New Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Trekking Route Introduced to Offer Off-Road Adventure in Nepal

Published on December 9, 2025

In response to growing concerns about the overcrowding and inconvenience of the traditional Annapurna Circuit, a new alternative trekking route has been introduced, providing trekkers with a refreshing off-road experience. The newly promoted Dhaulagiri-Annapurna Trail in Nepal connects the districts of Myagdi, Kaski, and Parbat, promising a pristine journey through some of the region’s most beautiful and untouched landscapes. The new route is not only a solution for trekkers looking to escape the crowded, developed parts of the Annapurna Circuit, but it also provides an opportunity to experience the authenticity of rural Nepal while surrounded by the towering beauty of the Himalayas.

The Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Trail: A Pristine Journey

This newly introduced trail connects the popular tourist destinations of Ghandruk, Landruk, Mohare Danda, Punhill, Ghodepani, Swant, Khopra, Khair Barahi Lake, Baili, and Mulde Viewpoint. It ultimately leads to Ghampus via Ulleri in Kaski, providing trekkers with a completely different experience from the well-trodden Annapurna Circuit. The route offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local hospitality that remains largely untouched by the growing development of infrastructure in the region.

Unlike the traditional Bhurung–Tatopani–Ghodepani–Ulleri–Birethanti–Nayapul section of the Annapurna Circuit, which has become more accessible due to roads encroaching on the trail, the Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Trail remains an off-road path that showcases the rugged terrain, natural beauty, and remote rural communities of Nepal. The area is still relatively underdeveloped, ensuring an authentic trekking experience.

Trekkers embarking on this route can expect to complete the trail in approximately 10 to 15 days, depending on their pace and the number of stops they choose to make. This gives ample time for adventurers to fully immerse themselves in the natural and cultural wonders of the region.

Unspoiled Views and Untouched Landscapes

One of the most appealing aspects of the Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Trail is its untouched natural beauty. The route winds its way through dense forests, offering trekkers a chance to experience Himalayan landscapes from a perspective that is free from the distraction of roadways. Visitors can enjoy spectacular sunrise views, dense woods, and diverse wildlife that thrive in the area.

The trail passes through a variety of terrains, from lush forests to rugged mountainsides, offering stunning views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. The forests along the trail are rich with flora and fauna, including a variety of bird species, making the journey a true adventure for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Trekkers also benefit from the serene and peaceful environment of the region, which stands in stark contrast to the more crowded, tourist-heavy areas of Nepal. This solitude has become one of the key reasons why this new trail has attracted growing numbers of visitors.

A New Destination for Eco-Tourism and Adventure Seekers

The introduction of the Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Trail has been met with enthusiasm by both trekkers and local communities. The trail offers a dual opportunity for ecotourism and cultural tourism. As a hiking route, it introduces trekkers to the rural way of life in villages like Swant and Baili, where modern conveniences are scarce, and traditional lifestyles remain largely unchanged. Visitors are invited to experience local hospitality and interact with the people who call this breathtaking region home.

The key stop on the trail is the tranquil Khopra Lake, which sits at an altitude of 3,600 metres. Known for its clear waters and incredible views of the surrounding peaks, Khopra Lake has quickly become one of the trail’s main attractions. The lake’s serene environment provides the perfect spot for trekkers to rest and take in the beauty of their surroundings.

Hotels, lodges, and camping options are available throughout the route, and many visitors choose to spend their nights either camping or staying in the local lodges. The area around Swant, located at 2,300 metres, has developed as a popular rest stop for trekkers, who enjoy a warm meal and comfortable accommodations before continuing on their journey. Local hotel owners, like those in Baili, are already benefiting from the influx of trekkers who are seeking both camping and lodge-based accommodation options.

Impact on Local Communities and Development Plans

The creation of the Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Trail is not only an exciting prospect for trekkers but also a boon for the local communities in the Myagdi, Kaski, and Parbat districts. The influx of trekkers has already led to positive economic changes. Many local residents, especially those who had moved to urban areas in search of work, have returned to the villages to open hotels, restaurants, and other tourist facilities. This influx of tourists is providing new employment opportunities and boosting the local economy.

The trail has also encouraged the development of local infrastructure, with efforts underway to improve foot trails, expand lodge capacity, and promote the new destinations along the route. The communities are working closely with tourism entrepreneurs to make the trail more accessible and comfortable for trekkers, ensuring a long-term sustainable tourism model that benefits both visitors and locals.

The Future of the Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Trail

As the popularity of the Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Trail continues to grow, efforts are being made to improve the overall trekking experience. According to local tourism entrepreneurs, the new trail is already attracting around 100 trekkers per day, with numbers expected to rise as more people hear about the pristine beauty and adventure that awaits them.

Local officials, including Rajesh Tilija Pun, the chair of Annapurna Rural Municipality-5, have emphasized the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the region while ensuring that the communities benefit from the tourism boom. They are working on expanding the capacity of community lodges, upgrading foot trails, and further developing new tourist destinations along the route.

The addition of this new trail provides a much-needed alternative for trekkers who are looking to experience Nepal’s natural beauty in a more intimate and less crowded setting. By balancing tourism with sustainable development, the Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Trail promises to become a major trekking destination for years to come.

Conclusion

The newly opened Dhaulagiri-Annapurna Trail provides trekkers with a unique opportunity to experience the best of Nepal’s rural landscapes, from dense forests to breathtaking mountain views. With its pristine surroundings, quiet paths, and opportunities to learn about local culture, the trail has quickly become a favourite among eco-tourists and adventure seekers. As it grows in popularity, the route promises to preserve Nepal’s natural beauty while also empowering local communities through tourism.