Api Saipal Himal Base Camp Trek are restricted areas where special permits are required to trek there. There is no time limitation for the trekking in any area and the same kind of flexibility of the trekking period can be applied to these areas too. But the shortest time will at least be of three weeks including from and to Kathmandu.
Api Saipal Himal Trek is for those trekkers/hikers who want to visit a remote and unspoiled area of Nepal. It is located in far western region of Nepal. The name Api is from the Tibetan word for grandmother. This walk is not yet on the tourist trail and few tourists visit this area. Api Saipal Himal trek gives a great opportunity to explore the real wilderness of nature of Nepal. In addition to these, it has a large mountain view, cultural diversity, beautiful forests, swift rivers, mysterious culture and off the beaten track.
While on the trail you can enjoy the spectacular views of Api Himal (7,132m), Saipal (7,031m) Mt. Thado Dhunga Tuppa (5,368m), Mt. Nandadevi (7,817m), Rajamba (6,537m) and other peaks as well. A special permit was needed for the trekking route from Api Saipal base camp through Simikot. This trek is offered by most trekking companies from Mahendranagar from where you’ll need to take at least 15 hours of drive. Chala will be the last settlement from this route. Here, hold their child tightly by fixed rope to not fall down from the house in the parents absence (during the day) on the Api Saipal Himal trek.
Although, Api Himal trek is an adventure trek from this place, it is equally popular among the travelers that are interested in bird watching. And agriculture is the main occupation of the local people in this area. This is a holiday place of the famous holy lake named Kali Dhunga Lake, which is approximately 2 hours walk from Api Himal Base Camp. The local community of this region are as follows Bramin, Chhetri, Mahara, Bohora, Thekare, Jhakari and Lohar. Typically, they have their own different language and culture.
They are not able to speak fluent Nepali language as well. There is also a nomad community, called the “Raute” that lives here and uses their own language. In times gone by they inhabited caves. In summer they climb up to Api Himal Base Camp while in winter they fall down to Terai and as far as Indian border.
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport, we greet you and assist you to transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu, after resting, you will be provided the essential information regarding the trip in Nepal along with our fellow trekking staff for your adventurous trip.
Today, you will be visiting cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley which is rich in its Newari culture and temples; the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the world’s biggest Stupa, Boudhanath, Swoyambhunath Stupa (monkey temple) and historical Kathmandu Durbar Square, and incredible Kumari widely known as Living Goddess in Basantapur of central Kathmandu.
We today begin to trek only after lunch we will hike through an area with a picturesque peak view and striking landscape. After having lunch, we will start our trek. We will have to make about 2 hours straight walk and reach Karkale, where we will stay overnight at camp.
From Karlkale, we will walk through stunning villages and farmland. On the way, we will cross countless hanging bridges. After walking for six and a half hours, we will reach Chiureni. In Nepali, Chiuri means butter tree. We will see many butter trees around our campsite and stay overnight at camp.
On this day our trekking trail follows the Chamliya Khola moving ahead from Chiureni. The trail goes straight and some parts narrow. 7 hours walk and stay overnight at camp
Today we have to walk frequently uphill we have to climb 1200m. On the way we will see some villages and observe that settlements are very scattered. We can see pleasant Mountain View when walking for about six hours and stay overnight at camp at local school.
From Seti the track goes up and moves down again while we walk 2 hours then we will reach Lawathi this is the last village of this trek, this place is known as Saheb Bagarâ Many years ago trekkers stayed at that place so local people started to call Saheb Bagar. From here trail goes uphill and walks through dense jungle. 5 hours walk and stay overnight at camp.
Today, we hike through the thick jungle, the trail goes tenderly uphill. During the summer season, there is a kind of plant that can be seen in this area the name of the plant call Yarsagumba this is a kind of Viagra 5 five-hour walk and stays overnight at camp.
From Simar, today the trail is a straight walk to Dhaliwadar which means cave as mentioned above in the past days nomadic people used to stay at this cave. Today we will walk through the greenery forest with Mountain View and need to cross some small stream. About an hour’s walk and stay overnight at camp.
Ascending for about two hours from Dhawalidwar, we will be reached at Api Himal base camp. After having lunch go to the holy lake walk around the base camp and enjoy stunning mountain views. Stay overnight at camp.
After having breakfast, we descend to Saheb Bagar and go behind the same trail. It takes a six-hour walk and stays overnight at camp.
Today, walking for six and a half hours, you will reach Makarighat from Saheb Bagarand and stay overnight at camp.
We walk on the same trail way back to Bitulechaur from Makarighat for six hours and stay overnight camp.
From Bitule, we walk through stunning villages for six hours walk and stay overnight at camp.
Traveling after 14 hours from bus we reach Dhangadi. Here, you will have a farewell dinner with the porter and other supporting staff.
After valediction with porter, you will be checked in at the airport for Kathmandu.
Today, you’ll fly back to your destination. Our representative will drive you to the airport for your return flight. As you settle into your seat on the aircraft, you’ll have time to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had in Nepal and start planning your next adventure.
The Api Saipal Himal Base Camp Trek is a remote and adventurous trek in far-western Nepal, leading to the base camp of the Api and Saipal Himalayan range. It offers untouched landscapes, high Himalayan scenery, and deep cultural immersion.
The Api Saipal Himal region lies in Nepal’s far-western corner near the Tibetan border. It is one of the least explored and most isolated trekking regions in the country.
The highest point is Api Saipal Base Camp, located at approximately 4,800-5,000 meters, offering spectacular close-up views of the Api and Saipal peaks.
This trek is special for its extreme remoteness, untouched alpine valleys, traditional villages, and dramatic mountain scenery. It is ideal for trekkers seeking a true wilderness experience away from commercial routes.
Yes, trekkers require a Restricted Area Permit along with standard trekking permits. These must be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory due to the restricted status, lack of trail markings, and challenging terrain. Solo trekking is not allowed.
Accommodation is mostly fully supported camping, with occasional basic homestays in lower villages. Facilities are very limited in higher regions.
The trek is considered challenging to strenuous due to long walking days, high altitude, remote trails, and minimal infrastructure. Excellent physical fitness is required.
Yes, altitude sickness is a serious concern. Proper acclimatization, slow ascent, hydration, and a carefully planned itinerary are essential for safety.
No, this trek is not suitable for beginners. Previous high-altitude trekking experience and strong endurance are strongly recommended.
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