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Putha Hiunchuli Expedition 7000m
28 Days
Advanced
Dhaulagiri
Trip Summary & Highlights
Putha Hiunchuli Expedition: A Grand 7,000-Meter Adventure in Nepal
The Putha Hiunchuli expedition (7,246m) is the ultimate gateway for mountaineers aspiring to conquer their first 7000 meter peak. Located in the remote and mystical Dolpa region of western Nepal, Putha Hiunchuli (also known as Dhaulagiri VII) offers a unique blend of high-altitude thrills without the extreme technical difficulties found on neighboring giants.
This Nepal expedition is celebrated as one of the most accessible 7000 meter expedition opportunities. The northern slopes provide a straightforward, non-technical ascent route that skips the daunting ice falls and vertical rock walls of more treacherous peaks. Whether you are a seasoned trekker looking to elevate your game or an aspiring high-altitude climber, this adventure in Nepal delivers the perfect balance of physical challenge and Himalayan serenity.
The journey begins in the footsteps of history—first summited by the legendary Jimmy Roberts in 1954. Beyond the climb, the expedition is a visual and cultural odyssey through a landscape immortalized in The Snow Leopard. From the lush valleys of Dunai to the stark, “French Alps-style” terrain of the German Base Camp at 4,525 meters, every step is a testament to the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
Trip Highlights
- Ultimate 7,000-Meter Goal: Successfully summit Putha Hiunchuli, an impressive 7000 meter peak that stands as a formidable yet attainable objective for ambitious climbers.
- Non-Technical High-Altitude Climbing: Experience the "easy" side of mountaineering with a route that avoids extreme technical features while still testing your endurance and mental grit.
- Ski Mountaineering Paradise: Putha Hiunchuli is arguably the premier destination for ski mountaineering in Nepal, offering long, immaculate powder descents from high altitudes.
- Remote Dolpa Wilderness: Explore the untouched wilderness of the Dolpa region, a hidden gem of Nepal expedition routes characterized by pristine landscapes and rare Tibetan-influenced culture.
- Scenic Approach Trek: Enjoy a week-long trek from Juphal and Dunai, passing through dramatic cliffs, plunging valleys, and the historic village of Tarakot.
- Follow a Legend: Retrace the 1954 path of pioneer Jimmy Roberts on a mountain that remains a "quiet" alternative to the crowded trails of the Everest or Annapurna regions.
Trip Infos
Duration
28 Days
Trip Grade
Advanced
Best Season
May, Jun and September, October
Accomodation
Star Hotel, Teahouse and Camping
Departure from
Kathmandu to Kathmandu
Transportation
Plane and Bus, Jeeps
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Maximum Altitude
7246m
Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Our representative will meet you at the airport, assist you with the transfer, and help with hotel check-in. You may rest, relax, or explore the surroundings if time permits.
Check gear and shop for any necessary equipment. In the afternoon, fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Overnight at a hotel.
Short flight to Juphal (2,475 m), then trek to Dunai (2,140 m), where we meet our staff. Dunai is the main village of the Dolpo region. Overnight at a lodge.
Trek from Dunai to Nando (2,355 m) or Tarakot (2,540 m), following the Barbung Khola and passing picturesque terraced fields and small villages. The campsite is set among corn and buckwheat fields and isolated homesteads. Overnight in tents.
Begin the trek from Nando or Tarakot to Mushi Khola (2,880 m). The first half of the journey offers pleasant shade along a trail high above the river, reaching Laisicap (2,615 m), the entrance to Upper Dolpo. The route then continues with several ascents and descents, including a bypass due to riverbank erosion. Overnight at the alpine meadow of Mushi Khola in tents.
Trek from Mushi Khola to Kakkotgaon (3,265 m). The trail passes through sparse pine and cypress forests. After crossing several bridges, we leave the Bharbung Khola behind and reach Kakkotgaon, the last large village in the valley. The landscape begins to resemble nearby Mustang. Overnight in tents.
Rest Day for acclimatization and exploration. This is the last and largest village on the Putha Hiunchuli Expedition route. Loads will be reorganized for local porters, as only residents of this area are permitted to carry loads beyond this point according to community rules.
Trek to Yak Kharka at Pangzi (4,500 m). After crossing the village and Bharbun Khola, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging as it ascends along the ridge to Pangzi (Yak Kharka) campsite. Overnight in tents.
Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Dolpo mountains while trekking to Base Camp. The base camp is located on a flat meadow with a stream running through it, surrounded by towering peaks: Putha Hiunchuli (7,246 m), Churen Himal (7,286 m), and Dhaulagiri IV (7,661 m).
With sufficient time for acclimatization, we establish Camps at C1 (5,480 m), C2 (6,150 m), and C3 (6,350 m). We conduct rotation climbs, allow time for rest and recovery, and wait for suitable weather conditions before the summit attempt.
Packing and equipment arrangement at Base Camp. After completing the expedition, we check all gear and prepare our backpacks for the return journey.
Return trek to Kakkotgaon. This is a long descent day along the same trail. We bid farewell to the expedition area with wonderful memories. Upon arrival in Kakkotgaon, we celebrate the successful expedition together with the team.
retracing our previous route.
Trek to Dunai (approximately 6�7 hours) and drive to Juphal (about 45 minutes).
Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj (40�45 minutes), then onward to Kathmandu (45�55 minutes).
Rest day and last-minute shopping for souvenirs. You may explore Kathmandu city and enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine.
According to your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
Want to Customize Your Trip?
We can tailor this trek to your schedule, comfort level, and interests.
What's Included & Excluded
What's Included
- Airport transportation as per your arrival date to join the Putha Himchuli expedition team and Nepalgunj airport.
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj on B/B plan.(Twin bedroom sharing)
- Transportation, by domestic airplane and jeeps.
- Permits: Expedition permit, Dolpo special permit and Dolpo trekking permit.
- Full board service during the trekking and in base camp.
- Liaison officer salary, insurance and all his necessary expenses.
- Climbing Guide, Summiteer Climbing Sherpa, Expedition cook, support Cooks and porters equipment, meals, transportation and daily wages.
- Nepali staff insurance and emergency rescue.
- All camping equipment including base camp and high altitude place. Tents, Kitchen, Dining, Table, Chairs, toilet and High altitude tents, EPI gas, Burner etc.
- Emergency Medical oxygen, Satellite Phone and Walkie-Talkie in case of emergency.
- Government tax and Local agency service charge.
What's Excluded
- International airfare and Nepal entry visa fees.
- Insurance: Personal insurance, medical, travel insurance and emergency rescue coverage insurance.
- Lunch, dinner in Kathmandu City and Bar, Beverage Bills like wines, beers, coke, mineral water, etc.
- Personal nature expenses, toiletries, hot shower, laundry, internet and phone calls, trekking equipment & climbing gears.
- Summit bonus, tips for your guides and expedition staffs.
Essential Information & Preparation
Essential Information
Peak Altitude and Geographical Location
Putha Hiunchuli, often referred to as Dhaulagiri VII, stands at a commanding elevation of 7,246 meters (23,773 feet). It is situated at the western end of the Dhaulagiri massif within the remote Dolpa region of Nepal. This peak serves as a magnificent vantage point, offering panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri range, Annapurna, and the vast Tibetan plateau.Climbing Difficulty and Technical Requirements
Among the world's 7,000-meter peaks, Putha Hiunchuli is distinguished by its relatively low technical difficulty. The standard northern route primarily involves snow and glacier walking with slopes rarely exceeding 35 degrees. While it is graded as PD+ (Peu Difficile), it is a strenuous undertaking that requires excellent physical stamina and basic familiarity with high-altitude mountaineering gear like crampons and ice axes.Putha Hiunchuli Climbing Seasons
The most favorable windows for a Putha Hiunchuli expedition are the Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons. Spring offers longer daylight hours and blooming alpine flora, while Autumn is the preferred choice for ski mountaineers due to more stable snow conditions and crisp, clear skies.Logistics, Accommodation, and Duration
A standard expedition typically spans 28 to 35 days. The journey involves domestic flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and onwards to Juphal. Accommodations transition from comfortable hotels in the city to rustic teahouses during the week-long trek through Dolpa, eventually moving to fully supported tented camps at the German Base Camp (4,525m) and three subsequent high camps.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Putha Hiunchuli is widely regarded as one of the least technical 7000 meter peaks in Nepal. While the altitude of 7,246 meters requires excellent physical fitness and stamina, the northern route is a straightforward snow climb without major crevasse hazards or vertical ice walls, making it safer than peaks like Ama Dablam or Baruntse.
While you donu2019t need to be an expert ice climber, you should have experience with high-altitude trekking (above 5,000m) and basic mountaineering skills like using crampons and ice axes. It serves as an ideal training ground for those planning future 8,000-meter peaks like Everest or Cho Oyu.
The best seasons are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). Autumn is particularly popular for this Nepal expedition as it offers stable weather and the best conditions for those interested in the ski descent.
Yes! Putha Hiunchuli is famous for its long, moderate slopes (averaging 35 degrees) that are perfect for skiing or snowboarding. Many professional ski mountaineers choose this peak specifically for the thrill of a 2,000-meter vertical descent on fresh Himalayan powder.
To join a Putha Hiunchuli expedition, you will need a climbing permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), an Upper Dolpa Restricted Area Permit, the Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit, and a TIMS card.
During the initial trek, you will stay in local teahouses or lodges. Once you move past the German Base Camp (4,525m), the expedition transitions to a fully supported tented camp setup with professional kitchen staff and high-altitude equipment.
Starting from
$6,845
Per Person (Group Join)
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