Mount Api base camp trek is one of the least trekked Himalayan regions of Nepal which is situated in the farthest-western part of Nepal bordering India on the west and Tibet to the north. Mount Api base camp trek lies in the upper region of the Darchula district which is remote so, it is pristine and untouched by many.

This trek lies in the Api Nampa conservation and can observe animals like snow leopards and musk deer and birds like the Himalayan Monal etc.

Api Himal Trek Highlights:

  • Scenic flight to Dhangadhi and drive to Khalanga.
  • Mahakali and Chamelia rivers.
  • Subtropical forests and amazing alpine pastures.
  • Glaciers and lakes.
  • Stunning view of mountains like Api (7132m), Nampa (6757m.), etc.
  • Experience in the least developed area of Nepal.

Getting to the trailhead of Mount Api base camp trek.

To get to the trailhead of Mount Api base camp trek first you need to get to Dhangadhi for which you can either drive or take a flight. Although you can drive to Dhangadhi from Kathmandu which takes about 13-14 hours, the best way to reach Dhangadhi is by taking a flight that takes about 65 minutes. Then it’s another drive to Khalanga from where you begin your actual trek and it takes about 9 hours.

Mount Api base camp trek permits and fees.

To trek to Mount Api base camp you are required to have two types of permits the first one is a “TIMS CARD” (trekking information management system) which costs USD 20 per person for independent trekkers and USD 10 per person for organized trekkers.

Another permit is the “Api Nampa conservation area entrance fee” which costs 3000 Nepalese rupees per person and 500 Nepalese rupees for the citizens of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) country.

Api Himal Base Camp Trekking Itinerary

Walking hours, distances, and overnight locations can vary depending on local trail conditions, weather, road conditions, and the pace of the group. Our guide may make minor adjustments when necessary for safety and comfort.

If the following itinerary doesn't match your interest, we are ready to customize this package to meet your standard. WhatsApp +977-9841161593 or Email: info@discoveraltitude.com

Day 1 Fly from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi

Max Altitude: 109m (357ft)
Altitude Gain: Approx. 1241
Duration: Approx. 1 hour flight
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 2 Drive from Dhangadhi to Gokuleshwor / Darchula

After breakfast, we begin a long but scenic drive toward Gokuleshwor and Darchula, following the roads through the far-western hills of Nepal.

The journey passes through changing landscapes, from the Terai plains to increasingly rugged Himalayan foothills. Along the way, you will see traditional settlements, terraced farmland, forests, rivers, and mountain valleys.

This is a long road journey, but it provides a fascinating glimpse into the less-visited western part of Nepal. We spend the night at Gokuleshwor/Darchula and prepare for the trek ahead.

Max Altitude: 1,000m (3,280ft)
Duration: Approx. 9–11 hours drive
Distance: Approx. 250–300 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Mode of Transportation: Local Bus / Jeep

Day 3 Drive to Makarigadh and Trek to Khandeshwori

Today, we continue by road toward Makarigadh, the starting point of our trekking section. The road becomes increasingly mountainous and rugged as we travel deeper into the remote Api Himal region.

From Makarigadh, we leave the vehicle behind and begin walking toward Khandeshwori. The trail passes through rural landscapes, forests, terraced fields, and traditional settlements.

This first walking day allows us to gradually adjust to the mountain environment while experiencing the authentic lifestyle of the local communities.

Max Altitude: 2,400m (7,874ft)
Altitude Gain: Approx. 1,200 meters
Duration: Approx. 3–4 hours
Distance: Approx. 6–8 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Local Lodge
Mode of Transportation: Local Bus

Day 4 Trek from Khandeshwori to Nali Village

After breakfast, we continue deeper into the Api Himal region. Today's trail follows mountain paths through forests and traditional villages, with the surrounding landscape becoming increasingly remote.

We pass through local farmland and small settlements where life remains closely connected to agriculture, livestock, and the natural environment. The trail gradually climbs and descends through the hills before reaching Nali Village.

Nali provides an opportunity to experience the traditional lifestyle and hospitality of the local people.

Max Altitude: 2,700m (8,858ft)
Altitude Gain: Approx.500 meters
Duration: Approx. 5–6 hours
Distance: Approx. 10–12 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Guesthouse or Camping

Day 5 Trek from Nali Village to Simar

Today, we continue along the remote trail toward Simar. The route gradually takes us farther away from the settled areas and deeper into the wilderness surrounding Api Himal.

The trail winds through beautiful forests, mountain slopes, small streams, and open sections where the views of the surrounding peaks begin to improve. As we gain elevation, the landscape gradually changes from cultivated hillsides to a more alpine environment.

We reach Simar in the afternoon and settle into our accommodation or campsite.

Max Altitude: 3,200m (10,498ft)
Altitude Gain: Approx. 600 m
Duration: Approx. 5–6 hours
Distance: Approx. 10–12 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Guesthouse or Camping

Day 6 Trek from Simar to Api Himal Base Camp

Today is one of the major highlights of the entire journey. We leave Simar and continue toward the Api Himal Base Camp, entering a more remote and spectacular high-altitude environment.

The trail passes through rugged mountain terrain, alpine meadows, rocky sections, and increasingly dramatic Himalayan scenery. As we approach base camp, the massive peaks and glaciers of the Api Himal range begin to dominate the horizon.

The final approach can be demanding because of the increasing altitude, so we maintain a slow and steady pace. Upon reaching Api Himal Base Camp, take time to appreciate the extraordinary surroundings and enjoy the feeling of reaching one of Nepal's remote Himalayan destinations.

Max Altitude: 3,900m (12,795ft)
Altitude Gain: Approx. 700 meters
Duration: Approx. 5–7 hours
Distance: Approx. 8–10 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Camping

Day 7 Explore Api Himal Base Camp and Trek to Dhouli Odar

We wake up surrounded by the spectacular landscape of the Api Himal region. After breakfast, we spend time exploring the Api Himal Base Camp and surrounding areas, enjoying the mountain scenery and taking photographs.

Weather permitting, you can enjoy magnificent views of Api Himal (7,132 m) and other peaks in the surrounding Himalayan range. The remote setting, glaciers, rocky mountains, and high-altitude wilderness make this a truly memorable part of the trek.

After exploration, we begin our descent toward Dhouli Odar. As we lose altitude, the landscape gradually becomes more comfortable and the walking conditions improve.

Max Altitude: 3,440m (11,286ft)
Altitude Loss: Approx. 460 meters
Duration: Approx. 5–6 hours
Distance: Approx. 8–10 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Camping

Day 8 Trek from Dhouli Odar to Nali Village

Today, we continue our descent through the beautiful Api Himal foothills. The trail retraces sections of our earlier route, passing through forests, streams, mountain slopes, and traditional settlements.

As we descend, the vegetation becomes greener and the air warmer. The changing landscape gives you another perspective of the region and provides opportunities to interact with local communities along the trail.

By afternoon, we reach Nali Village, where we spend the night.

Max Altitude: 2,430m (7,972ft)
Altitude Loss: Approx. 1,010 meters
Duration: Approx. 5–6 hours
Distance: Approx. 10–12 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/Guesthouse

Day 9 Trek to Makarigadh and Drive to Gokuleshwor

After breakfast, we begin the final trekking section of our Api Himal adventure. We walk from Nali toward Makarigadh, following the mountain trail through forests and rural landscapes.

Upon reaching Makarigadh, our vehicle will be waiting to take us back toward Gokuleshwor. After several days in the mountains, the road journey provides a comfortable transition back toward the main settlements.

We arrive in Gokuleshwor and enjoy a well-deserved rest at the hotel.

Max Altitude: 850m (2,788ft)
Altitude Loss: Approx. 1,580 meters
Duration: Approx. 9 hours
Distance: Approx. 6–8 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge
Mode of Transportation: Local Bus

Day 10 Drive from Gokuleshwor to Dhangadhi

Today, we begin our return journey to Dhangadhi. The long drive takes us back through the dramatic hills and valleys of far-western Nepal.

As we descend toward the Terai, the landscape gradually changes from mountain terrain to greener and warmer lowland surroundings. Upon reaching Dhangadhi, check into the hotel and enjoy your final evening in western Nepal.

Max Altitude: 109m (357ft)
Altitude Loss: Approx. 741 meters
Duration: Approx. 9–11 hours
Distance: Approx. 250–300 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Mode of Transportation: Local Bus/ Jeep

Day 11 Fly from Dhangadhi to Kathmandu

After breakfast, we transfer to Dhangadhi Airport for our flight back to Kathmandu.

The approximately one-hour flight brings us back to Nepal's capital, marking the end of your Api Himal Base Camp Trek. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will transfer you to your hotel or onward destination.

Your journey through one of Nepal's most remote and least-visited Himalayan regions comes to an end with unforgettable memories of Api Himal, remote villages, forests, rivers, and the authentic far-western Himalayas.

Max Altitude: 1,350m (4,429ft)
Altitude Gain: Approx. 1,241 meters
Duration: 1 Hour
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Yours
Mode of Transportation: Flight
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Route Map & Altitude Chart

StartMid DaysEnd
Price Per Person
US$2250
US$2500
  • 1 paxUS$2250
  • 2 - 6 paxUS$2050
  • 7 - 15 paxUS$1850

Cost Details for the Api Himal Base Camp Trekking

Includes
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per the itinerary.
  • Kathmandu sightseeing with a private vehicle and professional cultural guide, if included in your itinerary.
  • Kathmandu to Dhangadhi Buddha Air flight
  • Dhangadhi to Kathmandu by Buddha Air flight 
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to the trek starting point and back by private/local vehicle as per the itinerary.
  • Teahouse/lodge accommodation where available and camping accommodation in remote sections.
  • Full-board meals during the trek — breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea, and coffee.
  • Licensed, experienced trekking guide and necessary porters.
  • Guide and porter food, accommodation, salary, and insurance.
  • All required trekking permits and local/area entry fees.
  • Camping equipment and necessary trekking supplies for remote sections.
  • First-aid kit and pulse oximeter.
  • Trekking poles, microspikes, and water purification tablets as complimentary services, when required.
  • Discover Altitude Signature Trekking Cap.
  • Government taxes and applicable service charges.
  • All standard trekking logistics and support required for the Api Himal Base Camp Trek
Excludes
  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
  • Travel and trekking insurance, including emergency evacuation coverage.
  • Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
  • Sleeping bag and down jacket (available for rental if required).
  • Personal expenses, snacks, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and other drinks.
  • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging, and other optional services during the trek.
  • Tips for guides, porters, and support staff.
  • Additional accommodation or transportation caused by weather, road conditions, flight cancellations, delays, or itinerary changes.
  • Rescue or evacuation costs not covered by your insurance.
  • Any services or expenses not specifically mentioned under Cost Includes.

Add-ons

Make your Api Himal Base Camp Trek more comfortable, flexible, and memorable with our optional add-on experiences. Whether you are short on time, prefer greater comfort in the mountains, or want to extend your Nepal journey with wildlife and Bhutan, we can customize the program according to your time, interests, and budget.

Helicopter Flight to Api Himal Base Camp – For Time-Limited Travelers

If you have limited time but still want to experience the spectacular Api Himal region, a helicopter option can significantly shorten the journey. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Api Himal, surrounding valleys, glaciers, and remote Himalayan landscapes while spending less time on long road and trekking sections.

Luxury Camping Upgrade – Comfort in the Remote Himalayas

Upgrade your standard camping experience to luxury camping for entire trip. Enjoy spacious tents, comfortable bedding, improved dining arrangements, and additional campsite services while remaining surrounded by the pristine wilderness of the Api Himal region.

Luxury Hotel Upgrade in Kathmandu

Enjoy a more comfortable stay in Kathmandu with an upgrade to a 4-star or 5-star luxury hotel. Relax in a premium setting before or after your trek, with excellent facilities, comfortable rooms, and quality dining.

Chitwan or Bardia Wildlife Safari – Mountains to Jungle

Extend your Himalayan adventure with a wildlife safari in Chitwan or Bardia National Park. Experience Nepal's diverse lowland ecosystems, with opportunities to see one-horned rhinoceros, crocodiles, deer, wild elephants, and a wide variety of birds, along with local culture and nature activities.

Bhutan Tour – Discover the Himalayan Kingdom

Continue your Himalayan journey with a Bhutan tour, exploring ancient monasteries, traditional villages, Buddhist culture, and dramatic mountain landscapes. We offer both luxury and customized Bhutan experiences, which can be added before or after your Nepal adventure.

Dates & Availability

We have limited fixed departure dates for the Api Himal Base Camp Trek. You can choose one of the scheduled dates to join a group.

If you are 2 or more people, we recommend booking a private trek. We can arrange the trek on any suitable date of your choice, with the same quality of service and personalized support throughout the journey.

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Make it a private tour
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