Dhaulagiri Expedition
Photo Credit: “Dhaulagiri” by Daniel Keppler
Expedition Details
Altitude: 8,167m
Location: Nepal (Dhaulagiri)
Estimated Price: $30k
Number of days: ~50
Season: Spring & Autumn
March to May/early June;late September- November
A Dhaulagiri expedition itinerary involves approximately 50 days, starting with arrival in Kathmandu and preparation, followed by a drive to Beni, a week-long trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (via Italian Base Camp), a significant climbing period (around 30 days), a return trek through the Hidden Valley and French Pass, a drive to Pokhara, and finally a flight back to Kathmandu for departure. The climb itself requires technical skills and endurance, ascending to Camp 1, 2, and 3 before the final summit push on the Northeast Ridge.
Itinerary
Days 1-3:
Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Briefings, city tours, and final preparations for the expedition, including equipment checks.
Days 4-11:
Drive from Kathmandu to Beni. Drive or trek from Beni to Darbang, then begin trekking through villages like Muri, Naura, and Bagar. Continue the trek to Italian Base Camp (IBC), followed by Japanese Camp (or Glacier Camp), before reaching Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Days 12-43:
Acclimatization and rest days at Base Camp. Establish camps at higher altitudes, progressing from Camp 1 (around 5,850m) to Camp 2 (around 6,400m) and Camp 3 (around 7,200m). The summit attempt on the Northeast Ridge, culminating in a long ascent to the 8,167m summit. Descent back to Base Camp after the summit.
Days 44-47:
Trek from Base Camp to the Hidden Valley via the French Pass (around 5,360m). Continue trekking to Yak Kharka. Descend to Marpha.
Final Days:
A drive from Marpha to Pokhara.
After arriving in Kathmandu, enjoy a free day for shopping or exploring.
Transfer to the airport for your flight home.