⇀ Starts: 5:00 AM – Day 1

📍 Pick-up Point: Your Hotel in Kathmandu

↼ Ends: 7:00–8:00 PM – Day 11

📍 Drop-off: Your Hotel in Kathmandu

To make sure your trek starts smoothly, we recommend that you arrive in Kathmandu at least one day before your scheduled departure. This allows time for final preparations, a full trek briefing, and a chance to meet your guide and support team.

You can choose how you’d like to attend the pre-trek briefing:

• Online Video Call – ideal for those with tight schedules
• In-person at our Kathmandu office – preferred for reviewing gear and paperwork

Transportation Details Throughout the Trip

Day 1 – Kathmandu to Gokuleshwor:

 Your guide will pick you up early in the morning and take you to Kathmandu Domestic Airport for a short scenic flight to Dhangadhi (approx. 1 hour). After landing, you'll begin a full-day jeep drive to Gokuleshwor, passing through hilly towns like Dadeldhura, Jogbudha, and Baitadi along the beautiful Chameliya River corridor. The drive offers changing landscapes—from tropical plains to mid-hills and forested valleys.

Day 2 – Gokuleshwor to Makarigaad:

Continue by 4WD jeep from Gokuleshwor to Makarigaad, a remote riverside village that serves as the starting point of your trek. This section passes through rugged terrain and traditional Byansi villages.

Days 3–9 – Trekking Section:

 Your trek begins from Makarigaad and leads you into remote valleys, alpine meadows, and high mountain terrain until you return to the same point before driving out.

Day 10 – Makarigaad to Attariya:

 After finishing the trek, take a return jeep drive back to Attariya, retracing the Chameliya corridor through Gokuleshwor and Latinath.

Day 11 – Attariya to Kathmandu:

 Drive from Attariya to Dhangadhi Airport (about 1.5 hours), then board your domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we’ll drop you off at your hotel.

Important Travel Notice

Due to the remote geography of western Nepal, road and flight schedules can be affected by weather, landslides, or local conditions. We strongly advise all trekkers to keep 1–2 extra buffer days at the end of their itinerary to account for any delays during transportation or return flights.

Meals on the Api Himal Base Camp Trek

Food along the Api Himal Base Camp Trek is simple, local, and nourishing—but expect limited variety, especially as you ascend into more remote areas. In the lower elevations such as Dhangadhi, Attariya, Gokuleshwor, and Makarigaad, you’ll find more food options like momo (dumplings), fried noodles, macaroni, and other basic snacks.

However, as you gain altitude and move into more remote villages like Siti, Simar, Dhuli Odar, and Api Base Camp, the food choices become very limited. In most places, Dal Bhat (a traditional Nepali meal of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry) is the main dish served for both lunch and dinner. For breakfast, you may be offered chapati (flatbread), boiled or fried eggs, and vegetable curry. These meals are prepared using local ingredients brought up by mule or porters, so options are based on what's available rather than preference.

Accommodation on the Api Himal Base Camp Trek

Accommodation during the trek is very basic and rustic. In lower regions like Gokuleshwor and Makarigaad, you may find small teahouses or local guesthouses with basic rooms and common facilities. However, once you ascend beyond these areas, especially from Siti onwards, the infrastructure becomes minimal.

In high-altitude villages such as Simar, Dhuli Odar, and especially at Api Base Camp, you may need to camp in tents or sleep in simple shelters used by herders. These places often lack electricity, heating, or even proper toilets. Since the region sees very few trekkers, there are no established lodges or hotels, and facilities are extremely limited.

👉 We strongly recommend bringing your own high-quality sleeping bag, rated for sub-zero temperatures, as blankets are not always available in high-altitude shelters. If you're camping, we will provide tents and foam mats, but a personal sleeping bag ensures warmth and hygiene during cold nights.

Difficulty Level – Api Himal Base Camp Trek

The Api Himal Base Camp Trek is rated as a challenging trek, best suited for experienced trekkers or physically fit adventurers seeking a raw, off-the-beaten-path Himalayan experience. Unlike more commercialized trekking routes in Nepal, this trail ventures deep into the remote far-western Himalayas, where terrain, altitude, and limited infrastructure combine to create a demanding but rewarding journey.

Why is it considered challenging?

Long Travel Days: You’ll spend several full days traveling by jeep and hiking long distances over rough, steep terrain—often with significant altitude gains and losses in a single day.

Remote Location: The trail passes through isolated villages and uninhabited alpine zones where medical help, rescue access, or facilities are minimal or unavailable.

Altitude: The trek reaches a maximum elevation of 3,900 meters at Api Base Camp, which is moderate in terms of altitude but still high enough to cause altitude-related fatigue for some.

Basic Facilities: Beyond Makarigaad, there are no hotels or established lodges—accommodation is limited to simple teahouses, shepherd shelters, or tents, with no heating and limited food options.

Weather Dependency: Sudden changes in mountain weather can affect travel plans, especially since the trail includes off-road driving and camping in exposed alpine terrain.

Who is it suitable for?

This trek is ideal for:

• Experienced trekkers looking for a quiet, less-traveled Himalayan route
• Adventure seekers comfortable with camping, rustic conditions, and long hikes
• Physically fit travelers capable of hiking 5–7 hours per day over rugged paths
• Nature lovers who value solitude, culture, and raw Himalayan landscapes over comfort

If you're looking for a trek that offers pure wilderness, untouched culture, and jaw-dropping mountain views, and you're prepared to rough it a bit, the Api Himal Base Camp Trek is a truly unforgettable adventure. This is not a trek for beginners—but for those who are ready to take on the challenge, the rewards are unmatched.

Weather on the Api Himal Base Camp Trek

The weather in the Api Himal region is highly seasonal and influenced by its remote alpine geography in Nepal’s far-western Himalayas. Because the region sits in the rain shadow of the Api and Saipal ranges, the climate can be drier than eastern trekking routes, but also unpredictable and extreme at higher elevations. Understanding the seasonal weather is essential for planning a safe and comfortable trek.

Best Trekking Seasons

Spring (March to May) – Best Time to Trek

Spring is one of the most ideal times to do the Api Himal Base Camp Trek. Temperatures are moderate, wildflowers—including blooming rhododendrons—light up the forests, and the sky is generally clear in the mornings. Daytime temperatures range between 10°C to 20°C at lower altitudes, while nights at base camp can drop to -5°C to 0°C.

Autumn (September to November) – Clear Views & Crisp Air

Autumn is another excellent season, offering crisp skies, fresh mountain air, and post-monsoon visibility. After the rains wash away the dust, the landscapes appear greener and mountain views sharper. Temperatures are similar to spring, but nights can be colder at higher elevations.

Challenging Seasons

Monsoon (June to August) – Not Recommended

The monsoon brings heavy rainfalls, leeches, landslides, and cloud-covered skies, making travel difficult and potentially dangerous. Roads can be washed out, and trekking paths become slippery. Visibility is poor, and camping is less comfortable due to wet conditions.

Winter (December to February) – Harsh but Quiet

In winter, the trail sees very few trekkers due to extreme cold, snow-covered paths, and closed high passes. While the lower regions remain accessible, Api Base Camp and Kali Dhunga Lake may be buried under snow, with temperatures dropping to -10°C to -15°C at night.

Altitude Variation & Microclimates

• Lower areas like Dhangadhi, Gokuleshwor, and Makarigaad are warmer and more humid, especially in spring and summer.
• Higher camps like Simar, Dhuli Odar, and Api Base Camp have alpine climates—cold, dry, and windy, especially at night.
• Sudden weather changes—like fog, wind, or snow showers—can occur even in the best seasons, so be prepared for all conditions.

Trekking Tip:

Pack layered clothing, a four-season sleeping bag, and weatherproof gear (rain jacket, windbreaker, gloves) no matter the month you trek. The wilderness of Api rewards you with peace and beauty—but only if you respect the mountain weather and come prepared.

The Api Himal Base Camp Trek is a challenging adventure that takes you through remote alpine terrain, high altitudes, and rugged trails—so being in good physical shape is essential. To prepare, start training at least 4–6 weeks before your trek. Focus on cardiovascular endurance through hiking, jogging, cycling, or stair climbing. Aim for regular workouts 4–5 times a week, including hikes with a backpack, ideally on uneven or hilly trails to simulate mountain conditions. Strength training for your legs (squats, lunges), core (planks, crunches), and shoulders will help you handle steep ascents and descents more comfortably.

In addition to physical fitness, mental stamina plays a big role—especially in remote regions where trails are long and facilities are limited. Practice walking for 6–7 hours at a stretch, and do at least one long hike per week to test your gear, boots, and endurance. If you live at low altitude, consider doing breathing exercises or training with a light pack to mimic the fatigue of higher elevations. Most importantly, listen to your body, stay hydrated, and come with a flexible, positive mindset. With the right preparation, you'll be ready to enjoy every step of this incredible off-the-beaten-path Himalayan journey.

Api Himal Base Camp Trek – Overview

The Api Himal Base Camp Trek is a hidden gem in Nepal’s far-western Himalayas—a trail that rewards adventurers with wild landscapes, deep cultural immersion, and breathtaking solitude. Towering at 7,132 meters, Mount Api is the highest peak in the far west and remains one of Nepal's most isolated trekking regions. This challenging trek leads you through untouched Byansi villages, sacred alpine lakes, and remote valleys carved by the mighty Chameliya River.

Unlike more commercialized routes, the Api region remains untouched by mass tourism. With no crowds, no luxury lodges, and limited infrastructure, this trek is made for those seeking raw Himalayan beauty and a personal connection with nature. You’ll camp under stars, walk through ancient pine forests, and stand face-to-face with Api Himal itself—an experience that’s both physically demanding and spiritually fulfilling.

Altitude, Attractions & Locations

The trek reaches its highest point at Api Base Camp (3,900m), with an optional side trip to the sacred Kali Dhunga Lake (4,000m). The journey begins from the Terai plains in Dhangadhi (109m) and gradually ascends through the subtropical forests of Dadeldhura, remote villages like Makarigaad, Simar, and Dhuli Odar, eventually leading to the majestic alpine basin where Api Himal rises.

Along the route, you’ll witness spectacular Himalayan views, especially in the early mornings. Landmarks like Chameliya River Valley, Byansi villages, and Kali Dhunga Lake offer pristine natural settings with panoramic mountain vistas. On clear days, you can even spot distant peaks like Saipal (7,031m). The diversity in elevation also brings variety in landscapes—from warm riverbanks to snowy alpine meadows.

Permits Required for Api Himal Trek

While the Api Himal region is remote, permits are still mandatory. You'll need a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card, a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) if your route enters sensitive border zones, and local municipality or conservation entry permits. These are managed through local offices or trekking agencies.

Don’t worry—Places Nepal Treks handles all permit arrangements on your behalf. Our team ensures that all paperwork is in place so you can focus on enjoying the trek without delays or hassles. Just provide a few passport-sized photos and a copy of your passport, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Api Himal Base Camp Trek Map

The trek follows a less-traveled route in the Darchula district, starting with a flight to Dhangadhi, then driving to Gokuleshwor and Makarigaad, from where the trekking trail begins. You'll ascend through Siti, Simar, and Dhuli Odar, eventually reaching Api Base Camp, with a side hike to Kali Dhunga Lake.

Our detailed trek map includes daily elevation profiles, villages, campsites, water sources, and landmarks. You’ll walk through forests, farmlands, glacial valleys, and sacred sites, gaining a real sense of remoteness. The map is available in both digital and printed formats for all trekkers who book with us.

Historical & Cultural Significance

The region around Api Himal is home to the Byansi people, an ethnic group with rich traditions, oral history, and strong spiritual connections to the mountains. Local beliefs regard Kali Dhunga Lake and Api Himal as sacred sites where gods reside and protect the valleys. You'll see prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens even in the most isolated corners—symbols of Himalayan Buddhism and animistic beliefs.

This trek is more than a physical journey; it’s a cultural immersion into the spiritual life of remote mountain communities. You'll witness traditional architecture, agricultural lifestyles, and hear stories passed down through generations—all untouched by mass tourism. Trekking here offers an authentic connection with Nepal's highland heritage.

Flora and Fauna of Api Himal

The Api Himal trail passes through diverse ecological zones, from subtropical forests near Gokuleshwor to alpine meadows near base camp. Along the way, you'll encounter dense groves of pine, oak, and rhododendron—especially vibrant during the spring bloom. Medicinal plants like Yarsagumba and lokta paper trees also grow in these highlands.

In the alpine zones, moss-covered stones, juniper shrubs, and wildflowers blanket the valleys. These untouched landscapes are not only scenic but ecologically significant, serving as habitat corridors for rare Himalayan species and traditional grazing grounds for local yak herders.

Wildlife in the Api Himal Region

Api Himal lies in one of Nepal’s least-disturbed wilderness corridors, making it a quiet haven for rare and shy wildlife. You may encounter species like the Himalayan Tahr, musk deer, blue sheep, and even hear tales of elusive predators such as the snow leopard or Himalayan black bear. Bird enthusiasts can spot monals, eagles, and pheasants soaring above ridgelines or darting through dense forests.

Because of the area's isolation and low human impact, wildlife sightings are more likely here than in busier trekking routes. Trekkers who tread respectfully through these habitats often find moments of rare and breathtaking encounters with nature.

Why Choose Api Himal Base Camp Trek with Places Nepal Treks?

We specialize in off-the-beaten-path adventures—and the Api Himal Base Camp Trek is one of our signature routes. With deep local knowledge, experienced guides from the far-western region, and strong logistics support, we make this remote and rugged trek accessible, safe, and meaningful. Our team handles everything from permits to meals, so you can focus on the trail, not the stress.

Our personalized approach includes pre-trek briefings, complimentary gear, and the kind of care that only a local operator can offer. From arranging safe transport and hearty meals to ensuring your tent is warm at night, we walk with you every step of the journey—because we don’t just guide treks; we create unforgettable experiences.

Ready for the Raw Himalayan Adventure?

If you're craving solitude, wilderness, and cultural depth, the Api Himal Base Camp Trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey few ever experience.

Let Places Nepal Treks lead you where the map ends, and real adventure begins.

Book Your Trek Now or Contact Us for a customized itinerary and expert advice.