Mt. Dhaulagiri, standing at 8,167 meters, is the fifth-highest peak in Nepal and the seventh-highest in the world. Located in the northwestern corridor of Nepal’s Myagdi District, Dhaulagiri extends approximately 120 km from the Kali Gandaki River to the Bheri River.
The name “Dhaulagiri” is derived from Sanskrit, where “Dhawala” means white and “Giri” means mountain. True to its name, the mountain is famously snow-clad and dominates the landscape. Dhaulagiri is also the highest point of the Gandaki River Basin. To its east, just 34 km away, rises Annapurna I, forming the Kaligandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, through which the Kali Gandaki River flows.
Climbing Mt. Dhaulagiri is one of the most challenging and fascinating peaks to climb. It features five major ridges and dramatic south and west faces, with most ascents following the Northeast Ridge, commonly referred to as the “Normal Route.” However, the mountain has been successfully climbed from all directions, attracting only highly experienced climbers.
The first successful ascent was achieved on 13 May 1960 by a Swiss-Austrian expedition led by Kurt Diemberger. Since then, climbers have respected the technical difficulty and extreme conditions of this peak.
With a strong emphasis on safety, preparation, and professionalism, Himalaya Sacred Trek and Expedition ensures a well-supported and rewarding climb on one of the world’s most formidable peaks.
Departure Location: Kathmandu
Return Location: Kathmandu
Namaste and a warm welcome to Nepal. Our company representatives will greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take the day to rest, enjoy your evening meal, and attend a brief trek orientation by your guide. Overnight at the hotel.
On the second day, you will be given an opportunity to make final preparations for your trip. You will also be given an elaborate checklist of materials and gear that you need to make sure that you possess before taking off. We will be briefing you regarding the details of the upcoming expedition and the roles and responsibilities of each team member. You will also get introduced to fellow expedition members and guides.
The short and scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara offers one of the most beautiful aerial journeys in Nepal. As the aircraft takes off from Kathmandu Valley, you will enjoy breathtaking views of terraced farmlands, winding rivers, deep gorges, lush green hills, and traditional villages scattered across the landscape.
On a clear day, the flight provides spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayan range. You can see several famous snow-capped peaks, including Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu (8,163m), Lamjung Himal, and the magnificent Annapurna Range. Among the Annapurna range, notable peaks such as Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri (8,167m) can often be seen from the aircraft.
After arriving in Pokhara, explore the lakeside town and enjoy some last-minute shopping. Overnight in Pokhara.
The drive from Pokhara to Marpha follows the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing dramatic gorges, waterfalls, terraced fields, and traditional villages such as Beni, Tatopani, Ghasa, and Lete. As you ascend toward Mustang, the scenery changes from lush greenery to rugged mountain landscapes. Approaching Marpha, you enter a wide valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks, where this charming “apple capital of Nepal” welcomes you with its whitewashed houses, stone-paved lanes, and peaceful atmosphere.
Marpha, known as the “Apple Capital of Nepal,” offers a unique, Tibetan-like landscape. Enjoy local apple products and explore the village. Short hikes in the surrounding area help with acclimatization before trekking to higher altitudes. Overnight in Marpha.
Leave civilization behind as you trek along terraced fields and ascending trails toward Yak Kharka. Cross thinning tree lines and enjoy stunning Himalayan views along the way. Overnight at Yak Kharka Camp.
Spend the day acclimatizing at Yak Kharka. Explore the surrounding area, take short hikes, and allow your body to adjust to the higher altitude in preparation for the days ahead.
After an early morning start, we climbed from Yak Kharka to Dhampus Base Camp. The trail ascends gradually through a high mountain pass, including a challenging glacial section that requires careful navigation over slippery terrain. Enjoy dramatic mountain scenery as you approach Dhampus Base Camp.
Trek through glaciers toward the French Pass (5,360m), then descend toward Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750m). Explore the stunning Hidden Valley along the way. Overnight at Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Over the next several weeks, the team will establish high camps and acclimatize before attempting the summit. Climbers will move through glaciers, lateral moraines, and snowfields, navigating technical sections carefully. Witness breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, and Annapurna ranges.
Retrace your steps through avalanche-prone slopes and forested regions. Enjoy panoramic views of the Nilgiri and Annapurna ranges as you descend to Yak Kharka. Overnight at Yak Kharka Camp.
Continue descending through mountain trails to Marpha. Overnight at a guesthouse.
On the way back from Marpha to Pokhara, we will take a 1½-hour rest stop at Tatopani. The name “Tatopani” literally means hot water, and the village is famous for its natural hot springs. Here, you can relax and soak in the warm waters, allowing your tired muscles to recover from the demanding climb.
After the break, we continued our drive to Pokhara, where we checked in at the hotel and rested. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Pokhara. Countless bars, pubs, cafés, and nightclubs offer entertainment, or take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Phewa Lake.
Take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and hills. Alternatively, opt for a scenic 6-7 hour bus ride along the winding Prithvi Highway, passing through hills and valleys. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and rest.
After the long, exhausting trek, you might have worn out a bit. Today, you can do some relaxation activities or just take some rest and connect with your friends and family back home. You can also just wander down the lively streets of Thamel and Asan and buy some souvenirs. In the evening, your tour officer will pick you up for dinner at one of the cultural restaurants of Thamel. After the dinner, you will be escorted back to your hotel.
Your adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! We will take you to the airport, approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home, you will have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Complementaries
| Date | Status | Group Size | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
|
16 Days
Start – 2026-04-25
End – 2026-06-03
|
Booking Open | 1 – 12 PAX |
