Expedition Overview – Dhampus Peak (Thapa Peak) 6,012 m
Dhampus Peak 6,012 m also known locally as Thapa Peak rises gracefully between the mighty Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, offering one of the most rewarding and accessible Himalayan climbing experiences in Nepal. Situated along the legendary Dhaulagiri Circuit, the peak sits in the shadow of world famous mountains including Dhaulagiri 8,167 m, Annapurna I 8,091 m, Tukuche Peak, and Nilgiri Himal creating a breathtaking panorama throughout the journey.
The adventure begins in Pokhara and gradually ascends through lush mid hills, terraced farmlands, and culturally rich Thakali and Gurung settlements before entering the dramatic alpine landscapes surrounding Dhaulagiri Base Camp. From here the route climbs toward the mystical Hidden Valley, a secluded high altitude basin wrapped in silence, snow walls, and otherworldly Himalayan energy.
Dhampus Peak is an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate climbers looking for their first or next Himalayan summit. The ascent is non technical to moderately demanding requiring only basic mountaineering skills such as using crampons, an ice axe, and moving safely on fixed ropes and snow slopes. Our thoughtfully crafted 20 day itinerary is built around safe acclimatization, gradual altitude gain, and professional Sherpa guidance ensuring the best chance of a successful and comfortable summit experience.
Blending authentic Himalayan culture, pristine natural beauty, and the excitement of standing on a 6,000 m summit Dhampus Peak offers an unforgettable mountaineering experience for those ready to step confidently into the world of Himalayan climbing.
Route and Camp Highlights – Dhampus Peak (Thapa Peak) 6,012 m
Dhaulagiri Base Camp – 4,750 m
Set at the foot of the colossal Dhaulagiri I 8,167 m, Base Camp lies in a dramatic glacial amphitheater surrounded by towering icefalls and sheer snow walls. This is the primary acclimatization point where climbers organize gear, review safety procedures, and prepare mentally and physically for entering the high alpine zone. The camp provides warm meals, dining tents, and essential communication support.
French Pass – 5,360 m → Entry to Hidden Valley
A steady and steep ascent across glaciated slopes leads to French Pass, the high gateway into the mystical Hidden Valley. The climb offers breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and the surrounding ice glaciers. Crossing the pass and descending into Hidden Valley reveals a vast, silent, untouched high altitude basin that feels almost otherworldly.
Hidden Valley Camp – 5,200 m
Hidden Valley is a wide, open high desert plateau ideal for setting up a comfortable high camp. Known for stable weather and excellent altitude adaptation, this location provides 360 degree views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the snow shaped ridgelines of the greater Dhaulagiri massif. It serves as the preparation and staging zone for the Dhampus Peak ascent.
Dhampus Peak High Camp – 5,400 m
Perched on an elevated ridge above Hidden Valley, High Camp offers an optimal position for summit day. The terrain gradually shifts from rocky moraine to packed snow slopes, giving climbers a preview of the route ahead. From this camp, the Himalayan panorama is extraordinary, with Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak dominating the horizon.
Summit Ridge – 6,012 m
The final climb follows broad snow slopes with moderate angles of 30 to 35 degrees, making Dhampus Peak one of Nepal’s most achievable 6,000 meter summits. The summit opens to a spectacular 360 degree Himalayan display featuring Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Mukut Himal, the Mustang plains, and the remote hidden corridors of Dolpo.
Welcome to Nepal. Our team meets you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers you to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and a full expedition briefing. Hotel | Dinner
Day 2 – Preparation and Briefing Day in Kathmandu
Complete gear checks, finalize permits, and enjoy a short sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley’s cultural sites. Hotel | Breakfast / Dinner
Day 3 – Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (960 m)
A scenic drive along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers brings you to lakeside Pokhara. Enjoy an evening walk along Phewa Lake. Hotel | B/L/D
Day 4 – Drive Pokhara to Takam (1,250 m)
Travel through rural hills and mountain villages as you enter the Dhaulagiri region. Tent | B/L/D
Day 5 – Trek Takam to Bagar (2,080 m)
Walk through terraced farmlands and dense forest trails while gaining gentle elevation. Tent |B/L/D
Day 6 – Trek Bagar to Dovan (2,520 m)
Follow the Myagdi Khola upstream through peaceful rhododendron and oak forests. Tent | B/L/D
Day 7 – Trek Dovan to Italian Base Camp (3,660 m)
The trail enters alpine terrain, offering incredible close-up views of Dhaulagiri’s massive west face.
Tent | B/L/D
Day 8 – Acclimatization at Italian Base Camp
A full rest and acclimatization day with optional short hikes to surrounding viewpoints.
Tent | B/L/D
Day 9 – Trek to Dhaulagiri Base Camp (4,750 m)
Cross glacial sections and moraine fields to reach the dramatic basin of Dhaulagiri Base Camp.
Tent | B/L/D
Days 10–11 – Acclimatization and Preparation at Dhaulagiri Base Camp
Spend two days adjusting to altitude, training on ice slopes, and preparing gear with your Sherpa team.
Tent | B/L/D
Day 12 – Trek to Thapa Peak Base Camp (5,150 m) via Thapa Pass (5,244 m)
A beautiful and steady climb over Thapa Pass leads you into the mystical Hidden Valley where Base Camp is established.
Tent | B/L/D
Day 13 – Summit Dhampus Peak (6,012 m) and Return to Base Camp
Begin your summit push before sunrise. Reach the top of Dhampus Peak for magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri and the Mustang highlands. Descend safely back to Base Camp.
Tent | B/L/D
Day 14 – Contingency and Reserve Day
Reserved for weather delays or extra rest as needed for safety.
Tent | B/L/D
Day 15 – Trek Base Camp to Marpha (2,670 m)
Descend from the high alpine terrain into the beautiful apple orchards and stone-paved trails of Marpha. Lodge | B/L/D
Day 16 – Drive Marpha to Pokhara (820 m)
Follow the Kali Gandaki Valley on a scenic drive back to Pokhara. Hotel | Breakfast / Lunch
Day 17 – Rest and Sightseeing in Pokhara
Relax at Phewa Lake, visit the Peace Pagoda, or explore vibrant lakeside shops and cafés.
Hotel | Breakfast / Lunch
Day 18 – Fly Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400 m)
A quick scenic mountain flight brings you back to Kathmandu. Hotel | Breakfast
Day 19 – Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
Visit cultural landmarks including Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Patan Durbar Square
Hotel | Breakfast
Day 20 – Final Departure
A representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Breakfast
Why Royal Orchid Trek for Dhampus Peak (Thapa Peak) Climbing
1.Sherpa-Led Expertise Through One of Nepal’s Most Historic High Routes
Our Sherpa guides have extensive experience on the Dhaulagiri Circuit, Hidden Valley, and multiple peaks across the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Their knowledge of the terrain, weather patterns, and technical sections ensures a smooth and safe ascent.
2.Perfect Peak for Beginner and Intermediate Climbers
Dhampus Peak is one of Nepal’s most achievable 6,000 m climbs, ideal for trekkers stepping into mountaineering. We provide glacier training, rope technique guidance, and personalized coaching to prepare you for both this summit and future higher climbs.
3.A Real Himalayan Expedition With Cultural Immersion
The route passes through Thakali and Gurung villages, ancient trails, and the breathtaking high alpine world of Dhaulagiri Base Camp and Hidden Valley. This expedition combines cultural depth with dramatic high mountain scenery for a truly authentic Himalayan experience.
4.Premium Logistics, Quality Gear and Responsible Guiding
Royal Orchid ensures smooth logistics from Pokhara to summit day, including trained porters, high altitude tents, nutritious meals, weather monitoring, and strong safety protocols. Every element is handled with precision so you can fully focus on the climb.
5. Ethical Sherpa-Owned Company Offering Personalized Care
Ethical Sherpa-Owned Company Offering Personalized Care
As a Sherpa-owned guiding company, we prioritize fair wages, full insurance for our team, eco-conscious travel, and genuine Himalayan hospitality. With small group sizes, every climber receives personal guidance, attention, and support from start to finish.
Include & Excludes
Include
Airport Transfers: All airport pick-up and drop-off services in Kathmandu.
Accommodation in Kathmandu: Three nights of hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
Accommodation in Pokhara: Two nights of hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast.
Ground Transportation: All ground transportation as per itinerary, including the Kathmandu–Pokhara drive and transfers from Pokhara to Takam and Marpha to Pokhara.
Domestic Flight: One-way domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Meals: Full board meals during the trek and climb, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea, and coffee.
Trekking & Camping Accommodation: Accommodation in mountain lodges and a full camping setup where required, including tents, dining tent, kitchen tent, and sleeping arrangements.
Guides & Sherpa Support: Experienced, licensed, English-speaking trekking guide and a professional climbing Sherpa with high-altitude experience.
Porter Service: One porter for every two trekkers, carrying up to 15 kg per person.
Climbing Equipment: Group climbing equipment, including ropes, ice screws, snow bars, and fixed-line setup.
Staff Expenses: All staff wages, meals, insurance, accommodation, equipment, and transportation.
Permits: Dhampus Peak climbing permit and all required trekking permits.
Training: High-altitude training sessions covering glacier techniques, rope handling, and summit preparation.
Government Fees: All government taxes, official documents, and service charges.
Exclude
International Flights: International airfare to and from Nepal.
Visa Fees: Nepal entry visa fees.
Insurance: Mandatory personal travel, rescue, and medical insurance for mountaineering.
Personal Climbing Gear: Personal equipment such as boots, crampons, harness, ice axe, down jacket, and other personal items.
City Meals: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara, except for the welcome dinner.
Personal Expenses: Alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks, snacks, and personal expenses during the trek.
Lodge Services: Hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and other personal services in lodges.
Tips: Tips for guides, porters, and drivers (customary but highly appreciated).
Unforeseen Costs: Expenses for extra accommodation or transportation due to flight delays, weather conditions, or itinerary changes.
Additional Services: Any services not mentioned in the Cost Includes section.