Overview
Mt. Dhaulagiri is the seventh highest mountain in the world, located in the Himalayas of Nepal. The mountain stands at 8,167 meters (26,795 feet) above sea level and is known for its challenging climbing routes and extreme weather conditions.
The first successful ascent of Mt. Dhaulagiri was made by a Swiss-Austrian expedition in 1960. Since then, many climbers have attempted to summit the mountain, with varying degrees of success.
The expedition to Mt. Dhaulagiri typically takes around 45 days, including acclimatization, base camp setup, and summit attempt. The climbing season usually runs from March to May and from September to November.
The expedition requires significant physical fitness, technical climbing skills, and experience in high-altitude mountaineering. Climbers often face challenges such as crevasses, avalanches, steep ice and rock sections, and extreme weather conditions.
The route to the summit of Mt. Dhaulagiri is typically via the Northeast Ridge or the Southeast Ridge, both of which require technical climbing skills and significant experience. The ascent usually involves establishing several high camps, with the final push to the summit made from Camp 3 or Camp 4.
Overall, the Mt. Dhaulagiri expedition is a challenging and rewarding experience for experienced mountaineers, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and a sense of accomplishment for those who are able to summit the mountain.
Itinerary
Inclusions
- Climbing permits and necessary paperwork: As with any climbing expedition in Nepal, you will need a climbing permit from the Nepalese government to climb Mt. Dhaulagiri. Your expedition package should include all the necessary paperwork and fees to obtain this permit.
- Ground transportation: The expedition package should include ground transportation from Kathmandu to the starting point of the trek and back. This may include private transportation or shared transportation depending on the package you choose.
- Accommodation: During the trek and the climb, you will need accommodations in tea houses or tents. The expedition package should include accommodations for the duration of the trek and the climb.
- Food and water: You will need food and water throughout the trek and climb. The expedition package should include meals and water during the trek and climb.
- Climbing guide and porters: A climbing guide and porters are essential for a successful climb. The expedition package should include the services of an experienced climbing guide and porters who can help carry your equipment and supplies.
- Climbing equipment: You will need specialized climbing equipment to climb Mt. Dhaulagiri. The expedition package should include the rental or purchase of climbing equipment, such as ropes, crampons, ice axes, and other gear.
- Medical support: The expedition package should include a medical kit and trained staff to provide medical support during the climb.
- Rescue services: In case of an emergency, you will need rescue services. The expedition package should include a rescue plan and services.
Exclusions
- International flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is typically not included in the package price.
- Travel insurance: You will need to purchase travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and mountaineering activities. This is not usually included in the package.
- Personal climbing gear: You will need to bring your own personal climbing gear such as a harness, ice axe, crampons, helmet, and climbing boots. These items are typically not included in the package.
- Personal expenses: Any personal expenses such as meals, drinks, and extra services not included in the package are the responsibility of the climber.
- Visa and permits: You will need to obtain a visa and permits to enter Nepal and climb Mount Dhaulagiri. The cost of these is typically not included in the package.
- Tips: It is customary to tip the climbing Sherpas and porters for their services. This is not usually included in the package.
- Evacuation costs: In the event of an emergency evacuation due to illness or injury, the cost of the evacuation is typically not included in the package.