Dhaulagiri Expedition

Trip code
Package name Dhaulagiri Expedition
Duration 48
Max. elevation 8167 m
Level ADVANCE
Transportation All round trip grounded vehicals
Accomodation 3***Hotel in Kathmandu and Lodge + Camping twin sharing bed basis during the trek and expedition session
Starts at kathmandu
Ends at Kathmandu
Trip route Kathmandu - Pokhara - Beni - Darbang - Boghara - Dovang - Italian Camp - Dhaulagiri Base Camp - Climbing time - Italian Camp - Dovan - Darbang - beni - Pokhara - kathmandu
Cost USD 20,500 per person

Highlights

Overview

Dhaulagiri, the seventh highest mountain in the world, offers a thrilling and challenging expedition for experienced mountaineers. Located in the western part of Nepal, Dhaulagiri stands tall at an elevation of 8,167 meters (26,795 feet) and is known for its rugged beauty and formidable climbing routes. Dhaulagiri Expedition is a remarkable journey that takes climbers into the heart of the Dhaulagiri massif, providing a unique and adventurous experience.

The journey to Dhaulagiri Expedition begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a drive to Darbang, the starting point of the trek. The trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp is a challenging endeavor, involving traversing remote and less-traveled trails. Climbers pass through terraced fields, traditional villages, and lush forests before reaching the rugged alpine landscapes that lead to the base camp.

Reaching Dhaulagiri Base Camp marks the beginning of the expedition. At this point, climbers establish their base camp and make necessary preparations for the ascent. The climbing route to the summit of Dhaulagiri varies depending on the expedition operator and the conditions of the mountain. The ascent involves navigating through steep ice and snow slopes, scaling technical sections, and potentially facing challenging weather conditions.

Dhaulagiri Expedition demands physical strength, endurance, and technical mountaineering skills. The route includes traversing glaciers, negotiating crevasses, and potentially using fixed ropes and ice axes for safety and progress. Climbers should be proficient in self-arrest techniques, roped glacier travel, and other mountaineering skills necessary for high-altitude expeditions.

The ascent to the summit of Dhaulagiri is a remarkable accomplishment. Standing on the summit, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan range, including Annapurna, Manaslu, and other neighboring peaks. The sense of achievement and the awe-inspiring beauty of the mountains make the summit experience truly unforgettable.

Descending from the summit and returning to base camp marks the completion of the Dhaulagiri Expedition. The return journey follows a similar route, allowing climbers to reflect on their achievements and soak in the natural beauty of the region. Celebrations and camaraderie with fellow climbers and support staff make for memorable moments as the expedition concludes.

Dhaulagiri Expedition is a demanding adventure that requires thorough planning, experienced guides, and a high level of physical fitness. Climbers are advised to choose reputable expedition operators with extensive knowledge of the region and a strong safety record. Proper acclimatization, physical fitness training, and comprehensive equipment preparation are crucial for a successful and safe expedition.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel, and trip briefing.

Arrival in Kathmandu 1310 m,  Welcome you to Nepal. After your arrival in the airport, our representative member will accompany and escort you to your hotel over night Hotel with Breakfast.

Day 2 : Obtain necessary permits and arrange logistics for the expedition.

Today, we will spend the day sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley with our guide. We will visit Pashupatinath, which is regarded as the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal and where pilgrims worship Lord Shiva (situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River), Bouddhanath, a Buddhist temple known as ‘Little Tibet’ and then on to Swayambhunath known as the Monkey Temple. From Swayambhunath we drive to Kathmandu’s famous Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, and located in front of the old royal palace. Upon arriving back at your hotel you may have time to do some last-minute shopping around Thamel – the tourist hub of Kathmandu.

Day 3 : drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, transfer to hotel. - 7 hrs

Early morning after breakfast board a bus and drive to Pokhara. It’s a drive of about six hours through lush green forest, meandering road through the hills and graciously flowing rivers. You will cross lively markets and clusters of villages on the road side. Lunch will be taken in one of the road side restaurants on the way to Pokhara. Upon reaching in Pokhara, you will be received and driven to the hotel. Check into the hotel in Pokhara.

Day 4 : Drive from Pokhara to Darbang (1,100 meters/3,608 feet), trek to Dharapani (1,560 meters/5,118 feet).

Leaving darbang, we ascend uphill today passing through the terraced hills and village of Shahashradhaara. We then cross the Dudh Khola and walk through fields arriving at Ratorunga. From here the widened valley begins to narrow and terraces disappear on either side of the river. The trail is fairly moderate and winding path. We continue our walk up to the village of Dharapani for our overnight stay.

Day 5 : Trek from Dharapani to Muri (1,850 meters/6,070 feet). - 6 hrs walk

On the following day, we have a steep ascend up to Muri crossing the river and heading towards north of Phedi. Today’s trek will provide you the opportunity to have a clear magnificent view of Dhaulagiri along with other Mountains. In order to reach the west bank of Myagdi Khola, we have to cross the DharaKhola at first and there will be many switch-backs until you arrive at the ridge and the angle of ascent eases. Continuing our trek, we pass through Sibang and Mattim from where we incline up to the snout of the ridge and then descend to GattiKhola and reach PhalaiGaon (1810 m).  Then climb a ridge to the large Magar village of Muri. You may have reached human habitation but the trail is still grotesque. It continues ascending and descending and crossing steep faces with gay abandon to the hamlet of Naura, half a day down. Slightly beyond is a choice between taking the shortcut across the MyagdiKhola to Malimpaa or Khibang or staying on the west bank for the longer but more scenic route via Muri and the delightfully situated village of Takum. Along this stretch are some shops and simple lodges.


Day 6 : Trek from Muri to Boghara (2,080 meters/6,824 feet).

Leaving behind Muri, we continue our trek to Boghara through Myagdi River via Naura Village. Today for few hours we’ll have an easy trek before making a steep climb to Boghara. We cross a stream and continue through terraced fields before climbing a ridge to reach the pass from where you can see Mt. Ghustung South (6465 m). Descend to the Myagdi Khola and trek along its West Bank to the village of Naura from where you will climb a little before traversing a grassy hill and climb a steep slope with switch-backs and then descend through a forest and terraced fields to Boghara. Although several grazing areas are named on maps the first village is Jeldung, 20 mins above Boghara (which is occasionally called ‘bugger-this!’). Overnight at Boghara.

Day 7 : Trek from Boghara to Dobang (2,520 meters/8,267 feet). - 5 hrs walk

Today the trail might be a bit tricky and might even require rope assistance on the way. Here we need to be careful and watch our steps. The trail continues through a forest to LapcheKharka via Jyardan which is the most remote permanent settlement in this part. Pick up the delightfully small trail that wind through pleasant forest. After the settlement a high winding path crosses a rocky area and then descends before climbing again to Lipshe where there is a single hut. After crossing several streams there is a particularly beautiful forest camp among huge cedar trees. Further down are several bridges to the west bank, one of which you should cross. The roller-coaster trail stays on the west side and crosses several streams on flimsy bridges. The trail continues through a forest to LapcheKharka and then climbs to the level area at Doban. Doban is a small clearing amid the forest, and has two simple teahouses that are often open during the trekking seasons.

Day 8 : Trek from Dobang to Italian Base Camp (3,660 meters/12,008 feet). - 5 hrs walk

Today we’ll walk across some beautiful forests and alongside the spectacular mountain views before reaching to Italian base camp. Passing through beautiful forest we rapidly gain altitude and mountains burst out all around. After a steep descent the trail abruptly falls down dangerous moraine to cross the incoming glacier. Groups have often had to make their own trail down using shovels and setting up a hand line. The trail leads to Chhonbarban Glacier and from the right side of the glacier we will be able to see the view of Dhaulagiri. Tukuche Peak (6837 m) becomes visible straight on; at the far end while the impressive north flank of Dhaulagiri I (8167 m) dominates the skyline to your right. Ascending the moraine on the other side is steep and definitely requires a rope and somebody game enough to climb it first without a rope. The grassy area is called Italy Base Camp. There are simple shelters here open during the season. Here we’ll set our camp just opposite the west wall of Dhaulagiri. To the west are the peaks of Dhaulagiri II (7751m), Dhaulagiri III (7715 m) and Dhaulagiri V (7618 m)

Day 9 : Acclimatization day at Italian Base Camp, explore the surroundings.

Today will be the first day for acclimatization during the trek. It is recommended that your body acclimatizes to the high altitude and be adjusted for higher altitudes in the days to follow. Thus, we will spend a day acclimatizing to the thinning of the air. Taking rest in this day will also help you to prepare for the upcoming trails.

Day 10 : Trek from Italian Base Camp to Glacier Camp (4,230 meters/13,878 feet). - 5 hrs walk

As your trail passes through a narrow gorge, you likely have to experience a stone fall today so we recommend you to set up early in the morning when the weather is expected to be clear. After crossing the first glacier, probably using a rope in a couple of tricky spots, we climb onto the main glacier. The surroundings are spectacular, which makes up for the rough and dangerous trail. After an adventurous walk for about 6 hours, we reach to the main Glacier camp where we will tent for our overnight.

Day 11 : Trek from Glacier Camp to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750 meters/15,584 feet). - 6 hrs walk

Today you will be reaching the main destination of the trek “Dhaulagiri Base Camp”. Today’s walk will be very exciting as well as very difficult for us. You will have an adventurous walk over the smooth white part of the glacier. Steady climb through the rough and chilling part will give you a spectacular view of Dhaulagiri Base Camp. Tukuche Peak (6837 m) becomes visible straight on at the far end while the impressive north flank of Dhaulagiri I (8167 m.) dominates the skyline to your right. To the west are peaks of Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m) and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m). In front of you is the impressive icefall that descends from the north-east col.

Day 12 : Day 12-35: Climbing period - establish and acclimatize at Dhaulagiri Base Camp

This is climbing period. We set up various camps, acclimatize and attempt climbing. Summit the most majestic peak of the Himalayas and then climb down.

Day 36 : Day 36-37: Contingency days for unfavorable weather or unforeseen circumstances during the climbing period.


Day 38 : Descend from Base Camp to Glacier Camp. 4250m - 5 hrs walk


Day 39 : Trek from Glacier Camp to Italian Base Camp. 3660m - 5 hrs walk


Day 40 : Trek from Italian Base Camp to Dobang 2530m - 5 hrs walk


Day 41 : Trek from Dobang to Boghara. 2080m - 6 hrs walk


Day 42 : Trek from Boghara to Muri. 1850m - 6 hrs walk


Day 43 : Trek from Muri to Darbang 1100m - 6 hrs walk


Day 44 : Drive from Darbang to Pokhara, transfer to hotel. 4 hrs drive


Day 45 : Free day in Pokhara for rest, relaxation, and celebration.


Day 46 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, transfer to hotel 7 hrs drive

Today we say goodbye to the Fishtail Mountain which towers over Pokhara and to the wonderful Himalayas mountains that have been our home for the past 2 and half month or so.  Then it’s time to say goodbye to your wonderful staff as the comfortable tourist bus gets you back to Kathmandu in time to head off to a lively restaurant for dinner and perhaps some music. 

Day 47 : Free day in Kathmandu for rest, relaxation, and celebration.


Day 48 : Departure from Kathmandu.


Inclusions

What is included?

What isn't included?

Complimentary