Api Base Camp Trek
73 reviews in Tripadvisor
Trip Duration
16 Days
Destination
Nepal
Max. Altitude
3,300 m.
Trip Difficulty
Moderate
Group Size
1-12
Transportation
Tourist Vehicle
Accommodation
Hotel/Teahouse
Activity
Trekking
Meals
All Inclusive
Start / End
Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring & AutumnUS$ 1700
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+977 9764792172Trip Overview
Api Base Camp Trek takes you to one of the most unspoiled and untouched corners of the Himalayan region of Nepal, far away from the busy trekking trails that most people are aware of. It is located in the farthest western part of Nepal in the Kailali and Darchula districts, near the border with India and Tibet. The Api Base Camp Trek is one of the least trekked route compared to popular trekking routes like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp, but it offers one of the best views you can possibly get with no crowds or distraction, just peace and calm nature.
The moment you start walking, you quickly get the feeling that this place has kept its own rhythm, almost like it hasn’t hurried to catch up with the modern days. As you move forward the trail keeps changing from dense vibrant rhododendron forest to witnessing a stunning peak covered with snow far ahead. When you reach the base camp, the whole mountain looks super close as you can just touch it with your hand.
The mountains are not the only things that make this Api Base Camp Trek different, but also the raw and real adventure that trekkers can experience. There is no rush or any crowd which makes this trek much more authentic and peaceful than other popular trek like Everest Base Camp. Every day is like the discovery of a place that still remains natural and wild, giving you that true adventure feeling that most trekkers really are looking for.
Why Choose Api Base Camp Trek?
The Api Base Camp trek is one of those places that feels like it’s forgotten by time. Choosing this trek is not like any other trek, this is for the real seekers of adventures in their most pristine form. Api Base Camp takes you deep into one of the most remote corner of Nepal, where villages are smaller, trails are quieter and mountains appear closer than ever. Unlike treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp, here you can walk days without seeing other trekkers.
People on the way are very kind and simple. Even though they don’t have much to offer, they still give lots of smiles and hospitality, which make you a part of their life for a few days. And the main highlight of Api Base Camp trek is “Mount Api” standing at 7,132 m provides a stunning view from its base camp that trekkers will never forget.
This trek is about self discovery. The trail may be tough, accommodations are simple, and the journey feels like healing which helps you learn about yourself and the meaning of life.
Best Season for Api Base Camp Trek
Spring (March to May)
Spring is the best season for this trek. In spring, forest and valleys take on a colorful look, with full of rhododendron and wild flowers. The weather is also generally warm during the day and cool at night. The skies are mostly clear giving trekkers amazing views of Mount Api and surrounding peaks.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is also considered one of the favorite season for trekking which offers crystal clear views of the environment after the monsoon rains. The walking trail are dry and comfortable to walk and the fresh air makes the journey more adventurous.
Monsoon (June-August):
Monsoon is the least recommended season due to heavy rain that makes the trails slippery an the rivers are difficult to cross. The clouds often hide the view of mountain peaks which is very annoying and less rewarding.
Winter (December-February):
In winter, the Api Base Camp Trek can be extremely cold, but some people still do this trek in winter. At higher altitudes, the snowy path and extreme cold make the trail dangerous and you need to be well prepared.
Highlights of Api Base Camp Trek
- Explore the far-western Himalayas of Nepal, which are still beyond the reach of modernization.
- Witness breathtaking views of Mt. Api, Mt. Nampa, and other surrounding peaks.
- Trek through traditional villages, terraced fields, and alpine meadows.
- Enjoy warm hospitality from local communities in homestays.
- Overnight at the teahouses, homestays, and tents at base camp.
- Enjoy floral alpine landscapes, rivers, and glacial valleys.
- Suitable for adventurous trekkers looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path journey.
Photo Gallery & Video Gallery
Api Base Camp Trek - Distance, Duration, and Altitude
| Trekking Route | Distance (Kilometers) | Duration (Hours) | Altitude (Meters) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drive from Gokuleshwar to Latinath and Trek to Khar | 8 KM | 4 to 5 hours trek | 1100 m. |
| Trek from khar to Makrigaad | 10 KM | 5 to 6 hours trek | 1350 m. |
| Trek from Makarigaad to Ghusa | 11 KM | 5 to 6 hours trek | 2000 m. |
| Trek from Ghusa to Siti | 9 KM | 5 to 6 hours trek | 2250 m. |
| Trek from Siti to Daulo Odar | 8 KM | 5 hour trek | 3000 m. |
| Daulo Odar to Api Base Camp | 7 KM | 5 to 6 hours trek | 3860 m. |
| Api Base Camp to Daulo Odar | 7 KM | 5 hours trek | 3000 m. |
| Trek from Daulo Odar to Siti | 8 KM | 5 hours trek | 2250 m. |
| Trek from Siti to Makarigaad | 11 KM | 6 hours trek | 1350 m. |
| Mararigaad to Latinatha and Drive to Gokuleshwar | 8 KM | 4 hours trek trek + 3 hour drive | 850 m. |
Itinerary of Api Base Camp Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. After you land from the plane In Tribhuvan International Airport, one of our representatives from Epic Trek Nepal will be waiting for your arrival and take you to your hotel where you can freshen up, rest and enjoy the local food while walking around the busy streets of Thamel. In the evening, there will be a brief session about the journey to Api Base Camp Trek.
Activity: Arrival
Max. Altitude: 1400m./4,593ft.
Meal: Dinner
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 2: Fly/Drive to Dhangadhi
Today, you fly from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi, a lowland town near the Indian border. As the aircraft descends, you will notice the warm climate and lush flatlands of Far-west Nepal. Check into your hotel and then spend some time walking around the local markets and observing the lifestyle of the Tharu community. Your guide will give you a quick briefing about the long drive the next day. Enjoy a quiet evening before you enter the remote region.
Activity: 1 hr flight + 1.5 hr drive
Max. Altitude: 210m./689ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 3: Drive from Dhangadhi to Gokuleshwar
This day is a scenic but long drive along the Mahakali Highway. From the plains, the journey slowly climbs into the rolling green hills and rugged cliffs of Darchula. You will pass by villages, terraced farms, and beautiful river valleys. Though the road may feel bumpy at times, the change in landscapes constantly interests you. By evening, you reach Gokuleshwar, which is a busy trade town, where you rest for the night.
Activity: 8 to 9 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 850m./2,789ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 4: Drive to Latinath & Trek to Khar
Continuing from here after breakfast, you drive further towards Latinath, the official starting point of the trek. The road gets narrower with each mile and the villages seem a bit more traditional as you penetrate further into the mountains. From here, you trek easily towards Khar, which is the starting point of your trek. You pass houses, terraces, and children waving from house rooftops. You spend a simple local homestay for the night after a pleasant first day of trekking.
Activity: 4 to 5 hours
Max. Altitude: 1100m./3,609ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 5: Trek from Khar to Makarigaad
Today’s trail winds through tranquil forested paths and small villages, where life moves at an easy pace. You will cross a few bridges and walk along crystal-clear rivers, with the valley narrowing down gradually. Locals at this place still follow traditional farming and livestock practices, which give this area a timeless feel. As you approach Makarigaad, you are welcomed by the warm hospitality of the villagers. This is the most authentic cultural stop that you’ll make on this trek.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 1350m./4,429ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 6: Trek from Makarigaad to Ghusa
Today’s trek is a beautiful combination of forest trails, wooden bridges, and waterfalls. You steadily gain altitude on your way through lush green woodlands and narrow ridges. The higher you climb, the quieter and more remote everything becomes. By the time you arrive at Ghusa, you should feel a sense of peaceful isolation. The village is small, but the mountain views and the local kindness make it a comforting place to stay.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 2000m./6,562ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 7: Trek from Ghusa to Siti
Leaving Ghusa behind, you will trek through a mixture of pine forests, open grasslands, and scattered settlements. The air becomes noticeably cooler and fresher as the scenery changes. You might catch glimpses of herders pushing their animals up to high pastures along the route. Siti is a small village with stone-built houses and traditional lifestyles. It is a very good place to observe how people live in Nepal’s remote far-western hills.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 2249m./7,379ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tent or Camp
Day 8: Trek from Siti to Daulo Odar
Today, the path takes you further into alpine country. You will pass through expansive meadows, rocky zones, and open hillsides where only a few families bring their livestock to pasture. The scenery grows more spectacular with every step as you approach Daulo Odar Camp. It’s set on a naturally dramatic location, surrounded by cliffs and broad expanses of grass. It’s a quiet stop where you can enjoy a clear, starry night sky.
Activity: 5 hour Trek
Max. Altitude: 2999m./9,839ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tent or Camp
Day 9: Daulo Odar to Api Base Camp
It climbs steadily today to the mighty Api Himal. Day by day, the horizon opens wider, and the glacial valleys come into view. The last few kilometers feel really magical when the white peaks rise dramatically in front of you. Reaching Api Base Camp is an unforgettable moment: surrounded by unbroken wilderness, rolling meadows, and pristine beauty of far-west Nepal. Celebrate your arrival, and let the peace of the mountain atmosphere absorb you.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 3860m./12,664ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tent or Camp
Day 10: Api Base Camp Exploration Day
This is a rest day for exploration around the base camp. There are small hikes to nearby ridge tops for better views of Mt. Api and Mt. Nampa, other surrounding glaciers that are rich in alpine flowers, and landscapes that are so quiet and not disturbed by tourism. For most trekkers, this is a moment where they feel really connected to nature. You can spend some time relaxing, journaling, or just enjoying the silence of the mountain.
Activity: 6 to 7 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 2400m./7,874ft. (Namrung)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tent or Camp
Day 11: Api Base Camp to Daulo Odar
Feeling refreshed from the night at base camp, you start descending back toward Daulo Odar. The trail is much easier going down, and you have more time to take in the beauty around you. In the sweeping valleys, the green slopes look different from this angle; you would almost think it was a new route entirely. Back at Daulo Odar, enjoy a warm meal and a quiet night under the stars.
Activity: 5 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 3000m./9,843ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 12: Trek from Daulo Odar to Siti
You continue your descent today, passing familiar meadows and forest paths. As you drop in altitude, the air becomes warmer; birdsong becomes more noticeable. Returning trekkers always get authentic smiles from villagers in Siti, who are happy to see visitors come through their remote region. It’s a laid-back day of walking, ideal to rebuild your energy.
Activity: 5 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 2250m./7,382ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 13: Trek from Siti to Makarigaad
Today’s walk brings you fully back into the lower valley. You will find yourself going through pine woods, small streams, and old stone steps. The scenery seems so much greener and livelier as compared to the high-altitude sections. Makarigaad offers another warm cultural experience, where you may catch glimpses of families cooking on firewood or tending to their cattle.
Activity: 6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 1350m./4,429ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 14: Mararigaad to Latinatha and Drive to Gokuleshwar
Your last day of trekking takes you to Latinath, which is where the trail meets the road. The walk today is nostalgic as you bid goodbye to the serene villages and forests. From Latinath, you are driven comfortably back to Gokuleshwar. After days in remote mountains, reaching a town with shops, electricity, and warm food feels incredibly comforting.
Activity: 3 hours trek trek + 4 hour drive
Max. Altitude: 850m./2,789ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 15: Drive to Dhangadhi and fly to Kathmandu
On your last day, drive back to Dhangadhi, enjoying the ever-changing landscape for one last time. From Dhangadhi, take a flight back to Kathmandu, where your journey ends. On your arrival at the Kathmandu, the trekking part of the program will come to an end, and overnight will be spent at a hotel enjoying a complimentary local dinner hosted by our company to celebrate your successful completion of Api Base Camp Trek
Max. Altitude: 1400m./4,593ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 16: Departure
Transfer to TIA for your flight. You will bid farewell by your guide and team. You will carry an unforgettable experience trekking into one of Nepal’s most remote untouched corners.
Includes/Excludes
What is included?
- Permits and fees: All the necessary permits for the Api Base Camp including Restricted Area Permit are include in this package.
- Accommodation: Accommodation in local teahouses or lodges throughout the trek are included. This also include hotel stays in Kathmandu before and after the trek in 3 star hotel on BB plan. (twin sharing basis)
- Meals: This package includes 3 time meals – breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek. It also include hot beverages during breakfast and lunch and seasonal fruit after dinner.
- Transportation: It include all ground and air transportation as per the itinerary, including flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi and return.
- Guide and Porter: You will be provided with an experienced, English speaking trekking guide and a porter to carry luggage for up to 2 trekkers.
- First aid kit: A basic first aid kit for emergency support.
- Trekking map: A detailed map of Api Base Camp trekking route.
- Equipment: A duffle bag for personal gear and sleeping bag if needed.
What is not included?
- International Flight: International Flight to and from Nepal is not included. Travelers need to manage their own ticket.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance that cover emergency rescue is not included and you will be expected to have you own.
- Personal Expenses: Expenses for extra meals, snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, shower and other personals cost are not included.
- Nepal Visa Fees: Entry visa fee for Nepal are not included.
- Trekking Gear: Trekking equipment, such as hiking boots, trekking poles and other gear are not included.
- Tips: Tips for guide and porter are not included and left to your decision.
Trip Information
What Can You Expect on the Api Base Camp Trek?
On the Api Base Camp Trek, you can expect a journey far away from the modern cities of Nepal. The landscapes are raw and untouched with dense forests, rushing rivers and towering snow peaks that feels almost unreal if this is your first time trekking. Along the way, you will pass through small and quiet villages, far away from bustling cities where life is simple as the time itself is moving slowly.
During the trek you can expect a challenging trekking route with steep path, long walking days and limited facilities, but in exchange you will get a real sense of adventure, solitude, and connection with nature. Expect stunning views of Mount Api, Saipal and other surrounding peaks with peaceful nights under the stars and a chance to experience authentic local culture and traditional Nepalese food in local Tea house.
Difficulty Level of Api Base Camp Trek
The Api Base Camp Trek is generally considered a moderate to challenging trek because it is located in the most remote parts of Nepal. The trails are long and sometimes steep, with days when you walk for 6 to 8 hours or even more if the route is difficult. The altitude is not very high compared to Everest Base Camp, but some parts still reach over 4,000 meters, so trekkers may feel a sign of altitude sickness because of thin air. 
The Api Base Camp Trek is not the suitable choice for complete beginners, as the trekking goes through remote areas and trekkers must understand that the lodges or teahouses are simple and basic; therefore, don’t expect a fancy or luxury hotel or any facilities. However, it is possible for beginners to do the Api Base Camp trek if they are well prepared, walk at their natural pace without any rush and listen to their guide. It is also important to carry your own small bag and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
This Trek is best for adventurous seekers who don’t mind simplicity. It will be all worth it since trekkers get to see untouched nature with spectacular Mount Api from very close.
Cultural Experience
The most special thing about Api Base Camp Trek is that it offers great insight into the local culture. The villages in this area are very small and basic built with stones. Here, life moves at its own pace which seem slower than usual and the people are very kind and welcoming, always ready to greet trekkers with warm smiles, making you a part of this village. The teahouses and the lodges you find along the Api Base Camp Trek are also very basic but they gives you an authentic and real feeling that is unforgettable even after you finish the trek.
During the Api Base Camp trek, you can see children waving, elders watching curiously and locals doing their work. The life of the locals is very connected to nature. Most people farm their land, depend on the animals, and cook simple food from what the land provides. In some local festivals like Dashain and Tihar, you can see locals wearing traditional clothing, cooking meals over firewood, dancing and celebrating with their families. Because the Api Base Camp is located in remote region, these festivals are celebrated in a very traditional way, different from modern cities, giving trekkers a glimpse into true Nepalese culture.
Local Tea Houses and Foods
The accommodation along the Api Base Camp Trek is very simple and basic but comfortable enough to rest for the night. Most of the tea houses are run by local families providing a cozy and comfortable room for the trekkers. They provide basic rooms, simple beds, shared bathroom and a stove for warmth. Without the modern comforts, it give trekkers a true village feeling, allowing trekkers to connect with local life of the remote Himalayan region.
Meals at this place are also basic and limited but they enough to fulfill and restore energy for the next day’s journey. Most tea houses serve Nepalese food like dal bhat, noodles, eggs and local vegetables, giving you a taste of authentic mountain food. These simple yet real experiences make the journey unforgettable.
Require Permits for Api Base Camp Trek
Trekking to Api Base Camp is very different from ordinary trekking trails. You will require some important permits and proper preparation before starting this Api Base Camp Trek as it is located in one of the most remote regions. In order to enter this far-west region of Nepal, all trekkers must have a Restricted Area Permit.
- Restricted Area Permit: A Restricted Area Permit is crucial when trekking through remote areas. It is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board or local government offices. The cost can vary depending on nationality but it usually takes around USD 30 – 35 per person for foreign trekkers.
It is also highly recommended to go with an experienced guide. The trekking trails of the Api Base Camp Trek are often not well marked, villages are at a far distance, and local knowledge is crucial for both navigation and safety. Having an experienced guide makes the trek more knowledgeable and smooth and ensures safety.
What to Pack for the Api Base Camp Trek
Backpack
- A sturdy backpack with adjustable straps and good support
- Duffle bag for additional gear
Clothing
- Breathable short and long sleeve shirts
- Warm mid layer such as fleece jacket or down jacket for evening
- lightweight windbreaker
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Thermal inner wear and socks for high altitude
- Durable trekking pants
Footwear
- Strong trekking boots for rocky and uneven route
- Extra shoes for evening at lodges
Accessories
- Trekking poles for stability
- Layered gloves
- UV protection sunglasses
- Headlight or Flashlight
- Neck gaiter
- Hat
Sun Protection
- High SPF sunscreen
- Lip balm with SPF
Documents and Money
- Passport and ID copies, permits, travel insurance papers
- Local currency
Emergency Items
- First aid kit
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Duct tape for quick gear repair
- Plastic bag: to organize gear and carry waste
Cancellation Policy for Api Base Camp Trek
At Epic Trek Nepal, we understand that plans can change unexpectedly. That’s why we designed out cancellation policy to be fair and clear.
Cancellation Notice: If for any reason you need to cancel your trek, please let us know at least 15 days in advance of your scheduled trek start date.
Administrative Fee: 25% of the total amount will be deducted as an administration fee when canceling the trek. This also includes the planning and organizational work that has already been done for your trip.
Non-Refundable Period: In case of cancellation less than 7 days before the departure date of the trek, no refund will be given normally. However, in case of a valid reason for cancellation, we might refund you the remaining amount after deducting 70% of the trek cost provided, since by that time we would have already done the payments and block your slots.
Documentation Support: We appreciate that for some, insurance claims are important. If you cancel, we will happily provide receipts and necessary documents to facilitate your insurance process.
Unused Accommodation: Refunds for unused accommodation are not available in case your trek is canceled due to personal reasons, illness, or bad weather.
Conclusion
This 16 day Api Base Camp Trek is suitable for people who embrace simplicity and want some challenge in their life. This trek offers a thrilling experience, untouched nature, cultural exploration and majestic Himalayan peaks.
If you want to do this trek, make sure you are going with a reliable trekking agency like Epic Trek Nepal, which guarantees that your journey will be safe and smooth with an experienced guide, necessary permits and a clear cancellation policy. Book your trek with Epic Trek Nepal and step into an adventure unlike any other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Spring-March to May and autumn-September to November are the ideal seasons. You get rhododendrons in full bloom and clear skies during spring, while the cool weather and mountain-to-valley vistas await you during autumn. Monsoon and winter can be tricky due to heavy rainfall or snow.
This is a moderately hard to challenging trek, suitable for fit and active trekkers. The trails involve long walking hours, gradual ascents, and high-altitude camping. Some experience in trekking or hiking helps, but beginners can also attempt it with proper preparation.
This trek lies in the restricted area, so you need a Restricted Area Permit; your trekking agency will arrange all the permits and official documentation before the trek.
Yes, a licensed guide is necessary for safety and navigation purposes, especially along remote trails. A porter is optional but highly recommended; they will carry your luggage, thus making the trek more comfortable and less tiring.
Teahouses or homestays, simple but comfortable, are used during the trek. Tents are used at Api Base Camp. Hotels are arranged in Kathmandu or Dhangadhi before and after the trek.
Meals include Nepali staples like dal bhat, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Hot drinks are served with the breakfast and lunch, and fresh fruit is often provided after dinner. Most teahouses serve simple and nutritious meals.
This trek can be done by beginners provided they are fit and well-prepared. Long hours of walking and altitude can be challenging, yet with proper guidance and pacing, besides acclimatization, even first-time trekkers can do this safely.
Bring clothing in layers, sturdy trekking boots, gloves, hat, and sunglasses. Other personal equipment includes backpack, sleeping bag, first-aid kit, and water purification tablets. Your guide will advise you further on the additional equipment.
Epic Trek Nepal pricing:
- Solo Trekker: $1,800 per person
- 2-3 person: $1,700 per person
- 4-6 person: $1,650 per person
- Group over 7: $1,600 per person
Includes all permits, accommodation, meals, guide, porter, and ground transportation (no flights required).
Trip Reviews
US$ 1700
Need Help? Talk to Expert
+977 9764792172