Api Base Camp Trekking
Key Information:
  • Duration12 Days
  • Difficulty LevelModerate
  • Maximum Altitude4200 meter
  • Best Seasonsspring (March to May) or autumn (September to November)
  • ActivityTrekking

About Api Base Camp Trekking

Api Base Camp trek is unique and least travelled destination of trekking root of Nepal. Api Base Camp is located in the Nepal’s farthest west and borders Tibet to the north and India to the west. Due to its distant location in the upper Darchula district, the Mount Api base camp trip remains pristine and unexplored by many. The tallest peak in Nepal's Far West, Api (7,132 m) is located in the Darchula district. Api Base Camp Trek is the part of Api Nampa Conservation area where red panda, snow leopard, golden eagle, Himalayan Thar, many Himalayan birds and animal can be explore. Similarly, Api Mountain is the highest peak in Yoka pahar section with the stunning view of Himalayan range like Thado Dhunga Tuppa (5,368 m), Rajama Himal (6,537 m), Kapchuli (6,850 m) along with many small Himalayan range. The major attraction of Api Base Camp beside mountain are: huge wet grass land, holy lake kalidhunga, virgin nature, local people culture and rich biodiversity.

In the Api Base Camp there is Chamali River. This river story is related to the local saint called Chmaliya who had meditated for a long period of time at the base of Api Mountain, as he become thirsty the lord gave him a spring source at the place of his meditation, then this spring source is named Chaulani River. Likewise, as per the Hindu mythology, the river is originated from the dead lock hair of lord Shiva. So, during the festival and Jatra that related to Shiva follower visit this spot.
The popular festival of this region is Surma Sarover festival. It is believed that those people who are unable to worship lord Shiva in Mansorovar can get same benefit and value. During the festival many people from the different country visit this place.

Highlights

  • Explore the beautiful Api Base Camp, far western part of Nepal
  • Trek through untouched landscapes in Nepal, home to hundreds of flora and fauna
  • Adventurous trail with stunning landscapes ofcascading waterfalls and glacial rivers, Kalidhunga Lake, and many more.
  • Pass by picturesque mountain villages, where you will get to see the lifestyle of the locals
  • Trek through a less-traveled zone that provides complete solitude and stillness well away from the crowds of highly commercialized hiking regions.
  • Witness stunning views of Api Himal (7132 m), Nampa (6,757 m), and Saipal (7,031 m), among other majestic peaks in Far-Western Nepal.

Itinerary

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Our Company team will welcome in the International Airport with Nepali Hospitality and greeting with Namaste. Then we take to the hotel as per our management and arrange welcome dinner for the night. 

    A breathtaking Kathmandu sightseeing trip will allow you to discover Nepal's cultural and spiritual heart. Begin in Kathmandu's ancient Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with palaces, courtyards, and temples that showcase traditional Newari architecture. Visit the renowned Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), set on a hilltop with sweeping valley views and rich Buddhist symbolism. Finish the day in the tranquil and beautiful Bouddhanath Stupa, one of the world's largest and a sacred site for Tibetan Buddhism. This day tour combines history, culture, and spirituality in the lively capital city.

      We will take Flights between Kathmandu Dhangadi always  in the early morning. During the flight, you will witness stunning aerial views of the Himalayan mountains. From Dhangadi, you will be travel by public vehical for 8 hour i.e. 115 KM by Mahakali Highwary and then we reach to the Gokuleshwor. We will have night stay  at the hotel tonight.  

        Today we will travel by Jeep for 4 hours and reach to Makarigad. From Makarigad we will start our trekking like 4 hour and cover 10KM distance approximately then reach to Ghusa Village. The journey is a steady climb through verdant woodlands and quaint towns. The area offers the chance to discover local culture, colorful vegetation, and breathtaking mountain vistas. Tonight we will spend our night at the elevation of 2,200 meter approximately from the sea level.

          The Api Himal walk leads from Ghusa village to Simar. This part of the trail winds through several settlements and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The trip takes roughly 7-8 hours and travels via the villages of Simi Kharka, Makuri Kharka, and Bayali Gad. Simar is located at an elevation of about 3,000 meters. The walk also has tremendous elevation changes, including steep ascents and descents.

            The Dhauli Odar (Dhuli Odar) track on the Api Himal walk has a moderate elevation gain, a lovely journey through forests and along the Chameliya River, and takes approximately 4-6 hours from Simar. The elevation of Dhauli Odar is 3800 meter approximately from sea level. 

              The trail from Dhauli Odar to Api Base Camp takes about 2-3 hours and passes through a variety of terrains, including hills, rivers, and meadows, with some severe climbs. It's a short but strenuous walk that rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Api Himal and its neighboring peaks. The elevation of Api Base Camp Trekking is 4,000 meter height from sea level.  Than after having Lunch we will explore Muhan (Emerging point of Chameli River), Kaali Dhunga Taal (4,200 m). Tonight we saty at Api Base camp Tea house. 

                The trek from Api Base Camp to Siti Trail on the Api Himal reach takes about 7-8 hours and covers roughly 23 kilometers. The Siti trek offers lush forests, rivers, and panoramic views of the Api Himalayan range. Tonight we stay at Siti village at the tea house. 

                  From Siti via Ghusa to Makarigaad, then to Gokuleshor. The trail winds through communities and runs alongside the Chameliya River, with moderate ascents and descents along the way. Trekking from Siti to Makarigaad usually takes 6 hours, and drive from Makarigaad to Gokuleshor, which takes around 3 hours. 

                    We get started early today. After an early breakfast, take the bus from Gokuleshwar to Dhangadhi.  Today we have to travel around 9 hours in the bus. The bus arrives in Dadeldhura at lunchtime, having traveled through gorgeous green hills with terrace farms, hamlets, and a small roadside teahouse. We'll stop for lunch at Dadeldhura, have a brief break, and then continue down the Mahakali Highway towards Dhangadhi. Following a pleasant 9-hour journey, we will arrive in Dhangadhi in time for dinner and an overnight stay. The night will be spent in a Dhangadhi hotel of tourist quality.  

                      After breakfast in Dhangadhi, we will be driven to the airport to board a flight to Kathmandu. The plane lands at the airport in Kathmandu after a leisurely, scenic journey of about one hour and fifteen minutes. From the airport, you will be transported to the Kathmandu hotel. You can spend the rest of the day exploring Kathmandu or resting at the hotel.

                        The journey concludes, and our office representatives will transport you to Kathmandu's international airport to catch your next aircraft or return home. You must arrive at the airport at least three hours before your scheduled flight time.

                        Thank you for visiting Nepal, and we hope your Mountain  holiday was a success.  Have a safe travel !

                          Cost Details

                          • Airport/hotel/airport picks up and drops by private car, bus with an escort.
                          • Api Nampa Conservation Area entry Point free Permit.
                          • Full Board Plan (breakfast, lunch, dinner, accommodation tea or coffee) during trek
                          • Deluxe accommodation in 3/4 star hotel in Kathmandu on BB plan
                          • Home Stay/ Lodges accommodation during the trek
                          • An experienced English speaking government licensed holder trekking Guide.
                          • The Required number of staffs & porters to carry your luggage during the trekking
                          • Food, drinks, salary, insurance, equipment, transportation, accommodation, medicine and local tax for guide, porters and for all staffs
                          • Kathmandu –Dhangadi –  Kathmandu flight ticket & domestic airport tax.
                          • Medical kit
                          • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management Systems) card.
                          • All government taxes including 13% vat
                          • Official expense
                          • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
                          • Your travel insurance (Compulsory).
                          • International flight ticket.
                          • Any expense of personal nature.
                          • Nepal entry visa fee US$ 25 (duration 15days from date of issue), US$ 40 (duration 30 days from date of issue) and US$ 100 (duration 90 days from date of issue) you can easily issue your visa upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. You will require two passport size photos.
                          • Any kinds of Bar bills such Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks, laundry etc.
                          • Helicopter Rescue & Evacuation fee in case of emergency. 
                          • Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is expected).

                          Departure Dates

                          Dear trekkers,

                          Prepare for an extraordinary journey to one of Nepal's most isolated and pristine trekking destinations: Api Base Camp in the Far Western Himalayas. As we prepare to go, here are a few important tips for a safe and fun adventure:

                          Useful Info

                          How hard is Api Base Camp Trek?

                          The Api Base Camp journey is a moderately difficult journey recommended for hikers with adequate physical fitness and prior hiking experience. The track travels through remote and harsh terrain in Far Western Nepal, with frequent steep ascents, river crossings, and small roads. Daily hikes last 5 to 7 hours, and modest accommodations with few amenities adds to the difficulty. Although the height is moderate (up to ~4,000 meters), the seclusion, lack of infrastructure, and long journey to the starting location make it more challenging than popular treks. However, the raw beauty, cultural diversity, and seclusion make it incredibly gratifying.

                           

                          Api Base Camp Trek Distance

                          The Api Base Camp Trek covers approximately 90 to 110 kilometers round trip, depending on the exact route taken. Starting from Latinath or Gokuleshwar in Darchula District, the trail winds through remote valleys, forests, and villages, eventually reaching the scenic base camp at around 4,000 meters above sea level.

                          Altitude Sickness

                          Altitude sickness, commonly known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can strike hikers at elevations exceeding 2,500 meters, especially those climbing to Api Base Camp (approx. 4,000 meters). Beginners should be mindful of signs such as headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To avoid AMS, ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Taking regular rest days and eating small, high-energy meals allows your body to adjust. If symptoms intensify, descend quickly. 

                          Below are some measures you can take to avoid altitude sickness:

                          • Your elevation gain on a daily basis should be around 500 to 600 meters.
                          • Climb high and sleep low should be your mantra during high altitude trekking.
                          • Keep yourself hydrated and avoid drinking alcohol or smoking during the trek.
                          • Carry prescribed medicine to deal with headaches and body aches.

                          Training for the Api Base Camp Trekking

                          Cardiovascular exercises like as hiking, running, or cycling might help you build stamina for the Api Base Camp Trek. Include leg strength training (squats, lunges) and core exercises. Practice walking with a weighted backpack. Regular excursions through different terrain are ideal. Begin training at least 6 to 8 weeks before departure.

                          What permits do I need for the Api Base Camp Trek?

                          You have to get the Api Nampa Conservation Area  permit and TIMS Card to do Api Base Camp Trek. Both permits are available in Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. 

                          Api Base Camp permit cost for foreigners: 3,000 NRS (Approx. USD 30)

                          Api Base Camp  permit cost for SAARC nationals: 500 NRS

                          TIMS card cost: 1,000 NRS (Approx. USD 10)

                          *Note: The permit cost is included in our Api Base Camp Trek package cost. We will get all the permits for you in advance.

                           

                          Api Base Camp Trek best time

                          Api Base Camp Trek's best time is spring and autumn. The months from March to April and October to November see the perfect weather conditions, which make trekking in these months fantastic. You don't have to deal with the unstable weather and bad climate. The views are clear and fabulous. 

                          Similarly, you can also trek in the early winter (December to February). The climate will be extremely cold, and the terrain involves snow walking, however the mountain views during winter are to die for. 

                           

                          Accommodation & Food

                          Api Base Camp Trek are basic but sufficient for adventurous trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. The region is remote and underdeveloped for tourism, so most nights are spent in local homestays or tented camps, depending on the route and availability. Homestays offer a unique chance to experience the hospitality and lifestyle of local communities, though facilities are simple—expect shared rooms, squat toilets, and no hot showers. Meals mainly consist of traditional Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), along with seasonal vegetables, noodles, or chapati. Food is freshly cooked and filling, but variety is limited, so carrying snacks and energy bars is recommended. Clean drinking water may not always be available, so bring water purification tablets or a filter. Despite the limited services, the authentic cultural immersion and warm local hospitality make the experience truly memorable. Be prepared for simplicity and you’ll be richly rewarded.