Dhaulagiri Empire Trekking (DHA EMP 18)

An exceptional trekking region of western Nepal.
Separated from the Annapurna region by the Kali Gandaki the Dhaulagiri massif includes more than 30 peaks over 6000 meters, eight of these surpassing 8000 meters. The area around Tansen is home to the Magar people and capital of the independent kingdoms to become part of Nepal.

From Dhorepatan the panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges is exceptional and this remote area is home to communities of Tibetan refugees who search the area for minerals and medicinal plants.

Where are you going?

Days 1-2 : Flying into Kathmandu is an unforgettable experience with the Himalaya spread out before you. You will be met at the airport on arrival and transferred to your hotel. In the morning of day 2 a half-day city tour will introduce you to some of the highlights of Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Drive from Kathmandu to Tansen, an attractive hill town with a bazaar frequented by hill peoples.

Days 4-6 : After driving to Tamghas begin trekking. The trail leads through terraced fields and forests; hill country with some beautiful valleys inhabited by Kham Magar, one of Nepal's most delightful ethnic groups.

Days 7-9 : The broad Dhorpatan Valley has vistas as wide as the American west. Its population is a mixture of Nepali and Tibetan, refugees who settled here in the 60s and the small Bon monastery is worth a visit. Ascend toward the pass through forests of blue pine and black juniper.

Day 10 : From the wide, open plateau of the Jalja Pass the views are of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre and the remote peaks of Nepal's western Himalaya.

Days 11-15 : Descending from the pass the woods are dotted with herders' huts and the trails frequently traveled by mule and pony trains. Follow the Myagdi Khorla through rhododendron forests and terraced hillsides to Baglung, a small town pleasantly situated above the river.

Day 16 : Drive to Pokhara.

Day 17 : Drive to Kathmandu, or you may choose to fly. USD71 one-way.

Day 18 : Depart