When you arrive at the airport, our company representative will greet you warmly and ensure a smooth transfer to the hotel. At the hotel, you will have the opportunity to meet our team. We plan to hold a pre-trek briefing in the evening, between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. This gathering is an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with the other members of your group before we all proceed to enjoy a delicious dinner. During the welcome dinner, you will be able to taste authentic Nepalese cuisine and watch captivating cultural dance performances, immersing you in Nepal's rich cultural traditions.

Today, you will have the opportunity to explore Kathmandu with our experienced city tour guide. Our itinerary includes several remarkable sites:

• SWOYAMBHUNATH, also known as the Monkey Temple, is perched atop a hill and can be reached by climbing a long set of steps. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu.
• BOUDHANATH STUPA is adorned with traditional Gompas adorned with vibrant prayer flags. It serves as a focal point for Sherpas and Tibetans who partake in the spiritual practice of circumambulating the stupa (koras).
• PASHUPATINATH, a sacred Hindu temple, is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River and features Ghats where cremation ceremonies take place, offering a unique glimpse into Hindu rituals.
• KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE, one of the ancient capitals of the Kathmandu Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant square showcases a harmonious fusion of Hindu and Buddhist temples, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

With our knowledgeable guide, you will learn about the historical, religious, and architectural significance of these iconic landmarks. Prepare to be captivated by Kathmandu's unique charm and spiritual ambiance.

After breakfast in Kathmandu, drive on a scenic Himalayan road trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara, following the Prithvi Highway along the Trisuli and Marsyangdi rivers. The approximately 200 km journey typically takes 7 to 9 hours due to winding mountain roads and ongoing highway expansion, with popular stops for breakfast in Malekhu and lunch at Muglin or Kurintar. Along the way, trekkers and travelers enjoy breathtaking views of terraced hills, small hill towns, and the Annapurna Range as they enter the Pokhara Valley, also known as the Lake City for its stunning lakes. Upon arrival in the Lakeside area of Pokhara, the evening is perfect for exploring Phewa Lake, including a boat ride to Tal Barahi Temple, leisurely lakeside strolls through Pokhara’s vibrant streets, and enjoying the traditional Aarti ceremony or a film at the outdoor Movie Garden. The day concludes with a relaxing lakeside dinner featuring local specialties like fresh lake fish or a traditional Thakali set, all while watching the sunset reflect on Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak), making the Kathmandu to Pokhara drive and first evening in the city an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

After breakfast, we begin our drive to Darbang, passing through scenic spots such as Naudanda and Kare (1,630 m), which offer breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri. We also pass through Kusma, where the Modi Khola and Kali Gandaki rivers converge. The valley is dotted with rice fields and bustling farmers, providing stunning distant views of Dhaulagiri. From Pokhara, it's advisable to depart early along the mostly paved but occasionally rough Pokhara–Baglung Highway. A high-clearance vehicle, such as a Scorpio or Hilux, is recommended for this journey. Along the way, we will pass Kushma, known for some of Nepal’s highest suspension bridges—it's worthwhile to take a 15-minute photo stop here—and Beni Bazaar, the last major town where we can conduct a final gear check or enjoy a quick Dal Bhat lunch before the road turns rough and unpaved along the Myagdi Khola to Darbang (1,110 m), which serves as the traditional gateway to the Dhaulagiri Circuit. The trek begins with a level walk from Darbang toward Phedi, followed by a steep switchback climb that offers spectacular views of Dhaulagiri I-IV. This section ends at Dharapani (1,560 m), a tranquil Magar village that provides an authentic glimpse into hill-village life.

After breakfast in Dharapani, the trek begins with a gentle descent through the village, passing schools and stone houses as the trail drops toward the river valley. You cross the Dhola Khola on a bridge, then follow the hillside with gradual inclines, enjoying views of high-perched villages. Along the way, we pass scenic villages like Takum and Sibang (1,780 m), with slate-roofed houses and terraced fields of rice, wheat, and barley—perfect for a tea break with clear views of Dhaulagiri I and Gurja Himal. The trail descends slightly into Machhim for a local lunch before crossing the Gatti Khola on a suspension bridge and climbing the final stone-step trail to Muri (1,850 m), a quiet Magar village and crossroads for trekkers heading to Dhaulagiri Base Camp or the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve. Muri offers stunning views of the Dhaulagiri range, especially at sunset, while its terraces reflect the hardworking Magar community, many of whom work abroad. Trekkers should expect some ups and downs along river crossings, and they will spend the night camping in this peaceful, picturesque setting.

After breakfast in Muri, the day begins with a sharp descent through terraced fields and bamboo groves to the Muri Khola, where a suspension bridge marks the start of the classic Nepali flat with constant ups and downs along the riverbank. The trail continues through dense bamboo stands and open clearings with fields and farmhouses before climbing to a high ridge overlooking the Myagdi Khola, where the valley narrows, and Magar hamlets perch on seemingly impossible slopes across the river. Lunch is usually taken near Gorban, offering spectacular views of Dhaulagiri I rising like a massive white wall at the end of the valley. The most adventurous section follows through dense subtropical forests of oak and rhododendron, with some narrow paths carved directly into cliff faces, and certain exposed sections require careful footing, especially after rain. The day ends in Bagar (2,080 m), the last permanent village for several days, a remote stone-built settlement where locals farm and raise livestock. Accommodation is basic, often in homestays or camping on the grounds of the primary school, providing an authentic chance to experience local honey and seasonal vegetables. In March, rhododendrons (Lali Gurans) bloom brilliantly, and trekkers may spot Langur monkeys in the trees or Himalayan Griffons soaring above the cliffs.

After breakfast in Bagar, the trail begins with a descent through the village’s last terraced fields before entering a dense canopy of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo, alive with birdlife and blooming flowers in March. The path passes through Jyardan (2,100 m), the last seasonal settlement, beyond which only temporary shepherd huts exist during summer grazing months. Lunch is typically taken at Lipshe (2,080 m), a quiet forest clearing where trekkers rest; there are no shops, so meals must be packed in advance. The afternoon features a demanding gorge section, where the valley narrows into a steep V-shape, the trail is carved into the hillside above the river, and several wooden bridges cross slippery mossy or loose gravel sections. The trek continues along the west bank of the Myagdi Khola through undulating forest terrain, with cliffs above sometimes revealing large bee nests collected by locals. The day ends in Dobang (2,520 m), a small clearing at the confluence of streams with basic teahouses and a campsite for the night. The Myagdi Valley’s north-to-south orientation causes frequent afternoon rain as clouds rise over Dhaulagiri, but skies usually clear by evening. This pattern makes the forests lush, though caution is needed on slippery roots and moss. The area’s vertical forest, misty cloud-forest vibes, and deep silence broken only by the river create a memorable trekking experience.

After breakfast in Dobang, the trail begins with a steep ascent through dense bamboo and rhododendron forest, where damp, shaded paths and mossy stones require careful footing. A newly constructed cantilever bridge crosses the roaring Myagdi Khola to the eastern bank, squeezed between towering rock walls with the constant sound of rushing water. The trail then climbs through gradually opening forest to reach Chartare (2,820 m), a small clearing and common rest spot where glimpses of the massive Dhaulagiri ice walls begin to appear. Continuing onward, the day concludes at Sallaghari (3,110 m), or Pine Forest, a level clearing surrounded by towering pines, offering a peaceful, atmospheric campsite. This section marks the alpine shift as the trail crosses 3,000 m, with thinner air, colder temperatures, and the lush jungle giving way to crisp, pine-scented forests. Early March conditions can leave shaded areas muddy or icy, so trekking poles are recommended. Wildlife highlights include Himalayan Tahr on the cliffs and the colorful Danphe, Nepal’s national bird, while the surrounding landscape is lush with ferns, bamboo, and rhododendrons, making for a truly captivating trek.

After breakfast in Sallaghari, the day begins with a steady climb through the last of the ancient pine, rhododendron, and silver birch forests, where well-defined trails can be slippery from morning frost. As we gain elevation, the tree line diminishes, giving way to high-altitude meadows dotted with heather, juniper, and azaleas, and revealing dramatic views of the West Face of Dhaulagiri I. The trail then becomes rugged and moraine-like, crossing rocky debris and small streams that may still be frozen, while passing under massive rock walls where the distant crack of moving ice on glaciers can be heard. Continuing along the lateral moraine, we arrive at the Italian Base Camp (3,660 m), a stunning natural amphitheater with the massive Dhaulagiri massif in front and the rock walls of Dhaulagiri II, III, and V to the right, with Tsaurabong Peak visible across the valley. Highlights include the Wall of Ice, where Dhaulagiri’s West Face rises nearly 4,000 meters above, and the occasional sight and sound of small avalanches tumbling down distant slopes, a powerful reminder of the mountain environment. Trekkers will spend the night camping in this breathtaking and serene high-altitude setting.

After a late breakfast to give your body extra rest for recovery and red-blood-cell production, the day begins with an acclimatization hike along the ridgeline north-northwest of Italian Base Camp, aiming to climb up to 300 m above camp to roughly 3,900 m. This provides a prime vantage point to view the Dhaulagiri icefall and the Swiss Entrance to the glacier that will be navigated the next day. After spending at least 30 minutes at the highest point, you descend back to camp, following the classic mountaineering principle: Climb High, Sleep Low. The afternoon is dedicated to lunch and gear maintenance, including drying out sleeping bags and checking crampons or micro-spikes in preparation for the glacier crossing. Hydration is crucial at this altitude, so sip warm fluids such as ginger tea, and if available, monitor your oxygen saturation—readings in the 80s are normal for most trekkers. You also have the opportunity to explore the surroundings near the Italian Base Camp or simply relax at the campsite. This day is essential for proper acclimatization before continuing to the main Dhaulagiri Base Camp at higher altitudes, ensuring health and safety as the ascent continues. The night is spent camping at Italian Base Camp to make the most of this critical acclimatization day.

After breakfast at Italian Base Camp, the day begins with a descent from the IBC ridge into the narrow gorge between the Dhaulagiri massif and the western rock walls, leading to the critical Swiss Entrance of the Chhonbarban Glacier. This section is dynamic, changing each year as the glacier shifts, and may require fixed ropes or assistance from guides to navigate steep, icy moraine walls. Trekkers then traverse a mixture of ice and loose rock, alternating between climbing rocky piles and descending onto flat ice sections. Caution is essential in the rockfall zone just after leaving IBC, where warming cliffs can dislodge small rocks—helmets and quick passage are advised. The glacier may groan or crack beneath you, a normal reminder of the moving ice. The day concludes at Glacier Camp, positioned between Italian Base Camp and the main Dhaulagiri Base Camp, rather than continuing directly to Japanese Base Camp. Using fixed ropes, we descend the lateral moraine to access the glacier, follow its left side through the narrow Chhonbarden gorge, and reach the glacier snout before finding leveled ledges for our tents. Surrounded by towering 7,000 m and 8,000 m peaks and breathtaking scenery, we will spend the night camping at Glacier Camp, taking in the dramatic vistas of Dhaulagiri I’s North Face and the Chhonbarden icefall.

After breakfast at Japanese Base Camp, the trek enters the central Chhonbarban Glacier, walking directly on a massive river of ice covered in rock and grit. Navigating the lateral moraine involves constant micro-climbs and descents over loose scree, requiring careful footing as seemingly solid rocks may shift under your weight, with Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m) towering to the left. Ascending onto the upper glacier, the rock cover thins and exposed blue ice appears, often hard and slick in March, making micro-spikes essential. Following the rugged glacier moraine, the trail leads to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740 m), a cold, rocky plateau offering a 360-degree panorama: Dhaulagiri I to the south, the massive icefall to the west, Tukuche Peak to the north, and Dhaulagiri II (7,751 m) and IV (7,618 m) to the west. From here, trekkers can observe the start of the climbing route through the icefall, and during the climbing season, expeditions may be camped along the moraine strip. The grandeur of the peaks and the sense of adventure make Dhaulagiri Base Camp an unforgettable location to spend the night camping.

An early pre-dawn departure from Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,740 m) is essential, as weather on the pass typically deteriorates by noon with high winds and clouds. After a hot breakfast, the trek begins along the moraine, crossing to the left-hand side of the Upper Chonbarden Glacier and following a steep trail across screes and talus to a high lateral moraine ridge, offering stunning views of Dhaulagiri I and Tukuche Peak. From a large cairn on the ridge, the final ascent to French Pass (5,360 m) begins along gently angled snow slopes, marked with Buddhist prayer flags, providing breathtaking panoramas of Dhaulagiri I, Sita Chuchura, Mukut Himal, Tashi Kang, and Tukuche Peak. The descent into Hidden Valley (5,050 m) follows moderate snow slopes into a sparse, rain-shadowed landscape of moss and grass, leading to a wide flat basin near the river at the base of Dhampus Peak, where we set up camp. Key hazards include freezing winds that can drop temperatures to -20°C, deep snow requiring post-holing, and the risk of altitude sickness above 5,000 m, making careful monitoring for headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath essential. This day combines technical glacier navigation, high-altitude exposure, and some of the most dramatic Himalayan scenery on the trek.

After breakfast in Hidden Valley (5,050 m), the trek begins once the sun warms the valley floor, starting with a gradual, steady incline across the wide, lunar-like plains. The route leads to Thapa Pass (5,244 m), a broad high-altitude saddle offering dramatic perspectives: behind you rises the Dhaulagiri massif, while ahead the deep canyon of the Kali Gandaki opens to the Annapurna range and Nilgiri peaks on the eastern horizon. From the pass, the trail contours around the slopes of Thapa Peak to reach Thapa Peak Base Camp (5,150–5,200 m), typically located in a sheltered area near the pass or on rocky slopes just below the standard climbing route. The afternoon is spent setting up camp, performing a final gear check, and staying hydrated in preparation for a potential summit attempt the next day. Thapa Pass offers the remarkable Two-Range view, uniquely positioned between two 8,000 m massifs: the Dhaulagiri range to the west and the Annapurna range to the east.

After breaking camp at Thapa Peak Base Camp, the trek begins by contouring back toward the Dhampus (Thapa) Pass area before starting the long descent into the Kali Gandaki Valley. The initial section crosses very steep scree slopes, which in March may be coated with frozen-then-thawed snow, making them extremely slippery—trekking poles are essential to protect knees and maintain balance. As you descend the ridgeline, the high vantage point offers breathtaking bird's-eye views of the world’s deepest gorge, with tiny clusters of houses marking Marpha and Jomsom far below and the imposing Annapurna massif across the valley. Arrival at Yak Kharka (3,900 m), a high-altitude summer pasture, provides a welcome change from the desolate rock and ice, with hardy alpine grass, shrubs, and a few stone shelters used by herders. Dropping 4,000 m below, trekkers often feel a surge of energy and a return of appetite as altitude effects fade. Be prepared for the notorious valley winds, which typically rise from the south around noon and can gust strongly, requiring caution on narrow ridge sections.

After breakfast in Yak Kharka, the morning begins with a descent through dry, scrubby terrain. As you descend, the majestic peaks of Nilgiri and Annapurna I grow more imposing across the valley. Most trekkers make a stop in Marpha (2,670 m), which is arguably the region's most beautiful village. It is famous for its whitewashed stone houses, narrow paved alleys, and thriving apple industry, making it the perfect spot for a celebratory lunch of local apple pie, brandy, or cider to mark the completion of the Dhaulagiri Circuit. From Marpha, the trail leads to the wide, flat floor of the Kali Gandaki valley, known for its strong, north-blowing afternoon winds. It is advisable to carry a buff or mask and sunglasses to protect against dust and debris. The trek concludes in Jomsom (2,720 m), the administrative capital of Mustang. After the remote high-altitude villages, Jomsom feels like a small metropolis, complete with paved roads, lodges offering hot showers, Wi-Fi, and authentic Thakali cuisine, including Dal Bhat with buckwheat and spicy local chutneys. While much of the traditional path between Marpha and Jomsom has been replaced by a dirt road, guides often find alternative riverside routes to avoid passing jeeps and enjoy a quieter walk. Upon arriving in Jomsom, we stay at a prime location opposite the airport, where trekkers can refresh with hot showers, explore the town, and catch up on emails.

Early morning departures between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM offer the best chance for clear skies on the 15–20-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, flying through the world’s deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki, between the 8,000-meter peaks of Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri. A left-side seat gives the best views of the Annapurna Massif, while flights are weather-dependent, with a 4WD Jeep transfer as a backup in case of delays. Upon arrival at Pokhara Domestic Airport, the dry, cold air of Mustang gives way to the warm, subtropical breeze of the valley. A short 5–10-minute drive or hotel-arranged shuttle brings trekkers to Lakeside Pokhara, where they can relax, explore the scenic area, and enjoy attractions. Pokhara has many interesting places to visit, such as:

• Mahendra Cave: Perched on a hilltop overlooking Pokhara, this cave is renowned for its stunning vistas and features Hindu and Buddhist shrines that attract numerous tourists.
• David's Fall: Located approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Pokhara, this waterfall is a popular destination for swimming and picnicking.
• Phewa Lake: As the largest lake in Pokhara, Phewa Lake is a favored spot for activities such as boating, fishing, and bird-watching.
• Begnas Lake: Situated around 15 kilometers (9 miles) from Pokhara, Begnas Lake is another popular location for boating, fishing, and bird-watching.
• Tal Barahi Temple: Positioned on an island in Phewa Lake, this temple is a well-known pilgrimage site and an attraction for tourists.
• International Mountain Museum: Situated in Pokhara, this museum provides exhibits on the history of mountaineering and the people of the Himalayas.

After breakfast in Pokhara, drive to Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital and cultural center. This overland journey follows the Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers, passing through important locations such as Dumre, the gateway to the hilltop town of Bandipur; Mugling, a major highway junction and popular stop for traditional Nepali Dal Bhat; and Kurintar, the base station for the Manakamana Cable Car and a hub for Trisuli River rafting. Following Galchhi, the road ascends toward the Kathmandu Valley, with the Nagdhunga-Sisne Khola Tunnel significantly shortening travel time. Take in panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley before driving to your hotel in Kathmandu or Thamel, where traffic may affect arrival time.

Today we have free time to explore Kathmandu on our own. You could spend the day shopping for souvenirs, exploring the colorful streets and bazaars, or sampling the local cuisine. You could also go to some of the city's popular tourist attractions, such as Bhaktapur and Patan, which highlight Nepal's rich cultural and historical heritage. You could also participate in other activities such as hiking, biking, or adventure sports, or simply relax and rejuvenate at one of the city's many spas and wellness centers. Whatever you decide, make sure to take in the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of this wonderful city.

Today, we will transfer to Kathmandu International Airport to depart. After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will collect our belongings and head to the airport. We will arrive at the airport on time to complete all of the necessary formalities and board our flight. Before we leave this enchanting country, take one last look at the breathtaking Himalayan views and appreciate the Nepalese people's warm hospitality and kindness. This concludes our tour, and we hope you had a memorable and enjoyable experience in Nepal.