Api Base Camp Trek

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)

Arrive in Kathmandu, and one of our representatives will receive you and then transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the time is free to explore the city where your hotel is located, which is usually at Thamel, the popular tourist hub in Kathmandu, where every needs and facilities for tourists are located like hotels, pubs, restaurants, department stores, trek gear shops, etc. Or you can simply rest at your hotel if you are jet-lagged and get ready for an amazing Himalayan trek.

Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu

Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi (109m/1 hr & 15 min flight)

We will have breakfast at the hotel before being driven to the airport to catch a flight to Dhangadhi.  The Kailali District's capital is Dhangadhi. From Kathmandu, it takes about one hour and fifteen minutes to go to Dhangadhi. If the sky is clear, you can take in a stunning aerial perspective of the ground below. You will be driven from the Dhangahi airport to the tourist-standard accommodation that has been reserved for you.  After checking in at the hotel, we will go to Jokhar Lake and Botanical Garden in Dhangadhi.

Overnight at Hotel in Dhangadhi (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 03: Drive from Dhangadhi to Gokuleshwar (8 hrs drive)

We will drive from Dhangadhi to Gokuleshwar today, leaving the Terai plains in the far western area of Nepal and heading toward the country's hilly terrain. We'll go on the Mahakali Highway from Dhangadhi to Gokuleshwar in around 8 hours. We will travel 3–4 hours uphill to reach Dadeldhura, popularly known as the Queen of Hills, which is located in the far western part of Nepal.

The bus will proceed on a winding road through the highlands of far western Nepal after eating lunch in Dadeldhura. Along the way, you'll see stunning vistas of the Himalayas, the Chamelyia Valley, the river, and small, traditional communities of people. We shall arrive in in the late afternoon in Gokuleshwor. We'll spend the night in a very modest lodge in Gokuleshwar.

Overnight at Lodge in Gokuleshwar (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 04: Drive from Gokuleshwar to Latinath (1,004m/2 hrs) & trek to Paribagar (1,770m/1 hr)

We will travel to Latinath today after breakfast in Gokuleshwar. The hike to the Api Base Camp begins at Latinath. From Gokuleshwar, it takes about two hours to get to Latinath. The largest hydropower station in the far-western region of Nepal is located along the route to Latinath, which is located along the Chameliya River. Our long journey to Api's base camp starts at Latinath. However, today's journey would only take us from Latinath to Paribagar, a picturesque settlement at 1,770 meters above sea level. We must trek uphill for an hour to reach Paribagar. You can stroll around the village in the evening. In Paribagar, homestays will be arranged for dinner and lodging.

Overnight at Camp in Paribagar (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 05: Trek from Paribagar to Makarigaad (1,470m/ 5 hrs)

We left Paribagar after breakfast to travel to Makrigadi. We will walk via a traditional village in the mid-hills that features old agricultural terraces, traditional stone homes, and unspoiled countryside in Nepal's far-western area. After lunch, the hike to Makrigaad continues along the Chameliya River through subtropical forest, subalpine woodland, and oak, hemlock, and rhododendron woods. We will reach Markigadi, a stunning village, after roughly two hours of climbing.

Overnight at Camp in Makarigaad (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 06: Trek from Makrigaad to Siti (2,254m/8 hrs)

The day's trekking begins with a brief, sharp ascent to the Chameliya River after breakfast in Makrigaad. After crossing the river, we will ascend the gorge and move on to the settlement of Pato while taking in the breathtaking scenery. From Pato on, the ascent is gradual but steady. After reaching the final hill, we'll continue on this steadily ascending trail until we reach the picturesque town of Siti, which is reached after a relatively short and straightforward descent. We don't get to our overnight location until after roughly eight hours of walking.

Overnight at Camp in Siti (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 07: Trek from Siti to Domal (2,950m/7 hrs)

We left Siti for our destination today, Domal, after breakfast. The first part of the journey from Siti to the settlement of Khayekot is downhill. It's a stunning town situated beside the Chameliya River. The last permanent habitation in the Chameliya Valley is known to have been in Khayekot. At Khayekot, we will have a lunch stop. We will gradually rise to Domal after lunch. From Siti, it will take us around 7 hours to walk to Domal. Domal, where the rivers Chameliya and Rokap converge, is revered much in this area.

Overnight at Camp in Domal (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 08: Trek from Domal to Dhaulo Odar (Lower Api Base Camp) (3,548m/5 hrs)

After breakfast at Domal, the hike for today begins with a challenging ascent. The trail is rather simple until you get to the summit and continue through woodland and open meadows. We will eventually arrive at an open grassland surrounded by steep mountains, a rhododendron forest, and a few small caves after about five hours of walking.  We set up camp here for the night in this magnificent location.

Overnight Camp in Dhaulo Odar (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 09: Trek from Daulo Odar to Api Base Camp/Pilkandah (3,861m) & back to Daulo Odar

The most anticipated day of the entire trek is today. We arrive at Mount Api's base camp today. We won't leave for the Api Base Camp after breakfast without packing lunch. From Daulo Odar, a 2.5-hour ascent will bring us to a sizable open plateau ringed by mountains. The Api Base Camp is on this plateau. The biggest views of Mt. Api (7,132m), Mt. Nampa (6,929m), and Mt. Bobaye (6,808m) welcome hikers to Api Base Camp as we approach the plateau.

After taking in the captivating vista, we'll travel to the Chameliya River's source and stop by a nearby, modest temple constructed by the locals. After lunch, we'll visit the revered Lake Pilkandaha. We will now head back to Daulo Odar for the night after exploring the lake.

Overnight at Camp in Dhaulo Odar (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 10: Trek from Daulo Odar to Siti (2,258m/6 hrs)

After breakfast, we started our drive back to Siti, bidding adieu to the stunning Mt. Api and the area around Daulo Odar. We will first arrive at Khayekot settlement after the downhill stroll. Following lunch at Khayekot, we will ascend a hard hill to settle Siti. We will pass lovely green hills and agricultural terraces along the route.

Overnight at Camp in Siti (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 11: Trek from Siti to Makarigaad (1,470m/6 hrs)

The day's trek starts with a climb to the ridge above Siti after breakfast in Siti. The trail now meanders around the ridge, passing through a forest, farmland, and a sparsely populated area. We'll also have an opportunity to take in the sights of the Himalayas along the route. After stopping for lunch in Pato, we'll continue walking steadily downward until we reach Makarigaad. You can spend the evening exploring Makrigaad's settlement if you have the time and desire.

Overnight at Camp in Makarigaad (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 12: Trek from Makarigadi to Latinath (4 hour) & drive to Gokuleshwar (2 hrs)

We will hike to Latinath after breakfast at Makarigadi. After passing Paribagar, a four-hour downhill hike will lead us to Latinath. The climb to Latinath is extremely enjoyable and not too strenuous. If time allows, we'll also take a quick trek up to the Hindu temple that's right above Latinath once we get there. If time doesn't allow, we'll take a bus to Gokuleshwar right away. We will arrive in Gokuleshwar after a lovely bus ride of roughly two hours. We will be taken from the bus station to a basic lodge in Gokuleshwar for the night.

Overnight at Lodge in Gokuleshwar (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 13: Drive from Gokuleshwar to Dhangadhi (9 hrs)

We get going early today. After an early breakfast, catch a bus from Gokuleshwar to Dhangadhi. By lunchtime, the bus arrives in Dadeldhura after travelling through picturesque green hills with terrace farms, hamlets, and a small roadside teahouse. We'll have lunch at Dadeldhura, have a short break, and then go along the Mahakali Highway in the direction of Dhangadhi. After a leisurely 9-hour trip, we will arrive in Dhangadhi in time for dinner and an overnight stay. The night will be spent in a Dhangadhi hotel of tourist standard.

Overnight at Hotel in Dhangadhi (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 14: Fly from Dhangadhi to Kathmandu (1,300m/1 hr & 15 min flight)

We will be taken to the airport to catch a flight to Kathmandu after breakfast at Dhangadhi. After a leisurely, picturesque flight of around an hour and fifteen minutes, the aircraft lands at Kathmandu's airport. You will be driven from the airport to the hotel in Kathmandu. The remaining day can be used to relax at the hotel or explore Kathmandu.

Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu (Breakfast)

Day 15: Final Departure

The trip concludes, and our office representatives will take you to the international airport in Kathmandu to catch your onward flight to your next destination or fly back home. You need to be at least 3 hours prior to your flight time at the airport.

Thank you for visiting Nepal and we hope your Himalayan Holiday has come true.

Have a safe flight back home!

EQUIPMENT CHECK-LIST

 

 

1. How difficult is the trek to Mount Api base camp?

This journey is among the most challenging because of its remote location and numerous steep climbs.

2. How is the accommodation in Api base camp trek?

You won't find such a lodging option in other trekking locations, so you'll need to be prepared with enough tents and supplies.

3. Is there electricity and Wi-Fi in the Api base camp trek?

Since it is the most isolated part of Nepal, there are no amenities like Wi-Fi there. However, you might locate the cell network up to day 6.

4. Why Api Base Camp Trek?

Api Base Camp Trek is a trekking route that leads to the base camp of Mount Api, which is the highest peak in the Api Himal range. This trek is chosen by adventurers and trekkers for several reasons, like remote and less Crowded, stunning scenery, cultural experience, challenging adventure, close to nature, unique destination etc.

5. Where is Mount Api Located in Nepal?

The Darchula district of far-western Nepal is home to Mount Api. The tallest peak in western Nepal is that one.

6. What is the height of Api Himal?

Mount Api is 7,132 meters above sea level.

7. What is the altitude of Api Base Camp?

3,860 meters above sea level is the altitude of Api Base Camp.

8. How remote is Api Base Camp Trek?

Throughout the days of the walk, there is no internet or electricity. Most often, mobile networks fail. There are a few tea houses with modest amenities, but no real hotels. The Api Base Camp trip is therefore quite distant.

9. What is the Best Time to do Api Base Camp Trek?

All seasons, except mid-monsoon and winter, are suitable for the Api Base Camp Trek. August to early November is the best time, March to April: Rhododendron Blooms; May to July: Yarsagumba (Caterpillar Fungus) Harvest; several Festivals

Accommodation
While you are in Kathmandu, we opt to accommodate you in 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3 star), Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar.

 

Throughout the trek, you will have the convenience of staying in a fully equipped camping setup, complete with dedicated support staff. This includes a personal tent for yourself, a dining tent, a toilet tent, and a separate tent for the accompanying staff. We strive to furnish you with top-notch tents and camping equipment to ensure a comfortable night's sleep in a clean and hygienic environment.

 

Meals
Meals are typically provided as part of the fully organized camping experience. The catering is handled by a support team accompanying the trek, and you can expect a variety of meals that cater to different dietary preferences and requirements. Commonly, the meals include a mix of local and international dishes, providing a balance of nutrition and taste. The dining setup usually involves a dedicated dining tent to enhance the overall camping experience. It's advisable to communicate any specific dietary restrictions or preferences in advance to ensure that the meals align with your needs.

Porter and Staff Care
When it comes to high altitude trekking, porters and staff members make up a pivot. Marron Treks ensures that all the porters and staff members going to high altitude conditions, are provided with adequate clothing and equipments.

 

Any Experience Required?
There is nothing hard and fast rule about trekking experience. Any adventure enthusiast, with a generic physical aptitude can definitely relish the thrill of this trek.

 

Difficulties
Difficulty here is actually synonymous to ‘high altitude’. As this trek involves some seriously high altitude climbing above 5000 meters, one is likely to experience some problem in breathing owing to the deteriorating oxygen level. But as this is something which is anticipated, we do have enough precautionary measures to tackle it.

 

Our Guides
Guides play a significant role during the trek. They are the ones who literally decipher the trekking codes for you so that you could actually connect with the nature, culture and people along the way. We have helpful and dedicated trekking guides, who are fairly literate, multilingual speakers and are very well versed to the culture, life patterns and every single detail pertaining to the Api Himal region. Thus, in the company of our professional Sherpa guides, your trek becomes not only entertaining, but also equally informative.

 

Travel Insurance
It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both- medical as well as evacuation costs. Having a travel insurance with you, makes your trip secure and hassle free.

The provided trip plan by Marron Treks is customizable but subject to unpredictable factors like weather, political unrest, and flight disruptions in Nepal. Delays or changes might occur due to various reasons, and Marron Treks will prioritize client safety. However, they are not liable for resulting consequences, striving to maintain the essence of the original trip plan. 

Cost Inclusion

•    Airport pick-up and drop services.
•    Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu with breakfast.
•    Kathmandu – Dhangadhi –– Kathmandu round airfares.
•    Hotel accommodations in Dhangadhi & Gokuleshwar.
•    All surface transfers by a local bus or jeep.
•    All trekking accommodation (in tented camps) with breakfast, lunch & dinner.
•    Personal insurance for crew members.
•    Guide, porters, kitchen staffs and helpers wages for the trekking period.
•    Four seasonal sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)& Marron duffel bags.
•    A comprehensive medical kit (will be carried by the trekking guide).
•    Required Trekking Permit fee & TIMS Card.
•    Farewell dinner with live Nepalese cultural program.
•    All government and local taxes.

Cost Exclusion

•    International airfare.
•    Lunch & dinner In Kathmandu.
•    Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (USD30 for 15 days)
•    Personal travel insurance.
•    Emergency rescue evacuation (to be covered by the client's travel insurance).
•    Excess baggage charges (luggage allowance for domestic airlines in Nepal is 15 kgs.).
•    Other expenses of personal nature (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc.)
•    Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or change in the real course of the itinerary because of bad weather conditions, political turmoil or any other unforeseen contingencies.
•    Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
•    Tips for guides, porters & crew (Tipping is expected).