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The Api Base Camp Trek is a 15-day adventure into Nepal’s Far Western region, a remote and pristine destination in the Darchula District, far from the crowded trails of Everest and Annapurna. This trek takes you to the base of Mt. Api (7,132m), the highest peak in the region, within the Api Nampa Conservation Area, which spans 1,903 square kilometers and protects rare wildlife like snow leopards, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, and birds such as the Himalayan Monal. The trek offers a rare blend of untouched natural beauty, cultural immersion, and solitude, with fewer than 500 trekkers visiting annually compared to tens of thousands in more popular regions.
The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi, followed by a drive to Gokuleshwor, the gateway to the trek. From there, you’ll traverse subtropical forests, alpine pastures, glacial rivers, and terraced farmlands, with stunning views of peaks like Api (7,132m), Nampa (6,757m), Rajamba (6,537m), and Kapchuli (6,850m). Highlights include the sacred Kali Dhunga Lake, the Chamelyia Valley, and traditional villages like Siti and Ghusa, where you’ll experience the hospitality of local communities living in mud houses and practicing age-old customs. The trek reaches Api Base Camp at 3,900m, offering panoramic views of the Gurans Himal range and the origin of the Chamelia River.
This moderate trek requires good physical fitness, with daily hikes of 5-8 hours on rocky and steep trails, but the risk of altitude sickness is low compared to higher-altitude treks, as the maximum elevation is 3,900m. The itinerary includes a mix of tea house accommodations and camping for seven nights due to limited facilities in remote areas. Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best seasons, offering clear skies, mild temperatures (5°C to 15°C daytime, -10°C to 0°C nighttime), and vibrant wildflowers or golden hills. Winter treks are not recommended due to snowfall, and monsoon season (June to August) may obscure views.
Hairy Yak Adventures ensures a seamless experience with experienced, government-licensed guides and porters, who are familiar with the region’s trails and culture. All necessary permits, including the Api Nampa Conservation Area permit (NPR 3,000/$25 for foreigners, NPR 500 for SAARC nationals) and TIMS card ($10–$20), are arranged by our team. We provide essential gear like sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking poles (returnable). We recommend arriving in Kathmandu two days before the trek for a briefing, permit processing, and to explore cultural sites like Boudhanath Stupa or Pashupatinath Temple. This trek is a unique opportunity to explore Nepal’s least-trekked Himalayan region, offering adventure, serenity, and a deep connection with nature and culture.
$3900 per person
All land transport and flight tickets (Kathmandu to Dhangadhi, Dhangadhi to Kathmandu).
Api Nampa Conservation Area permit and TIMS card fees.
Tea house accommodation (where available) and camping for seven nights, with three meals daily (basic Nepali food like dal bhat, vegetables, dhido; tea/coffee included).
Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide.
One porter for every two to three participants (max 25kg per porter; additional cost for solo trekkers).
Guide and porter wages, equipment, insurance, and other staff facilities.
Complimentary sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles, and duffel bag (returnable).
Comprehensive first aid kit and emergency arrangements.
All program activities as per the itinerary on a full-board basis.
Hotel accommodation, lunch, and dinner in Kathmandu and Dhangadhi.
Travel insurance (must cover helicopter rescue evacuation in emergencies).
Personal expenses (e.g., soft/hard drinks, tips, souvenirs).
All bar bills.
Items of a personal nature (e.g., personal trekking gear beyond provided items).
Costs or delays due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., landslides, weather, illness, flight cancellations).
The trek is moderate, with 5-8 hours of daily hiking on rocky, steep trails up to 3,900m. Good physical fitness is required, but altitude sickness risk is low.
The trek includes tea houses in Siti and Gokuleshwor, camping for seven nights in remote areas like Paribagar, Makarigaad, Domal, and Dhaulo Odar, with basic meals provided.
Limited tea houses in remote areas like Paribagar, Makarigaad, Domal, and Dhaulo Odar necessitate camping, with tents, basic Nepali food, and tea/coffee provided.
You need an Api Nampa Conservation Area permit (NPR 3,000/$25 for foreigners) and a TIMS card ($10 for groups, $20 for solo trekkers), arranged by Hairy Yak Adventures.
Risk is low at 3,900m, but hydrate (4-5 liters daily), walk slowly, and follow our acclimatization itinerary to avoid symptoms like headaches or nausea.