Api Base Camp Trekking – 15 Days

Api base camp is a gem hidden in the far-western region of Nepal. The real adventure, amazing landscapes, cultural diversity, furiously galloping snow-fed rivers, stunning mountains, and pristine forests are the most eye-catching factors of this trek. 

Our Api base camp trekking of 15 days begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi and a forward scenic drive to Latinath passing Gokuleshwar behind. Ahead, developing steady walk bypassing numerous traditional villages holding stone houses, alpine forests, open grassland, and pastures by enjoying magnificent surrounding views with stunning mountains leads towards an open plateau surrounded by mountains (Api base camp). Surely, steeping on high elevation rewarded views makes you feel a sense of real achievement. Countless additional attractions ahead and opportunities to inspect the way of surviving by western Nepalese peoples are encountered en route. Multiple experiences of camp stay, homestay, and normal lodge stay to make this trekking trip more unique and rewarding.

Day 1: Arrival day in Kathmandu

Day 2: Kathmandu (1,300 m) to Dhangadhi (109 m) 15 min flight

Day 3: Dhangadhi (109 m) to Gokuleshwar (640 m) 8 hrs drive

Day 4: Gokuleshwar (640 m) to Latinath (1,004 m) 2 hrs drive and then Paribagar (1,770 m) 1 hrs trek

Day 5: Paribagar (1,770 m) to Makarigadi (1,470 m) 5 hrs trek

Day 6: Makarigadi (1,470 m) to Siti (2,250 m) 8 hrs trek

Day 7: Siti (2,250 m) to Domal (2,950 m) 7 hrs trek

Day 8: Domal (2,950 m) to Dhaulo Odar (3,545 m) 5 hrs walk

Day 9: Dhaulo Odar (3,545 m) to Api base camp (3,860 m) 3 hrs walk back to Dhaulo Odar (3,545 m) 3 hrs

Day 10: Trek from Dhaulo Odar (3,545 m) to Siti (2,255 m) 6 hrs trek

Day 11: Siti (2,255 m) to Makrigaad (1,470 m) 6 hrs trek

Day 12: Makrigaad (1,470 m) to Latinath (1,005 m) 4 hrs trek and Gokuleshwar (857 m) 2 hrs drive

Day 13: Gokuleshwar (857 m) to Dhangadi (109 m) 9 hrs drive

Day 14: Dhangadi (109 m) to Kathmandu (1,300 m) 1 hr and 15 min flight

Day 15: Departure day


Cost Includes:

  • Arrival and departure by private car
  • 2 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Special farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Domestic flight ticket (Kathmandu to Dhangadi and return)
  • Required ground transportation (By bus and car)
  • Gov. licensed and well trained English-speaking guide and his entire expenses
  • A porter (One porter for every 2 members) and his entire expenses
  • Three meals a day (Lunch/Dinner/Breakfast) during the trek
  • All required local tax and Gov tax
  • Down jackets and sleeping bags (to be returned after trip completion)
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • All government and local taxes 

Cost Excludes:

  • Excess baggage charge(s)
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain due to any reason other than the scheduled itinerary
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu
  • International flights
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s) 

* This tour can be fully customized as per your requirement.

Day 1: Arrival day in Kathmandu
On the first day, monitoring your land off at Tribhuwan International Airport our company representatives will warmly welcome and shift you towards a nearby fine tourist standard inn. We also schedule a brief meeting regarding our upcoming trek at our office and during evening hours, we recommend genuine Nepali food items in the most popular Nepalese restaurant where you can enjoy ethnic cultural dance and music.

Day 2: Kathmandu (1,300 m) to Dhangadhi (109 m) 15 min flight
On the second day after attending morning breakfast, the soon private vehicle shifts us to the airport for catching a short scheduled flight to Dhangadi. Finally, after landing at Dhangadi airport, we will be straight transferred to a tourist standard hotel for freshening up along remaining hours will be set up for exploring attractions including the Aircraft museum, cycling up to Botanical Garden, and many more others. In the evening hours, we return to the hotel that we had left behind before for spending the night.

Day 3: Dhangadhi (109 m) to Gokuleshwar (640 m) 8 hrs drive
On the third day early morning leaving the plains of Terai, we move ahead by following the Mahakali highway towards the hilly region of Gokuleshwar. Steady drive on uphill till Dadeldhura and continuing drive forward through high winding roads by inspecting beautiful views of Himalayas through windows of bus takes to Gokuleshwar. According to your desire, the remaining hours can be spent exploring nearby attractions or you can take a rest. This night will be spent at a lodge in Gokuleshwar.

Day 4: Gokuleshwar (640 m) to Latinath (1,004 m) 2 hrs drive and then Paribagar (1,770 m) 1 hrs trek
On the fourth day after having breakfast, we follow the driveway along the Chameliya River and pass the biggest hydropower station in far west Nepal to reach Latinath. Therefore, a short ultimate uphill walk begins forward and takes towards the beautiful village of Paribagar. Finally, leisure hours will be utilized by exploring the village along with tonight’s dinner and accommodation will be arranged at the local host family’s house.

Day 5: Paribagar (1,770 m) to Makarigadi (1,470 m) 5 hrs trek
On the fifth day, marching ahead by enjoying breakfast and leaving Paribagar behind passing numerous traditional villages holding stone houses and terraced fields on the way leads toward the tea house. Enjoying a short moment in the tea house and continuing to walk forward by crossing pleasing forests holding verities of flora and fauna takes us to the beautiful settlement of Makrigaad. Tonight’s dinner and accommodation are arranged in a homestay. 

Day 6: Makarigadi (1,470 m) to Siti (2,250 m) 8 hrs trek
On the sixth day after enjoying breakfast, our day’s walk begins with a short steep climb towards the Chameliya River along with that continuing walking by climbing up the gorge with spectacular views by the side, leading to Pato. Further walk from Pato, a gentle and steady climb takes you to Siti bypassing numerous settlements along with traditional attractions en route. This night we stay at the local house of the host family enjoying a unique dinner with them.

Day 7: Siti (2,250 m) to Domal (2,950 m) 7 hrs trek
On the seventh day, initially following the downhill walk to the beautiful village located at the bank of the river along forwarding steeping slow ascend takes to Dolma (sacred spot and junction point of two opposed rivers). This night will come to be different from other nights because tonight we plan to stay by setting up the camp far away from settlements.

Day 8:   Domal (2,950 m) to Dhaulo Odar (3,545 m) 5 hrs trek
Eight-day, we step forward after having morning breakfast at Domal by catching a steep climbing trail that leads at a little top height. Initially, passing easy walk through forests and open pasture spots slide towards Dhaulo Odar (an open grassland surrounded by high towering mountains, pleasing forests, and a few compact caves) to set up a camp for spending our night there.

Day 9:  Dhaulo Odar (3,545 m) to Api base camp (3,860 m) 3 hrs trek and back to Dhaulo Odar (3,545 m) 3 hrs trek
On the ninth day of targeting the base camp of Mt. Api, we march forward following an upward trail toward a massive open plateau surrounded by mountains. As we reach the plateau (base camp of Mt. Api) that greets breathtaking views of Mt. Api accomplished by Mt. Nampa(6,929 m) and Mt. Bobaye (6,808 m). After enjoying some moments there, we head towards the source of the Chameliya River (Pikandaha) bypassing compact temples. Finally, after reaching Holy Lake, we spent some time and return to Dhaulo Odar for spending overnight.

Day 10: Trek from Dhaulo Odar (3,545 m) to Siti (2,255 m) 6 hrs trek
On the tenth day splitting the base camp of Mt. Api, we move backward till Siti. A morning downhill walk directly leads to the unique settlement of Khayekot and forward passing agricultural terrace fields, alpine forest, and eye-catching green hills along following a steep climb ahead takes to the beautiful village of Siti. Finally, after stepping into Siti, the night will be spent in a homestay enjoying dinner prepared by members of the host family.

Day 11: Siti (2,255 m) to Makrigaad (1,470 m) 6 hrs trek
On the eleventh day, we develop a walk catching an upward rigid above Siti passing forest, the agricultural field, and spare settlement along with enjoying breathtaking views of the white Himalayas before stepping into Pato. A forward, steady downhill walk takes you to the settlement of Makarigaad, and the remaining hours will be spent exploring the settlement throughout along night will be spent at the house of local people enjoying dinner prepared by them.

Day 12: Makrigaad (1,470 m) to Latinath (1,005 m) 4 hrs trek and Gokuleshwar (857 m) 2 hrs drive
The twelfth day begins with a morning downhill less demanding, and a very pleasant walk by exploring Hindu temples and passing numerous attractive settlements in the mid-way before reaching Latinath. Ahead, catching a vehicle leads towards Gokuleshwar. Finally from the bus station, we will be transferred to a basic lodge at Gokuleshwar for spending the night.

Day 13: Gokuleshwar (857 m) to Dhangadi (109 m) 9 hrs drive
On the thirteenth day after attending morning breakfast, we move forward to catch our tourist standard bus to the bus station. Passing through roadside tea houses, hamlets, beautiful green hills holding terraced fields and many other attractions reach Dhangadi. Finally, we will be shifted to a fine hotel there for taking a relief shower and painless rest tonight’s dinner and accommodation will be also managed at the hotel.

Day 14: Dhangadi (109 m) to Kathmandu (1,300 m) 1 hr and 15 min flight
On the fourteenth day, we move forward to the airport to board a flight focusing on our ticket time. Finally, landing off at Tribhuwan International Airport (Kathmandu) after a scenic flight our private vehicle picks us up and escorts us towards a fine tourist standard hotel. The remaining hours can be spent exploring nearby attractions or taking a rest in the hotel and this night will be spent at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 15: Departure day
Fifteenth day (last day) focusing on your flight schedule, you can step forward for strolling the market to collect gift items for your friends, families, or loved ones. We will be there to help with your necessary arrangements and packing along with our private vehicle to transfer you to the airport focusing on your flight time. Heartily, our company members will be there to wish you a safe flight.

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Where is Api Base Camp?

Embark on an adventure to the remote and breathtaking Api Base Camp, nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Api Himal range in far-western Nepal. This challenging trek unveils stunning mountain vistas, diverse landscapes, and a glimpse into the traditional culture of the region.

What are the required permits for the Api Base Camp Trek?

To embark on this trek, you'll need the following permits:

  • Api Nampa Conservation Area Permit: This permit is mandatory for entering the Api Nampa Conservation Area, which covers the entire trekking route.
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System): Every trekker in Nepal must carry a TIMS Card to track movement and ensure safety.

What is the best time for the Api Base Camp Trek?

The most favorable seasons for the Api Base Camp trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These periods offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall, providing ideal conditions for trekking and enjoying the panoramic vistas.

What are the highlights of the Api Base Camp Trek?

  • Api Base Camp: Witness the majestic Api Himal (7,132 meters) from its base camp, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Traverse through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, and high-altitude ridges.
  • Cultural Immersion: Engage with the warm and welcoming people of the region, learning about their traditional lifestyles and rich cultural heritage.
  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: Experience the tranquility of remote trails and unspoiled wilderness, away from the crowds of popular trekking routes.

How to prepare yourself for the Api Base Camp Trek?

  • Physical Fitness: Train consistently, focusing on cardiovascular endurance and strength training to handle strenuous ascents, high altitudes (up to 4,000 meters/13,123 feet at Api Base Camp), and varied terrain.
  • Altitude Acclimatization: Gradually adjust to high altitudes before starting the trek, spending a few days in Kathmandu (1,400 meters) before ascending.
  • Permits and Insurance: Obtain the necessary permits (Api Nampa Conservation Area Permit, TIMS Card) and purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Gear and Clothing: Pack appropriate attire for high-altitude trekking, including warm clothing, waterproof layers, hiking boots, a backpack, trekking poles, a headlamp, and a first-aid kit.

How difficult is the Api Base Camp Trek?

The Api Base Camp Trek is considered a challenging trek, requiring a high level of fitness and experience. It involves strenuous ascents, high altitudes, varied terrain, and some exposure to altitude sickness.

How fit do you need to be for the Api Base Camp Trek?

To tackle this trek, you should be in excellent physical condition. Regular aerobic exercise, such as running, swimming, or cycling, will develop the stamina required for long, uphill treks. Additionally, strength training will prepare your muscles for the demands of the trek.

What should you pack for the Api Base Camp Trek?

Here's a basic packing list for the Api Base Camp Trek:

  • Warm clothing: Fleece layers, woolen socks, beanie, gloves
  • Waterproof layers: Rain jacket, rain pants, gaiters
  • Hiking boots: Sturdy, supportive boots with good ankle support
  • Backpack: Comfortable backpack with adequate capacity for your gear
  • Trekking poles: Poles for balance and support on uneven terrain
  • Headlamp: Headlamp for nighttime trekking and navigating lodges
  • First-aid kit: Basic first-aid supplies for common ailments and injuries
  • Water purification tablets: To ensure safe drinking water
  • Snacks and high-energy food: To replenish energy during the trek

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Activities
Trekking and Sight Seeing
Meals
Full board in trek and breakfast in Kathmandu
Destination
Nepal
Duration
15 days
Difficulty
Fairly Difficult
Room
Hotels/Mountain Lodges and Camp
Max Elevation
4250 m
Transport
Flight/Private Car
Group Size
+ 2
Best Season
Spring (April and May), Summer (June, July and August) and Autumn (September, October and November)
Trip Start
Kathmandu
Trip End
Kathmandu

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