Real Trekking Destination

Api Himal Base Camp Trek - 14 Days

Trip Photos
Api Himal Base Camp Trek Photo
Api Himal Base Camp Trek
Api Himal Base Camp Trek Photo
Duration14 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4281 m.
Group Size2-16
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking, Photography, National Park and Tiger Encounter Tour
Best TimeSpring and Autumn season

Api Himal Base Camp Trek is an ideal destination that takes wanderers into the heart of Nepal's remote terrains and rugged mountains, offering an exceptional blend of natural beauty and rich cultural experience. At the base camp of Api Himal, trekkers will witness the majestic Mt. Api and surrounding breathtaking peaks up close. The trek allows trekkers to enjoy the real beauty, typical Nepali culture, raw nature and adventure of the region with minimal crowds.

Api Himal Trek Highlights

  • Witness the highest mountain of Far-west Nepal.
  • Explore the remote far-west Nepal and its undiscovered beauty.
  • Experience the real beauty of the region.
  • Warm hospitality and friendly behavior of indigenous communities.
  • Experience the simplicity and remote lifestyle of the locals.
  • Opportunity to encounter the wild flora and fauna. 

Nestled in the Far-West Darchula district of Nepal within the Api Nampa Conservation Area, Api Himal Trekking presents the pleasing and untouched beauty of the far-western region. Api Base Camp Trek offers an incredible blend of breathtaking natural beauty, cultural immersion, demanding terrains and ecosystem of the region allowing trekkers to feed their eyes on unmodernized remote villages and something differ from just mountains.

Situated at an elevation of 7,132 meters, Mt. Api is the highest mountain in the Far-Western region of Nepal. The charming Mahakali Valley, steep gorges, subtropical vegetation, alpine forest, wide grassland, lakes, waterfalls, streams and pastures equally contribute to making the Api Himal trekking trail one of the best trails in Nepal.

Trek to Api Himal is pure and untouched by modernity making it the best trekking to explore authentic nature and understand the mixed community, lifestyle of people, culture and tradition from close. The Native Nepali language with an unique ascent gives extra pleasure and experience. The Api Trek offers spectacular mountains, mesmerizing sceneries, breathtaking landscapes, rare flora and fauna and precious medicinal herbs. 

The Api Base Camp Trek showcases the stunning Api Himal, Nanda Devi peak and other mountains that rise dramatically from the surrounding  breathtaking landscapes. The trek is less popular and less-crowded than Everest and Annapurna region, providing a chance and sense of solitude to connect with pure unspoiled nature and wilderness. The trail leads you through terraced fields, lush forests to wide grassy lands, presenting the mesmerizing views of himalayan peaks. 

The Api Himal Base Camp trek offers an exceptional experience which finely blends the stunning landscapes, thrilling adventure and rich cultural interactions in one of the hidden gems of Nepal. The region's pristine beauty and environment, featuring rugged terrain, wide alpine meadows and glacial lakes is a paradise for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

What to expect from Api Himal Base Camp Trekking?

Api Himal Base Camp Trek is an incredible journey through Nepal’s one of the less popular and stunning far-western regions. As you embark on this adventurous trip, you will be amazed with a sense of remote wilderness, breathtaking natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences.

The pleasing journey starts with an awe-inspiring flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi. From Dhangadhi, we will drive to Makargadh via Gokuleshwor Darchula and from here our actual trek starts. The trail goes through many charming villages inhabited by different ethnic groups, providing trekkers an opportunity to immerse in the local culture, traditions and experience the traditional lifestyle and warm hospitality. The Hike takes you through diverse landscapes, terraced fields, lush forests, and rugged mountain terrain. As you will be trekking to Api Nampa Conservation Area, you will spot various flora, medicinal herbs and unique wild species of the region.

As you reach higher elevation, the glimpse of Mt. Api and Saipal become more stunning, providing a moment of awe. Mt. Api, Nanda Devi, Kalidhunga Holi Lake, wide and flat grassy land at an elevation of 4000 meters and spring water from the foothills of mountains (muhaan) are the most pleasing and attractive part of this trek. The higher you go, the more splendid and peaceful you feel in the arms of the Himalayas and far away from the usual trekking routes.

The Api Himal Trekking is rich in cultural experiences. You will traverse through many villages where you can interact with locals, taste their hospitality, traditional foods, and learn their local culture, traditional customs and beliefs. The region is home to ancient temples and monasteries which adds the spiritual dimension to your adventurous journey. The trek allows the trekkers to soak in the pristine natural beauty and remote culture of the region.

As you reach the Api Himal Base Campat an altitude of 3900 meters, you will feel a sense of great accomplishment and pleasure. Standing at the foot of majestic peaks surrounded by the pristine beauty and wilderness is a truly unforgettable experience that you will have in your heart for a lifetime. The Api Himal Base Camp Trek is the perfect choice for those looking for off-the-beaten-path adventure, blending the rich culture with stunning landscapes tapestry.

Api Himal Photography Trek

Api Himal Base Camp is a perfect vantage point for photography, soul relaxation and appreciating the absolutely amazing Himalayan ranges through lenses. This is an ideal destination for photographers to capture the authentic natural beauty and authentic Nepali remote culture, traditions, customs and lifestyle of the locals.

Is Api Himal Base Camp Trek suitable for me?

Api Himal trekking is isolated from modern civilization, providing peaceful and  unspoiled raw beauty and environment. This Trek serves as the best destination to gratify your soul, relax your mind and heal your inner-self. 

Hike to Api Himal has no age limit, trekkers with moderate fitness level, good stamina and passion for adventure can do this trek. The altitude of Api Base Camp is 3900 meters, so there is less risk of altitude sickness. Trekkers will not need any advanced trekking experiences or training, good physical strength and some stamina building training a few months before the trek will be enough to embark on Api Himal Base Camp journey. 

Preparations for the Api Himal Base Camp Hiking

The most crucial thing that makes your trip easy and successful is well prepared. And the prior thing that change your whole trekking experience is physical fitness. Your  physical fitness determines whether you will enjoy your trek or push yourself forcefully till the final day of the trip. 

Whether the journey is difficult or not, you should prepare yourself physically and mentally. For this, you need to do basic cardio exercises like cycling, swimming, running, stretching exercises, and build walking habits on a regular basis and also go on hiking at least once a week. Build your stamina and endurance level, you can practice strength training at the gym also. Along with physical strength, build mental strength also and start training before 1 month of the actual trek.

What to pack for the Api Himal Trip?

Bodywears: Down jacket, thermal sets, fleece jacket, hiking pants & shirts, waterproof & windproof jacket and pants, long-sleeved t-shirts or shirts, neck warmer or scarf, warm gloves, comfortable underwear, wool/fleece hat, sun hat, woolen socks, moisture wicking wicking socks, waterproof hiking boots, slippers. 

Gears: Duffle bag, trekking poles, sleeping bag, crampons in winter.

Toiletries and Personal Items: Towel, moisturizer, hand wash/sanitizer, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, lip balm, toothbrush, toothpaste, and toilet paper.

Miscellaneous: Visa, passport, passport size photos, travel insurance documents, extra cash, water purification drop/ tablet, water bottle, power bank, camera, headlight, extra batteries, and universal adaptor. 

Why Api Himal Trekking with Adventure Hikers?

Adventure Hikers is Nepal Government Authorized and your trustable travel partner in Nepal. We organize your trip with a full safety and professional team. Here is the services that we provide to our clients:

  • Airport pickup and hotel drop off service.
  • Easy booking and reservation of trip.
  • No secret cost.
  • Tailor-made itinerary.
  • Hassle free transaction. 
  • Professional team.
  • Certified and experienced guide and porters.
  • 24/7 communication service with our travel expert at +977-9851311073.
  • Multimodal communication: WhatsApp, Instagram, WeChat, Email, Facebook, Line, etc.
  • Reasonable and appropriate price.
  • Secure and satisfying trip with best services.
  • Duffle bag for porters.
  • Availability of sleeping bags and down jacket, if you don't have one. 
  • Complimentary gift.

Are you ready to explore the untamed beauty of the Far west Nepal?

The paradise of far-western Nepal is a land of unique rich culture and stunning beauty with the touch of purity is waiting to be captured. If you still have any confusion choosing this trip, consult with our travel expert and clear all your confusions. With Adventure Hikers, you will get the best Api Himal Base Camp hiking price and services. We ensure a safe and successful trip with a professional team with deep knowledge and decades of experience about the Himalayas. 

You can freely customize the Api Himal Trek itinerary according to your preferences. We are very friendly and dedicated to provide a comfortable, satisfying and secure trip to our clients. If you have any queries regarding the Api Himal Base Camp Trek cost, and itinerary,  feel free to contact us.

Booking for the Api Himal Base Camp Trek 2025/2026 is open with Adventure Hikers. The Api Himal Trek package and cost is reasonable and appropriate for everyone. Pack your bag and set on the journey of exploring the new world with adventure Hikers.

Itinerary

Api Himal Base Camp Trek itinerary is made to provide you with sufficient and wonderful time to experience the pure beauty of the remote region of Nepal.

Trip PlanExpand all

On our first day of the Api Himal Base Camp Trek, we will take a 1 hour flight to Dhangadhi from Kathmandu. During the flight, you will see an aerial view of the breathtaking landscapes. The day we will spend at Dhangadi.

 

Max Altitude: 109 m./ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tourist standard roomMode of Travel: AirplaneDuration: 1 hr. flight

After the first breakfast of the trek, we will start our journey to Gokuleshwor Darchula with an 8-9 hour drive. The drive is long but worth it with amazing scenery including waterfalls, mountain ranges, and breathtaking landscapes. After you reach Gokuleshwor, you will be surprised by the local lifestyle.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseMode of Travel: Ground TransportationDuration: 8-9 hrs. Drive

The day starts with the jeep ride to Makarigadh enjoying the amazing scenery. From Makarigadh our actual trek to discover untouched Api Base Camp starts. You will climb Nepal's longest upstairs trail and see the best view of a beautiful deep valley, giant rocks, hills, and amazing landscapes during the journey. When you reach Khandeshwori, the community warmly welcomes you with flower garlands and also performs music and dance programe to welcome the guests. You will get to observe the local lifestyle and local food of the region and will spend the night at Homestay built by the local community.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Home stayMode of Travel: JeepDuration: 2 hrs. drive, 3 hrs. walk

After having a local breakfast, we will trek towards the beautiful Nali village. At first, we will descend till the chaulani river and then start ascending on a narrow trail. The hike features deep valleys, wonderful waterfalls, greenery, and amazing landscapes. We will stay overnight at Nali village and enjoy the local food, culture and atmosphere.

Max Altitude: 2430 m./ 7970 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Home StayDuration: 3-4 hrs. walk

We will have delicious local breakfast and start our hike to reach Simar. The trail passes through Siti village, an old typical settlement. We will walk into the beautiful rhododendron and pine forest, enjoying the sound of the river flowing strongly. In the middle of the jungle there is only one basic tea shop where we will spend the night.

Max Altitude: 2900 m./9512 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hrs walk.

We will start the hike after a delicious breakfast, and walk into the beautiful jungle till the Dhouli Odar (3450m). After that we will walk on an ascending trail for an hour and a half  and finally reach our destination, the Api Himal Base Camp. The Api Base Camp is the flat and wide land offering the pleasing views including the Api Nampa mountain, Nanda Vauju and other mountain ranges. There is a small teahouse in the base camp and we will stay there overnight. 

Max Altitude: 3900 m./12792 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Basic Tea HouseDuration: 5-6 hrs. walk

We will wake up to the stunning mountain and wide grassland in the lap of the mountains. Today, we will explore the Api Base Camp and surrounding wonderful places, including Kali Dhunga Taal (lake) 4200 m. and take some time to savor the peaceful environment. After a while we will trek back to Dhouli Odar and spend the night there.

Max Altitude: 3450 m./11316 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Basic Tea houseDuration: 7-8 hrs.walk

After having a delicious breakfast, we will trek to Nali village following the previous wonderful trail.

Max Altitude: 2430 m./ 7970 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Home StayDuration: 6-7 hrs. walk

Today is our last day of walking. After breakfast we will trek back to Makarigadh following the same route, and have lunch at Makarigadh. After resting for a while, we will drive back to Gokuleshwor and spend the night there.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseMode of Travel: jeepDuration: 3-4 hrs. walk 2 hrs. drive.

Today, we will take a scenic drive to Mahendranagar. During the journey, we will pass many beautiful villages, and landscapes. We will spend the night at Mahendranagar with lots of excitement and expectations for the next day.

Max Altitude: 229 m./751 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch DinnerAccommodation: Tourist Standard HotelDuration: 7-8 hrs. drive

On this day, we will explore the Suklaphanta National Park, the largest grassland of Nepal where you can see various wild creatures. There are 56 species of mammals, 450 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, 15 species of Amphibians and 24 species of fish in Suklaphanta National Park. You can do different kinds of wildlife activities inside the park such as, elephant safari, jungle safari, jungle walk, bird watching, visiting Rani tal and etc. You will see the largest herds of Swamp Deer, Elephants, Bengal tiger, One-horned rhinos, Leopard, Hispid Hare, Sloth Bear etc.

 

Max Altitude: 229 m./751 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tourist Standard HotelDuration: 6-7 hrs.

Today, we will drive to Bardia enjoying the wonderful route and landscapes. During the ride ww will stop in Karnali Pul Chisapani for Boating on Karnali river.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tourist Standard HotelMode of Travel: JeepDuration: 5-6 hrs.

Today, we will explore the Bardia National Park and experience the wildlife closely. There are so many adventurous activities to do in Bardia National Park and each activity gives a different experience and joy. The special thing about this day is you will encounter the Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat. In this tour you will get an opportunity to witness a Royal Bengal tiger playing in the open grassland,  and a couple of tigers making love. The Bardia National Park tour offers remarkable experiences as you encounter various wild animals and plants here.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tourist Standard hotel

Carrying all the memories and experiences, today we will drive to Nepalgunj. From here, we will take a scenic flight to Kathmandu. After you reach Kathmandu, you will be transferred to the hotel in a private vehicle and you can rest for sometime. In the evening, we will meet at a farewell dinner program with Nepali cultural show organized by Adventure Hikers. Here, we will celebrate the joy and success of your trip and we will honor you with a trip achievement certificate. A huge appreciation and thank you for trusting Adventure Hikers for your Nepal trip!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: 3 Star HotelMode of Travel: AirplaneDuration: 50 min. Flight
Cost Details
Includes
  • Pickup you from Airport on your arrival day.
  • 3 star level hotel in Kathmandu 2 nights with brekfast.
  • Tourist standard hotel in Dhangadi and Bardiya National Park.
  • Kathmandu to Dhangadi and Nepalgunj to Kathmandu flights.
  • All ground transportation during the trip.
  • Required Trek and entrance permit for Api Himal Trek.
  • Api Nampa Conservation entrance permit.
  • Required official documentation for Api Himal Trek and National park Tours.
  • Professional Trekking guide for Api Himal Trekking.
  • Professional Nature Guide for Bardiya National Park and Tiger Encounter tour.
  • Professional Nature Guide for Sukla Phanta National Park Tour.
  • Food during the trip ( Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
  • Hotel and Tea-house accommodation During the Trip.
  • Medical first-aid Kit (carry by guide)
  • Duffel bags to carry your stuffs.
  • Cap
  • Trek and tour complete official certificate.
Excludes
  • International Airfare.
  • Nepal Visa (you get it on arrival visa at Kathmandu Airport)
  • Any kind of Drinks. 
  • Personal expenses.
  • Tips for guide and porters.
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Dates & Availability
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Starts: Mar 03, 2025Ends: Mar 16, 2025
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Starts: Mar 16, 2025Ends: Mar 29, 2025
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Starts: Mar 29, 2025Ends: Apr 11, 2025
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Essential Information

Here is some additional information that you must know about the Api Himal trek:

Api Himal Trek Difficulty Level

Api Base Camp Trekking has an off-the-beaten-path which makes the trek adventurous and a little bit tough for the trekkers. The Api Himal Trek is generally considered as moderately difficult. The hike involves long walking on the rugged terrains and steep trails but the breathtaking sceneries make it worth it. As the Base Camp is at 3900 meters, there is very less chance of altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is a health condition which occurs when the trekkers rapidly ascend to the high altitude without giving their body proper acclimatization and time to adjust in the less oxygen area. The trekkers who maintain their pace while ascending and have proper acclimatization do not suffer from altitude sickness.

Symptoms: Severe headache, feeling tired, shortness of breath, insomnia, loss of appetite, dizziness, vomiting, nausea and blurry vision.

Preventive measure: Follow the guidance of your trek leader, maintain your speed, have proper acclimatization, stay hydrated, drink enough water and fluids, and stay positive. Avoid alcoholic products, caffeine, smoke, junk foods and the items which make your body dehydrated.

Travel Insurance

Api Himal is a high altitude trekking where trekkers can face some difficulties. Though the travel insurance is not compulsory, we highly recommend you to take insurance for your total expenses that may arise from high altitude trekking for your protection.

Your travel insurance must cover all travel medical and unforeseen accidents occuring during the trek. In that case, you can take emergency helicopter rescue, air ambulance, clinical facilities and many more. You have to submit your travel insurance copy to Adventure Hikers before the trip begins.

Permits for Api Himal Base Camp Trek

Following are the two required permits to trek to Api Base Camp:

1. Api Nampa Conservation Area Entrance Fee

2.Trekking Information Management System (TIMS CARD)

The Api Nampa Conservation Area permit cost 20$ per person for independent trekkers and 10$ per person for organized trekkers. TIMS CARD costs NRP 300 per person for citizens of other countries and NRP 500 for SAARC citizens.

The Best Time for Api Himal Base Camp Trek

Api Himal Trek is a wonderful journey to the remotest terrain of Nepal. So, you must choose the right season to fully enjoy the trek. Generally, Spring and Autumn are the ideal season to trek in Nepal. 

Spring season (March to May) 

Spring is the famous and best trekking season in Nepal. The whole far-western region turns into a flower garden and the Himalayas look stunning during the spring. The trekking trails are covered with seasonal wild flowers, and the clear blue skies, comfortable temperature and stunning mountains as well as the beauty of the region makes the journey exceptional and unforgettable.

Autumn season (September to November)

Autumn is the peak season for trekking in Nepal. This season comes with amazing and colorful scenery. The vegetation starts to turn orange or yellow from green, presenting different colorful vibes. The region and base camp is painted with autumn color, mesmerizing lakes, white snow-capped mountains and endless blue sky. This season is blessed with perfect weather and temperature offering remarkable trekking experiences.

Summer/Monsoon season (June to August)

Summer is the off-season for trekking as it comes with heavy rainfall and hot temperature. Nature is in its most pleasing phase, the cascading waterfalls, blue sky covering itself in the veil of clouds, majestic green hills, breezing rivers, blooming meadows, dancing flower petals, lush green forest, and majestic peaks draw a splendid canvas of nature. Despite this, there is a risk to trek in the summer season. Due to heavy rainfall, floods and landslides occur in most of the parts in Nepal and the trekking trails get muddy and slippery. So, it is better to avoid trekking in the summer season.

Winter season (December to February)

Winter is another off-season for trekking in Nepal. The temperature falls immensely low and the weather gets very cold. The lower elevation is good for trekking but the higher elevation faces huge snowfall due to which it's risky and difficult to trek. However, the mountains look exceptionally stunning and the landscape turns into a winter wonderland. The trekking trails are fully covered with snow, natural vegetation gets frozen and the region faces extremely cold weather. If you are a winter person and love to play in the cold and snow, you can do the Api Himal trek in winter also.

Accommodation and Food During the Api Himal Base Camp Trek

At Kathmandu and Dhangadi, you will stay at a three star hotel with all the facilities. Once you enter the far-western region, throughout the trek you will be staying at a normal homestay made by the locals with very basic facilities. As we are trekking in the remote land of Nepal,you will get a normal bed and sharing bathroom with no shower, you need to bathe with bucket water and you can buy a hot water bucket if you want. 

Regarding food in Api Base Camp Trek, you will get pure organic local foods. There are not various options of food items as in the other trekking regions, you will be eating noodles, bread, Daal Bhat and other local foods during the Api Trek. You can buy hot water, hot/cold beverages as per your preferences.

 

FAQs

To get to Mt. Api Base Camp, first you need to take a flight or drive to Dhangadi, then you will drive to Makarigad and from where your actual trek begins.

The elevation of Api Himal Base Camp is 3900m/12,793ft. From the sea level.

The Api Himal hike is generally considered a moderately difficult trek.

The number of days completely depends on your time availability and speed. Normally, you can do the Api Himal trekking in 9-13 days.

We have both Air and ground transportation from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi. And from Dhangadhi to the trek starting point, we will take a public or private vehicle.

Yes, Api Himal Himal Trek is an absolutely safe trekking destination. The locals are very kind and friendly but it is good to go with a guide for safety.

Yes, you can do a Api Himal solo trek, but we suggest you take a professional guide. The culture and language are different from other trekking routes so it is good to go with a professional guide.

 

Yes, there is a communication network available in the lower part but not in the upper part and base camp.

The Api Himal Base Camp is a less popular trekking destination in the remote part of Nepal. You will get normal Nepali local organic and delicious food throughout the trek. Don't expect various options like spaghetti, pizza, and western food items.

The accommodation during this trip is a normal homestay made by the local communities and a basic tea house with basic facilities.

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