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Dhaulagiri Expedition - 55 Days

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Duration: 55 Days
  • Trip Grade: Technical Challenging
  • Min person: 2
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About Trip:

Dhaulagiri (26,795 ft, 8167 m) is the seventh highest peak in the world, and one of only fourteen soaring over 8000 m. The technically challenging peak lies in central Nepal and west of the Annapurna I across the Kali Gandaki River, making the Kali Gandaki valley the deepest gorge on the planet. Dhaulagiri was first scaled by a Swiss-Austrianorganized expedition in 1960. As one of only fourteen summits over 8000 m, and considered one of the most difficult,it is infrequently attempted relative to the other 8000 m peaks .Ahighly regarded climb for worldwide mountaineers, Himalaya Hikes is here to assist you in making your climbing objectives on Dhaulagiri come true safely and successfully.

The exhilarating accomplishment of climbing Dhaulagirican be shared by friends and family, and especially will be honored by the climbing community. Wefavor the original north-east ridge route that has less avalanche risk and is technically less challenging than the other routes. Our Dhaulagiri expedition operates in both Spring and Autumn seasons, and generally Autumn is considered the best season for Dhaulagiri.

One of the highlights of the journey is the trek to basecamp through captivating villages passed along the way with people following an ageless way of life. This magnificent route sees far fewer visitors than other more popular trails of Nepal. Few trekkers make this challenging journey, full of adventure and off the beaten path, surrounded natural beauty. The route begins by following the newly established Guerrilla Trek, used by rebels in Nepal’s 10-year revolution. It travels along scenic rivers and tumbling waterfalls, and terraced fields surrounding picturesque villages with people following a rural lifestyle.

As challenging as climbing Dhaulagiri can be, you can leave theplanning and all logistical concerns to us, allowing you to focus on reachingthe goal of a lifetime. We will support you in all ways and each member will be joined every step of the way by ourseasoned team led by Nuru WanchukSherpa,13 times Everest summitter and  a veteran of countless expeditions on peaks over 8,000 m! He is one of the foremost authorities in the world on Himalayan peaks, and the success rate of these expeditions has been an unparalleled 100% including nearly 90% of members summiting. With Nuru, you are in expert, caring hands, and you can be assured that he has covered every measure to protect your well-being and to give you the best chance of Dhaulagiri success.

Nuru oversees our knowledgeable crew of Sherpa specialists will be with you on the climb. Our exceptional team of guides has the skills and experience that can only be gained by living and working in the high Himalaya, a mountaineer’s paradise. With Nuru and our expert crew, you can be confident of your health and welfare on Dhaulagiri!
The expedition itinerary isdesignedfrom experience, planned with careful attention by Nuru and professional climbers to safeguard a gradual rate of ascent with proper adjustment to altitude and environmental conditions.

After arriving in Kathmandu and meeting the team and other participants, we will complete pre-expedition briefings, equipment checks and other final preparations before taking a drive in our personal vehicle to the start point, northwest of Pokhara. We then begin our thrilling trek to Base Camp where we meet up with the remainder of our crew. At Base Camp they will have established a comfortable camp and will be awaiting us. From there we begin a gradual journey upward to one of the highest points on the planet allowing for proper rest and rejuvenation along the way.

Base Camp lies at 4600 m (15,090ft). Camp 1is 5850m (19,195ft), Camp 2 is 6400 m (21,000 ft), Camp 3is7400m (24,280ft)
Season The favored season to attempt Dhaulagiri begins in late April when the pre-monsoon weather is generally favourable or September when the weather is relatively more reliable.

Porters: The expedition will have portersto carry supplies, a dining tent, sleeping tent and more for your comfort.

Base Camp Accommodation: Each individual client will be provided a personal two-man, high-performance tent at Base Camp. From Camp 2 and higher, it will be necessary to share tents.

Meals: We consider delicious and nutritious food and beverages to be a key component to the overall success of all of our expeditions. We charter the food in and take the utmost care in quality preparation. Our skilled High Altitude Chef will be with us for all meals at Base Camp and up to Camp 1. From the Camp 2 onwards the climbing Sherpa will take care of all meals.

Oxygen Cylinders: Each client is provided seven oxygen cylinders, reservedin their name for personal use on the climb. These will be guaranteed to have original seals (not refilled cylinders) manufactured by Topout, UK.

We are well-known for our dedication to the highest standards of professionalism and responsible tourism and we look forward to you joining us for the climb of a lifetime! All accommodations in Kathmandu are at 5-Star hotels.

Outline itinerary

Day 1:Arrive Kathmandu (1350 meters/4450 ft) at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA)

Day 02-03:Kathmandu Valley

Day 4:Drive to Pokhara

Day 5:Drive to Darbang (1,100 m/3610 ft)

Day 6:Trek to Muri (1860 m/6195 ft)

Day 7:Trek to Baghara (2040 m/6845 ft)

Day 8:Trek to Dobang (2535 m/8425 ft)

Day 9:Trek to Italian Base Camp (3655 m/12,185 ft)

Day 10:Rest and Exploration Day

Day 11:Trek to Glacier Camp (4215 m/14,045 ft)

Day 12:Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4740 m/15,800 ft)

Day 13-14:Rest and Acclimatization day at Base Camp

Day 49:Base Camp

Day 50:Trek to Hidden Valley (5115 m/17,045 ft) via French Col/Pass (5360 m/17,870 ft)

Day 51:Trek to Yak Kharka (3680 m/12,270 ft) via Dhampus Pass (5,240 m/17,464 ft)

Day 52:Trek via Marpha to Jomsom (2715 m/8900 ft)

Day 53:Early morning flight to Pokhara and flight back to Kathmandu.

Day 54:Kathmandu

Day 55:Transfer to Kathmandu’s international airport (TIA) for departure home

Cost Includes:

    Full Board Service Cost Includes: 

    • All arrival and departure transfer services to and from international airport with other necessary surface transportation as per itinerary. 

    • Assistance at the international airport by our  representative on arrival and departure.

    • 5 night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per itinerary. 

    • Truck for expedition equipment from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu and private jeep transportation for climbing members.

    • 1:1 Climbing Sherpa guide each member and leaders will be included. 

    • All camping equipment in Base camp and Advance Base Camp;

    • Food during expedition period for expedition members and staff;

    •  Permit for expedition crew;

    • Expedition Permit to climbing Dhaulagiri;

    • Permanent kitchen facilities at advance base camp. 

    • All staff during Expedition period with experienced guide (Base Camp Manager) as per group size.

    • Surface transportation will be available as per itinerary;

    • Cargo clearance & duties assistance service free;

    • Daily wages, equipment allowance & insurance for expedition staff;

    • Gamow Bag will be available for expedition group;

    • Solar panel for light and batteries charger will be available for expedition members;

    • Quality personal tent at base camp and advance base camp

    • Permanent kitchen and dining facilities at advance base camp

    • Shower facility at base camp and advance base camp

    • All necessary climbing hardware and ropes.

    • Preferable meals at BC, ABC, higher camps, Hot drinks and beverages, freeze dried food during expedition

    • 24 hours hot drinks and beverage during expedition

    • Quality high altitude freeze dried food for Sherpa and staff;

    • 2 Oxygen Bottles with mask and regulators (if requested by client)

    • We provide Sherpa's tents, food for climbing, and insurance.

    • Ice falls charges, all high quality tent for  higher camps 1, 2, 3 •

    • EPI gas and burners  for cooking food above base camp;

    • All wages, equipment, medical and accidental Insurances for cook, climbing Sherap guide and base camp staff.

    • All necessary camping equipment's like camp furniture, kitchenware, dining tents, guest tents, kitchen tent, shower, toilet tents etc. 

    • Per person 50kg baggage allowance during trekking-up and down 

    • Truck will be provided for loads transporation until base camp; 

    • Required experienced, trained and Government Licensed climbing guide(s) during climbing period per person as per requirements.

    • First Aid medical kits for the group and the staff.

    • Satellite phone carrying by guide for communication and available for members with the cost of US$ 3 per minute call. 

    • Appropriate food for high altitude and all climbing crew at base camp and above as required. 

    • Emergency oxygen and mask regulator.

    • All necessary paper works, office Service charge and Government Taxes levied in Nepal 

    • Complete pre-departure information, flight ticket reconfirmation and visa extension procedure services (if necessary) 

    • Farewell dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant with domestic culture show in Kathmandu before departure. 

    • Our  Special Gifts (T-shirt)

    • Our service charges

Cost Excludes:

    Full board service Cost Exclude:

    • Lunch and Dinner during your stay in Kathmandu (except for the farewell dinner)

    • Any packed food/snacks, aerated drinks, energy drinks, mineral water, alcohol, cigarettes, chocolates, nutria-bars during the trekking.

    • Items of personal nature, Laundry Expenses, Tips.

    • Any extra expenses arising out of various/unforeseen situations like natural calamities, landslides, political disturbances, strikes, changes in Government regulations, etc.

    • Extra transportation then display in itinerary program.

    • Any additional staff other than specified.

    • Rescue, Repatriation, Medicines, Medical Tests and Hospitalization expenses.

    • Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation if required.

    • Travel Insurance and helicopter rescue.

    • Wallie-talkies & Filming permit (if special camera or walkies-talkies).

    • Personal climbing gears;

    • Expenses incurred towards usage of landlines, mobiles, walkies-talkies or satellite phone And Internet expenses

    • Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Camera/Video Fees or Trekking Gears

    • Nepal custom duty for import of expedition goods.

    • Summit bonus for climbing Sherpa Guides as per Mountaineering Association rules. Minimum US$ 1000.00 per climbing Sherpa guide.

    • Tips and gifts for base camp and high altitude trekking and climbing staff.

    • Airfare of international flights.

    • Nepal entry visa fee (Visa issuance on arrival in Kathmandu)

    • Any extra services or products or offers or activities which are not mentioned in the itinerary.

    • Any other item not included in “COST INCLUDES” section.

Detail Itinerary

Day 1Arrive Kathmandu (1350 meters/4450 ft) at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA)Welcome to Kathmandu, where the gods and mortals intermingle. Our representative meets you at the airport and will usher you to the hotel. The first evening is free to do as you like, perhaps refresh and then explore or rest and relax at the hotel. (B,L,D)

Day 02-03Kathmandu ValleyThese days we will get to know the other participants and crew, with briefings by our Lead and Assistant Guides and gear and equipment checks and final formalities.

Day 4Drive to PokharaAfter having breakfast, we transfer to the Domestic Airport for a short and scenic flight to the lakeside city of Pokhara or a 6-7 hour ride in a Tour Bus as to your preference. We will have a chance to explore some of Pokhara’s attractions and highlights.(B,L,D)

Day 5Drive to Darbang (1,100 m/3610 ft)The drive from Pokhara to Beni is scenic and pleasant but becomes a rough dirt track from Beni up to Darbang above the Myagdi River.(B,L,D)

Day 6Trek to Muri (1860 m/6195 ft)We cross the Myagdi River and continues up the valley on a pleasant trail before a steep climb with to the charming village of Dharapani. The route continues to remote Muri village, populated by Magar people. The panorama from this serene village is unforgettable. Overnight at Tented camp.(B,L,D)

Day 7Trek to Baghara (2040 m/6845 ft)The route climbs up through more terraced fields, crossing streams and we traverse Ghorban Dhara, a pass with a scenic view of Ghustung Peak (6465m) and much more. The route continues steeply through fertile landscape and the narrow canyon up to a forested ridge where we make our tranquil camp. (B,L,D)

Day 8Trek to Dobang (2535 m/8425 ft)As we leave the villages behind, we have a challenging day of ups and downs and continue over rugged landscape. We gain elevation as we make our way to our pleasant camp at Dobang. (B,L,D)

Day 9Trek to Italian Base Camp (3655 m/12,185 ft)We have a long day today as we climb through pine, rhododendron, birch, bamboo and juniper forests into ever more remote terrain. The route ascends to an open meadow known as Italian Base Camp where we have breathtaking views of the west aspect of Dhaulagiri and more!(B,L,D)

Day 10Rest and Exploration DayToday is a rest day as we allow our bodies to acclimatize before climbing higher. We take the chance to hike around the enchanting area around the camp site or relax and soak it all in from the camp itself. (B,L,D)

Day 11Trek to Glacier Camp (4215 m/14,045 ft)Today we have a relatively short day with a bit of adventure! The route begins with a descent to a glacier and it gets a bit technical and fixed ropes are employed, especially for the porters. We then ascend along the glacier up to our mesmerizing camp on the glacier itself. (B,L,D)

Day 12Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4740 m/15,800 ft)The route begins with another challenging section and then the path is more level as we take a steady ascent with continuous views upto Dhaulagiri Base Camp. The astonishing panorama includes our objective, Dhaulgiri and Tukche peaks and much more, including the spectacular ice fall! (B,L,D)

Day 13-14Rest and Acclimatization day at Base CampWe take the essential time for rest and acclimatization and preparing gear with optional hikes to surrounding viewpoints before moving on higher to ground.

Day 49Base Camp

Day 50Trek to Hidden Valley (5115 m/17,045 ft) via French Col/Pass (5360 m/17,870 ft)After a warm drink to start the morning, we say final goodbye to our home for the past month.Today will be a bit technical as we use ropes to make our way through a rugged section and up and over the moraine wall. The trail is then more pleasant as we ascend to the pass with a broad panorama of the astonishing Himalayan landscape. The Hidden Valley to the north receives less rainfall and is drier than the area to the south of the pass. We drop down to our camp near the riverbank.(B,L,D)

Day 51Trek to Yak Kharka (3680 m/12,270 ft) via Dhampus Pass (5,240 m/17,464 ft)We have a long day with an ascent from the remote valley over another pass and into the massive Kali Gandaki Valley. The challenging day calls for an early start and we will have a well-earned evening of rest at Yak Kharka. (B,L,D)

Day 52Trek via Marpha to Jomsom (2715 m/8900 ft)The trail descends down into the wide valley to the charming village of Marpha. At this point our journey meets up with the Annapurna Circuit. Marpha has a Buddhist Gompa to explore and is and surrounded by groves of fruit trees.We can sample the locally made fruit juice and brandy before making our way to Jomsom, headquarters of Mustang District and location of an airport.

Day 53Early morning flight to Pokhara and flight back to Kathmandu.The morning flight to Pokhara passes through the Kali Gandaki Valley .We then connect with a flight back to the ancient city of Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free to explore as you wish and perhaps shop for souvenirs and keepsakes to bring home with you.

Day 54KathmanduFree day in Kathmandu. The evening isreserved for a special celebratory farewell meal at a fine dining establishment.(B,L,D)

Day 55Transfer to Kathmandu’s international airport (TIA) for departure homeOur team representative will transfer you to the airport to see you off on your departure home. On your flight homeward, we hope you will remember this adventure of a lifetimeand your experience in the mountains with us with great pleasure. We look forward to seeing you on your next journey to the Himalaya!

Equipments List

Personal Climbing Gears:

  • Ice axe
  • Crampons
  • Harness
  • Screw gate Karabiners (2 lock, 4 unlock)
  • Descender
  • Plastic Mountaineering Boots
  • Ascender (mitten sized)
  • Helmet ( Optional)
  • Mittens (gloves)
  • 5 meters/15 feet of 6 mm climber’s cord

Clothings

  • Hiking boots
  • Socks
  • Trekking trousers and pants
  • Expedition weight thermal
  • Under Garments
  • Hiking shorts 
  • Running shoe/sandals for Kathmandu
  • T-shirts
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Waterproof jacket/trouser (breathable)
  • Goose –down (duvet ) trousers
  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Warm hat
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Thermal gloves
  • Thermo rest
  • Headlamp or head torch with spare bulbs and batteries
  • Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches)
  • Trekking Poles
  • Basic First Aid Kit
  • Water bottles ( 3 bottles)
  • Toiletries (Small wash towel, Toothbrush/paste etc)
  • Ear Plug (who know some people on group may snore)
  • Deodorants
  • Suns cream for lip/skin
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Tissue  roll
  • Anti bacterial hands wash
  • Reading book & note book
  • Extra clothes to wear in Kathmandu come back from Trek

The gears in the list below are also provided by Himalaya Hikes as a part of your package but if you prefer to use your own private piece, we encourage you to bring your own.

  • Down vest and/or jacket
  • 4 or 5 season sleeping bag rated to - 20 degrees
  • Trekking Bags/Duffel bag
  • Carry mat

Group climbing gears

  • Snow bar
  • Fix rope
  • Climbing rope
  • Ice Hammer
  • Ice Screw
  • Karabiners

Note: Available to hire/rental through HH
Others :

  • Digital camera with extra cards
  • Nylon stuff sacks for food and gear storage
  • Passport,2 extra passport size photos
  • Photocopy of passport and insurance

Trip Note

The above itinerary should be taken only as a guide line; since we will be trekking on some of the most remote terrain on earth, it could change due to weather, availability of clean water and campsite, trail or any other unforeseen conditions. In the event of this happening, your senior guide will make the final decision after consulting with the group.

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