Api Himal Base Camp Trek

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Api Himal Base Camp Trek, located in the remote Far Western region is Nepal’s most pristine and untouched trekking destination. Named after Mount Api (7132m), this off-the-beaten-path trek is ideal for travelers seeking solitude and raw Himalayan wilderness, far from the crowds of popular trekking routes. Managed by the Api Nampa Conservation Area, this region offers rare natural and cultural experiences unlike anywhere else in Nepal.

Trip Facts
Country
Nepal
Duration
14 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Max. Altitude
3900 meters
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Walking / Hiking
Accomodation
Hotels / Lodges / Tented camp
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Best Time
Spring & Autumn

Trek to Api Himal Base Camp – Hidden Gem in Nepal’s Far West

Api Himal Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most untouched and remote trekking experiences, located in the secluded Far Western region. Named after Mount Api (7132 meters), this off-the-beaten-path journey is perfect for trekkers seeking solitude, unspoiled nature, and the raw beauty of the Himalayas—far from the crowds of mainstream trails. The trek lies within the protected Api Nampa Conservation Area, offering a unique blend of natural wilderness and authentic cultural encounters.

This hidden gem of a trek sees only a few visitors each year, making it ideal for those looking for a truly non-touristy adventure. The trail passes through traditional villages, dense forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude pastures, eventually reaching the dramatic base camp of Api Himal, where towering snow-capped peaks dominate the skyline.

The region boasts awe-inspiring scenery, including wide grassland valleys, sacred mountain lakes, and stunning views of Himalayan giants like Api (7132 m), Nampa (6929 m), and Bobaye (6808 m), along with several lesser-known peaks. Many of the lakes along the trail are considered sacred, adding spiritual depth to the journey.

Api Himal remains one of Nepal’s most isolated and least developed trekking routes. With minimal infrastructure and no commercialization, the experience is both raw and rewarding—offering an immersive look into remote mountain life and a rare chance to connect deeply with nature and culture in Nepal’s far western frontier.

Trip Gallery

Api Base Camp
Api Bc
Api Himal
Api Himal Base Camp Trek
Villages In Api
Spi 1
Rest In Api Trek 1

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary
Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 02:Kathmandu – Dhangadhi flight – Drive to Dadeldhura (2650 m)
Max Altitude
2,650m / 8,694ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 03:Dadeldhura – Makarigadh (1460 m)
Max Altitude
1,460m / 4,790ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 04:Makarigadh – Khandeswori (2280 m)
Max Altitude
2,280m / 7,480ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 05:Khandeswori – Thumti (2240 m) – Lumcha (2350 m)
Max Altitude
2,350m / 7,709ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 06:Lumcha – Chhirchhire (2500 m) – Simar (2852 m)
Max Altitude
2,852m / 9,356ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 07:Simar – Dhauli Odar (3450 m) & Bhabaya valley exploration
Max Altitude
3,450m / 11,318ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 08:Dhauli Odar – Api Himal Base Camp (3900 m) - Dhauli Odar (3450 m)
Max Altitude
3,900m / 12,795ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 09:Dhauli Odar – Chhirchhire (2500 m) – Khaykot (2050 m)
Max Altitude
2,050m / 6,725ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 10:Khaykot – Siti Village (2284 m) – Ghusa
Max Altitude
2,284m / 7,493ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 11:Ghusa – Makarigad (1460 m) - Drive to Dadeldhura (2650 m)
Max Altitude
2,650m / 8,694ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 12:Dadeldhura – Dhangadi – Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 13:Free day in Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 14:Departure from Kathmandu
Max Altitude
-
Walking/Hiking
-

Api Himal Base Camp Trek Detailed Itinerary

The itinerary can be customized according to your duration of holiday. Similarly hotel can be upgraded or downgraded depending on your requirement.

Starts: Kathmandu
Ends: Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our correspondent who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once checked in, we will arrange a pre-trip meeting where we will brief in short about the trek, answer any queries you have and meet your trekking guide as well. After the short brief, you can relax and spend rest of the day at your leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 1,350m / 4,429ftDuration: 40 minDistance: 6 kmAccommodation: HotelMode of Travel: Private vehicle

This day we will have breakfast at the hotel and prepare to fly to Dhangadhi which is 1 hour from Kathmandu.

Dhangadhi lies in the far western region of Nepal, bordered with Uttar Pradesh of India. It is the 9th biggest city of Nepal. The climate here is comparatively warmer as it lies in Terai region (low land).

Upon arrival in Dhangadhi airport we will drive to Dadeldhura which takes about 4-hour drive (approx. 66 km). Dadeldhura is also one of district of far-western region having desert-mountainous landscape with many local religious temples. Stay overnight at hotel in Dadeldhura.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 2,650m / 8,694ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 66 kmAccommodation: Lodge

Today we will have breakfast in the morning and then get ready to drive towards Makarigad which takes about 8 hours (205 km). The road is good till Gokuleswor and after that we will have to drive on country road 4-5 hours till Makarigadh. Stay overnight at tea house / tented camp.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 1,460m / 4,790ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDuration: 4-5 hoursAccommodation: Tented camp.

This day we will have breakfast in the morning and then begin our trek to Khandeswori which takes about 2-3 hours. We will climb uphill trial along the dense bamboo & Rhododendron Forest. There are few homes stay in Khandeswori so we will end up our camp in Khandeswori. We can rest after having lunch and explore around for rest of the day.  Stay overnight at home stay / tented camp.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 2,280m / 7,480ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDuration: 2-3 hoursAccommodation: Tented camp

This day we will have breakfast in the morning and prepare our second day of the trek to Lumcha via Thumti which takes about 6-7 hours (12 km). We will have to walk uphill trial till and reach Thumti where we will have lunch. It will take about 2 hours to reach Thumti. Thumti is a beautiful village where we get to explore western old villages and culture.

Again, from here we will walk uphill trial till Kothadhar (2720 m) along the dense bamboo & Rhododendron Forest. From here, we will trek traverse trial and reach Lumcha. We will not see any settlement along the trek.

Upon arrival in Lumcha, we can see small Tibetan-Chettri settlement and there are 2 homestays in Lumcha as well. Stay overnight at home stay / tented camp.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 2,350m / 7,709ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDuration: 6-7 hoursAccommodation: Tented camp

This day we will have breakfast in the morning and begin our trek to Simar via Chhirchhire which takes about 5-6 hours (10 km). We will be walking uphill trial alongside Chamelia Nadi and pass-through different places like: Khaykot, Bedali and reach Chhirchire which will be our lunch camp. After walking for about 4.5 hours to reach Chhirchire.

After having lunch, we will trek towards Simar alongside Chamelia for another 1.5 hours. From Simar we can see mind blowing view of Himalayan range: Jethi Bahurani Chuli (6850 m), Bobaye Chuli (6808 m), Nampa Chuli II (6929 m) and so on. Simar has only one tea house with minimum facility. Stay overnight at tented camp.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 2,852m / 9,356ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDuration: 5-6 hoursAccommodation: Tented camp

Today will be our side short trek to Dhauli Odar which takes about 3-4 hours (9km). After reaching Dhauli Odar we will explore Bhabaya Valley which takes about 3 hours (6 km both ways).

While walking from Simar to Dhauli Odar we can see beautiful wide valley on the way and we will be mesmerized by the amazing landscape and views of mountains. After 3-4 hours we will reach Dhauli Odar and have lunch there.

After having lunch, we will head to explore Bhabaya valley for azzlimatization. From Bhabaya we can see amazing views of Lhayul peak (6395 m), Jethi Bahurani Chuli (6850 m) and so on.

Stay overnight at tented camp.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 3,450m / 11,318ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDuration: 3-4 hoursAccommodation: Tented camp

Today is the main day of our trek where we will reach to our main destination, Api Himal Base Camp which is located at an altitude of 3900 meter. The trek from Dhauli Odar to Api Himal Base Camp is 3km which takes about 2 hours in moderate walking speed.

From the Api Himal Base Camp, we can see amazing 360-degree views of Api Himal (7132 m), Nampa Chuli (6929 m), Lhayul Peak (6395 m) and so on. Also, from Base camp we will go to explore Chameliya Muhan (water source) and then explore Kali Dhunga Tal (4200 m) and then come back to base camp and have lunch. Kali Dhunga Tal is one of the holy lakes where locals go to worship powerful goddess Kali. After having lunch, we will return back to Dhauli Odar. Stay overnight at tented camp.

Note: We will not spend night in Api Himal Base Camp because although it is not very high altitude, there is high chance of getting altitude sickness as the weather of western region is comparatively much colder and different than in east or another region. It is advisable to descend back to Dhauli Odar.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 3,900m / 12,795ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDuration: 4 hoursAccommodation: Tented camp

This day we will have breakfast in morning and then descend back to Khaykot which takes about 8 hours (18 km). On the way we will have lunch at Chhirchhire and again descend till Khaykot. Stay overnight at tented camp.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 2,050m / 6,725ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDuration: 8 hoursAccommodation: Tented camp

This day we will have breakfast in morning and then descend back to Ghusa via Siti Village which takes about 7 hours (14 km). While descending we will choose another route and on the way, we will visit beautiful Siti village. Stay overnight at tented camp.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 2,284m / 7,493ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDuration: 7 hoursAccommodation: Tented camp

This day we will have breakfast in morning and then trek back to Makarigad which takes about 1.5 hours (4 km). Upon reaching Makarigad we will drive for about 8 hours to Dadeldhura. Stay overnight at lodge in Dadeldhura.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 2,650m / 8,694ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerDuration: 8 hoursAccommodation: LodgeMode of Travel: Private local vehicle

This day after having breakfast we will drive back to Dhangadi which takes about 4 hours. Upon reaching Dhangadi we will fly back to Kathmandu airport. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 1,350m / 4,429ftMeals: Breakfast & LunchDuration: 4 hoursAccommodation: HotelMode of Travel: Private vehicle

This day will be free day in Kathmandu for UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE sightseeing / mountain flight to see beautiful views of Everest range and so on..

Boudhanath: One of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pashupatinath: A sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square: One of the major heritage sites with unique architect, ancient monastery, ethnic Newari culture and heritage.

Stay overnight at Hotel / Resort in Kathmandu.

Day Highlights
Max Altitude: 1,350m / 4,429ftMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Enjoy your last day in Kathmandu before departure. At your scheduled departure time, our correspondent will pick you up from the hotel, transfer you to the airport, and bid you farewell with warm hearts.

Altitude Chart

Unit:
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Api Himal Base Camp Trek: Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport-Hotel-Airport Transfers
  • 3 nights with breakfast at the Surya Heritage (3star) or similar in Kathmandu in a shared room
  • 1 nights with breakfast at Hotel Dalhia (3star) or similar in Pokhara in a shared room
  • Flight fare from Kathmandu – Dhangadi – Kathmandu including guide
  • Transportation by local private jeep from Dhangadi – Dadeldhura – Makarigadh & back including guides & porters
  • All necessary permits for trekking
  • All meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner with a tea-coffee in Lodge and tents during the trek
  • Accommodation in Lodge and camping tents during the trek
  • A camping tent for every two people, kitchen tent, bathroom tent and cooking utensils during the trek period or where there are no Lodges
  • Insurance, equipment, accommodation, all meals and salary of the Guide and porters.
  • Ground transportation Kathmandu – Dhangadi – Kathmandu for porters who do not continue the trek
  • Government taxes and fees

Excludes

  • Personal equipment
  • Personal and medical insurance
  • Emergency rescue by helicopter (if necessary)
  • Bar bills and drinks (mineral water, soft drink, beers, etc.)
  • Hot showers, electric charges and WIFI during the trek
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Visits and/or entrance fees to temples in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Unforeseen expenses caused by uncontrollable circumstances such as flight cancellations or delays, blocked roads, weather conditions, natural disasters, altitude sickness, early termination or return of the program, etc.
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in INCLUDED

Dates & Availability

Our online briefing is designed to answer all your questions about the trek. We’ll go over the gear you’ll need (equipment checklist), provide a detailed itinerary, and explain what you can expect on the trail. After you book your trip, we’ll send you an email with available briefing dates and times. Once we receive your required documents, we’ll schedule and conduct the online trek briefing.

Essential Information

Best Time for Api Himal Base Camp Trekking in Nepal

The best time to trek to Api Himal Base Camp in Nepal is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons:

  • Spring (March to May) is one of the best seasons to trek to Api Himal Base Camp, offering mild and mostly stable weather. During this time, the trails come alive with blooming rhododendron forests and a wide variety of wildflowers, creating a vibrant and colorful trekking experience. The season also provides some of the clearest panoramic views of Mount Api (7,132 m), along with neighboring peaks like Nampa and Saipal. With temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C in the lower regions and colder conditions near the base camp, spring is perfect for photography, nature lovers, and those who enjoy lush landscapes and pleasant trekking conditions.
  • Autumn (late September to November) is considered the best overall season for trekking to Api Himal Base Camp, thanks to its crystal-clear skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable daytime temperatures. This period offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Himalayan peaks, including Api, Nampa, and Saipal, making it ideal for scenic mountain photography and peaceful trekking. The festive atmosphere during Nepal’s major celebrations like Dashain and Tihar also adds a rich cultural experience along the trail. With temperatures ranging from 5°C to 18°C and cooler nights at higher altitudes, autumn provides the safest and most stable trekking conditions, with fewer leeches and dry trails—perfect for those seeking majestic landscapes and reliable weather.

Difficulty Level of Api Himal Base Camp Trek

Api Himal Base Camp Trek is considered a Moderate graded trek, best suited for trekkers with good fitness and some prior trekking experience. Here’s why:

  • Altitude: The trek reaches a maximum elevation of around 3,800 meters at Api Base Camp. While this is not extremely high by Himalayan standards, trekkers may still experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness if not properly acclimatized.
  • Trekking Time: Daily walking hours typically range from 5 to 8 hours, with some steep ascents and descents, especially on the approach to base camp and along ridge sections.
  • Terrain: The trail passes through remote villages, dense forests, river valleys, and high alpine meadows. Paths are often rugged, narrow, and less maintained compared to more popular trekking routes, with some steep and rocky stretches.
  • Physical Demand: This trek demands strong stamina and endurance, as the route involves continuous uphill and downhill walking over multiple days in a remote setting. It’s not recommended for beginners without prior trekking or hiking preparation.
  • Weather: Conditions can vary, with cold mornings and nights at higher elevations, especially in early spring or late autumn. Being prepared for both sun and sudden temperature drops is essential.

Overall, the trek is a rewarding but physically demanding journey through one of Nepal’s most untouched regions. It is ideal for experienced trekkers looking for solitude, natural beauty, and a culturally rich adventure off the mainstream trails.

Equipment List for Api Himal Base Camp Trek

Packing for Api Himal Base Camp Trek - 14 Days. This trek requires careful consideration to ensure you are prepared for the varied conditions you'll encounter. However it is advised to pack light but include all essentials. In the flight to Dhangadi, 1 person can take maximum of 20  kilos, extra are subjected to additional fees charged in airport. During the trek, 1 porter will carry 20-22 kilos of 2 person so, pack accordingly. 1 client gets to give 10 kilos of bag pack to the helper during the trek. Here's a comprehensive list of items to pack:

1. Clothing

Base Layers:

  • Moisture-wicking long-sleeve and short-sleeve shirts
  • Moisture-wicking thermal underwear

Insulation Layers:

  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Down jacket (lightweight but warm)

Outer Layers:

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Waterproof and windproof trousers

2. Trekking Clothes:

  • Comfortable trekking pants
  • Long-sleeve trekking shirts
  • T-shirts (moisture-wicking)

3. Headwear:

  • Warm hat (fleece or wool)
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Buff or neck gaiter (for dust and wind protection)

4. Handwear:

  • Lightweight inner gloves
  • Warm insulated gloves or mittens (waterproof)

5. Footwear:

  • Sturdy trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Trekking socks (moisture-wicking)
  • Gaiters (optional, for snow or mud)
  • Camp shoes or sandals (for evenings)

6. Gear and Equipment

Backpacks:

  • Daypack (25-35 liters) with rain cover
  • Large backpack or duffel bag (for porters to carry, usually 50-70 liters)

Sleeping:

  • Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C/14°F or lower)
  • Sleeping bag liner (optional for extra warmth)

Trekking Poles:

  • Adjustable trekking poles

Hydration:

  • Water bottles (Nalgene or similar) or hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets or SteriPen

7. Personal Items:

  • Passport and trekking permits
  • Cash (for purchases along the trail)
  • Insurance documents (ensure coverage includes high-altitude trekking)

8. Miscellaneous:

  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Reusable bags (for waste and organizing items)
  • Travel towel
  • Trekking map and guidebook

9. Health and Hygiene

First Aid Kit:

  • Basic first aid supplies (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment)
  • Personal medications
  • Altitude sickness medication (Diamox, if recommended by a doctor)
  • Pain relievers (ibuprofen or paracetamol)
  • Hand sanitizer

Toiletries:

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Biodegradable soap and shampoo
  • Wet wipes
  • Toilet paper (often not provided in lodges)
  • Sunscreen (high SPF)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)

10. Optional Items

  • Lightweight book or e-reader
  • Journal and pen
  • Small sewing kit
  • Lightweight binoculars
  • Playing cards or small travel games

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