Trip overview
Located in the remote far western corner of Nepal, the Api Saipal region is a stunning area defined by its dramatic landscapes and remarkable biodiversity. Dominated by the towering Api and Saipal peaks, this region features lush forests, alpine meadows, and unique wildlife that contribute to its ecological importance. The area is also culturally rich, home to several ethnic communities that continue to preserve their distinct traditions and way of life.
The Api Conservation Area was established to protect the region’s diverse ecosystems while promoting sustainable tourism. Trekking routes in the area offer adventurers the opportunity to explore pristine landscapes, engage with local cultures, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan range.
The Api and Saipal is 2 in 1 trek; the mountain ranges are separated by the Seti River. The Api range stretches between the Mahakali and Seti rivers, while the Saipal range lies between the Seti River and the Humla-Karnali region.
Though the Api Saipal region is located far from the capital city of Kathmandu, improved access is now possible through the nearby Dhangadhi Airport, making this remote treasure more reachable for travelers.
Itinerary Overview
Day 01: Kathmandu to Dhangadhi
Day 02: Dhangadhi to Latinath
Day 03: Latinath to Makarigad by Jeep, Trek to Sitti
Day 04: Sitti to Simar
Day 05: Simar to Dhaule odhar
Day 06: Dhaule odhar to Base Camp and Back
Day 07: Dhaule odhar to Simar to Lumcha
Day 08: Lumcha to Thumti
Day 09: Thumti to Khandeshwori (Side Trip)
Day 10: Khandeshwori to Patha
Day 11: Patha to Chhetti
Day 12: Chhetti to Dharamghar
Day 13: Dharamghar to Bire odhar
Day 14: Bire odhar to Gaishera
Day 15: Gaishera to Nilkatti Taal
Day 16: Engaldar to Dhauli
Day 17: Dhauli to Kada
Day 18: Kada to Khankar Kot (Short Trip)
Day 19: Khankar Kot to Kharre
Day 20: Kharre to Dotale
Day 21: Dotale to Saipal South (Raidungi) Base Camp
Day 22: Saipal South (Raidhungi) BC to Kharre
Day 23: Kharre to Dhalan
Day 24: Dhalan to Kuwa
Day 25: Kuwa to Chainpur
Day 26: Chainpur to Dhangadhi
Day 27: Reserved Day in Dhangadhi
Day 28: Dhangadhi to Kathmandu by Flight
Highlights
Region : Far-West Nepal (Darchula & Bajhang Districts)
Best Season: Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-Novemb
Duration : 28-31 days (depending on the route and acclimatization)
Difficulty : Challenging
Highest Altitude: 4930m Nilkatti Pass (Api to Saipal )
Accommodation: Mixed (Camping &Tea houses )
Stunning Peaks : Api (7,132m) and Saipal (7,031m),Nampa(6,929m)& Jethi Bahurani(6850m) dominate the skyline.
Rich Biodiversity :Habitat for rare wildlife, including snow leopards and red pandas.
Cultural Immersion : Interaction with local communities, like the Byansi, Bhotiya, & Chhetri. showcasing diverse traditions.
Scenic Landscapes : Trekking through picturesque valleys, forests, and meadows.
Adventure : Off-the-beaten-path experience in a less-travelled region,experience Nepal’s untouched wilderness.
Diverse Landscapes : Forests, meadows, glaciers, and high-altitude passes
Required Permits:Restricted Area Permit (Darchula only In Bayes vally & Bajhang above Kada )
TIMS Card and Api Conservation Permit .
Site Map : GHT Planning Map From Himalayan Outdoor Maps
Logistics & Preparation
Guides & Porters: Essential due to the remoteness
Food & Water: Bring all necessary supplies (self-sufficient camping)
Weather & Conditions: Cold at high altitudes; potential snowfall in winter
Short Itinerary
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu to Dhangadhi
Travel: Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Dhangadhi.
Activities: Arrive in Dhangadhi, explore local markets, and prepare for the trek.
Accommodation: Hotel in Dhangadhi.
Day 02: Dhangadhi to Latinath
Travel: Drive from Dhangadhi to Latinath.
Activities: Settle in and acclimatize to the altitude.
Accommodation: Lodge in Latinath.
Day 03: Latinath to Makarigad by Jeep, Trek to Sitti
Travel: Jeep ride to Makarigad, followed by a trek to Sitti.
Activities: Enjoy scenic views along the way.
Accommodation: Camping in Sitti.
Day 04: Sitti to Simar
Trek: Approximately 6-7 hours.
Activities: Trek through lush forests and local villages.
Accommodation: Camping in Simar.
Day 05: Simar to Dhauleodhar
Trek: Approximately 7-8 hours.
Activities: Ascend to Dhauleodhar; enjoy panoramic views.
Accommodation: Camping at Dhauleodhar.
Day 06: Dhauleodhar to Base Camp and Back
Trek: Day hike to Api Base Camp (approx. 6 hours round trip).
Activities: Explore the base camp and return.
Accommodation: Camping at Dhauleodhar.
Day 07: Dhauleodhar to Simar to Lumcha
Trek: Approximately 8 hours back to Simar, then to Lumcha.
Activities: Scenic trek with diverse landscapes.
Accommodation: Camping in Lumcha.
Day 08: Lumcha to Thumti
Trek: Approximately 7-8 hours.
Activities: Trek through varied terrain and enjoy the flora and fauna.
Accommodation: Camping in Thumti.
Day 09: Thumti to Khandeshwori (Side Trip)
Trek: Day hike to Khandeshwori.
Activities: Explore the area and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Accommodation: Return to Thumti for camping.
Day 10: Khandeshwori to Patha
Trek: Approximately 6-7 hours.
Activities: Continue trekking through beautiful valleys.
Accommodation: Camping in Patha.
Day 11: Patha to Chhetti
Trek: Approximately 6 hours.
Activities: Trek through terraced fields and local villages.
Accommodation: Camping in Chhetti.
Day 12: Chhetti to Dharamghar
Trek: Approximately 6-7 hours.
Activities: Enjoy the stunning landscapes along the trek.
Accommodation: Camping in Dharamghar.
Day 13: Dharamghar to Bireodhar
Trek: Approximately 7 hours.
Activities: Ascend and descend through lush greenery.
Accommodation: Camping in Bireodhar.
Day 14: Bireodhar to Gaishera
Tapoban hot spring
Trek: Approximately 6-7 hours.
Activities: Trek through forests and pastures.
Accommodation: Camping in Gaishera.
Day 15: Gaishera to Nilkatti Taal
Trek: Approximately 8 hours.
Activities: Reach the serene Nilkatti Taal; enjoy the views.
Accommodation: Camping near the lake.
Day 16: Engaldar to Dhauli
Trek: Approximately 6-7 hours.
Activities: Trek through beautiful landscapes.
Accommodation: Camping in Dhauli.
Day 17: Dhauli to Kada
Trek: Approximately 7 hours.
Activities: Continue trekking through diverse terrain.
Accommodation: Camping in Kada.
Day 18: Kada to Khankar Kot (Short Trip)
Trek: Approximately 4-5 hours.
Activities: Quick trek to Khankar Kot and explore the area.
Accommodation: Camping in Khankar Kot.
Day 19: Khankar Kot to Kharre
Trek: Approximately 6 hours.
Activities: Trek through scenic paths.
Accommodation: Camping in Kharre.
Day 20: Kharre to Dotale
Trek: Approximately 7 hours.
Activities: Continue through beautiful landscapes.
Accommodation: Camping in Dotale.
Day 21: Dotale to Saipal South (Raidungi) Base Camp
Trek: Approximately 6-7 hours.
Activities: Arrive at the base camp; explore the surroundings.
Accommodation: Camping at the base camp.
Day 22: Saipal South (Raidhungi) BC to Kharre
Trek: Return trek to Kharre (approximately 7 hours).
Activities: Reflect on the trek and enjoy the views.
Accommodation: Camping in Kharre.
Day 23: Kharre to Dhalan
Trek: Approximately 6-7 hours.
Activities: Trek through beautiful landscapes.
Accommodation: Camping in Dhalan.
Day 24: Dhalan to Kuwa
Trek: Approximately 6 hours.
Activities: Continue through diverse terrain.
Accommodation: Camping in Kuwa.
Day 25: Kuwa to Chainpur
Trek: Approximately 7 hours.
Activities: Trek to the town of Chainpur.
Accommodation: Lodge in Chainpur.
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