- +977-9801214198
- info@hairyyakadventures.com
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.
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:
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.
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).