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Destination
Nepal
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Region
Far West region
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Trip Grade
Grade 3: Hard/challenging
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Accommodation
Tea House
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Total Distance
90 km/ 55 miles
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Start / End Point
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
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Durations
15 days
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Max. Altitude
4200m/13780ft
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Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
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Group Size
above 1 pax
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Best Season
March to May/sept to Nov
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Activity per day
6 hrs
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Transportation
Hiking/Drive/flight
Mt. Api (7,132m), located in the extreme northwest corner of Nepal, is the highest mountain in the Far-Western region of Nepal. This treasure in the Far-Western region of Nepal is protected by the Api Nampa Conservation Area. Along with the mountain, this conservation area also conserves the natural beauty and ecosystem of the region, allowing trekkers to feed their eyes on something more than just the mountain.
Yes, the API Base Camp Trek, isn’t just about the base camp and the beauty of Mt. API. There is much more to it than just the seven thousand. Like people say, “It’s just as much about the journey, as it is the destination’, the Api Base Camp trekking trail proves the saying.
The beautiful Mahakali Valley, steep gorges, subtropical to alpine forest and vegetation, pastures, grasslands, waterfalls, lakes, and streams along the trail have equal contributions making this trekking trail one of the best trekking trails in Nepal. Moreover, this trekking is equally good for bird watching, and understanding the mixed community, culture, tradition, and lifestyle of people that is pure and untouched by modernity.
Apart from the attractions presented by the trail, the Api Base Camp trekking package also allows trekkers to enjoy the attractions of Dhangadhi, like the Aircraft Museum, Botanical Garden, and Jokhar Lake. If you have time and willingness to explore more, adding one more day to the trip will also allow you to enjoy the attractions of the Kathmandu Valley.
The API Base Camp trekking starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi (optional: arrival in Delhi and a bus ride to Dhangadhi). From Dhangadhi, we will drive to Latinath, the start point of the trek, and walk up to the base camp of Mt. Api past Pagibagar, Maakrigadi, Siti, Domal, and Daulo Odar. We retrace our path using the same trail till Dhangadhi. The trip ends either with a flight to Kathmandu or a drive to Delhi from Dhangadhi.
Our standard 15 days Api Base Camp Trek package ensures the benefit of bed and breakfast in Kathmandu and a full board (meal and accommodation), during the trek; all ground transportation, flight tickets, and an English-speaking guide. However, this package is fully customizable and can be tailored to the needs, requirements, and budget of each customer, with guaranteed departure. Group trekkers can enjoy a special group discount.
Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to plan this trekking. As per the grades, this trekking in Nepal falls under moderate trekking, therefore, any physically fit individual with good stamina can attempt this trekking in Nepal. Moreover, only group trekking is allowed in this area. travelers can, however, join Good Karma Trekking.
Nevertheless, if you are looking to explore other attractions of the Far-western region of Nepal, 11 Days Khaptad Trek is a good option to consider. Enjoy the trip!
(Note: This trip to Nepal can also be arranged with arrival and departure from Delhi, instead of Kathmandu. From Delhi, we will drive to Dhangadhi and vice versa. The rest of the itinerary will remain the same.)
About The Api Himal Base Camp trek
The Api Himal Base Camp trek is an adventurous journey into the remote Far West region of Nepal, leading to the base of Mount Api (7,132m), one of the least-climbed peaks in Nepal. This trek is known for its untouched beauty, remote villages, and stunning landscapes. The trek is considered moderate to challenging, with some steep ascents, descents, and uneven paths, requiring a good level of physical fitness.
Key aspects of the Api Himal Base Camp trek:
Location:
The trek is situated in the Far West region of Nepal, offering a less-traveled path compared to more popular routes.
Difficulty:
The trek is generally considered moderate to challenging, with some steep sections and uneven terrain, particularly near the base camp.
Altitude:
The highest point of the trek is Kalidhunga Lake at 4,200 meters, which is generally manageable with proper acclimatization.
Highlights:
The trek offers stunning views of Api Himal, Nampa Peak, and Saipal Himal, as well as unique cultural experiences with the Raute and Bhotiya communities.
Best time to trek:
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best seasons, with clear weather and favorable conditions.
Permits:
Trekkers need a TIMS card and an Api Nampa conservation area entrance fee.
Unique experiences:
The trek provides a chance to witness the unspoiled beauty of Nepal’s western wilderness and experience authentic Nepalese life.
Highlights
- The Api Base Camp trek in Nepal offers a unique and challenging adventure, highlighting stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and rich local culture. Key highlights include panoramic views of Api Himal, Nampa, and Saipal peaks, the exploration of sacred Kalidhunga Lake, and encounters with the unique far-western Nepalese culture. The trek also features diverse flora and fauna, including the chance to spot snow leopards and other wildlife.
- Mountain Majesty: Spectacular Views: The trek provides incredible panoramic views of Mt. Api (7,132m), Mt. Nampa (6,929m), and Mt. Bobaye (6,808m), among other peaks.
- Api Nampa Conservation Area: Explore the diverse flora and fauna within the conservation area, with potential wildlife sightings like snow leopards and Himalayan black bears.
- Cultural Immersion: Far Western Culture: Experience the unique culture and way of life of the Tharu and other ethnic communities in the far western region, including the Saukas people who harvest Yarshagumba.
- Ancient Villages: Discover the traditional villages and way of life that have been preserved for centuries.
- Natural Wonders: Kalidhunga Lake: Visit the serene Kalidhunga Lake, a glacial gem nestled amidst the rugged mountains.
- Chameliya River: Trek along the Chameliya River, the major river of the far west, and its valleys.
- Forests and Waterfalls: Enjoy the varied landscapes, from subtropical to alpine forests, with cascading waterfalls and glacial rivers.
- Unspoiled Landscapes: Experience the remoteness and quietness of a less-traveled trekking region.
- Trekking Experience: Moderate to Challenging: The trek offers a mix of terrain with moderate to challenging days, suitable for experienced trekkers
- Unique Terrain: The trek takes you through rugged and varied terrain, including steep gorges and alpine pastures.
- Remote and Uncrowded: Enjoy the tranquility and remoteness of the region, far from the crowds of more popular trekking routes.
- The Api Base Camp trek in Nepal offers a unique adventure through remote landscapes, showcasing stunning mountain views, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural encounters. Key highlights include breathtaking vistas of Mt. Api and other peaks, exploration of the Api Nampa Conservation Area, and immersion in the unique culture of the far western region.
- Scenic flight to Dhangadhi and drive to Khalanga.
- Mahakali and Chamelia rivers.
- Subtropical forests and amazing alpine pastures.
- Glaciers and lakes.
- Stunning view of mountains like Api (7132m), Nampa (6757m.), etc.
- Experience in the least developed area of Nepal.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,564ft)
- Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi (109m/357ft) 1 hour 15 mins
- Day 3: Drive from Dhangadhi to Gokuleshwar 8 hours.
- Day 4: Drive from Gokuleshwar to Latinath (1,004m) 2 hours and trek to Paribagar (1,770m/5,807ft) 1 hour
- Day 5: Trek from Paribagar to Makarigaad (1,470m/4,822ft) 5 hours
- Day 6: Trek from Makrigaad to Siti (2,254m/7,395ft) 8 hours
- Day 7: Trek from Siti to Domal (2,950m/9,678ft) 7 hours
- Day 8: Trek from Domal to Dhaulo Odar (lower Api Base Camp) (3,548m/11,640ft) 5 hours
- Day 9: Trek from Daulo Odar to Api Base Camp/Pilkandah (3,861m/12,667ft) and back to Daulo Odar.
- Day 10: Trek from Daulo Odar to Siti (2,258m/7,408ft) 6 hours
- Day 11: Trek from Siti to Makarigaad (1,470m/4,822ft) 6 hours
- Day 12: Trek from Makarigadi to Latinath (4 hour) and drive to Gokuleshwar (2 hour)
- Day 13: Drive from Gokuleshwar to Dhangadhi (9 hours)
- Day 14: Fly from Dhangadhi to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,264ft
- Day 15: Departure day
Cost Includes
- Airport Pickup and Drop
- Camping Accommodation with 3 meals per day
- Guide, Porter & Helper with their salary, food, accommodation, transportation, and insurance
- Use of sleeping bag & Duffel bag (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed)
- Daily seasonal fresh fruits after dinner
- A first aid kit carried by the guide (Oximeter to measure your oxygen and pulse in high altitude)
- All necessary trekking permits
- All Government and local taxes
- Tre starting and ending place private jeep.
Cost does not Include
- International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
- Hotel & Meals in Kathmandu
- Personal expenses (Wifi, Phone calls, Laundry, Bar bills, Battery Recharge, Water, Shower, and Tea / Coffee)
- Other costs not mentioned in 'Cost Includes' section
- Travel and Rescue Insurance
- Tips for Guides, Porters, Helpers, and Drivers
Food and Accommodation
Providing the best accommodation and food facilities for you is our duty. During your stay in Kathmandu, the food and accommodation facilities will be according to your choice. The rooms are clean and comfortable with proper facilities. According to your choice and requirements, you can taste different types of Nepali flavors and international cuisines.
But as your trekking journey starts, you’ll be spending the nights at the tented camps and you’ll be eating typical Nepali (Dal Bhat, Dhindo, local bread and many more) foods yet very healthy and energy-giving foods. These foods are important for you during the trek as they provide you with the required protein and energy.
At Gokuleshwor you’ll be staying at an average guesthouse. The trekking route itself is a very remote area, so don’t expect standard accommodation and food facilities in these guesthouses.
It might be hard for you to cook food and spend nights in a tent camp. But these hardships make your trekking journey more memorable and exciting. Proper camping items for the tented camp is also necessary. Make sure you bring a comfortable sleeping bag and favorite drinks and snacks along the trek.
Best Time
Api Himal Base Camp Trek is a wonderful trekking journey. The popular month for trekking in Nepal is in spring (March to May) and autumn(September to November) season. The skies are clear and beautiful during these seasons. You can see the snow-covered peaks and the Himalayan ranges up close with the clouds distracting you.
The green vegetation and beautiful flora and fauna fill the trekking routes. The landscapes, rivers, gorge, and waterfalls are very beautiful during these seasons.
But, this trek is doable in other months and seasons also. However, you’ll need proper planning and the right trekking gear to deal with the weather and temperature.
Trek Difficulty
Api Himal Base Camp trek is an adequate filled with adventurous and exciting trails. You’ll be enjoying the nature and scenic view provided to you by the trek. However, there are some hassles that you might face during the trek.
One of the main difficulties during the trek is altitude. As the trek elevates from 109 meters to 4,000 meters there will be more chances for altitude sickness. During the trek, you’ll be walking at a slow pace with easy steps. You’ll be taking lots of breaks and rest as you are trekking.
Being hydrated all the time is also important. As there are chances for you to face altitude sickness, keeping your body hydrated is a way to prevent it.
This trek is a moderate trek so if you’re not physically fit you can complete this trek successfully although it might be a little hard for you. Any experience and age can do this trek. You can do some light physical exercise 2-3 weeks before the trek. It will be very helpful for the trek.
As you ascend slowly towards your destination, the weather is not stable all the time. You’ll be facing rain, heat, cold and sometimes snowfall so, being equipped with the right and useful gear is a must. Lightweight packing with useful and handy equipment is also important.
So, in order to complete the trek successfully, we provide you with some of the experienced and professional guides. They will be helping you in every step of your trekking journey and be with you all the time.
Api Base Camp Trek Packing List
To minimize unnecessary hassles, it is critical to choose the appropriate clothing, gear, and accessories for the weather and region. You must pack your belongings in accordance with the hotter temperatures at lower heights and the cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Here is a suggested packing list for your trek. The following list will assist you in remaining safe while also making your travel easier and more enjoyable.
Sun Protection: Sunglass, Sunhat, Sunscreen
Headwear: Warm hat, Buff
Bodywear: Underwear, Sports Bra, Baselayer, Trekking shirt, Fleece Jacket, Outer Jacket, Rain jacket, Trekking trousers, and shorts
Handwear: Inner Gloves, Outer Gloves
Footwear: Hiking socks, Thermal socks, hiking boots, Trainers or trekking sandals, Gaiters
Backpacks: Duffle bag, Backpack, Daypack
Sleeping Accessories: Sleeping bag, Sleeping bag liner
Accessories: Trekking Poles, Headlamp, Microspikes, Water bottle, or Hydration Bladder
Technology: Camera, Portable/Solar Charger, Books
Medication: First aid kit, Water purification tablets or Lifestraw, Isotonic Powder, Wet wipes and tissues, Lip Balm, Toiletries, Hand Sanitizer
Other necessities: Passport/money, Insurance, Quick-drying towels
Api Base Camp Trek Guide and Safety
We are certain that our ecosystem must be preserved from the detrimental consequences of tourism, and we make every effort to do so. Good Karma Treking collaborates with the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) to provide environmentally responsible itineraries that satisfy the needs of both tourists and local populations in trek areas.
Good Karma ensures the safety, security, and contentment of its customers. Our primary priority is to keep you secure. We are constantly prepared for any circumstance and have all of the required clothing, equipment, and first-aid supplies on hand. Our guides and leaders have undergone comprehensive first-aid training. If a trekker experiences altitude sickness, your trek leader has the ability to determine whether to continue or descend immediately, depending on the case. In the event of an emergency, we will dispatch a rescue helicopter to transport you back from high altitudes. We also hike together to protect everyone’s safety.
Detail Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,564ft)
- Altitude:1400m / 4,593ft
- Duration:1 hr
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi (109m/357ft) 1 hour 15 mins
- Altitude:109m/357ft
- Duration:1 hr
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day 3: Drive from Dhangadhi to Gokuleshwar 8 hours.
- Altitude:822m/2696ft
- Duration:8 hrs drive
- Accommodation:Tea House
Day 4: Drive from Gokuleshwar to Latinath (1,004m) 2 hours and trek to Paribagar (1,770m/5,807ft) 1 hour
- Altitude:1,770m/5,807ft
- Duration:3 /4 hr
- Accommodation:Teahouse
Day 5: Trek from Paribagar to Makarigaad (1,470m/4,822ft) 5 hours
- Altitude:1,470m/4,822ft
- Duration:5 hr
- Accommodation:Tea House
Day 6: Trek from Makrigaad to Siti (2,254m/7,395ft) 8 hours
- Altitude:2,254m/7,395ft
- Duration:8 hr
- Accommodation:Teahouse
Day 7: Trek from Siti to Domal (2,950m/9,678ft) 7 hours
- Altitude:2,950m/9,678ft
- Duration:7 hr
- Accommodation:Tented Camp
Day 8: Trek from Domal to Dhaulo Odar (lower Api Base Camp) (3,548m/11,640ft) 5 hours
- Altitude:3,548m/11,640ft
- Duration:5 hr
- Accommodation:Tent house
Day 9: Trek from Daulo Odar to Api Base Camp/Pilkandah (3,861m/12,667ft) and back to Daulo Odar.
- Altitude:3,548m/11,640ft
- Duration:8 hr
- Accommodation:Tented Camp
Day 10: Trek from Daulo Odar to Siti (2,258m/7,408ft) 6 hours
- Altitude:2,258m/7,408ft
- Duration:6 hrs
- Accommodation:Tea house
Day 11: Trek from Siti to Makarigaad (1,470m/4,822ft) 6 hours
- Altitude:(1,470m/4,822ft
- Duration:6 hrs
- Accommodation:Tea house
Day 12: Trek from Makarigadi to Latinath (4 hour) and drive to Gokuleshwar (2 hour)
- Altitude:822m/2696ft
- Duration:5 hrs/2 hrs drive
- Accommodation:Tea house
Day 13: Drive from Gokuleshwar to Dhangadhi (9 hours)
- Altitude:109m/357ft
- Duration:9 hrs
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day 14: Fly from Dhangadhi to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,264ft
- Altitude:1400m/4565ft
- Duration:1.15hr flight/1 hrs drive
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day 15: Departure day
Most Common FAQs
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