Muri is a village at about 1,800 m on the lower Dhaulagiri Circuit, between Dharapani and Boghara. This page covers the trekking village in the Myagdi valley only. The day to Muri is often called the hardest of the lower valley because of steep terraces.
Altitude: about 1,800 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Muri is and why trekkers stop
Muri sits on the hillside above the river on the lower valley trail. From Beni the route goes through Babiyachaur and Dharapani, at about 1,400 m, then climbs to Muri, with Boghara at about 2,080 m and Dobang at about 2,520 m following.
Trekkers stop here because the effort of the approach is real. Dharapani to Muri is a solid day of climbing, and the village offers a place to recover before the forest sections further up.
What to expect at Muri
Expect a hillside village of stone and wood houses, terraced fields and views down the valley. The climb out of the lower valley is steep and repetitive, with many steps and switchbacks, and it can feel hotter and harder than the altitude suggests.
Timings vary with pace, weather and trail conditions, so start early and carry enough water. Muri is a good place to take stock of your fitness, since the toughest days of the circuit still lie ahead in the glacier approach, French Pass and the descent from Hidden Valley.
Altitude and how you may feel
At about 1,800 m the altitude is low, and altitude sickness is not normally an issue. Most trekkers who struggle here are tired from the steep terraces, heat and long steps rather than lack of oxygen.
Drink regularly, eat well and rest properly. The lessons you learn here, such as pacing and hydration, will matter higher up. Altitude illness can strike on the upper sections of the circuit, and descending is the right response if symptoms worsen at any stage.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodging is simple, with basic rooms or camping arranged by your operator, and meals such as dal bhat, vegetables and tea. Bring cash, a sleeping bag, sun protection and spare socks, as the day to Muri is sweaty and the evening can cool quickly.
Because Muri is not a large settlement, supplies are limited. Keep the stage in mind when you plan your packing: poles help on the steps, and a good pair of broken-in boots matters more than gadgets. A licensed guide is advised for the whole Dhaulagiri Circuit.
Common questions
Why is the day to Muri considered hard?
The day to Muri is often called the hardest of the lower valley because of the steep terraces and repeated climbs. It is demanding mostly because of heat and effort, not because of altitude.
How high is Muri on the Dhaulagiri Circuit?
Muri is about 1,800 m, between Dharapani at about 1,400 m and Boghara at about 2,080 m. It is a low village, so altitude sickness is unlikely at this stage.
Is Muri the same as other places named Muri?
This page is only about Muri, the trekking village in Myagdi district on the lower Dhaulagiri Circuit between Dharapani and Boghara. Other places with similar names are not covered here.
