Api Himal Base Camp Trek

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The Api Himal Base Camp Trek is a 14-day moderate trekking route into the Api Nampa Conservation Area in far-western Nepal [29.5N, 80.9E], leading to the foot of Mt. Api (7,132 m), the highest peak in the region. Starting from Attariya in the Terai and ascending through Doteli-speaking Hindu communities, forested mid-hills, and open alpine terrain, the route reaches base camp with panoramic views of the Api-Nampa range and access to two high-altitude glacial lakes. Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal handles all permits, transport, and team logistics, including cooking support. This is one of Nepal's least-visited base camp treks, and there is no better time to do it than now. 

Grade: PD (Peu Difficile / Moderately Difficult)

Trip Overview
Duration14 Days
Trip GradeModerate
Maximum Altitude4,200 m approx.
Group SizeMin. 5
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking, Cultural Immersion
Best TimeMarch to May, September to November

TREK HIGHLIGHTS

  • Stand at the foot of Mt. Api (7,132 m), the highest peak in far-western Nepal.
  • Maximum altitude is approximately 4,200 m, keeping altitude sickness risk relatively low.
  • Discover two glacial lakes: Ringdepani to the west and the sacred Kali Dhunga to the east.
  • Trek through oak and bhojpatra forests up to Dhauliodhar (3,548 m) and into open alpine terrain above.
  • Experience Doteli-speaking Hindu communities, where life feels decades removed from the rest of the country.

14-Day Api Himal Base Camp Trek

This 14-day Api Base Camp Trek takes you into one of Nepal's least-visited regions, starting from the Terai plains near Attariya and climbing through mid-hill forests and river valleys into the alpine zone at the base of Mt. Api (7,132 m) in the Api Nampa Conservation Area.

The trek is rated Moderate with one demanding day between Dhauliodhar and base camp. Basic teahouses and homestays cover the lower sections, while upper stops rely on simple stays and team cooking.

Here's our complete package featuring what you need to know about trekking in the far-west, secluded region of Nepal.

Main Attractions of Api Himal Base Camp Trek

From sacred glacial lakes to open alpine meadows and a mountain base camp few trekkers ever reach, here are the major attractions of the Api Base Camp Trek that make this trail stand apart from the rest:

  • Api Himal Base Camp (4,200 m): The base camp opens onto a large, flat plateau where Mt. Api (7,132 m) rises directly to the north. The full range visible from here includes Api Himal, Lai Youl Peak, Bhavaya Chuli, Kali Dhunga Peak, and Nampa.
  • Kali Dhunga Lake and Shivadhara (4,100 m): Kali Dhunga Lake sits on the eastern side of base camp. On the way is Shivadhara, a sacred site where the Chameliya River originates from the base of Api Himal. Lord Shiva is worshipped here. During Bhadra Purnima and Janai Purnima, local pilgrims make the journey up specifically to pray. Every visitor is expected to make an offering, so we highly recommend following the tradition.
  • Ringdepani Lake and Western Api Glacier: Ringdepani Lake sits to the western side of Mt. Api near the western Api glacier. The full return trip from base camp takes around five hours. Views from here cover the Api and Nampa range.
  • Dhauliodhar (3,548 m): This overnight stop marks the exact point where the forested mid-hills end and the alpine zone begins. Oak trees and bhojpatra cover the slopes up to here. Above this point, the trees disappear completely.
  • Siti Village (2,240 m): Siti is the last settlement with reliable solar power, wifi, and a proper shower. The nearest health post on the route is also here. Above Siti, there are no facilities, so stock up on everything you need before moving higher.
  • Doteli Culture and Village Life: Communities along this route speak Doteli and follow distinct Doteli food, dress, and customs. The biggest local event here is the Surmasarovar Jatra, a six-day-long festival during Bhadra Purnima, which draws large crowds from across the region.
  • Local Food to Try: Roti-tarkari is their main meal, with dal-bhat secondary. In spring, fresh bhang ko achar is made from green vegetables mixed with hemp seeds. And outside spring, dana ko achar replaces it, made with roasted and ground hemp seeds.

Why Trek Api Base Camp Trek with Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal?

Getting to Api Himal Base Camp involves more moving parts than most treks in Nepal. Here is what Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal takes off your plate:

  • We handle the Api Nampa Conservation Area entry permit before your trek even begins.
  • We include a cook who uses local kitchen facilities along the route, keeping meals consistent through the most remote sections.
  • We carry sleeping bags so you do not need to bring your own.
  • We arrange Bolero jeep transport for the full road sections in both directions.
  • Our guides know the one hard day between Dhauliodhar and base camp and pace the group accordingly.

Api Himal Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Kathmandu to KathmanduExpand all

Our team picks you up from Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers you to your hotel in Thamel. Today is fully for rest.

In the evening, we sit together for a proper briefing: route overview, gear check, what to bring on the trail, and what the days ahead will look like. Thamel is the best market for any last-minute trekking gear you may need.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: DinnerAccommodation: 3-Star HotelTransportation: Private vehicle

Permits are being arranged by our team in the background while your day stays free. Visit Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath, or Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Also, pick up anything you are missing in Thamel, charge your devices fully, and be ready for an early start tomorrow!

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: 3-Star Hotel

An early flight takes you west to Dhangadi in approximately one hour. From Dhangadi, a short drive of around 35 km brings you to Attariya in about 30 minutes. 

A direct bus option from Kathmandu to Dhangadi is also available for those who prefer overland travel, taking approximately 14 hours.

Max Altitude: 132 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: Basic LodgeTransportation: Flight and Private Vehicle

Today is a long road day! The Bolero jeep ride from Attariya, Kailali to Makarighad, Darchula takes 9 to 10 hours.

Start early so the journey stays comfortable and you can stop whenever you want without pressure. 

Lunch is taken en route around the Dadeldhura area. Don’t forget ot pack fruits and snacks for the drive. And note that the lodge at Makarighad is very basic.

Max Altitude: 1,470 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: Basic Local LodgeTransportation: Bolero Jeep

Today, you leave the road behind and step onto proper trail for the first time. The route follows the Chameliya River valley upward through riverside paths and forested mid-hill terrain, with around 6 to 7 hours of walking. 

Since Siti is the last proper settlement along the route, make sure to stock up on everything you need before moving higher!

Max Altitude: 2,240 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: Basic Teahouse

The trail continues climbing through mid-hill terrain for around 6 to 7 hours. Xirxire is a small teashop stop along the way, nothing more than a place to pause briefly. 

Accommodation tonight at Simar or Domal is very basic. Above here, the forested lower sections start giving way to something more open!

Max Altitude: 2,950 m Meals: B,L,DAccommodation: Basic Teahouse

The trail climbs steadily for 4 to 5 hours from the forested mid-hills into the open alpine zone.

Above this point, the trees disappear completely, and the alpine landscape opens up in every direction. Lunch and overnight will be at Dhauliodhar itself!

Max Altitude: 3,548 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: Basic Local Lodge

This is the most demanding day of the trek. The ascent from Dhauliodhar is a sustained climb over rougher terrain as the landscape opens fully into the alpine zone. 

The climb to base camp is steep, the air is thin, and the final push tests everything you have built up over the past week. But there is no better feeling than dropping your pack at 4,200 m with that view of Api-Nampa range waiting for you!

Max Altitude: 4,200 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: Basic Camp Lodge

Head west from base camp toward the western Api glacier and up to Ringdepani Lake at around 5,000 m. The full return trip takes around 5 hours of walking.

Carry packed food, camera, and all your layers. Views from here cover the Api and Nampa range much better than the base camp on a good day.

Max Altitude: 4,200 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: Basic Camp Lodge

Start the morning heading toward the Nampa Base Camp direction with packed food and a camera. Then move east to Kali Dhunga Lake and Shivadhara, where the Chameliya River originates. 

After the visit to the lake, you along with your guide will descend back to Dhauliodhar for the night!

Max Altitude: 3,548 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: Basic Local Lodge

The trail descends back through the alpine zone and into the forested mid-hill terrain. The air gets warmer, and the forest closes back in as you drop altitude. 

It’s going to be an overnight stay in a general homestay in Siti, just like on Day 5.

Max Altitude: 2,240 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: Homestay

Today, it will again be a full descent day back through the Chameliya River valley to Makarighad.

The same trail yet again, and the walking is much easier considering that it’s mostly downhill, but your knees and ankles can hurt!

Max Altitude: 1,470 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: Basic Local Lodge

You’ll drive back by Bolero jeep from Makarighad to Attariya, then continue to Dhangadi airport for the flight to Kathmandu. 

You arrive in Kathmandu with the rest of the day free to rest. Be sure to eat well, and let the experience begin to settle in!

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: B, L, DAccommodation: 3-Star HotelTransportation: Bolero Jeep and Flight

Our team transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your flight.

But if the mountains are calling again, note that our doors at HEN are always open for you!

Meals: BreakfastTransportation: Private Vehicle

Trip Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure in a private vehicle
  • 2 hotel nights in Kathmandu before the trek and 1 hotel night in Kathmandu on return (3 nights total)
  • 1 hotel night in Attariya on the way out and 1 on the way back
  • All basic teahouse and homestay nights along the trekking route
  • Api Nampa Conservation Area Entry Permit
  • Licensed English-speaking trekking guide with salary and insurance
  • Cook for preparation of team meals along the route using local kitchen facilities
  • All meals during trekking days: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Tea and coffee during breakfast and dinner
  • Bolero jeep transport for the Attariya to Makarighad road section in both directions
  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu to Dhangadi and Dhangadi to Kathmandu
  • Porter support: 1 porter per 2 trekkers, carries up to 22 kg
  • Sleeping bags provided by HEN for the trek
  • All logistical arrangements, including route planning and safety measures

Excludes

  • Personal expenses on the trek
  • International flights to and from Nepal
  • Nepal tourist visa fee (two passport-sized photos required)
  • Personal travel and health insurance covering emergency helicopter evacuation
  • Meals not listed in the itinerary, including drinks, snacks, and alcohol
  • Hot showers, wifi, and phone or internet access charges at teahouses
  • Battery charging fees at teahouses
  • Laundry
  • Personal hiking gear, clothing, and hygiene items
  • Costs from natural disasters, bad weather, political unrest, or anything outside our control
  • Early departure costs, which are non-refundable
  • Tips for guides, porters, and cook, not required but appreciated
  • Any service not listed in the Includes section

Optional Extra Services

  • Additional porter: USD 280 per porter for two trekkers, carries 20 to 22 kg
  • Private jeep pick-up and drop-off for the full road section: USD 380 extra
  • Tent camping upgrade for groups of 6 or more, where teahouse capacity is limited

Essential Information

Best Time to Do This Trek

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons.

In spring, the lower forests are green, temperatures are moderate, and fresh bhang ko achar (Hemp Seed Pickle) is available in the villages. 

In autumn, skies are clear and mountain views from Dhauliodhar and base camp are at their sharpest! Bhadra Purnima in early autumn brings the Surmasarovar Jatra and pilgrimage activity toward Kali Dhunga Lake. 

Monsoon (June to August) makes the jeep road to Makarighad difficult and the mid-hill sections wet. Winter (December to February) brings snow above Dhauliodhar and extreme cold at base camp. But if you’re still planning these seasons, going with a reliable tour operator like HEN ourselves would be the best bet!

Permits Required for Api Base Camp Trek

One permit is required: the Api Nampa Conservation Area Entry Permit. 

TIMS Card used to be a compulsion in the past but these days, you don’t need it!

Don’t worry! HEN arranges all necessary permits before your trek begins (so, you don’t have to stress about this at all).

Note: The government has temporarily waived mountaineering royalty fees for 97 peaks in the Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces to promote these remote regions. But they don’t apply to trekking permits, so don’t be confused. And in case you’re someone who wants to go on an expedition, just let our team at HEN know, and we’re ready to serve you!

Difficulty Level of Api Himal Base Camp Trek

The Api Himal Base Camp Trek is rated Moderate. The daily walking hours is about 4 to 7 hours on varied terrain, including sections with loose rock and no technical skills are required.

The most demanding day is the ascent from Dhauliodhar (3,548 m) to base camp. 

Maximum altitude stays around 4,200 m, keeping serious altitude sickness risk low. However, mental preparation matters as much as physical fitness. 

And keep in mind that toilets are always outside, electricity is limited or absent at many stops, and facilities are basic throughout. All these can directly affect the difficulty of Api Himal Base Camp trek.

Accommodation and Food on This Trek

Accommodation in the Api-Nampa region is basic teahouse and homestay throughout. 

Among all the stops, Siti has the most reliable facilities, including a shower and wifi on solar power. Above Siti, everything becomes simpler! 

The main food here is roti-tarkari, and Dal-bhat remains secondary, as mentioned earlier. Continental food is not reliably available like other treks in Nepal. 

Good news for you: our cook uses local kitchen facilities to keep meals consistent. So, while options may not exist locally, we will make sure you won’t be disappointed!

Regarding drinking water, make sure that you opt for only boiled water above the lower villages. Carrying a purification tablet/drop works best!

How to Prepare for Api Base Camp Trek

Before you book this trek with HEN, here is what you need to be prepared for:

  • Physical Preparation: Build walking stamina before you arrive. You need to move uphill and downhill for 5 to 7 hours daily on terrain that includes loose rock sections.
  • Mental Preparedness: Toilets are outside, electricity is limited, and rooms are shared. Go in knowing this and the trek becomes an adventure. Go in expecting otherwise and it will be a difficult two weeks.
  • Altitude Sickness and Preventive Measures: The maximum altitude is approximately 4,200 m, and the risk is relatively low. But still, you need to ascend steadily, stay hydrated, and consult a doctor before your trek.
  • Hydration and Nutrition: Carry energy snacks, chocolate, and protein bars from Kathmandu as variety is very limited on the trail above Siti. The local food is more focused on filling your tummy, so it will be more carbohydrate-based.
  • Travel Insurance: Insurance isn’t legally compulsory, but we at HEN always recommend it. And your insurance must cover emergency helicopter evacuation and altitude sickness treatment above 4,000 meters.

Equipment Lists

Surely, proper preparation matters on any Himalayan trek. For the Api Himal Base Camp Trek, you will be moving through temperate mid-hill forests, crossing into the alpine zone above Dhauliodhar, and spending nights at approximately 4,200 m in basic teahouse accommodation with limited heating. Every trekker must carry the right clothing and gear to stay safe and comfortable throughout. Here is what our HEN team recommends:

  • Warm beanie or fleece hat for cold temperatures at Dhauliodhar and base camp.
  • Wide-brim sun hat or cap for protection from strong sunlight in the lower sections.
  • Buff or neck gaiter for wind, dust, and cold protection across all zones.
  • Headlamp with spare batteries for early morning starts and power outages at upper lodges.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes from strong high-altitude sunlight.
  • Thermal base layers (2 to 3) to keep the body warm and dry on cold mornings.
  • Moisture-wicking trekking shirts, long sleeve recommended for sun protection.
  • Fleece jacket for insulation during cooler afternoons and evenings.
  • Down jacket for cold conditions at Dhauliodhar and base camp.
  • Waterproof and windproof outer jacket for rain in the lower sections and wind at altitude.
  • Lightweight liner gloves for mild cold conditions in the mid-hill section.
  • Warm fleece or insulated gloves for the alpine zone and base camp nights.
  • Thermal leggings or base layer pants for cold mornings and nights at altitude.
  • Trekking trousers (1 to 2 pairs) in quick-dry material.
  • Waterproof rain pants for the mid-hill sections during uncertain weather.
  • Comfortable shorts for the warm lower elevation days near Makarighad and Siti (optional).
  • Waterproof trekking boots with strong ankle support for the full route including loose rock sections above Dhauliodhar.
  • Camp shoes or sandals for resting at teahouses and homestays.
  • Trekking socks (3 to 4 pairs) in wool or synthetic material.
  • Gaiters for protection against mud, loose stones, and wet trail sections.
  • Passport and Nepal tourist visa.
  • Api Nampa Conservation Area Entry Permit, arranged by HEN before the trek.
  • Travel and medical insurance documents including helicopter evacuation coverage.
  • Airline tickets or e-tickets for domestic and international flights.
  • Cash in Nepalese Rupees for personal expenses, as cards are not accepted on the trail.
  • Copies of all important documents kept separately.
  • Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for all exposed skin, especially above Dhauliodhar.
  • Lip balm with SPF to protect against dry wind and strong sunlight at altitude.
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and biodegradable soap.
  • Moisturiser and hand sanitiser for daily use on the trail.
  • Quick-dry towel, as teahouses do not provide towels.
  • Toilet paper and wet wipes, as facilities are basic outdoor toilets throughout.
  • Reusable water bottle or thermos, minimum one litre capacity.
  • Water purification tablets or drops for use above Siti.
  • Electrolyte powder sachets for hydration on long walking days.
  • Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate brought from Kathmandu.
  • Sleeping bag rated to -10 degrees Celsius minimum for cold nights at Dhauliodhar and base camp. HEN provides sleeping bags but trekkers may bring their own if preferred.
  • Sleeping bag liner for added warmth and hygiene.
  • Main trekking backpack (40 to 60 L) for personal gear if not using a porter.
  • Daypack (20 to 30 L) for carrying water, snacks, camera, and extra clothing during daily walks.
  • Rain cover for the backpack to keep gear dry in wet conditions.
  • Dry bags or waterproof stuff sacks for electronics and documents.
  • Paracetamol or ibuprofen for headache, pain, or fever.
  • Anti-diarrhoea medication such as Loperamide or Imodium.
  • Oral Rehydration Salts for use if dehydration occurs.
  • Antibiotics if prescribed by your doctor before the trek.
  • Anti-nausea medication.
  • Antihistamines for allergies.
  • Consult a doctor before your trek to discuss altitude-related medications and personal health conditions.
  • Blister treatment such as Compeed or moleskin for multi-day walking.
  • Antiseptic cream or wipes and adhesive bandages for minor injuries.
  • Elastic bandage for minor sprains.
  • Personal prescription medications with copies of prescriptions.
  • Trekking poles to reduce knee strain on the long downhill sections from base camp to Siti.
  • Power bank with full charge before leaving Siti, as charging is unreliable above this point.
  • Universal travel adapter supporting Nepal's standard voltage of 230V, 50 Hz.
  • Camera with protective case and extra memory cards.
  • Small padlocks for daypack and main bag zippers at shared accommodation stops.

Api Himal Base Camp Trek FAQs

Not compulsory but a licensed guide is strongly recommended. The trail is remote, passes through areas with no commercial infrastructure above Siti, and has limited signage. Also, emergency support is far away. That’s the reason our team at HEN assigns an experienced guide who knows this specific route well.

Yes, with the right preparation even beginners can do this trek. It’s of moderate difficulty and most daily walking is on steady terrain. The one challenging day is the ascent to base camp from Dhauliodhar. If you can walk 5 to 7 hours a day on varied terrain, you are physically ready!

The maximum altitude is around 4,200 m, which keeps the risk of severe altitude sickness relatively low. But in case the symptoms do appear, the protocol is to stop, rest, and descend if they do not improve. For serious cases, horse stretcher evacuation or helicopter rescue are the available options!

Yes, with HEN, we offer customization options on this Api Base Camp Trek. Group size, starting dates, and side trips such as the Nampa Base Camp direction or additional rest days can be adjusted.

Wifi and internet access are available at Siti village. Above Siti, coverage becomes unreliable. NTC SIM cards work better in far-western Nepal than Ncell.

We recommend booking at least 8 to 9 months before your intended departure date. This trek requires specific logistics, transport arrangements, and team coordination in a remote region. Booking early gives us enough time to prepare everything properly and gives you enough time to prepare yourself physically and mentally for the journey. 

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