- Overview
- Detail Itinerary
- Map
- Gallery
- Altitiude Sickness
- Equipments
- Departure Date
- Detail Price
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DHAULAGIRI EXPEDITION (8167m.)
Dhaulagiri is one of the most popular 8000m. peaks for climbing in Himalayas . The seventh highest mountain in the world, Dhaulagiri, lies on north – west of Pokhara culminating high point at its eastern end. Dhaulagiri is almost uninque in the world in terms of its rise above local terrain, it rises 7000m. over Kaligandaki gorge the south east in about 30 km of aerial distance. In fact, Kali Gandaki is dramatic as two eight thousenders, Annapurna I & Dhaulagiri both stand near the river facing each other over a deep valley.
When Dhaulagiri was first discovered in 1808, it was thought to be the highest mountain in the world for the westerners. It remained as highest peak for 30 years before its place was taken by Kanchanjunga. Dhaulagiri means white mountain which justifies a magnificient peak rising as a giant shoulder of shining ice and snow. The South and West faces of Dhaulagiri both feature massive drops; each rises over 4000 meters from its base, and each has been the site of historical climbs. The peak was first conquered in 1960 by a Swiss / Austrian expedition team via North East Ridge which has been the normal route of ascent for most of the climbings to date. Dhaulagiri is buttresses by five ridges which offers the possibilities of different routes of ascent though six different routes have been established for climbing so far.
Dhaulagiri 8,167 meters 7th highest mountain in the world means "white mountain" though many mountains over the world have names, which translate to White Mountain; this is without doubt the most astonishing one. Everyone is familiar with the name Dhaulagiri which is in the western part of Nepal, probably the best spot for remote and adventurous trekking in Nepal. The simple reason behind it is that it consist more than fifteen 7,000 meter magnificent peaks with land of dramatic contrast.
This trekking routes starts after 8 hours scenic drive from Kathmandi to Beni, from Beni you head in a north-westerly direction through the villages of Babichour, Dorbang and Darapani to Muri from where you head north still keeping to the banks of the Myagdi Khola. Muri is the last major settlement on this trail and is inhabited by people of the Magar tribe, of Mongoloid stock and descended from the early settlers of the Nepalese middle hills.
From Muri, you head north along the Myagdi Khola through the villages of Baghara, Dobang and Chartare to Pakoban. Beyond Pakoban there are no permanent settlements. Still heading north you skirt the Chhanbardan Glacier, keeping on its left side, to reach the Dhaulagiri Base Camp from where magnificent mountain vistas are available. Head north-east from the Base Camp and climb the steep incline to the French Pass (5,360 meters), between Tukche Peak (6,920 meters) and Sita Chuchura (6,611meters).
Heading east you descend a little and pass through a portion of the Hidden Valley and climb to Thapa Pass (5,250 meters), between Tukche Peak and Thapa Peak (6,012 meters) from where you begin your descent, heading south-east to Alubari. From Alubari, the trail further descends to the village of Marpha on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River, and then heads north to Jomsom from where you fly back to Pokhara. For those who have got enough time there is an option continuing trek down to Kalopani, Tatopani, Ghorepani then to Pokhara.
Short Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and hotel transfer |
Detail Itinerary for Dhaulagiri Expedition
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and hotel transfer
Day 02 – 03: Official formalities and expedition preparation
Day 04: Drive to Darbang
Day 05: Trek to Dharapani.
Day 06: Trek to Muri.
Day 07: Trek to Bagar.
Day 08: Trek to Doban.
Day 09: Trek to Sallaghari.
Day 10: Trek to Italy base Camp.
Day 11: Rest at Italy Base Camp.
Day 12: Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Day 13 - 39: Climbing
Day 40: Clean up the base camp
Day 41: Trek to Hidden Valley.
Day 42: Trek to Yak Kharka
Day 43: Trek to Jomsom
Day 44: Fly to Pokhara
Day 45: Drive to Kathmandu
Day 46: Free day in Kathmandu
Day 47: Airport transfer for international flight.
Dhaulagiri Expedition
Dhaulagiri Expedition
Altitude Sickness
Many people are concerned about altitude sickness. This problem, often known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a particularly important medical consideration while trekking in Nepal and Tibet. AMS rarely occurs lower than 2800 meters (9520ft) and only minor symptoms occur below 3000 meters (9,800ft). AMS occurs when the body does not adapt well to the lack of oxygen present at higher altitudes. At 5490 meters (18,000ft), there is just half the oxygen available as there is at sea level, while there is only a third available at the summit of Mount Everest. The itineraries of the treks of Itreknepal are designed to reduce the risk of altitude sickness as much as possible, although individual susceptibility to altitude sickness seems to be genetically determined. What happens to the body during altitude illness? The body tries to adapt to having less available oxygen by increasing the rate and depth of breathing, as well as the heart rate. Fluids accumulate in between the cells in the brain, the lungs or both, creating mild to severe symptoms. Mild symptoms include headache, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, insomnia and dizziness. These symptoms are usually resolved by spending one or two extra nights at the same altitude. If symptoms worsen, descent to lower altitudes is warranted. If you are resting at the same altitude and your symptoms worsen, then it is also necessary to descend. More serious symptoms of AMS include increased tiredness, severe headaches, vomiting, loss of coordination, shortness of breath and coughing fits. These extremely dangerous symptoms are called high altitude cerebral edema (or HACE). They can lead to unconsciousness and death within 12 hours. Increasing shortness of breath, cough and tiredness may also be signs of high altitude pulmonary edema or HAPE. This condition can rapidly prove to be fatal if ignored. Respiratory depression (the slowing down of breathing) can be caused by various substances, and may be a problem at altitude. The following substances can do this, and should never be used by someone who has symptoms of altitude illness:
1. Alcohol
2. Sleeping pills (acetazolamide is the sleeping tablet of choice at altitude)
3. Narcotic pain medications in more than modest doses
To prevent AMS and respiratory depression, drink at least three liters of liquid a day and avoid getting cold. Altitude sickness can to a certain extent be prevented by acetazolamide (Diamox SR), 750mg per day. Some experts suggest a two-day trial of acetazolamide before the trip. Please seek the advice of your personal physician. Please note that taking Diamox SR does not mean that you can ignore advice about proper acclimatization.
To recap, serious symptoms of altitude sickness include:
1. A severe, enduring headache, which is not cured by ordinary painkillers
2. Nausea and repeated vomiting
3. Irritating dizziness or actual difficulty with balance and direction
4. Visual disturbances with flickering vision and problems judging distance
5. Pressure in the chest, rapid breathing and pulse rate,
crackles in breathing and shortness of breath
6. Swelling beneath the skin (edema), typically around the eyes
7. Swollen ankles and hands
8. Confusion
9. Convulsions
In the presence of these symptoms, medical attention must be sought immediately in conjunction with descent to the lowest possible height. We have guides trained at the High Altitude Medical Training Center. Our staff is very experienced in dealing with the effects of higher altitudes. As they are natives of Nepal, they easily acclimatize and therefore can care for their clients. They are equipped with necessary medical supplies and will assist with basic first aid treatment. We design our tours to ensure clients are ready for high altitude, and arrange alternative itineraries for those at risk. For more information, please contact your doctor or hospital.
Suggested Climbing Gear
Note: Not necessary to buy the same brands as mentioned below but make sure about the quality.
__ Alpine climbing harness. Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all clothing
__ 2 locking carabiners. Large, pear-shaped carabiner is best, screw gate type recommended
__ 3 regular carabiners. Lightweight; BD Hot wire are recommended
__ Ice axe w/leash. Lightweight (e.g. Grivel Air tech, Black Diamond Raven, or Charlet Moser Snow Walker). Under 5’7” use 60cm; 5’7”- 6’2” use 65cm; over 6’2” use 70cm
__ Plastic Mountaineering boots (Koflach Degree, Lowa Civetta, or Scarpa Alpha) or Leather Double Mountaineering boots (e.g. La Sportiva Olympic Mons, Boreal GI or equivalent; must be mountaineering/crampon compatible)
__ Crampons. Must be fit to plastic boots prior to trip, new-matic type recommended; include a simple repair kit (e.g. Grivel G12, Black Diamond Contact, or Charlet Moser Super 12)
__ Adjustable trekking poles
__ Belay/rappel device (Figure 8 preferred)
Upper Body
__ 2 cotton t-shirts
__ 1 polypropylene t-shirt
__ 2 long sleeve polypropylene shirts. Lightweight, light colored for sunny days
__ 2 women sports bras. Synthetic, no cotton!
__ 1 softshell. Marmot Dri-clime Wind Shirt, Patagonia Stretch Zephur or Krushell Jacket (R2 pullover acceptable)
__ Down/synthetic sweater or vest. Patagonia Puffball Jacket or Sweater preferred; R4 Jacket acceptable
__ Hardshell jacket with hood. Waterproof and breathable. Gore-Tex or equivalent is best, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers.
__ 1 expedition down parka with hood. This is probably your most important piece of clothing! It is important that your jacket is 700+ fill down, baffle construction (not sewn through seams) and has a thick insulated hood
Hand Wear
We require two systems: one glove system for lower on the mountain and a mitten overmitt system for the cold temperatures encountered on summit day.
__ 2 pair liner gloves. Thin wool or polypropylene
__ 1 pair warm gloves. Fleece or wool
__ 1 pair expedition shell gloves
__ 1 pair modular expedition shell mitts. OR Pro Mitts. If they do not have wrist straps consider sewing one on so that you can either attach it to your jacket or cinch the strap to your wrist so that you do not lose your mittens in high winds.
Head Gear
__ Warm hat. Wool or synthetic that covers your ears
__ Balaclava
__ Face mask
__ Shade hat or baseball cap
__ Glacier glasses. 100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case (e.g. Julbo or Cebe)*
__ 1 pair extra sunglasses (also with UV protection in case your 1st pair breaks)
__ 1 ski goggles with UV protection*
*If you require prescription glacier glasses, you can get your lenses modified to your prescription..
Lower Body
__ 4 pair of liner socks. Polypropylene or Capilene
__ 3 pair lightweight trekking socks
__ 2 pair medium-heavy wool socks. Check boot fit with liner and wool socks on
__ 1 pair nylon shorts
__ 1 pair nylon pants for trekking and around camp
__ 2 pair lightweight long underwear bottoms
__ 1 pair fleece pants with side zipper or “puff-ball pants”
__ 1 pair soft shell pants (e.g. Patagonia Guide pants or OR Granite Pants. Schoeller fabrics)
__ 1 pair of hardshell pants. Waterproof/breathable with full side zips, Gore-Tex or equivalent is best
__ 1 pair gaiters. Make sure they will fit over plastic boots (OR Crocodiles or equivalent)
__ 1 pair down booties (optional)
__ 1 pair trail shoes for the hike to base camp and use at camp
__ 1 pair sandals or tennis shoes for Kathmandu and in camp
All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large plastic bags.
Pack
__ 1 lightweight internal frame pack (approx 4,000 cubic inches)
__ 1 daypack is optional for the approach hike, possible use on summit day and carry-on pack. If you plan to use it for your summit pack it must be large enough for your down jacket, misc. clothes, food and water. The Lowe Alpine Neutrino or Black Diamond Speed 28 are excellent, lightweight (16 oz.) choices
__ 1 large (7,500+cu.in.) duffel bag for gear, must be durable for use on pack animals
__ Small padlock for duffel bag
__ 1 small duffel bag for luggage storage in Kathmandu
Sleeping Gear
__ 1 down sleeping bag rated to -10 F (Gore Dryloft or similar fabric helps protect down and dark colors speed drying time)
__ Sleeping pad. Full length closed cell foam (mandatory) and/or Therma-Rest for extra warmth and comfort
Miscellaneous
__ 1 first-aid kit with ibuprofen and any other doctor recommended medications
__ Lip balm. At least SPF 20, 2 sticks. A string taped to the stick is helpful to hang around your neck
__ Sunscreen. At least SPF 40
__ Headlamp. Petzl Myobelt 3 or Black Diamond Polar Star
__ 3 Water bottles. 1 liter wide-mouth Nalgene (1 is a pee bottle)
__ Hydration bladder with drinking tube for lower mountain (optional)
__ 1 water bottle insulator
__ Plastic mug w/snap-on lid, 16 oz. or larger
__ Bowl and spoon. Plastic, small Tupperware works well. Lexan spoons are best
__ Pocket knife. Small Swiss-army type
__ Water purification. Iodine tablets or Polar-pure crystals
__ Toiletry kit. Be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag
__ 3-4 Large plastic bags, for keeping miscellaneous gear dry
__ Nylon stuff sacks. For food and gear storage (OR has a good selection); large Ziplocs are useful also
__ Bandana
__ Camp towel
__ Ear plugs
__ Hand wipes
__ 1 small stainless steel thermos (optional)
__ Favorite snack foods (no more than 2 pounds)
__ Paperback books, cards, Walkman, etc.
__ Binoculars (optional for viewing the route from the lower camps)
__ Camera. 1 light weightpoint & shoot on the mountain, 1 large SLR type is optional for the trek in and base camp
__ Fanny pack or wallet for travel documents, money & passport
__ Passport and passport photos
__ Airline ticket
Climbers Qualifications: All climbers are required to have past high-altitude mountaineering experience. In addition, members should be able to ascend and descend fixed lines independently and be proficient with cramponing on steep ice/snow slopes. For an increased chance of success, members should also be in good physical condition.
Departure Date for Dhaulagiri Expedition
View Our Price List
Per person cost: US$ 25000
Group Size: Minimum 2, maximum 14 in one departure
Per person cost: US$ 20000
Group Size: Minimum 2, maximum 14 in one departure
The cost Includes:
1. Equipment allowance, daily allowance & insurance for base camp staff ( sirdar, cook, kitchen boy and liaison officer )
2. Food and fuel at the base camp
3. All camping equipment at the base camp such as, member tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, chairs, tables.
4. Trek support for climbing members from Darbang - base camp - Darbang
5. Porters to carry loads from Darbang - base camp – Darbang
6. Royalty and peak permit
7. Airport arrival and departure
8. land transportation from Kathmandu – Gorkha - Kathmandu
9. Accommodation at 3 and 4 star hotels in Kathmandu before and after the expedition on BB plan
The cost does not include:
1. High altitude food and fuel above base camp.
2. Climbing equipment, tents and personal equipment above base camp
3. Personal accident insurance and emergency rescue operation
