Around the Dhaulagiri massif (26,788'), the sixth highest mountain in the world, involves snow trekking and glacier walking and therefore requires previous mountaineering experience. This is the perfect trip those who want a more intense experience of the mountains. We will be trekking deep in to the Dhaulagiri Himal to the Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri north base camp, offering a wonderful view of gigantic north face of Dhaulagiri I. We will cross two high passes, the French pass(17,581') and Thapa Pass (17000') providing more spectacular views of Dhaulagiri, Thorong peak, Annapurna I and the Kaligandaki River, the world?s one deepest gorges. We may encounter semi-wild yak herds, mountain sheep or the elusive snow leopard in the remote valleys of this region.
After the short flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, (Early start to make the bus journey around 9/10 hours to Beni , the starting point of the trek) we will spend the first few days of our trek walking through cultivated fields connecting the some of the mountain villages, enjoying the shops, teahouses, and lifestyle of the Gurung, Chetri, and Magar people. We will walk along the cobblestone paths, over suspension bridges and through dense forests, taking in the vistas of some of the world?s most beautiful mountains. Once our climb begins in earnest after Dobang, we will ascend to the Italian Base Camp with impressive views of Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, and V. We will continue to Dhaulagiri north Base Camp(15,580'), taking a couple of days to rest, acclimatize ,explore and fully absorb the beauty of surrounding peaks. We will climb the glaciated French Pass and Thapa Pass and then descend a winding trail to Yak Kharka. We will continue through the mountain villages, enjoying the hot spring at Tatopani village and, views of majestic peak of Annapurna (26,538 ft) and Machhapuchhare (22,937ft) as we make our way towards Pokhara, visiting several monasteries and religious sites en route.
The trek ends with a steep descent to Marpha and a return to Pokhara, either via the Kali Gandaki or over the Ghorapani ridge for a panoramic view of the entire Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Massif The suggested route for the return: Ghorepani-Poon Hill- Ghandruk - Dhampus. Because of the high altitude, this trek is recommended for trekkers with some physical training.
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