Khaptad National Park Trek

Overview

The Khaptad National Park Trek is a 7-day journey into the heart of Nepal’s Far Western region, offering a rare off-the-beaten-path adventure in one of the country’s least-visited national parks. Established in 1984, Khaptad National Park spans 225 square kilometers across Doti, Bajhang, Bajura, and Achham districts, at elevations from 1,400m to 3,300m. This trek is perfect for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventurers seeking solitude, with fewer than 500 trekkers annually compared to thousands on popular routes like Everest or Annapurna.

The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, hosting 567 plant species, including rhododendrons, oaks, and medicinal herbs, and 287 bird species, such as the Himalayan Monal (Nepal’s national bird). Wildlife includes Himalayan black bears, musk deer, leopards, and wild boars. The landscape features rolling meadows, subalpine forests, and streams, with stunning views of the Api (7,132m) and Saipal (7,031m) Himalayan ranges. The sacred Khaptad Baba Ashram, where the revered Khaptad Baba meditated for 50 years, adds spiritual significance, drawing Hindu pilgrims, especially during the Ganga Dashahara Carnival in late May.

The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi, followed by a drive to Silgadhi, the starting point. The route passes through lush forests, traditional villages, and the serene Khaptad Daha Lake, offering opportunities for birdwatching, meditation, and cultural immersion with Tharu and Baitadi communities. The itinerary is moderately challenging, with 5-7 hours of daily hiking on steep, uneven trails, suitable for trekkers with basic fitness. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are ideal, with blooming rhododendrons and clear mountain views.

Hairy Yak Adventures provides experienced, government-licensed guides, all necessary permits (Khaptad National Park permit: NPR 3,000/$25 for foreigners, NPR 500 for SAARC nationals; TIMS card: $10–$20), and equipment like sleeping bags and trekking poles. Accommodation includes tea houses in Silgadhi and Jhigrana, with camping for two nights in the park due to limited facilities. We recommend arriving in Kathmandu one day before for a briefing and to explore UNESCO sites like Boudhanath Stupa. This trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual tranquility, and cultural richness in Nepal’s hidden Far West.

Cost Includes

• All land transport and flight tickets (Kathmandu to Dhangadhi and return).

• Khaptad National Park permit and TIMS card fees.

• Tea house accommodation in Silgadhi and Jhigrana, camping for two nights in the park, with three meals daily (Nepali meals like dal bhat, vegetables, dhido; tea/coffee included).

• Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide.

• One porter for every two to three participants (max 15kg per person; additional cost for solo trekkers).

• Guide and porter wages, equipment, insurance, and other staff facilities.

• Complimentary sleeping bag, 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.

Cost Excludes

• 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).