Api Base Camp Trek
Trip Facts
- Destination Api Saipal Region Nepal
- Activity Trekking
- Duration 15 Days
- Trip Difficulty moderate_strenuous
- Max. Altitude 4100m
- Best Time Autumn and Spring
- Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
- Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Accommodation 5 star Hotel in Kathmandu / Tea house / Camping
- Group Size 2 - 30
Trip Highlights
- Discover the true wilderness and isolation of Nepal's western regions
- Investigate the way of life, customs, and culture of the local people
- Reach the Api base camp, the highest peak in western Nepal
- Visit the Kali Dhunga sacred lake
- Take in the breathtaking views of Mt. Api (7,132 m) and other snow-capped peaks, including Mt. Thado Dhunga Tuppa, Mt. Kapchuli, and Mt. Rajama (6,537 m)
- Alpine pastures and subtropical woodlands
Introduction
The Api Base Camp Trek, located in Nepal’s far western region, offers a rare opportunity for exploration in a remote and untouched part of the country. The towering Mt. Api, standing at 7,132 meters, is the highest peak in Nepal’s far west, and the region remains largely underdeveloped in terms of tourism and economic activity. This trek is perfect for those seeking true isolation and unspoiled wilderness.
The Api Nampa Conservation Area protects this pristine landscape, where you’ll encounter breathtaking vistas along tranquil and scenic trails. Highlights include spectacular views of the Api Himalayan ranges, with peaks such as Mt. Thado Dhunga Tuppa (5,368 m), Mt. Rajama (6,537 m), Mt. Kapchuli (6,850 m), and of course, Mt. Api itself.
The trek showcases the stunning Mahakali Valley, dramatic gorges, diverse ecosystems from subtropical to alpine forests, and picturesque meadows, grasslands, waterfalls, lakes, and streams.
The region is home to a blend of Buddhist and Hindu communities, where you can immerse yourself in local customs and daily life. The Api Base Camp Trek is a cultural journey through villages inhabited by Brahmin, Chhetri, Mahara, Bohora, Thekare, Jhakari, and Lohar (Ironsmith) communities, each with their unique languages and traditions. Explore remote monasteries, temples, and museums that offer a glimpse into the area’s rich heritage.
As one of Nepal’s most secluded and less-explored trekking destinations, the Api Base Camp Trek offers limited camping options and is best undertaken in the fall or spring.
Best Seasons for Trekking
Spring (March to May): This is the prime time for trekking in Nepal, with pleasant weather, clear skies, and stunning mountain views. The conditions are ideal from April to May, with moderate temperatures and minimal snowfall at higher altitudes.
Fall/Autumn (September to November): This season is the second-best for trekking, with rhododendrons in full bloom, comfortable temperatures, and excellent mountain vistas. The weather is generally clear and dry, providing favorable trekking conditions.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August): For trekking in rainshadow areas like Api, this season is viable as the mountains shield the region from monsoon rains. The optimal time during this period is from mid-May to late June, when the weather is relatively dry.
Winter (December to February): Winter trekking can be challenging due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, particularly in late December and early February. The trails can become difficult to navigate, and extreme cold makes trekking and camping arduous.
Trek Difficulty
The Api Base Camp Trek is a moderate trek with some demanding sections, offering both thrilling and adventurous routes. The trail involves crossing several mountain passes, so it’s crucial to be aware of high-altitude sickness and mountain trekking basics.
Altitude sickness can be a concern as the trek ascends from 1,000 meters to 4,000 meters. The terrain can be challenging, especially during the rainy season when paths become slippery and hazardous. Cold weather and snow can further complicate the trek.
Weather conditions can be unpredictable, so appropriate and practical gear is essential. There are no teahouses or guesthouses along the route, requiring trekkers to be self-sufficient with tents and food. Additionally, due to the lack of nearby medical facilities and power sources, having emergency evacuation insurance is strongly recommended.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi (109m/357ft) – 1 hour 15 mins
Day 03: Drive from Dhangadhi to Gokuleshwar – 8 hours
Day 04: Drive from Gokuleshwar to Latinath (1,004m) – 2 hours and Trek to Paribagar (1,770m/5,807ft) – 1 hour
Day 05: Trek from Paribagar to Makarigaad (1,470m/4,822ft) – 5 hours
Day 06: Trek from Makarigaad to Siti (2,254m/7,395ft) – 8 hours
Day 07: Trek from Siti to Domal (2,950m/9,678ft) – 7 hours
Day 08: Trek from Domal to Dhaulo Odar (3,548m/11,640ft) – 5 hours
Day 09: Trek from Dhaulo Odar to Api Base Camp/Pilkandaha (3,861m/12,667ft) and back to Dhaulo Odar
Day 10: Trek from Dhaulo Odar to Siti (2,258m/7,408ft) – 6 hours
Day 11: Trek from Siti to Makarigadi (1,470m/4,822ft) – 6 hours
Day 12: Trek from Makarigadi to Latinath (4 hours) and Drive to Gokuleshwar (2 hours)
Day 13: Drive from Gokuleshwar to Dhangadhi (109m/357ft) – 9 hours
Day 14: Fly from Dhangadhi to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
Day 15: Departure Day
Detailed Itinerary
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Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, a representative from our company will warmly welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your accommodation. After settling in, you’ll meet with our team for a detailed pre-trek briefing, where we’ll go over every aspect of the Api Base Camp trek. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect on your journey. In the evening, you’ll experience a traditional Nepali dinner accompanied by a cultural dance performance, providing a delightful introduction to Nepalese culture. After enjoying your meal and mingling with other guests, you’ll return to your hotel for a restful night.
Altitude: 1300mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / dinnerAccommodation: 5 star hotel in Kathmandu -
Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi (109m/357ft) - 1 hour 15 mins
Following breakfast at your hotel, you'll head to the domestic airport for a flight to Dhangadhi, located in the far-western region of Nepal. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to a comfortable tourist standard hotel. After checking in and refreshing, you’ll embark on a local tour which includes a bicycle ride around the lake and a visit to the botanical gardens and Aircraft Museum. After the excursion, you’ll return to your hotel in Dhangadhi for an overnight stay.
Altitude: 1009mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / dinnerAccommodation: hotel -
Day 03: Drive from Dhangadhi to Gokuleshwar - 8 hours
Today, you’ll leave the Terai region and head into the hilly area. The drive to Gokuleshwar will take approximately 8 hours via the Mahakali Highway. You’ll start early in the morning, catching a bus that will take you through the scenic landscape. A breakfast stop will be made along the way, and lunch will be enjoyed in Dadheldhura. After the long drive, you’ll arrive in Gokuleshwar in the afternoon. You’ll have some time to relax or explore the local area before staying overnight in a lodge.
Altitude: 810mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / dinnerAccommodation: Camping -
Day 04: Drive from Gokuleshwar to Latinath (1,004m) - 2 hours and Trek to Paribagar (1,770m/5,807ft) - 1 hour
On this day, you’ll drive from Gokuleshwar to Latinath, a journey that takes about 2 hours along the Chameliya River. Upon reaching Latinath, you’ll begin your trek toward Paribagar. The trek will take approximately 1 hour, leading you uphill to Paribagar. You’ll have ample time to rest and explore the village before spending the night in a local lodge.
Altitude: 10004mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Camping -
Day 05: Trek from Paribagar to Makarigaad (1,470m/4,822ft) - 5 hours
After breakfast in Paribagar, you’ll start your trek to Makarigaad, passing through towns and hilly terrain. The trek includes walking through agricultural lands and stone structures typical of the far-western region. You’ll stop for a break at a teahouse along the way and continue through forests of fir, oak, hemlock, and rhododendron. You’ll arrive in Makarigaad by afternoon and stay overnight in a homestay facility.
Altitude: 1700mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Camping -
Day 06: Trek from Makarigaad to Siti (2,254m/7,395ft) - 8 hours
Today’s trek begins with a steep climb towards the Chameliya River and continues through a gorge to the settlement of Pato, where you’ll have lunch. The ascent continues from Pato on a gradual path until you reach Siti in the afternoon. Siti, a picturesque village, will be your overnight stop in a homestay facility.
Altitude: 2254mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Camping -
Day 07: Trek from Siti to Domal (2,950m/9,678ft) - 7 hours
Departing from Siti after breakfast, you’ll trek to Domal, with a lunch stop in Khayekot near the Chameliya River. The trek involves a gradual ascent, leading you to Domal, where the Chameliya and Rokap rivers converge. As Domal lacks accommodation facilities, you’ll set up a tent for an overnight stay.
Altitude: 2950mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Camping -
Day 08: Trek from Domal to Dhaulo Odar (3,548m/11,640ft) - 5 hours
The trek today takes you to Dhaulo Odar, also known as Lower Api Nampa Base Camp. You’ll begin with a steep climb before following a relatively easy path through forests and pastures. After about 5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Dhaulo Odar, an open grassland surrounded by mountains and forests. Here, you’ll set up camp for the night.
Altitude: 3548mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Camping -
Day 09: Trek from Dhaulo Odar to Api Base Camp/Pilkandaha (3,861m/12,667ft) and back to Dhaulo Odar
This is the highlight of your trek as you’ll reach Api Base Camp. After breakfast, you’ll start your hike carrying a packed lunch. The trek involves a 2.5-hour uphill climb to the wide plateau of Api Base Camp, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of Mt. Api, Mt. Nampa, and Mt. Bobaye. After exploring the area and visiting the sacred Pilkandaha Lake, you’ll return to Dhaulo Odar for an overnight stay.
Altitude: 3861mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Camping -
Day 10: Trek from Dhaulo Odar to Siti (2,258m/7,408ft) - 6 hours
Today marks the beginning of your return journey. You’ll trek back to Siti, first descending to Khayekot, where you’ll have lunch. The route then continues uphill to Siti, passing through terraced farmland and hills. Enjoy the views and relax in Siti for the night in a homestay facility.
Altitude: 2254mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Camping -
Day 11: Trek from Siti to Makarigadi (1,470m/4,822ft) - 6 hours
After breakfast in Siti, you’ll trek to the ridge above Siti, passing through woodlands, terraced farms, and small villages. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy Himalayan vistas before arriving at Pato for lunch. A steady descent will lead you to Makarigadi village, where you’ll spend the night.
Altitude: 1470mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Camping -
Day 12: Trek from Makarigadi to Latinath (4 hours) and Drive to Gokuleshwar (2 hours)
Today, you’ll retrace your steps from Makarigadi to Latinath, a trek of about 4 hours. The descent is easier compared to the ascent. After reaching Latinath and exploring local attractions, you’ll board a bus back to Gokuleshwar. You’ll stay overnight in a lodge in Gokuleshwar.
Altitude: 1004mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Camping -
Day 13: Drive from Gokuleshwar to Dhangadhi (109m/357ft) - 9 hours
An early start is necessary as you drive back to Dhangadhi. Following a similar route as before, you’ll pass terraced farms and hills, reaching Dadheldhuraa for lunch. Continue on the Mahakali Highway to Dhangadhi, where you’ll check into your hotel for the night.
Altitude: 1009mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: hotel -
Day 14: Fly from Dhangadhi to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
After breakfast in Dhangadhi, you’ll catch a flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy the aerial views of the landscape as you return. Upon landing, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. You’ll have some free time to explore local markets or relax. Enjoy your final night in Nepal.
Altitude: 1300mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 star hotel in Kathmandu -
Day 15: Departure Day
On your departure day, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the airport. We’ll bid you farewell and wish you a safe journey home. We hope your time in Nepal was memorable and that you’ll consider returning in the future.
Altitude: 1300mMeals: Breakfast
What's included
- International and Domestic Pickup and Drop-Off
- Experienced English-Speaking Guide and Porter (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
- Trekking Permits (including Api Himal permits)
- Accommodation and Tea/Coffee During the Trek
- Camping Tent and Kitchen Staff for the Camping Trek
- Round-Trip Flight Ticket from Kathmandu to Dhangadi
- Insurance for Guide, Porter, Kitchen Staff, and Driver (includes food and accommodation)
- Trekking Map
- Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing with Private Jeep and Tour Guide (Local Monuments Entrance Fee Included)
- Basic Medical Kits
- Sleeping Bag, Duffel Bag, Down Jacket, Trekking Poles (to be returned after the trek)
- Welcome and Farewell Dinner
- Emergency Helicopter Evacuation Service Arrangement (covered by your travel insurance)
- All Required Paperwork and Government Taxes
- RP Adventures T-Shirt
What's not included
- International Flight
- Nepal Travel Visa Fee
- Personal Medical and Travel insurance (Should cover helicopter evacuation)
- Guide, Porter and Driver tips
- Personal Gears (equipment)
- Personal bill
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
- All other personal expense of beverages (hard and soft drinks)
- All other things not mentioned in the inclusion.
Trekking Gears
To ensure a safe and comfortable trek in the Himalayan region, it is highly recommended to bring the appropriate equipment and gear to cope with the cold temperatures. The following is a list of essential equipment and gear, which can be purchased either in the Thamel market or brought from your home country:
The following basic checklist for trekking and hiking equipment should assist you in packing for our trips. Keep in mind the importance of minimizing the weight of your clothing and gear. Your packed trek bag should weigh less than 15 kilograms. Remember, this is merely a guideline and not everything listed is essential to bring.
- Lightweight thermal gloves
- Hiking boots
- 2 pairs of thin and 2 pair of thick woolen socks.
- Trekking trousers
- Waterproof (trousers / jacket)
- Base layer shirts
- Underwear (4)
- Sun hat or scarf
- Thin, lightweight (inner socks) (4)
- Head lamp ,spare bulbs, & batteries
- Small padlock to lock trek bag
- Plastic bags - for keeping items dry inside trek bag
- Small wash towel
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Sun protection (including total bloc for lips)
- Trekking poles
- Down jacket
- Water bottle 1 liters
- Hand wash
- Snow glasses and sunglasses
- Duffle bag or kit bag to carry to gear while trekking.
Additional Equipment Checklist
- Headband or Beanie
- Swiss army knife
- Lip guard
- Sun lotion
- Scarf or neck Band
- Rain jacket/ Umbrella
What Not To Pack?
- Jewelry and valuables things, Heavy zoom lenses for your camera, Too many cotton clothes/ more than one pair of jeans, Bulky towels
- During Himalayan tours, including activities such as hiking, trekking, peak climbing, and expeditions, we strongly advise against bringing items such as jewelry, gold, excessive cash, large cameras, too many cotton clothes, thick towels, etc.
Map
FAQs of Api Base Camp Trek
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How difficult is the trek to Mount Api's base camp?
The trek to Api Base Camp is considered challenging due to its remote location and the need to navigate steep and rugged terrain. The journey involves crossing dangerous and difficult paths, particularly during the rainy season when the roads can be hazardous. -
Does the trek to Api Base Camp have Wi-Fi and electricity?
In the remote Api region, there is no access to electricity or Wi-Fi. While power sources are not available, you might have limited cell network access until around day six of the trek. -
When is the ideal season to go trekking?
The best seasons for trekking to Api Base Camp are autumn (October–November) and spring (end of February–April). Winter is suitable for shorter hikes and teahouse treks but may present challenges for longer treks due to extreme cold. -
What is the lodging situation during the trek?
Lodging is limited and differs from more developed trekking areas. You will need to bring your own food and tents, as there are no teahouses or guesthouses available along the route. -
How can altitude sickness be avoided?
To prevent altitude sickness, gradually increase your altitude to allow your body to acclimate. Maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and refrain from flying directly to high-altitude destinations. -
Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended, especially one that includes coverage for emergency evacuation at high altitudes. -
What is the altitude of Api Base Camp?
Api Base Camp is situated at an altitude of 4,100 meters (13,451 feet). -
What amenities are provided in teahouses on the trek?
Most teahouses, except those at higher elevations, offer private rooms, with shared bathrooms. They generally provide hot and cold running water, though amenities may vary.
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