Api Himal Base Camp Trek
Itinerary
Your Journey, Step by Step
Kathmandu to Dhangadhi by flight
Dhangadhi serves as the hub of the Kailali District. It typically takes one hour and fifteen minutes to travel from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi. If the weather permits you’ll be treated to a view of the surrounding landscape. Upon arrival, at Dhangadhi airport you’ll be escorted to your booked tourist standard hotel in a private vehicle.
Post check-in At the Hotel, After being Fresh Visit the Tourist Places of Dhangadhi Leave the bike ride by taxi in Jokhar Lake or go to the Botanical Garden and the Aircraft Museum along the way. Cycling back to the hotel after these must-see sights. You will Stay Overnight in the Tourist Standard Hotel at Dhangadhi.
Drive from Dhangadhi to Gokuleshwa
Today after leaving the Terai plains of Dhangadhi we move to hilly region i.e. Gokuleshwar On the Mahakali Highway, Gokuleshwar is about 8 hours drive from Dhangadhi. Therefore, we start early. We will be picked up from the hotel in Dhangadhi and have to catch an early morning bus for Gokuleshwar. You will be having breakfast en-route. After 3-4 hours of uphill drive we reach Dadeldhura, one of the metropolitans town in far western region of Nepal and this city is also famous as queen hill.
After lunch in Dadeldhura the bus meanders further through the hills of far western Nepal. At the same time you get to see some beautiful Nepali Himalayan views, Chamelyia Valley, river and its cross over point with a small traditional way of living by Neplese People. We reach Gokuleshwor by the afternoon. The rest of the time can be used to explore and move around in an area or aT simply wired up with your portatid byte street frog most acceptance. Address a cheap lodge in Gokuleshwar at night.
Drive from Gokuleshwar to Latinath and begin trekking to Paribagar
After having breakfast, in Gokuleshwar we will start our journey towards Latinath, which serves as the starting point for the Api Base Camp trek. The drive from Gokuleshwar to Latinath usually takes around 2 hours. The route to Latinath runs alongside the Chameliya River. Passes by the hydropower station in Far West Nepal. Once we reach Latinath, our trek, to the base camp of Api begins. Todays plan involves hiking from Latinath to Paribagar a village nestled at an elevation of 1,770m. A one hour uphill walk will lead us to Paribagar, where we can explore the village and enjoy an evening. Dinner and accommodation arrangements will be made in homestays at Paribagar.
Trek from Paribagar to Makarigadi
We headed to Makrigadi after breakfast at Paribagar. We will pass through the traditional mid hills village showing ancient farmlands, traditional stone houses and pristine land in Far-Western region of Nepal. Continuing along the trail, we will grab our lunch at one of our teahouses on the way that we will be walking for about two and half hour. The hiking is then continued after lunch following Chameliya River through subtropical forest and subalpine-fir, oak, hemlock and rhododendron forests up to Makrigaad. It takes about two hours to hike to a very beautiful Markigadi settlement. Today’s dinner as well as accommodation is provided in homestay.
Trek from Makrigaad to Siti
The day’s trek begins with short but steep climb to the Chameliya River after breakfast at Makrigaad. We will then cross the river and hike up the gorge towards Pato village where we can see very beautiful views below. At Pato, there is our lunch. The ascent from Pato will be less steep but continuous. This trail keeps going gently upward until we get to the last ridge on which a fairly easy down hill walk brings us to Siti, a beautiful settlement in Nepal. It takes about 8 hours of walking for us to reach our overnight destination only. Dinner as well as lodging is organized at homestay in Siti.
Trek from Siti to Domal
After breakfast at Siti, we set off for our today’s destination Domal. Firstly, it is very steep to take us all the way to Khayekot from Siti. It is located on a streamside of Chameliya River and it looks really beautiful. The Khayekot settlement marks the last permanent settlement in the valley of Chameliya. We will have a lunch break at Khayekot. After that, we will walk up slowly to reach Domal. A slow climb for about seven hours from Siti would bring us into Domal. This place connects with Rokap river, which meets Chameliya and it is considered as one of the holiest sites in the area.The only available accommodation option here was setting up camp for the night.
Trek from Domal to Dhaulo Odar
Into our excursion, we serve at Domal for breakfast then the walk to the point of one steep climb-heading off for the start will not be too much longer. What comes to the originality and simplicity of the trail, it has been very impressive to be part of the trek through the woods and pastoral land. Hence the walk we make in five hours will take us first to a mountain ridge with a green grassland and a dark rhododendron forest at the entrance of the valley and then to a couple of little caves. There, we set up our camp at this beautiful place which is distinqueshed by the high mountains and beautiful rhododendron forest. At night we will go camping and the tent life will be really wonderful as we will observe the stars from our hide, called the Dhaulo Odar camping site.
Climb to Api Base Camp/Pilkandaha and drop back to Daulo Odar
On the go, this is one of the most eagerly expected days in the entire trip today. Today, we will reach Mt. Api. The activity of the morning will be to walk the picnic, and then we will depart from the Api Base Camp. That is, after we are at the height of Mount Daulo Odar, at least 2.5 hours by foot from the base camp may take you to the open plateau that you will find yourself in the middle of the mountains. It is here, the base camp of Api. As you find yourself at the plateau, you will see a majestic image of Mt. Api (most likely, the highest of the three, aka 7,132m) along with Mt. Nampa (6,929m) and Mt. Bobaye (6,808m) which will welcome the Apology Base. The trek will feature going to the source of Chameliya River and seeing the small temple that had been put up by the locals nearby, which will be just a pastime. We will finish our lunch first, and then go explore pilkandaha lake.
Trek back to Siti (2,258m/7,408ft) 6 hours
We said goodbye to the wonderful highest point of the mountain Api and the neighboring area of Daulo Odar, and at the moment after having breakfast, we embarked on our journey back to Siti. The downhill trek will first bring us to the Khayekot settlement. Once we have lunch at Khayekot, we will climb up to Siti village on a sharp slope and be present at the village of Siti. As we move on, we will be directed by settlements of cultivated land and charming green hills. The night will be spent in a home-stay in Siti with a home-cooked meal made by the members of the local family that can also be enjoyed by the company of the guests.
Trek from Siti to Makrigaad
Breakfast at Siti, followed by a climb to the ridge above Siti. We are on the ridge trail now, through the forest, through agricultural fields, and into a scattered settlement of people. We will also get a chance to enjoy the views of the Himalayas en route. Lunch break in Pato and then a steady downhill walk brings us into the settlement of Makarigaad. If time and energy permit, the evening can be spent exploring the settlement of Makrigaad. Homestay at Makrigaon.
Trek from Makarigadi to Latinath and drive to Gokuleshwar
At Makarigadi, you will have your breakfast, and then we will pass our morning on the way to Latinath, where we will go hiking. Pass Paribagar whose trail is most likely to take around 4 hours and drop you to Latinath which is the next village downhill. The hike to Latinath is the animal’s idea less challenging and much more enjoyable. If we are not late, we will go to the Hindu temple on the top of the Latinath hill just to get a beautiful view of the valley. It’s a neat morning out in the bush of Europe. If the hours are too few, we will have to hitchhike to Gokuleshwar. Along with 2 hours, the bus ride on the river bank is the most picturesque way to arrive at Gokuleshwar. We will take a more basic lodge at Gokuleshwar for an overnight stay for sure.
Drive from Gokuleshwar to Dhangadhi
Today we begin early. Hence, after breakfast at Gokuleshwar, transfer to the Gokuleshwar bus station to board a connecting bus to Dhangadhi. The bus winds its way along the beautiful green hills with terrace farms, hamlets, and small roadside teahouses. We reach Dadeldhura by noon. At lunchtime, we stop in Dadeldhura for lunch and take some rest, then again start off towards Dhangadi on the Mahakali Highway. After about 9 hours of scenic drive, we make a dinner and overnight stay at Dhangadhi. Overnight in tourist standard hotel in Dhangadhi.
Fly from Dhangadhi to Kathmandu
From Dhangadhi we will go straight to the airport for our first flight to Kathmandu which will take off after our breakfast. After one hour and 15 minutes of flying over beautiful sceneries the plane will then land on the airport in Kathmandu. From the airport, you will be taken to the hotel in Kathmandu, in a private vehicle. The rest of the day one can either rest at the hotel or go shopping at the usual Thamel markets in Kathmandu. The tourist standard hotel in Kathmandu will be where you stay for the night.
Departure from Kathmandu
Today is your last day of the trip in Nepal, so you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, in a private vehicle, according to your flight schedule. However, if you are going to spend more holidays in Nepal, BoldHimalaya can also support you with the arrangement of some of the top short trips or popular adventure activities in Nepal.
Inclusions
What’s Covered in Your Adventure
- 2 Nights accommodation in Kathmandu
- 2 Nights Accommodation in Dhangadhi>
- Experienced Trek Guide, Cook and Kitchen Team and other necessary support team.
- All camping gear
- Kathmandu to Dhangadi to Kathmandu flight transfers
Private jeep transportation between Dhangadhi, Gokuleshwor, and Latinath
- As per itinerary meals included.
- Comprehensive First-Aid Kits.
- Meals, Accommodation and Insurance for support team
- Api Nampa Conservation Area Special Permit and TIMS Card.
- Flight in/out of Kathmandu
- Nepal Visa fee
- Mobile/camera charges on the trek
- Any other services of personal nature such as telephone, laundry and liquor.
- Tips to Guides and Porters.
- Insurance cost
- arrangements for emergency helicopter evacuation charges.
Good to Know
Your Journey, Step by Step
Temperature in Api base camp ranges from 30 to -5 degree Celsius during Autumn. The maximum temperature is around 20-25 deg C and minimum as low as zero or slightly lower, hence camping gear with you should considered for this trekking tour. During winters the temperatures rarely rise above 20 C during the daytime and can not fall below -10 C at night or in higher altitudes. In Post monsoon day time temperatures to be around 25-30 degree Celsius, in low altitude regions. If you rise above 3000m, the daytime temperature can be approximately 10 -20 degree Celsius.
Altitude is one of the toughest challenges when trekking. As the trek will rise from 109 meters to 4,000 there might be more chances for altitude sickness. You will be taking an easy footstep slow walk during the hike. Since you are trekking, it will be interspersed with good breaks and rest. Stay hydrated all the time as well. You may avoid altitude sickness by maintaining the water basil needed for your body since you have to drink a lot of it.
This expedition is a middle-of-the-road trek and so even if you are not fit, you can complete it to some extent, although this might be slightly tough for you. Any experience or age will work for this trek. You may consider doing some light physical exercises a few days before the trip. These will be very useful during the trek.
Also, there is a chance that one of these days will bring with it rain, heat, cold and sometimes snowfall and therefore it is essential to equip yourself with the right gear for such conditions. Light packing with equipment that would come in handy is also recommended.b Therefore to make sure that the trekking ends up successful we have some experienced and professional guides who will assist you through your journey step by step; they’ll be with you at all times as well.
We respect to serve you best food facilities Your accommodation and fooding in Kathmandu will be done according to your preference. Neat and clean Rooms with basic amenities You get to try a variety of Nepali dishes and international cuisines depending on your preferences.
However, once your trek does start you’ll be sleeping at the tented camps and eating traditional Nepali (Dal Bhat) food like Dhindo, local bread etc which are extremely high in nutritional value. The VERY IMPORTANT edible for you all while trekking that will give you needed Protein and energy.
At Gokuleshwor You will be accommodate at normal guesthouse. The trekking route is itself a very remote area, so do not expect basic accommodation and food services in these guesthouses.
Tented Camps ( gouleshwor onwards ) You may struggle to cook foo and spend nights in a tent camp. But these difficulties make your trekking ride more memorable and so enjoyable. You need any proper camping items for the tented camp as well. We provide a cozy sleeping bag, your favorite drinks and snacks for during the trek.
Kathmandu Airport to Dhangadi ( 1.15 hrs) by flight And then a bus to Gokuleshwor from Dhangadhi You probably reach closer to Gokuleshwor in about 8 hrs of bus journey.
Off-road drive from Gokuleshwor So, Approx it may take 3–4 hrs from Gokuleshwor to Makarigaad. Earlier, people had to walk from Latinath as there was no road after that. Further from makarigaad, its construction of the new hydro power extended the road to makarigaad too and is expected further ahead beyond Makrigaad.
Connectivity is not much of an issue at Api Himal base camp. Few people there use satellite phone, this is a better option by which you can talk to your friends and family. Plus, the internet most of time will be available in teahouses. It could be free in some places and might cost you a couple of extra bucks for it. There is almost no mobile coverage but if not also then having internet even above 5000m will be the best. Electricity (and not even available thus you need to pay more for it if plan on charging your electronics again)
Yes it’s really crucial to have a guide, for this trek. The trail cuts through a region of Nepal with infrastructure, transportation and amenities. It can be quite challenging for hikers to navigate find accommodations, food and local information on their own. That’s why having a guide by your side is essential. Therefore we’ve arranged for a guide to accompany a group of hikers. The guide will take responsibility for navigation. Ensuring the safety of the hikers. Porters are also available to carry your belongings. Each load should not exceed 25 kilograms. They typically charge between $15 $25 (1500 2000 NPR), per day. Booking a porter comes at a cost as porter services are not included in this package. It’s advisable to share a porter if you have belongings.
Sleeping
Tent
Silk liner
Sleeping bag (suitable for –15° bag)
Sleeping pad
Hiking
Wool socks
backpack
hiking sticks
hiking boots
Shoes for camp
Clothing
Trekking pants that are lightweight
T-shirts
Trekking shorts underwear
Thermal wool, sweater, fleece
Winter hat, gloves, and
Waterproof pants and jacket
hefty down jacket
Other things
Water purification systems
Extra batteries for the camera
Daypack: (for your camera, snacks, rain jacket, etc.)
Sunglasses and water bottles
Headlamp with additional battery
A sturdy duffel bag
Gators
Personal Supplies
sunscreen
sanitizer for hands
toiletries, such as floss, toothpaste, deodorant, and a toothbrush
Bar soap
wipes for the face and body
Medication
For trekking to Mount Api base camp you need two permits the only one is “TIMS CARD” (trekking information management system). Another permit is “Api Nampa conservation area entrance fee” 3000 + Nepalese rupees per person and for the citizen of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) country Rs.500/-. We set up both of those cards and we do pay the accompanying fees.
Travelling insurance is in fact an important part of trekking. You always require travel insurance especially when you are travelling to such hazardous, elevated place. In case of any medical emergencies, your travel insurance will offset the expenses for you. For this reason, it is imperative that you list all the places/altitudes you will reach with your insurer to avoid future inconveniences.
Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date you enter Nepal. You will have to process for tourist visa, which you can acquire at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or, at land border checkpoints.
A visa is available at Tribhuvan International Airport, as well as at several locations within Nepal’s borders, for those who arrive. Visit www.immigration.gov.np for the most recent information on visas and visa fees, as these rules are subject to change at any time. Fill out the application for a visa that is accessible at the immigration desks. You can also get it from https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/ by downloading it online. To speed up the procedure, it is recommended that you complete the form before your arrival. Just hand the completed paper to the immigration officer when you get to the desk.
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
The lodging throughout the journey is Community Homestay and camping.
This is quite an unpopular trekking route so you will experience unspoiled beauty of nature.
Indeed, it offers safe hiking. People there are friendly and helpful. However, in order to ensure your safety make sure that you employ a guide as we usually travel with professional guides in each group.
But we must insist on having a professional trekking guide with you. More touristy there is a not too challenging trek on the way to Gokyo and Chola Pass, It’s worth taking as opposed less crowded than some treksThe culture an language are quite different so it would be much better you took your guide.
Api Himal Base Camp Trek (off the beaten trail)This is not as known and popular trek track after Annapurna – Manaslu, Everest base camp Trek. Even the tea house is very basic, so You eat Normal Nepali local delicious and Organic foods. not pizza, not burgers, no spaghetti, nothing of bakery.
There are Air and road service from Kathmandu to Dhangadi. You will get a public or private vehicle from Dhangadi to the trekking starting point.
Yeah some places have solar power, however its best to be agreen traveller and take a chargeable backup battery with you for your camera.
This one falls under the category of moderately hard treks as it entails passing through numerous uphill slopes since it is located in a relatively remote area.
View OurSimilar Packages
Discover our top tours, loved by thousands of travelers annually. Choose the adventure that inspires you and embark on a journey tailored to your desires.
2 Day Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour
Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour: The capital and most popular travel destination...Save 8%
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
Helicopter tours in Nepal are one the most popular activities in Nepal which...Save 29%