Putha Hiunchuli Expedition: A Himalayan Gem in Dolpo
Putha Hiunchuli Expedition is an enchanting journey to conquer a magnificent peak nestled in the mystical land of Dolpo, standing proudly between the Dhaulagiri and Kanjiroba Himal massifs. Also known as Dhaulagiri VI, this solitary and rarely climbed mountain offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience.
The Alluring Beauty of Putha Hiunchuli:
Rising in the north-west part of Nepal, Putha Hiunchuli is renowned for its distinctive beauty among the 7000m+ peaks. Jimmy Roberts, a legendary explorer and climber, first conquered its summit in 1954. As part of the Dhaulagiri Himalayan Ranges, the mountain stands as the westernmost peak, marking the end of the snow-capped range.
Expedition Details:
Technical Challenges and Physical Preparedness: While the climb presents fewer technical challenges than some other mountains, it demands excellent physical condition and prior peak climbing experience. Standing at 7,246m, Putha Hiunchuli requires a special effort and good fitness level, making it a technically challenging yet rewarding climb.
Exquisite Routes and Unique Landscapes: Approaching from Juphal or Beni Bazar, each trekking route possesses its own charm, showcasing stunning landscapes. The mountain is usually climbed from the North or North-East wall, featuring incredible formations of high cliffs and deep canyons.
The Last 7000m Peak of Dhaulagiri Range:
Putha Hiunchuli, also known as Dhaulagiri VII, is the westernmost peak of the Dhaulagiri range. It holds the distinction of being the last 7000m mountain, culminating the snow-capped range. For those seeking a challenging climb without excessive technical difficulty and avalanche risks, Putha Hiunchuli offers a remarkable adventure.
Exploring the Unexplored:
Unlike popular tourist destinations in Nepal, the region surrounding Putha Hiunchuli remains relatively undiscovered. The trek to the mountain unveils enchanting landscapes, high cliffs, deep canyons, and breathtaking valleys in the less-explored Dolpa region.
Skiing Adventure and Preparation:
For adrenaline enthusiasts, the descent from Putha Hiunchuli can be turned into an exhilarating skiing experience, thanks to its favorable slopes. Although considered a relatively easier climb, proper preparation is crucial. A high level of physical fitness is mandatory, given the endurance required at high altitudes and frigid temperatures, reaching as low as -40 degrees Celsius on the summit day.
Route Overview:
The expedition kicks off with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Dolpo (Juphal), followed by a trek to Dunai. The trail continues through Tarakot, Musikhola, Kagkot, Yak Kharka, and finally, Putha Hiunchuli Base Camp. The ascent progresses from the Base Camp to Camp 1, with the possibility of skiing from Camp 1 to Camp 2. On the summit day, the climb begins early in the morning around 4 A.M., navigating a long route with breathtaking views, including a false summit visible from the route.
Embark on the Putha Hiunchuli Expedition, an adventure that combines the thrill of conquering a majestic peak with the exploration of Nepal’s hidden gems in the Dolpa region.
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu [1345m/4411ft] and Transfer to Hotel 30-Minute Drive
Hotel/Resort
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to a centrally located hotel in Kathmandu. Take the opportunity to rest or visit NGT’s office for additional trip information. The check-in process will be seamlessly facilitated by our staff.
Meals: BB Plan
Day 2: Sightseeing at Kathmandu & Climbing Preparations
Accommodation: Hotel/Resort
Embark on a day of exploration, discovering the captivating world heritage sites in the Kathmandu valley. Simultaneously, complete all necessary paperwork and preparations essential for the upcoming Putha Hiunchuli Expedition. Select 3-4 places for day sightseeing due to time constraints.
Meals: BB Plan
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
30-Minute Flight
Lodge
Fly to Nepalgunj, situated in the southwestern part of the Terai region, near the Indian border. Upon arrival, explore the vibrant Bageshwari Temple and the bustling market. The melting pot of people from Nepal, Tibet, and India engaging in trade adds a cultural flair to the experience.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Fly from Nepalgunj to Jhupal [2475m/8118ft] & Trek to Dunai [2140m/7019ft]
3-Hour Trek
Lodge
Commence the day with a morning flight to Juphal, followed by a trek through picturesque terraced fields and a broad trail leading to Dunai. As the administrative and main trading center of Dolpo, Dunai holds cultural significance.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Trek from Dunai to Tarakot [2850m/9348ft]
5-6 Hour Trek
Tented Camp
Embark on a trek along the Thuli Bheri river towards Tarakot, passing through a broad trail with gradual sections. Tarakot, an old fortress town, offers an ideal camping ground situated at the confluence of rivers. The crew will prepare for the subsequent trek.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Trek from Tarakot to Musikhola [2875m/9430ft]
5-6 Hour Trek
Tented Camp
The journey continues as you follow the trail along the right bank of the river, trekking to Musi Khola. The campsite, set in a forested area with scattered homesteads, promises encounters with local children and a unique cultural experience.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Trek from Musikhola to Kakot [3250m/10660ft]
5-6 Hour Trek
Tented Camp
The trail becomes more challenging as you trek towards Kakot. Traversing paths rebuilt after collapses, crossing bridges, and descending a staircase engineered by locals, reach the campsite at Kakot, offering stunning views.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Trek from Kakot to German Base Camp [4400m/14432ft]
5-6 Hour Trek
Tented Camp
Ascend towards the base camp, crossing high altitude passes and following a trail to German Base Camp at 4,400 meters. The camp will be set up by the crew, providing a rewarding rest after a day’s trek.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9: Trek to Putha Hiunchuli Base Camp [4915m/16121ft]
4-5 Hour Trek
Tented Camp
Embark on a steep ascent over a challenging pass, leading to the Putha Hiunchuli Base Camp at 4,915 meters. Take intermittent rests to restore energy for the strenuous trek in higher altitudes. Crew preparations for the climb will commence.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10-28: Climbing Putha Hiunchuli [7246m/23766ft] and Descend Back to Base Camp
19 Days Climbing Towards Mt. Putha Hiunchuli
Tented Camp
Spend several days on climbing training and acclimatization, guided by experienced climbing experts. Equipped with climbing gear, conquer technical sections and ascend to the summit. Bask in breathtaking views before descending to the base camp.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 29: Trek from Putha Hiunchuli B.C. to German Base Camp
5-6 Hour Trek
Tented Camp
Celebrate the successful summit by making a relaxed start, cleaning up the base camp, and retracing steps to German Base Camp. Explore the Dolpo region’s landscapes on the way back.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 30: Trek from German Base Camp to Kakot
5-6 Hour Trek
Tented Camp
After breakfast, retrace steps and descend to Kakot, crossing another pass. Enjoy a pleasant walk and set up camp for overnight stay.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 31: Trek from Kakot to Dunai
5-6 Hour Trek
Lodge
Continue retracing steps through Musi Khola and Tarakot, reaching Dunai for an overnight stay. A long but pleasant day of trekking concludes with a celebration among the climbing crew.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 32: Trek from Dunai to Jhupal
2-3 Hour Trek
Lodge
After breakfast, trek on a broad trail crossing Thulo Bheri River to climb through terraced farmlands and return to Jhupal. Explore Jhupal before taking a flight back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj the following day.
Meals: All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 33: Fly from Jhupal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj
Hotel/Resort
Take an early morning flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj and another connecting flight to Kathmandu. Upon landing, transfer to the hotel, where you can rest or explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu.
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch
Day 34: Leisure Day at Kathmandu
Hotel/Resort
Utilize the day to visit UNESCO world heritage sites not covered earlier. Stroll through Thamel’s shopping streets and join in a celebration of the successful Putha Hiunchuli Expedition with a final meal in the evening.
Meals: BB Plan + Farewell Dinner
Day 35: Transfer to International Airport for Departure
Our Airport Representative will escort you to the International Airport based on your flight schedule.
Meals: Breakfast
Cost Includes
- 4 nights standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a bed & breakfast basis.
- Airport-hotel-airport transfers.
- Internal flight tickets with airport tax.
- Putha Hiunchuli Climbing and all other applicable permits.
- Cargo clearance & duties fees.
- 3:1 ratio of members to Professional High Altitude Climbing Sherpa, backed by Base Camp cook & kitchen helpers.
- 1 Government liaison officer.
- Daily wages, equipment allowance, insurance, and food for the mentioned staff, porters, and Liaison officer.
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner) throughout the expedition period at Base camp & during the approach to/from Base camp.
- Base camp tent with a thick mattress, chair, table, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, shower tent.
- 31 kg weight allowance per member for personal equipment.
- Transportation of all food supply & expedition equipment to/from Base camp.
- Garbage shipped off charges from Base Camp.
- High altitude (above Base camp) food, fuel for member & climbing Sherpas.
- High altitude tent, ropes, snow bar, rock piton, fixings, shovel, ice-screws, etc.
- 1 Gamow bag / O2 for emergency use only.
- Satellite phone, Walkie-Talkies.
- Solar panel for power supply.
- Emergency Helicopter rescue arrangements.
Cost Excludes
- Travel to/from Nepal.
- Nepal entry visa fee (can be easily obtained upon arrival at the International Airport – Kathmandu). The visa fee is $30 for 15 days; cash is preferable.
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu, drinks, postage, telephone bills & all items of personal nature.
- Personal travel, high-risk, accidental, and medical insurance for members.
- Climbing Sherpa summit bonus: US$ 490 per Sherpa, US$ 280 per person (for those who do not reach the summit due to client reasons).
- Respective expenses if one returns earlier from the expedition due to sickness or emergency purposes.
- Any extra services not mentioned in the cost inclusion.
