Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek
Annapurna Dhaulagiri trek, also known as Khayar Lake or Khopra Ridge (Danda) Trek, is suitable for Annapurna region trekkers seeking a fresh destination. Annapurna Dhaulagiri journey gives such a broad array of breathtaking landscapes, tranquility, and Himalayan cultural experiences. The magnificent Khayar Lake (4,510m) and the panoramic sunrise view of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, etc. are the main attractions of this region. The trail is a recently opened walk in the Annapurna region that leads to the warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar people. On the Annapurna Dhaulagiri trekking route, we stay at community-run lodges whose profits benefit the local schools and residents of this area. Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek includes numerous enthralling traditional villages, gorgeous woods, and high alpine pastures with the lovely Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Annapurna Dhaulagiri We can drive or fly to Pokhara from the bustling and ancient Kathmandu valley, where trekking begins. Pokhara is renowned for its pristine environment, natural beauty, and lakes among local and foreign tourists from around the world. After spending the night in Pokhara, we drive around three to four hours to Ghandruk. Where we sleep for the night.
The hike to Annapurna Dhaulagiri continues to Bhaisi Kharkha, from whence we travel to Tadapani. The expedition continues along the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trekking trail toward Bayli Kharka, from which the trail leads to Upper Chistibung through Lower Chistibung. From Upper Chistibung, we steadily ascend to Kopra Ridge, where we will spend the night. Following the same path to Lower Chistibung, we make a steady descent to Swanta from Kopra Ridge. Then, we go in the direction of Ghorepani while passing through Chitre. The stunning sunrise over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan Ranges was viewed during an early morning trek to Poonhill (3,210m). We depart Ghorepani and travel to Tirkhedhunga, following the trail to Nayapul, before returning to Pokhara. According to your flight time, you will be dropped off at the airport upon our return to Kathmandu. The Annapurna Dhaulagiri trip concludes with numerous lifelong memories.
Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek Highlights
The Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Trek is a relatively lesser-known trekking route that combines the beauty of both the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri regions of Nepal. This trek offers a unique opportunity to experience diverse landscapes, cultures, and stunning mountain views. Here are some highlights of the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Trek.
Panoramic Mountain Views: The trek provides breathtaking panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri I, Manaslu, and several other towering mountains. The close proximity to these giants offers an awe-inspiring experience for trekkers.
Varied Landscapes: The trek takes you through a range of landscapes, from lush forests and terraced fields to high alpine meadows and glacial moraines. You’ll pass through quaint villages, traverse ridges, and cross deep river valleys, enjoying the ever-changing scenery.
Dhaulagiri Base Camp: The trek takes you to the base camp of Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh-highest mountain. The isolation and rugged beauty of Dhaulagiri Base Camp are a highlight, and the views of the mountain and its glaciers are simply stunning.
Hidden Valley: The trek includes a unique segment called the “Hidden Valley” that lies between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. This high-altitude desert-like valley offers a surreal experience, surrounded by towering peaks.
Crossing the French Pass and Dhampus Pass: These high mountain passes offer both challenges and rewards. Crossing these passes provides breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making them unforgettable moments of the trek.
Hot Springs: Similar to other treks in the region, the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Trek offers opportunities to relax in natural hot springs, such as Tatopani. These springs are a welcome respite for weary trekkers.
Cultural Experiences: You’ll encounter diverse ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, and others, each with their own traditions and lifestyles. This provides an opportunity to learn about the local culture and way of life.
Off-the-Beaten-Path: The Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Trek is less crowded compared to some of the more popular routes, providing a quieter and more remote trekking experience.
Unique Flora and Fauna: The trek takes you through different ecological zones, allowing you to observe a variety of plant and animal species. The chance to spot some of Nepal’s wildlife, such as Himalayan tahr and various bird species, is a bonus.
The Best time for Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek
The Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Trek, which combines both the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri regions of Nepal, is best undertaken during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. These seasons provide the most favorable weather conditions and stunning views of the landscapes and mountains. Here’s more information about each season.
Spring (Pre-Monsoon) – March to May:
Spring is a fantastic time to embark on the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Trek. The weather is generally stable and mild, with clear skies and warmer temperatures during the day. The rhododendron and other wildflowers are in full bloom, adorning the trails with vibrant colors. The views of the mountains are spectacular, and the surrounding landscapes are lush and inviting. This season offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and pleasant trekking conditions.
Autumn (Post-Monsoon) – September to November:
Autumn is another ideal time for the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri Trek. After the monsoon season, the skies clear up, and the weather becomes stable. The visibility is excellent, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The temperatures are comfortable during the day, and the trails are usually dry. This season offers a great opportunity to trek in crisp air and enjoy the striking landscapes.
Both spring and autumn are popular trekking seasons in Nepal, including the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri region. This popularity means that you may encounter other trekkers along the way and find guesthouses and accommodations relatively busy. If you prefer a quieter trekking experience, you might consider trekking during the shoulder seasons—late February to early March or late November to early December.
When you arrive at Tibhuvan International Airport, our guide will pick you up and take you to your hotel in the bustling Thamel district of Kathmandu. Depending on your arrival time, you can choose to relax for the next journey, see the city’s attractions, or shop for adventure gear in one of Kathmandu’s many adventure supply stores. We’ll assemble our bikes and be ready for the journey in the afternoon.
After breakfast drive for Pokhara, takes about 6 hours by road. The beautiful scenery will make our drive interesting. Arrive in Pokhara, hotel check-in and then you will be free for your own activities. Evening, you will be taken for an hour boating trip on the Nepal’s Largest Fewa Lake.
We have breakfast, then head to Nayapul. We begin our walk to Ghandruk village from Nayapul. Ghandruk is a picturesque village inhabited primarily by the Gurung ethnic group. If time permits, we visit the Gurung museum after lunch.
The ascent continues today as well. We progressively ascend towards the direction of Tadapani. The trail today provides a spectacular view of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, followed by a walk through Rhododendron and Oak forests and a little river that flows in the opposite direction but joins us along the hike. Apart from a few teahouses in Bhaisi Kharka, there are no human settlements on the trail today. Tadapani offers awe-inspiring vistas of Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (7,237m), Machhapuchhare (6993m), and Lamjung Himal (6931m), as well as a magnificent dawn.
We abandon the track leading to Ghorepani at Tadapani and hike through the Rhododendron forest to reach local water buffalo fields. The trail from Today is relatively less congested, making for an excellent hiking experience. The Annapurna Himalayan range stands big in front of us as we continue our ascent and eventually pass above the tree line. After having lunch close to a little stream, we proceed towards a minor pass, descend through rhododendron forests, and reach Bayli Kharkha.
The track begins with a descent through open land and forests to the Lower Chistibung pastures, our lunch stop for the day. We will spend the night at Upper Chistibung, which is reached by a gradual ascent past numerous buffalo grazing fields.
After breakfast, we continue our hike to Khayer Lake. This day, we hike above the tree line while keeping an eye out for Himalayan Thar and Danphe Pheasant. The trail is predominantly uphill today, so we hike leisurely with frequent stops to appreciate the natural beauty of this region. When we reach Khopra Ridge, we are greeted by a breathtaking panorama of Annapurna South and Nilgiri.
After breakfast, we begin our journey back to Pokhara via Poonhill. The terrain goes steeply downward today. We descend resolutely to Chistibung, where we turn toward Poonhill. We rest for the night in the village of Swanta.
We descend from Swanta via the village fields to a little river and examine the local water mill. From here, we cross the suspension bridge and ascend to the Chittre settlement. The settlement of Ghorepani, which offers spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri peak, is reached after a further hike along the principal hiking route.
Your guide will determine the sunrise time and inform you at the prior evening’s meal. From Poonhill, one of the best places to view daybreak, we witness a spectacular sunrise across Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and a number of other peaks. After some time at the vantage point, we return to Ghorepani for breakfast. After breakfast hike to Trikhedhuga. The trail passes through Nangethanti, Ulleri, and Banthanti before arriving to Trikhedhunga.
This is the final day of the hike. After breakfast, we begin our hike towards Nayapul, which translates to New Bridge in Nepali. We hike down the Burungdi River today, crossing a few suspension bridges. As soon as we reach Nayapul, we drive to Pokhara and after hotel check-in, free time for relaxation.
After enjoying the natural and cultural beauty of Pokhara, we start driving to Kathmandu. We finally get to Kathmandu after about 6-7 hours. We can either take a break or go see the sights in the capital city.
Today we will take you to the airport to catch your flight out of Nepal. Alternatively, if you’d like to stay longer, we may make additional travel arrangements to assist you continue your Nepal experience.
- All necessary ground transfers.
- All necessary accommodations as per the itinerary.
- Tea House accommodations during the trek.
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking.
- All necessary paper works.
- All necessary trekking permits.
- Experienced and First Aid-trained trekking guide.
- Strong, helpful porters.
- Comprehensive medical supplies.
- Trekking map.
- Insurance of all local team.
- Warm clothing and trekking gear for staff.
- Sleeping bag and trip duffle bag.
- Trekking certificate issued by us.
- Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
- Nepal Visa fee.
- International flights.
- All meals not mentioned in inclusions.
- Personal expenses not stipulated.
- Optional add-ons.
- Gratuities.
Price Per person starting from
US$ 980
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