The Api Saipal Base Camp Trek is an extraordinary 28-day adventure to the remote far-western region of Nepal, which includes an adventure to explore two of the highest mountains in this region, Api (7,132 m) and Saipal (7,031 m). The name Api is derived from the Tibetan word “ABI,” which means “grandmother,” reflecting attributes of greatness and respect. Similarly, the name Saipal is derived from the Khas language, where “SAI” means “nomad” and “PAL” means “tent,” reflecting the lifestyle of nomads in this region.
The Api Saipal Base Camp Trek is one of the most unique and least traversed treks in Nepal. This trek is an off-the-beaten-path adventure where trekkers can experience a journey to unexplored landscapes, forests, meadows, mountain passes, and remote valleys in Nepal. In addition to this, trekkers can also experience a journey to isolated villages where they can experience ancient traditions, unique culture, and simple mountain lifestyles.
The Api Saipal Base Camp Trek is a challenging yet rewarding experience that is best for experienced trekkers who are looking for solitude and adventure. As one gets closer to the base camps, they are rewarded with breathtaking views of Api Himal, Saipal Himal, and other Himalayan ranges. The natural beauty of the region is still untainted, coupled with the rich cultural heritage of the region, making it a trekking experience that is impossible to forget.
Highlights of the Api Saipal Base Camp Trek:
Welcome! To Kathmandu, Nepal. You will be welcomed by an Asian Heritage Travel representative with a nameplate upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, and you will then be taken to your hotel located within the busy tourist district known as Thamel in Kathmandu. You will see some of the highlights of the city while traveling to the hotel, including Pashupatinath Temple, Narayanhiti Royal Palace Museum, and the peaceful Garden of Dreams. Once you arrive at your hotel, a representative will meet you to discuss your itinerary and answer any questions you might have about it. After you check into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore the busy streets, cafés, and shops of Thamel or relax at your hotel.
Includes: Private transport and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Start your sightseeing tour by meeting your guide and climbing into your private vehicle. Your first stop will be Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you will walk among centuries-old royal palaces, intricate carvings on countless temples, and traditional courtyard-style buildings indicative of the venerable history of ancient Kathmandu.
Your next destination on your journey is Swayambhunath, commonly referred to as the Monkey Temple. Swayambhunath is a sacred stupa located atop a hill that contains both Buddhist and Hindu cultural influences, and provides fabulous views of the Kathmandu Valley and the distant peaks of the Himalayas.
The next stop on your tour is Pashupatinath Temple, one of the premier Hindu pilgrimage destinations in Southeast Asia. Pashupatinath Temple is built on the banks of the Bagmati River, where you will get a glimpse of the open-air cremation ceremonies and experience the spiritual practices surrounding the temple complex.
The last stop of the day is the incredible Boudhanath Stupa (another UNESCO World Heritage Site), which is one of the largest stupas in the world. The stupa dates back to approximately 600 A.D. and represents the center of Tibetan Buddhist culture, surrounded by local life, monasteries, and prayer wheels.
After an amazing day of cultural experiences, you will head back to your hotel to rest and relax.
Includes: Breakfast, private transport, an English-speaking tour guide, and an overnight accommodation at Hotel Yatri Suites & Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Your journey starts with a scenic flight to Dhangadhi from Kathmandu, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. After arriving in Dhangadhi, you have some time to relax and take some rest after your flight. After lunch, your journey resumes with a 2 to 3-hour drive covering 65 kilometers to Dadeldhura, which is at an altitude of 1,720 meters.
As your journey moves away from the lowlands, your drive gradually moves towards the hills, providing you with spectacular views of the surroundings, villages, and cultivated lands. Once you arrive in Dadeldhura, you have the opportunity to relax in this picturesque hill town, which is the prelude to your adventure.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Airfare, Private transport, an English-speaking guide, and an overnight accommodation at an available lodge in Dadeldhura.
Today, you will have a long drive through a scenic road that will take you from Dadeldhura to Gokuleshwor, covering a distance of 200 kilometers over a period of 7-8 hours. The drive will take you through the hilly roads of far-western Nepal, giving you a deeper insight into this less-explored region of Nepal.
During your drive, you will come across several villages, agricultural fields, and hill areas, giving you an insight into the lifestyle of the people of this region. Although the drive will be long, the scenic beauty of the region will make your drive more enjoyable. At Gokuleshwor, which lies at an altitude of 800 meters, you will have ample time to relax before you start your trekking days.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Private transport, an English-speaking guide, and an overnight accommodation at an available lodge in Gokuleshwor.
After having your breakfast, you will drive from Gokuleshwor to Makarigarh, covering a distance of 45 kilometers in approximately 4 hours on an off-road trail. With the extension of the road now reaching a normal village, Makarigarh has become the starting point of your Api Base Camp Trek.
From Makarigarh, you will be starting your first trek, covering a distance of 6 kilometers in 1-2 hours towards Khandeshwori, which is situated at a height of 1,333 meters. The trek is not very difficult and takes you through beautiful scenery. Once you reach Khandeshwori, you can enjoy the beauty of the village and the hospitality of the locals.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Private transport, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Khandeshwori.
After breakfast, you will start your trek towards Lumcha from Khandeshwori. This trek is about 12 kilometers and takes 7.5 hours. You will trek on the path along the Chamalya Nadi River. The trekking route is very beautiful in terms of natural scenery.
The trekking route is narrow with steep climbs and descents. This makes the trek very adventurous. While trekking towards Lumcha, you will pass through Thumti village. You can enjoy the lifestyle and culture of this remote village. Gradually, you will move towards Lumcha, which is at an altitude of 2,550 meters. You will stay overnight at this place.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Lumcha.
After breakfast, you will continue your trek to Simar from Lumcha. The distance to be covered is 10 kilometers in about 5 hours. The trek is mostly ascending, but good and manageable throughout the day.
While on the trek, you will pass through the route along the Chamalya River. The beauty of the place is such that you will enjoy the serene surroundings. Gradually, you will come down and reach Simar, which is at an altitude of 1,550 meters on the banks of the river. Once you reach the place, you can enjoy the serene beauty.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Simar.
After breakfast, you will start your trek from Simar to Dhauli Odar, which will take approximately 3 hours to cover 9 km. On this stretch, you will have a magnificent river valley trek with close views of the Api range. This will be the most memorable part of your journey.
Upon reaching Dhauli Odar, which is at an altitude of 3,550 meters, you will have time to rest. Then, you will start a short exploration of the nearby Bhabaye Valley. This will take approximately 1 hour to cover 3 km. This will be a fantastic opportunity to have a glimpse of the pristine beauty of this area. After this exploration, you will return to Dhauli Odar for an overnight stay.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Dhauli Odar.
After breakfast, your trek to Api Base Camp South from Dhauli Odar will begin, which is approximately 8 to 9 kilometers in distance and takes around 3 hours to cover. The trek is gradually uphill, and the trekking route takes you through some of the most picturesque Alpine landscapes and by the side of the picturesque Kali Dhunga Lake.
After arriving at Api Base Camp South, which is at an altitude of 4,250 meters, you have enough time to enjoy the surroundings and take in the breathtaking beauty of the place. In addition, you can enjoy the magnificent views of Mt. Api, besides which you can also trek to some of the other highest peaks in the region, like Mt. Kyapchuli (6,580 m) and Mt. Nandadevi (7,817 m).
You will be staying overnight in Api Base Camp, which is in the midst of pristine Himalayan wilderness, making this trekking experience one to remember.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Api Base Camp.
Today, your trek will be from Api Base Camp to Siti village, covering a distance of approximately 23 kilometers within a period of 7-8 hours. This will be the same route that you took via Dhauli Odar. This will allow you to see the wonderful views of this region once again.
During your descent, you will have an opportunity to see the picturesque villages of the local population. This will give you an insight into the life of the local people. This will be a great chance to relax while reflecting on your stay at Api Base Camp.
Once you reach Siti Village, which is at an altitude of 2,250 meters, you will rest after your long day of trekking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Siti.
Today, the trekking route will be from Siti to Kandeshwori. This route is about 12-13 kilometers in length and should take about 6 hours to complete. The route gradually rises to higher elevations through very picturesque scenery.
Again, you will enjoy the serene surroundings and beauty of far-western Nepal. You will also get to see the lifestyle and culture of the people. This is a very rewarding trek to Kandeshwori, which is at an elevation of 2,310 meters.
Upon arrival at Kandeshwori, you can rest at your camp.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Khandeshwori.
Today, your trek will take you from Khandeswari to Chetti through a scenic route passing through the remote areas of far-western Nepal. The route will pass through villages, forests, and agricultural fields, giving you a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature.
While you continue your trek, you will gradually move towards Chetti, enjoying the serene environment of your surroundings. Once you arrive at Chetti, you will camp there, enjoying the beauty of a fulfilling day of trekking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Chetti.
Today, you will be trekking from Chetti to Dahabagar. On this day, you will be crossing a high mountain pass at Patharasi Bhanjyang. This trek is a constant challenge as you ascend to higher altitudes. This will definitely provide you with a sense of adventure as you walk through this tough terrain.
As you cross Patharasi Bhanjyang, you will be able to enjoy the stunning views that this mountain pass has to offer. On your descent to Dahabagar, you will be able to enjoy the scenic views that this area has to offer. This will be an opportunity to enjoy the untapped beauty that this area has to offer.
Upon reaching Dahabagar, you will be able to rest as you pitch your camp.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Dahabagar.
After breakfast, you will start trekking from Dahabagar towards Riverside Camp, passing through the high pass of Duwa Bhanjyang. The trekking trail gradually increases in height, providing a challenging trekking experience as you pass through the remote and rugged terrain.
During the trek, you will be able to enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the top of Duwa Bhanjyang, followed by a descent towards the Riverside Camp. The trekking trail passes through varied terrain, providing a peaceful trekking experience as you follow the riverbed and natural paths.
Finally, you will reach the Riverside Camp, where you can relax after a fulfilling day of trekking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Riverside Camp.
Today, your trek will take you from Riverside Camp to Saingaon via the high pass of Hartai Lagna. The trek starts with a steady climb through rugged terrain to experience the essence of a real wilderness adventure.
At the summit of Hartai Lagna, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of the mountains and valleys before descending to Saingaon. The trek will continue through varied terrain as you walk along natural paths through serene environments to your destination.
Upon reaching Saingaon, you will camp and rest after a long day of trekking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Saingaon.
Today is a well-deserved rest day at Saingaon, which gives you an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body, as you have been trekking for a few days now. You have an opportunity to relax at the campsite or take a short walk at the location.
Today, you have a good chance to acclimatize at the high altitude, think of your journey, and get yourself ready for the coming days of the trek. The location of Saingaon provides a calm and serene environment, which will give you an opportunity to relax.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Saingaon.
After breakfast, you will trek from Saingaon to Gudgadi Oder, and your journey will continue in this remote and picturesque area. The trekking route will take you over different types of landscapes, like trekking in the forest, crossing rivers, and moderate climbs and descents, which will give you a sense of adventure and beauty.
While trekking, you will pass through serene surroundings and enjoy the pristine beauty of this less-trekked route. The serene environment and picturesque beauty make this trek very enjoyable.
When you reach Gudgadi Oder, you will set up your camp and enjoy your stay after this trekking day.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Gudgadi Odar.
After breakfast, you will trek from Gudgadi Oder to Daula Oder. During the trek, you will pass through the pristine landscapes of far-western Nepal. The trekking trail passes through a variety of routes, including forest paths, gentle ascents, and natural routes, providing a peaceful trekking experience.
During the course of the trek, you will enjoy the serene environment and untouched beauty of the region. The trek will gradually lead you towards Daula Oder, where you will be able to set up camps after a successful day of trekking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Daula Odar.
Today, your trekking route starts from Daula Odar to Garaphu Odar, where you will pass through different types of landscapes, including forest, open area, and ups and downs, making your trekking journey quite scenic and enjoyable.
As you continue your trekking journey, you will enjoy the untamed beauty of this region, with breathtaking views and a serene environment, which is quite typical of wilderness, being an off-the-beaten-path trek. Once you reach Garaphu Odar, you will set up your camp after a successful day of trekking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Garaphu Odar.
After breakfast, you will be trekking from Garaphu Odar to Saipal Rani Kharka. On this day, you will be passing through some of the most remote and serene landscapes of this region. The trek takes you through different types of terrain, including some forests, valleys, and gentle ascents and descents, providing you with a pleasant trekking experience.
As you continue on this trek, you will be surrounded by some of the most pristine natural beauty that this region has to offer. As you reach Saipal Rani Kharka, you will be setting up your camp, relaxing after a satisfying day of trekking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Saipal Rani Kharka.
Today, you will explore the area of Saipal Base Camp, taking your time to appreciate the breathtaking views of Mt. Saipal and its surrounding Himalayan views. This exploration will provide you with an opportunity to fully appreciate the beauty of this untouched region of Nepal, its pristine environment, and its unique alpine scenery.
After your exploration, you will head towards Sumjom Kharka, where you will spend the night. This will be a wonderful day of exploration and leisure, amidst the beauty of one of the most untouched regions of Nepal.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Sumjom Kharka.
After breakfast, you will embark on a trekking journey from Sumjom Kharka to Lepcha Kharka. This trekking route is expected to cover approximately 6-7 hours of trekking through high-altitude regions. The route gradually rises to high altitudes, passing through alpine regions, meadows, and mountain trails to deeper regions in the Saipal area.
During the trekking journey, you will get to enjoy the vistas offered by the Himalayan mountain ranges and the unspoiled wilderness in this region. This challenging yet rewarding trekking experience will finally bring you to Lepcha Kharka, which is at an altitude of 4,510 meters. You will set up camp here after a satisfying day of trekking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Lepcha Kharka.
After breakfast, you will trek from Lepcha Kharka to Chala Village, which is approximately 6 to 7 hours of trekking in high-altitude regions. The trekking route continues on rugged mountain roads, mountainous and open areas, which is a true wilderness trekking experience.
As you trek, you will be treated to the raw beauty of the Saipal region, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trekking route has some challenging climbs, making it an adventurous trek.
When you finally arrive at Chala Village, which is at an altitude of 4,709 meters, you will set up your camps after a long and fulfilling day of trekking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Chala Village.
After breakfast, your trek will be from Chala to Yalbang Gompa. This will take approximately 6 to 7 hours of walking as you descend to a lower altitude from the high alpine region. The trail will take you gradually downhill through various landscapes such as rugged mountain terrain, forests, and villages.
As your journey progresses, you will witness a significant change in the environment. Your trek will take you from the high altitudes to populated areas with rich cultural influences. The trail will provide you with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Finally, your trek will take you to Yalbang Gompa, which is at an altitude of 3,020 meters. Here, you will be visiting the monastery area and staying overnight, experiencing the serene environment of this significant cultural hub.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at a tented camp in Yalbang Gompa.
After having your breakfast, you will drive from Yalbang to Simikot, which takes around 4 to 5 hours by road. While driving to Simikot, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the mountains.
During your journey to Simikot, you can see the gradual transition from village landscapes to the headquarters of Humla District, Simikot, which lies at an altitude of 2,910 meters. Once you reach Simikot, you can rest at your lodge.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Private transport, an English-speaking guide, and an overnight accommodation at an available lodge in Simikot.
Today is a rest day, which gives you flexibility in your schedule, especially since you have been trekking or traveling for the last few days. This gives you an opportunity to explore the surroundings at your own leisure or simply take a break from the journey.
This additional day will also help you acclimatize, which will make your further trekking or travel schedule a lot easier.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Private transport, an English-speaking guide, and an overnight accommodation at an available lodge in Simikot.
Today, you will take an early morning flight to Nepalgunj from Simikot. On this flight, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the remote Himalayan landscapes. After reaching Nepalgunj, you will take another flight to return to Kathmandu. This flight will take approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete.
As you return to Kathmandu at an altitude of 1,300 meters, you will have ample time to think about your amazing adventure to the remote regions of far-western Nepal.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Airfare, Private transport, an English-speaking guide, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites & Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Today is the last day of your journey. Three hours before your scheduled departure back to your home or another location, our representative will pick you up in a private vehicle after breakfast and drop you off at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport.
We hope you travel safely and look forward to seeing you again soon.
Includes: Breakfast and private Transport.
Getting to Nepal as an international visitor is easy with the availability of an easy-to-use Visa on Arrival service at Tribhuvan International Airport and almost all the land border crossings into Nepal. Upon arrival at the airport, you will complete the visa form, submit the necessary documents, pay the applicable visa fee online, and then you will be given your visa within a very short time.
With several different types of Nepali visas available for various duration periods, visitors have the choice of whether they want to stay for a few days or months; however, some nationalities must obtain their visa in advance of travelling, so you must check the current visa requirements.
Learn more about visa guidelines and requirements: Tourist Visa Information
Nepal offers a wide variety of accommodation to meet the varying requirements of travelers at every budget level and personal comfort preferences.
Luxury Accommodation
Enjoy the luxury and the comfort of a highly rated hotel, and are looking for a high-end experience. You will find many luxury hotels in Nepal with an array of modern conveniences, such as spa treatments, fine dining, beautiful locations, breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and individual attention from the staff. These types of hotels are perfect for people who want to relax, unwind, and experience luxurious facilities while traveling throughout Nepal.
Budget Accommodation
Travelers who want to experience Nepal without breaking the bank will be happy to know that there are also many inexpensive accommodation options, including guesthouses, boutique lodges, and homestays, which are all clean, friendly, and very good value. Budget accommodation allows a traveler to stay within their budget while experiencing the generosity of local hospitality.
We ensure that your accommodation matches your preference, whether you seek luxury or convenience.
Explore available accommodation categories: Accommodations in Nepal.
Nepal has a lot to offer with its incredible natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Travelling can also come with risks, which is why anyone visiting Nepal needs to consider purchasing travel insurance, particularly those involved in adventure activities or trekking, as well as those who will be travelling to remote areas of Nepal. A well-rounded insurance policy can provide peace of mind through protection against the following:
Many trekking routes in Nepal are over 3000 meters (9842 ft); therefore, your policy should specifically state that high altitude travel is part of your Insurance plan, as well as the option to be evacuated in the event of an emergency. Choosing the right policy will help you receive the best possible care in your time of need.
Find out more about travel insurance for Nepal: Travel Insurance in Nepal
For hikers traveling to the Nepalese Himalayas, it’s essential to have the correct trekking equipment. Depending on what elevation you’re at, the weather might change drastically, so it’s crucial to use and carry the proper clothing and equipment in order to enjoy a safe and comfortable trip.
If you don’t want to travel with your own equipment, there are plenty of places in Nepal where you can rent or purchase what you need (particularly in Thamel, Kathmandu’s main shopping district). There are also locations within the city where you can find stores that offer a variety of high-quality trekking apparel and equipment at very reasonable prices.
See the complete trekking gear guide: Trekking Gear
