8000m Peaks

Dhaulagiri

Climbing the Dazzling
White Mountain.

Dhaulagiri
Expedition

Usually translated as “the Great White Mountain”, the name Dhaulagiri can also mean the “dazzling,” “white” or “beautiful mountain” in the original Sanskrit. The world’s seventh highest peak, the only one of the 8,000ers that’s usually visible from the plains of northern India, clearly made an impression on the people who named it and continues to dazzle climbers to this day. Rarely summited, it’s one of the most interesting 8,000m peaks, offering multiple potential routes to the skilled and dedicated mountaineer.

Country

Nepal

Duration

44 days

grade

Technical 5E

Max Altitude

8167 m
26795 ft

Daily activity

Approx
5 - 6hrs

Season

Spring &
Summer

Dates Available

Enquire for dates

Starting from

USD $34,000

Aimed at climbers who’ve made multiple ascents of 6,000m and 7,000m peaks, plus at least one 8,000er. You must have mastered mountaineering skills - including climbing safely in moderate rock, glacier and snowy terrain.

Climb the Great White Mountain

Dhaulagiri is not a challenge for the fainthearted. Long thought to be the highest mountain in the Himalayas, its imposing bulk stands as a significant obstacle to any climber wishing to summit all 14 of the world’s 8,000ers. Many talented mountaineers have tried and failed to reach its dazzling white peak. More than a few have paid the ultimate price for their failure.

A true connoisseurs’ climb, Dhaulagiri is rarely attempted by commercial expeditions. In 2019 for example, during their Bremont Project Possible push, our leaders Nimsdai and Mingma David led the only team on the mountain. Dhaulagiri’s relative isolation means it’s more important than ever to work with a team that takes care of everything - from carrying food to fixing ropes. Elite Exped’s climbing plans are based off Nimsdai and Mingma David’s successful summit expeditions. Our proven experience on a mountain that’s unfamiliar to most makes us the best-placed operation to entrust with your dreams.

Our leaders’ safety record on 8,000m peaks is second to none - when Nimsdai and Mingma David have worked together, not only have they achieved not only a remarkable 100 percent success rate, they’ve always managed to get every team member back safely, without so much as a fingertip lost to frostbite.

As well as being highly-skilled mountaineers, they and the handpicked Elite Exped guiding team have extensive experience of conducting high-altitude rescue operations. We have evacuation plans and accessible helicopter rescue in place for emergencies. We ensure there’s always a 1-1 guide to client ratio on 8,000m peaks, with at least four extra guides to help out where needed. 

Our Dhaulagiri expedition can of course be tailored to the needs and desires of individual clients, but the standard plan includes 44 days on the ground in Nepal, leaving us an ample, 23-day weather window for climbing and plenty of rest days. We trek in from Darbang, and after returning from the summit, cross the French pass to trek out via Jomson. It’s an unforgettable experience. The dazzling mountain is undoubtedly the glittering crown jewel in any climber’s career. 

From our clients
Jeff Evans
Mera 2017

You can trust them with the safety and satisfaction of clients. Elite was nothing less than a 10/10 in every aspect of how they executed the expedition.

Steve Davis
Manaslu 2019

Manaslu was my first 8,000er and first time with Elite. They exceeded my expectations at every level and stage. I would have no hesitation in booking with them again! Highly recommended!!!

Amy McCulloch
Aconcagua 2018

I often felt they went above and beyond to ensure we had a successful expedition. Excellent judgments throughout the expedition led us to reach the summit safely in extreme conditions. Highly recommend!

This tried and tested itinerary is informed by decades of mountaineering experience. As with all adventurous activities of this type however, circumstances may arise where Elite Exped is forced to make alterations, possibly at short notice. While making every effort to adhere to this published schedule, we kindly ask for your patience if the weather, or other naturally occurring circumstances, intervene.

Your daily schedule

  • Day 01

    Arrival in Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel

  • Day 02

    Preparation day in Kathmandu; Trip briefing with welcome dinner

  • Day 03

    Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara & transfer to Hotel

  • Day 04

    Drive from Pokhara to Marpha; overstay night in Marpha

  • Day 05

    Trek from Marpha to Yak Kharka

  • Day 06

    Trek from Yak Kharka to Dhaulagiri Base Camp

  • Day 07-37

    Climbing periods ( Basecamp - Dhalagiri summit - Basecamp)

  • Day 38

    Cleaning up basecamp and prepare for descending

  • Day 39

    Trek from Basecamp to Yak Kharka

  • Day 40

    Trek from Yak Kharka to Jomsom

  • Day 41

    Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara; Leisure day in Pokhara

  • Day 42

    Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel

  • Day 43

    Leisure day in Kathmandu; Farewell dinner with the team

  • Day 44

    Final Departure

Training

Build your skills

Our tailored approach to training will help you improve as a climber, developing the mental and physical skills you need to achieve your dreams. Learn more

Environment

Protecting our mountains

We believe the mountains are there for all to enjoy, but must be respected, and protected. We are the voice, carers and keepers of these sacred places for future generations. Our environmental policy ensures we do no harm, and leave no trace. Learn more

Above + Beyond + Adventure

Practical info

Frequently asked questions

The following frequently asked questions may help answer any queries you have about Elite Exped, what this expedition involves, and what is required. If your question isn’t answered here please check our dedicated FAQ support page, otherwise don’t hesitate to get in touch.

What skillset and fitness level are required?

All Elite Exped expeditions are within extreme high altitude environments, with differing requirements for ability. Due to the nature of these operational landscapes it is essential you provide concise, honest descriptions of relevant experience and current fitness levels. Upon receipt we will review your experience and respond accordingly. At this point if we consider there to be any shortfalls, we can collectively discuss the opportunities and/or provide a training support plan to achieve your goals.

What equipment is provided?
Will I get my own guide?
Will the expedition cost include travel?

Why choose
Elite Exped?

Unparalleled
leadership

Nimsdai Purja and Mingma David Sherpa’s mountaineering world records speak for themselves, but our founders are more than just supremely-talented climbers. While some choose to direct operations from a back office, Nimsdai and Mingma David lead from the front. Their experience of every aspect of guiding and climbing - from fixing ropes, to organising logistics - is unparalleled. It’s no surprise that when they’ve worked together they have a perfect, 100 percent success rate when it comes to summiting 8,000m peaks.

Safety through
self-sufficiency

If it’s controllable we control it, this is key to attain and maintain our industry leading strategy for success and safety. We maximise our options, agility and responsiveness by running totally self-sufficient expeditions, not relying on any other teams on the mountain to achieve our objectives. We are capable of setting up our own fixed lines (with a proven track record on all 8,000m peaks) and have backups to cover all scenarios, from secondary oxygen supplies through to the ability and experience to operate our own rescue missions if the situation arises.

A unique
perspective

With his Nepalese roots, and UK residency, our co-founder Nimsdai Purja brings a unique perspective of the world of mountaineering, and an unparalleled ability to bridge the gap between Western and Himalayan climbing cultures. We can assemble trusted teams and networks anywhere in the world, but our founders’ roots are a particular advantage when it comes to summiting the world’s very highest peaks. An intimate knowledge of how things work on the ground ensures that everything runs smoothly when you’re 8,000m above sea-level.

Your adventure
Ready to take on
the challenge?
Enquire Now
8000m Peaks

Mount Everest, known to locals as Sagarmatha, is undoubtedly on the bucket list of every climber. Who wouldn't want to conquer the highest mountain on the planet? Reaching the top of the world, exactly 8,848.86m above sea-level, is no easy task, but Elite Exped’s expert team will be with you every step of the way - guiding you from the moment you sign up, all the way to the summit and back.

Apr-Jun
$45,000
8000m Peaks

K2 isn’t nicknamed “the savage mountain” for nothing. The world’s second-highest peak is arguably the toughest challenge in mountaineering, with one of the worst fatality rates of all the 8,000ers. For a long time, it was considered unconquerable, because of its great height, almost unbroken slopes of rock and ice, and precipitous overhangs. Despite multiple attempts, no-one had climbed it in winter until January 2021, when our Founder Nimsdai & Directors Mingma David and Mingma Tenzi stood on its majestic, 8,611m-high peak.

Jun-Aug
$60,000
8000m Peaks

Those outside the mountaineering world often overlook Lhotse, such is the fame of its nearest neighbour. But the world’s fourth-highest mountain has become increasingly popular with climbers looking for a less-crowded - and arguably more challenging - alternative to Everest. With its distinctive, dramatic south face rising a near-vertical 3,200m from the glacier below, this 8,516m peak presents significant challenges for serious mountaineers.

Apr-May
$30,000
8000m Peaks

Dhaulagiri

Climbing the Dazzling
White Mountain.

Dhaulagiri
Expedition

Usually translated as “the Great White Mountain”, the name Dhaulagiri can also mean the “dazzling,” “white” or “beautiful mountain” in the original Sanskrit. The world’s seventh highest peak, the only one of the 8,000ers that’s usually visible from the plains of northern India, clearly made an impression on the people who named it and continues to dazzle climbers to this day. Rarely summited, it’s one of the most interesting 8,000m peaks, offering multiple potential routes to the skilled and dedicated mountaineer.

Country

Nepal

Duration

44 days

grade

Technical 5E

Max Altitude

8167 m
26795 ft

Daily activity

Approx
5 - 6hrs

Season

Spring &
Summer

Dates Available

Enquire for dates

Starting from

USD $34,000

Aimed at climbers who’ve made multiple ascents of 6,000m and 7,000m peaks, plus at least one 8,000er. You must have mastered mountaineering skills - including climbing safely in moderate rock, glacier and snowy terrain.

Climb the Great White Mountain

Dhaulagiri is not a challenge for the fainthearted. Long thought to be the highest mountain in the Himalayas, its imposing bulk stands as a significant obstacle to any climber wishing to summit all 14 of the world’s 8,000ers. Many talented mountaineers have tried and failed to reach its dazzling white peak. More than a few have paid the ultimate price for their failure.

A true connoisseurs’ climb, Dhaulagiri is rarely attempted by commercial expeditions. In 2019 for example, during their Bremont Project Possible push, our leaders Nimsdai and Mingma David led the only team on the mountain. Dhaulagiri’s relative isolation means it’s more important than ever to work with a team that takes care of everything - from carrying food to fixing ropes. Elite Exped’s climbing plans are based off Nimsdai and Mingma David’s successful summit expeditions. Our proven experience on a mountain that’s unfamiliar to most makes us the best-placed operation to entrust with your dreams.

Our leaders’ safety record on 8,000m peaks is second to none - when Nimsdai and Mingma David have worked together, not only have they achieved not only a remarkable 100 percent success rate, they’ve always managed to get every team member back safely, without so much as a fingertip lost to frostbite.

As well as being highly-skilled mountaineers, they and the handpicked Elite Exped guiding team have extensive experience of conducting high-altitude rescue operations. We have evacuation plans and accessible helicopter rescue in place for emergencies. We ensure there’s always a 1-1 guide to client ratio on 8,000m peaks, with at least four extra guides to help out where needed. 

Our Dhaulagiri expedition can of course be tailored to the needs and desires of individual clients, but the standard plan includes 44 days on the ground in Nepal, leaving us an ample, 23-day weather window for climbing and plenty of rest days. We trek in from Darbang, and after returning from the summit, cross the French pass to trek out via Jomson. It’s an unforgettable experience. The dazzling mountain is undoubtedly the glittering crown jewel in any climber’s career. 

From our clients
Jeff Evans
Mera 2017

You can trust them with the safety and satisfaction of clients. Elite was nothing less than a 10/10 in every aspect of how they executed the expedition.

Steve Davis
Manaslu 2019

Manaslu was my first 8,000er and first time with Elite. They exceeded my expectations at every level and stage. I would have no hesitation in booking with them again! Highly recommended!!!

Amy McCulloch
Aconcagua 2018

I often felt they went above and beyond to ensure we had a successful expedition. Excellent judgments throughout the expedition led us to reach the summit safely in extreme conditions. Highly recommend!

This tried and tested itinerary is informed by decades of mountaineering experience. As with all adventurous activities of this type however, circumstances may arise where Elite Exped is forced to make alterations, possibly at short notice. While making every effort to adhere to this published schedule, we kindly ask for your patience if the weather, or other naturally occurring circumstances, intervene.

Your daily schedule

  • Day 01

    Arrival in Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel

  • Day 02

    Preparation day in Kathmandu; Trip briefing with welcome dinner

  • Day 03

    Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara & transfer to Hotel

  • Day 04

    Drive from Pokhara to Marpha; overstay night in Marpha

  • Day 05

    Trek from Marpha to Yak Kharka

  • Day 06

    Trek from Yak Kharka to Dhaulagiri Base Camp

  • Day 07-37

    Climbing periods ( Basecamp - Dhalagiri summit - Basecamp)

  • Day 38

    Cleaning up basecamp and prepare for descending

  • Day 39

    Trek from Basecamp to Yak Kharka

  • Day 40

    Trek from Yak Kharka to Jomsom

  • Day 41

    Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara; Leisure day in Pokhara

  • Day 42

    Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel

  • Day 43

    Leisure day in Kathmandu; Farewell dinner with the team

  • Day 44

    Final Departure

Training

Build your skills

Our tailored approach to training will help you improve as a climber, developing the mental and physical skills you need to achieve your dreams. Learn more

Environment

Protecting our mountains

We believe the mountains are there for all to enjoy, but must be respected, and protected. We are the voice, carers and keepers of these sacred places for future generations. Our environmental policy ensures we do no harm, and leave no trace. Learn more

Above + Beyond + Adventure

Practical info

Frequently asked questions

The following frequently asked questions may help answer any queries you have about Elite Exped, what this expedition involves, and what is required. If your question isn’t answered here please check our dedicated FAQ support page, otherwise don’t hesitate to get in touch.

What skillset and fitness level are required?

All Elite Exped expeditions are within extreme high altitude environments, with differing requirements for ability. Due to the nature of these operational landscapes it is essential you provide concise, honest descriptions of relevant experience and current fitness levels. Upon receipt we will review your experience and respond accordingly. At this point if we consider there to be any shortfalls, we can collectively discuss the opportunities and/or provide a training support plan to achieve your goals.

What equipment is provided?
Will I get my own guide?
Will the expedition cost include travel?

Why choose
Elite Exped?

Unparalleled
leadership

Nimsdai Purja and Mingma David Sherpa’s mountaineering world records speak for themselves, but our founders are more than just supremely-talented climbers. While some choose to direct operations from a back office, Nimsdai and Mingma David lead from the front. Their experience of every aspect of guiding and climbing - from fixing ropes, to organising logistics - is unparalleled. It’s no surprise that when they’ve worked together they have a perfect, 100 percent success rate when it comes to summiting 8,000m peaks.

Safety through
self-sufficiency

If it’s controllable we control it, this is key to attain and maintain our industry leading strategy for success and safety. We maximise our options, agility and responsiveness by running totally self-sufficient expeditions, not relying on any other teams on the mountain to achieve our objectives. We are capable of setting up our own fixed lines (with a proven track record on all 8,000m peaks) and have backups to cover all scenarios, from secondary oxygen supplies through to the ability and experience to operate our own rescue missions if the situation arises.

A unique
perspective

With his Nepalese roots, and UK residency, our co-founder Nimsdai Purja brings a unique perspective of the world of mountaineering, and an unparalleled ability to bridge the gap between Western and Himalayan climbing cultures. We can assemble trusted teams and networks anywhere in the world, but our founders’ roots are a particular advantage when it comes to summiting the world’s very highest peaks. An intimate knowledge of how things work on the ground ensures that everything runs smoothly when you’re 8,000m above sea-level.

Your adventure
Ready to take on
the challenge?
Enquire Now
8000m Peaks

Mount Everest, known to locals as Sagarmatha, is undoubtedly on the bucket list of every climber. Who wouldn't want to conquer the highest mountain on the planet? Reaching the top of the world, exactly 8,848.86m above sea-level, is no easy task, but Elite Exped’s expert team will be with you every step of the way - guiding you from the moment you sign up, all the way to the summit and back.

Apr-Jun
$45,000
8000m Peaks

K2 isn’t nicknamed “the savage mountain” for nothing. The world’s second-highest peak is arguably the toughest challenge in mountaineering, with one of the worst fatality rates of all the 8,000ers. For a long time, it was considered unconquerable, because of its great height, almost unbroken slopes of rock and ice, and precipitous overhangs. Despite multiple attempts, no-one had climbed it in winter until January 2021, when our Founder Nimsdai & Directors Mingma David and Mingma Tenzi stood on its majestic, 8,611m-high peak.

Jun-Aug
$60,000
8000m Peaks

Those outside the mountaineering world often overlook Lhotse, such is the fame of its nearest neighbour. But the world’s fourth-highest mountain has become increasingly popular with climbers looking for a less-crowded - and arguably more challenging - alternative to Everest. With its distinctive, dramatic south face rising a near-vertical 3,200m from the glacier below, this 8,516m peak presents significant challenges for serious mountaineers.

Apr-May
$30,000