, Kali Gandaki Gorge (the world’s deepest), and Dhaulagiri’s remote glaciers, offering stunning views of Annapurna I (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), and Manaslu (8,163 m). Key highlights include Muktinath Temple, Tilicho Lake, Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750 m / 15,584 ft), and cultural interactions with Gurung, Thakali, and Magar communities.
This trek blends the Annapurna Circuit’s diverse landscapes—subtropical forests, alpine meadows, and arid Mustang—with the Dhaulagiri Circuit’s off-the-beaten-path wilderness, including snow-covered passes and glacial moraines. It’s ideal for experienced trekkers with high-altitude training, requiring 6–9 hours of daily hiking and basic mountaineering skills for Dhaulagiri’s technical sections. The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for clear skies and moderate temperatures (10–20°C daytime, -10 to -20°C nights at high altitudes). Monsoon (June–August) offers solitude in Mustang’s rain-shadow but risks landslides, while winter (December–February) brings snow and extreme cold. Permits include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Dhaulagiri Restricted Area Permit, and TIMS card, arranged by Hairy Yak Adventures, supporting conservation and local economies.
Circle the majestic Dhaulagiri massif (8,167m7m), the seventh highest peak in the world.
Traverse remote, rugged trails through glacial valleys and high passes like French Pass (5,360m0m) and Dhampus Pass (5,250m0m).
Experience authentic camping in pristine wilderness, far from crowded trekking routes.
Visit Hidden Valley, a surreal high-altitude plateau with stark, dramatic landscape.
Encounter diverse ethnic groups, including Magar and Thakali communities, with rich cultural traditions.
The $4,195 per person cost for a 20-day Annapurna Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek with Hairy Yak Adventures is premium but reasonable for a combined Annapurna and Dhaulagiri trek, aligning with high-end packages like Nepal Vision Treks ($4,195 for 21 days) and exceeding standard Annapurna Circuit costs ($1,200–$2,000 for 12–15 days, Green Valley Nepal Treks). The price reflects the trek’s length, remote camping, and restricted area permits, covering:
Permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $25 per person.
Dhaulagiri Restricted Area Permit: $20/week, ~$40 for two weeks.
TIMS card: $8 for group trekkers.
Total permit cost: ~$73–$80.
Transportation: Tourist bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar (7–8 hours, $10–$15, ~$30 round-trip), jeep from Nayapul to Pokhara (2 hours, $50–$80, split among 4–6 people), and domestic flights (e.g., Jomsom to Pokhara, $130–$160, optional).
Accommodation and Meals: Teahouses (twin-sharing, $5–$15/night, ~$80–$120 for 8–10 nights) in Annapurna, camping (tents, sleeping bags, crew-prepared meals) in Dhaulagiri, and three meals daily (Dal Bhat, noodles, $15–$25/day, ~$300–$400 total).
Guide and Porters: Licensed, English-speaking guide ($30–$40/day, ~$600–$800), two porters per two trekkers ($20–$25/day, ~$800–$1,000 total, carrying 25 kg each), and a cook for camping ($25–$30/day, ~$300–$400).
Camping Equipment: Tents, kitchen gear, and fuel for Dhaulagiri section (~$200–$300 per group).
Miscellaneous: Agency fees, government taxes, and emergency support (e.g., satellite phone, oxygen).
Analysis of $4,195 Cost: The $4,195 price is justified for a luxury group package, covering permits, mixed teahouse-camping logistics, premium staff (guide, porters, cook), and remote Dhaulagiri logistics, as supported by The Himalayan Odyssey’s Dhaulagiri pricing ($1,955–$2,350 for 16 days). It excludes international flights ($800–$1,500), Nepal visa ($30–$125), travel insurance ($100–$200, covering 5,500 m and helicopter evacuation), tips ($100–$150), and personal expenses (gear, snacks, $50–$100). Solo trekkers may pay $4,500–$5,000 due to non-shared costs. The budget supports local communities through porter wages and conservation fees, ensuring sustainable tourism.
The 20-day itinerary is optimal for the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, as confirmed by Hiking Bees and Nepal Vision Treks (20–21 days), balancing 15–16 days of trekking (6–9 hours daily), 2–3 acclimatization days, and 2–3 travel days. Covering 220–250 km from Besisahar to Pokhara, it includes Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750 m), and high passes (French and Dhampus), with sufficient acclimatization at Manang (3,540 m) and Italian Base Camp (3,660 m). Shorter 12–15-day Annapurna Circuit itineraries (e.g., Adventure Great Himalaya) skip Dhaulagiri, while longer 23–28-day options add side trips (e.g., Annapurna Sanctuary). The 20-day plan suits experienced trekkers seeking a comprehensive Himalayan adventure, with Hairy Yak Adventures ensuring safety and cultural immersion.
Stunning panoramas of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), and Tukuche Peak (6,920m).
Sweeping vistas from French Pass and Dhampus Pass, showcasing snow-capped Himalayan giants.
Glacial moraines, icefalls, and rugged valleys framed by towering peaks.
Serene alpine meadows and stark, desert-like terrain in Hidden Valley
Ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking a challenging, remote high-altitude adventure.
Not suitable for beginners due to extreme altitudes (up to 5,360m), technical terrain, and extended camping.
Requires excellent physical fitness, mental resilience, and prior high-altitude trekking experience.
Best for those comfortable with isolation, variable weather, and self-sufficient camping.
Physical Preparation:
Train 3–6 months with cardio (running, cycling), strength training (squats, lunges), and long hikes with a 15–20 kg backpack.
Practice hiking on uneven terrain and at elevation to simulate pass crossings.
Include endurance exercises like stair climbing to prepare for steep ascents and descents.
Proper Gear:
Use a 4-season tent and sleeping bag rated for -15°C to -20°C for high-altitude camping.
Pack crampons, ice axe, waterproof trekking boots, layered clothing, and a windproof jacket.
Bring trekking poles, a headlamp with extra batteries, high-SPF sunscreen, and glacier glasses.
Pack Light:
Keep your 60–80L backpack to 15–20 kg with essentials; porters may assist, but personal gear must be minimal.
Avoid non-essentials; prioritize compact clothing and lightweight camping gear for 14–18 days.
Hydration and Altitude:
Drink 4–5 liters of water daily; use purification tablets or a filter for glacial streams.
Monitor for acute mountain sickness (AMS) symptoms (headache, nausea); carry Diamox and descend if severe.
Use a metal flask to prevent water freezing at high altitudes.
Acclimatization:
Plan rest days at 3,500m–4,000m (e.g., Italian Base Camp) to adjust to low oxygen levels.
Ascend gradually, especially before crossing French and Dhampus passes, to minimize AMS risk.
Cash and Connectivity:
Carry ample Nepali Rupees (NPR) from Kathmandu; no ATMs beyond Beni or Marpha.
Expect no mobile network in most areas; satellite phones recommended for emergencies.
Inform family of extended connectivity gaps due to remote terrain.
Power Solutions:
Bring a solar charger and power bank; no electricity available on the trail.
Carry extra batteries for headlamps and devices; conserve power in cold conditions.
Toiletries:
Pack biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.
Include wet wipes and a small towel in a compact toiletry bag to save weight.
Respect Local Culture:
Greet locals with “Namaste” and dress modestly in Magar and Thakali villages.
Ask permission before photographing people or religious sites like gompas.
Support local economies by purchasing handicrafts or food where available.
Permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP, NPR 3,000) and TIMS Card (NPR 2,000) required.
Special permits may be needed for restricted Dhaulagiri areas; arrange via trekking agency.
Duration: 14–18 days, starting with a drive from Kathmandu to Beni, followed by trekking through Darbang, Italian Base Camp, and Hidden Valley.
Best Seasons: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) for clear skies and stable weather.
Difficulty: Very strenuous; involves high passes, glacier crossings, and technical sections requiring basic mountaineering gear.
Logistics: Ends with a jeep ride or trek to Jomsom/Marpha; plan buffer days for weather delays.
Insurance: Mandatory, covering medical evacuation up to 6,000m.
Guide: Mandatory for safety, navigation, and logistics on this technical, unestablished trail.
Contact: Hairy Yak Adventures
Phone: +977-9801214198
Email: info@hairyyakadventures.com
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer clear skies, mild daytime temperatures (10–20°C), and vibrant views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Monsoon (June–August) suits Mustang’s rain-shadow but risks landslides, while winter (December–February) brings snow and -20°C nights.
It’s strenuous, with 6–9 hours of daily hiking, high passes (up to 5,416 m), and technical camping in Dhaulagiri. Suitable for experienced trekkers with 3–4 months of cardio, strength training, and prior high-altitude experience.
You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ($25), Dhaulagiri Restricted Area Permit ($40 for two weeks), and TIMS card ($8 for groups). Hairy Yak Adventures arranges all permits, ensuring compliance.
Annapurna section offers teahouses (twin-sharing, $5–$15/night), while Dhaulagiri requires camping (tents, crew-prepared meals). Kathmandu/Pokhara stays are in 3-star hotels. Meals include Dal Bhat, noodles, and soups ($15–$25/day).
Acclimatize at Manang (3,540 m) and Italian Base Camp (3,660 m), stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and ascend gradually. Hairy Yak Adventures’ guides use oximeters and carry oxygen. Consult a doctor about Diamox (250 mg).