Api Base Camp Trek - 14 Days

Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. After international travel, this day is reserved for rest and settling in. In the evening, meet the Expedition Himalaya team for a detailed trek briefing, covering the far-western region, trail conditions, and logistics for the trek.

A full day is allocated for preparation. Permits are finalized, equipment is checked, and last-minute supplies are arranged. Optional half-day sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley can be organized. This day ensures a smooth transition before heading into one of Nepal’s most remote trekking regions.

Take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi, descending from the mid-hills into the flat Terai plains of far western Nepal. From Dhangadhi, begin with a scenic drive toward Dadeldhura, climbing steadily through foothills and winding mountain roads. The landscape gradually changes from tropical lowlands to hilly region again.

After breakfast, enjoy a short exploration of Dadeldhura, where local life reflects the unique traditions of far western Nepal. The drive continues toward Darchula District, following river valleys, terraced farmland, and remote settlements. Passing through Gokuleshwor, an important regional hub, the road climbs further to Makarigaad—the final road head and gateway to the Api Himal trekking trails.

The trek begins with a steady ascent through mixed forest and cultivated land. The trail passes small villages where traditional stone houses and subsistence farming remain unchanged by modern tourism. Lunch is taken at Nwali before continuing uphill to Sitigaun, a quiet hilltop village. From here, the views begin to open toward the higher ridges of the Api Himal region.

Leaving Siti gaun, the trail climbs gradually through alpine forest and seasonal grazing areas used by local herders. As altitude increases, vegetation becomes sparser and the terrain more rugged. After lunch at Simar, the trail continues toward Dhauli Odar, set beneath dramatic ridgelines that form the lower reaches of the Api mountain range.

An early start leads along a high alpine trail toward Api Base Camp, located beneath the imposing south face of Mount Api. The surroundings are raw and untouched, marked by glacial moraines, alpine meadows, and towering rock faces.

From Api Base Camp, continue toward Kalidhunga Taal (approx. 4,200 m)—a sacred glacial lake revered by local communities. Surrounded by barren slopes and high peaks, the lake offers a powerful sense of solitude and spiritual significance. After time for exploration and photography, descend back to Dhauliodar.

This day is reserved for acclimatization, weather flexibility, or an optional hike to Ringde Pani Taal, another pristine alpine lake hidden within a quiet glacial valley. The day allows trekkers to rest, explore nearby ridges, or simply absorb the stillness of the high mountains.

Begin descending along the same trail, retracing your steps through alpine terrain and forested sections. The descent offers new perspectives of the surrounding hills and distant valleys, with ample time to observe local flora and birdlife.

Continue descending through villages and terraced hillsides back to Makarigaad. The return to the road head marks the end of the trekking section and a transition back to motorable routes.

A full-day drive through far western hill roads takes you back to Dadeldhura. Along the way, pass remote settlements, forested ridges, and river crossings that highlight the rugged geography of this lesser-known region.

Descend from the cool hills to the Terai plains, returning to Dhangadhi. The contrast in climate and landscape is striking, offering a final glimpse into the geographic diversity of far western Nepal.

Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to the hotel and enjoy a relaxed afternoon at leisure.

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward international flight. The journey concludes with a deep appreciation for one of Nepal’s most untouched trekking regions.