API Himal Trek

Your Api Himal Base Camp Trek begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Our friendly airport representative will be waiting at the arrival gate, holding a name card for easy identification. After a warm greeting, you'll be welcomed in traditional Nepali style with a beautiful marigold flower garland. You will then be transferred in a private vehicle to your deluxe hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist hub. After hotel check-in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey. Later, you can explore the colorful streets of Thamel, known for its lively atmosphere, shops, cafés, and local culture. In the evening, meet our professional team for a briefing and final preparation for your Api Himal Trek. Enjoy your first night in Nepal with warm hospitality and comfortable accommodation.

Today is the second day of the Api Himal Trek. Have a warm breakfast at the Hotel's restaurant before heading to the domestic airport to take a flight to Dhangadi. After breakfast, take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi (109 m), offering stunning views of the Himalayas, beautiful valleys, and the lowland Terai region. Upon arrival in Dhangadhi, our team will receive you and begin the drive to Dadeldhura (2,090 m), a beautiful hill town in Far Western Nepal. The drive offers picturesque landscapes, forests, and glimpses of rural life. Dadeldhura is known for its cool climate, cultural richness, and mountain charm. Relax and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Today, enjoy a scenic drive from Dadeldhura to Gokuleshwor (900 m), passing through winding mountain roads, lush forests, and traditional villages. After a short break in Gokuleshwor, continue the journey to Makarigaad (1,300 m), the starting point of the Api Himal Base Camp Trek. This drive offers a glimpse into the remote beauty and rich culture of Far Western Nepal. Upon arrival, explore the local village, meet friendly locals, and prepare for your trekking adventure ahead.

Your Api Himal Base Camp Trek officially begins today with a rewarding hike from Makarigaad to Sitigaun. The trail gradually ascends through lush forests, terraced fields, and scattered traditional villages, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Along the way, you’ll experience the warm hospitality of the local Khas and Bhote communities. The trek takes around 6 to 7 hours, with several scenic stops for rest and lunch. Sitigaun (2,200 m) welcomes you with stunning mountain views and a peaceful village atmosphere.

After a peaceful night in Sitigaun, begin your trek towards Dhauliodar (3,100 m). The trail ascends steadily through dense pine and rhododendron forests, offering chances to spot Himalayan birds and wildlife. As you climb higher, the views become more dramatic, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks and deep river valleys. The trail passes traditional shepherd huts and remote highland pastures used by locals in summer. After 5 to 6 hours of trekking, reach Dhauliodar, a scenic open meadow beneath towering cliffs—ideal for camping and stargazing.

Today is the most exciting day of your Api Himal Base Camp Trek. Begin an early morning hike to Api Base Camp (3,850 m), following alpine trails with panoramic views of Mount Api (7,132 m) and surrounding peaks. Continue your ascent to the sacred Kalidhunga Taal (4,200 m), a glacial lake revered by locals. The area is serene, spiritual, and offers unmatched Himalayan beauty. After spending time capturing photos and enjoying the peaceful surroundings, retrace your steps back to Dhauliodar for an overnight stay.

For those seeking extra adventure, today offers an optional hike to the pristine Ringdepani Taal (approx. 4,000 m). This hidden alpine lake lies beyond Dhauliodar and is surrounded by rugged cliffs and untouched natural beauty. The trail is less traveled, making it ideal for trekkers who love solitude and raw Himalayan landscapes. The hike takes you through high-altitude meadows and rocky ridges with breathtaking views of Mount Api and the surrounding peaks. After spending time at the lake, return to Dhauliodar for rest.

After an unforgettable experience at Api Base Camp and the surrounding highlands, begin your descent from Dhauliodar to Sitigaun. The trail retraces through alpine meadows, dense forests, and scenic ridgelines with stunning views of the Himalayan landscape. As you lose elevation, the air becomes warmer and the vegetation more vibrant. The trek takes around 5 to 6 hours, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and local culture. Sitigaun once again welcomes you with its peaceful charm and traditional village lifestyle.

Today, continue your descent from Sitigaun to Makarigaad, retracing your steps through lush forests, terraced hillsides, and traditional villages. The trail offers beautiful views of the lower valleys and a final glimpse of the distant Himalayan peaks. This 5 to 6-hour trek allows you to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and interact with locals along the way. Makarigaad marks the end of your trekking journey, where you can relax by the riverside and reflect on your incredible Api Himal Base Camp Trek adventure.

After completing the unforgettable Api Himal Base Camp Trek, begin your return journey with a scenic drive from Makarigaad to Dadeldhura, which takes approximately 8 hours. The route winds through remote hills, forested landscapes, and traditional villages of Far Western Nepal. Along the way, enjoy views of the Mahakali River and terraced fields. Dadeldhura, a charming hill town, welcomes you with cooler weather and peaceful surroundings. After the long drive, relax at your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest.

Today, enjoy a comfortable drive from Dadeldhura to Dhangadhi, descending from the cool hill town to the lowland Terai region. The 4-hour journey offers beautiful views of rolling hills, forests, and rural villages, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Far Western Nepal. Upon arrival in Dhangadhi (109 m), check into your hotel and relax after the long journey. Dhangadhi is a vibrant city and a gateway to the remote western Himalayas. Spend your evening at leisure, reflecting on your incredible Api Himal Base Camp Trek experience.

Conclude your Api Himal Base Camp Trek with a scenic 45-minute flight from Dhangadhi to Kathmandu. Enjoy stunning aerial views of the Terai plains, lush hills, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks as you return to Nepal’s bustling capital. This short domestic flight offers a comfortable and efficient way to travel after your remote trekking adventure. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport's Domestic Terminal, Kathmandu, our team will assist with your transfer to the hotel or onward travel plans. Reflect on your unforgettable journey while preparing for your next Nepal adventure. Free time, you can spend shopping and exploring the iconic Thamel and other UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Today marks the end of your incredible Api Himal Base Camp Trek. If you have extra time in Nepal, we recommend exploring the cultural heritage cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur, known for their historic temples and vibrant traditions. For wildlife enthusiasts, a thrilling Chitwan Safari tour is an excellent option to experience Nepal’s diverse fauna. If your schedule is tight, you may choose to return home or continue to your next destination. We sincerely thank you for trekking with Himalayan Trekking Path and look forward to welcoming you again soon!