Api-Saipal Himal Trek

 About Trip 

Api-Saipal Himal Trek is a unique experience for trekking enthusiasts in pursuit of a far-flung, untouched, and beautiful region of Nepal. The Api-Saipal region lies deep in the isolated western part of Nepal. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers a unique opportunity to penetrate to the genuine wilderness, unadulterated nature, and cultural richness of Nepal. The word "Api" is adapted from the Tibetan vocabulary meaning grandmother, reflecting the religious and cultural significance of the region.

This trek is ideal for a person who doesn't want to tread crowded tourist trails, as hardly any tourists trek into this offbeat Himalayan area. The trekkers are rewarded with stunning views of mighty peaks such as Api Himal (7,132m), Saipal (7,031m), Mt. Thado Dhunga Tuppa (5,368m), Mt. Nanda Devi (7,817m), Rajamba (6,537m), and numerous other stunning peaks during the trek. The hike passes through the thick forests, the fast-flowing rivers, and the isolated villages, providing an extraordinary mix of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and a mysterious, authentic Himalayan way of life.

A trek to Api-Saipal Base Camp from Simikot requires a special permit, and expeditions are made in most cases through Mahendranagar, which involves a very long road journey of approximately 15 hours one way. Chala is the final human habitation on this route, the gateway to the virgin country beyond. This trek offers not only the spectacular mountain views but also personal contact with the traditional inhabitants and the rugged wilderness of western Nepal.

Api-Saipal Himal Trek is suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and culture buffs who want to discover Nepal's off-the-beaten-path regions. Its secluded trails, spectacular Himalayan scenery, unique flora and fauna, and authentic village experience make this trek an exhilarating experience into one of Nepal's least visited regions.

 Trip Highlights 

• Awfully persuasive for bird surveillance.
• Explore Kali Dhunga Lake.
• Adventurous camping trek towards an unspoiled region of Nepal.
• Explore the local culture of a different community.
• Trek in the Api Saipal massif, a remote region that has changed very little compared to the Annapurnas and Khumbu.
• Pansy forest, high passes and lonely villages to the overture. 
• Breathtaking views of mountains including Api, Saipal, Rajamba, Nandadevi etc.

  Api-Saipal Himal Trek Cost 
When organizing any vacation or getaway, one of the first things travelers consider is the overall trip cost. This includes not only the obvious expenses like flights and accommodation, but also hidden costs such as local transportation, meals, entrance fees, travel insurance, and souvenirs micelineos expeses. Budgeting for your trip cost in advance helps avoid financial surprises and allows you to enjoy your journey stress-free. Many travelers find it helpful to compare prices online, take advantage of package deals, and travel during off-peak seasons to lower their overall trip expenses. Remember, a well-planned budget ensures your adventure remains memorable for the right reasons—not because it broke the bank. 

Here, Mountain Mate  Treks offers you the best deal of cheapest Api-Saipal Himal Trek price for matching the cost for budget  or solo travelllers, full board  Api-Saipal Himal Trek price for idol or standard service  according to trekkers interest by the proper professional  research on the basis of locals connection in day to day updating basis.

 Full-board Package cost  
This cost is designed by the mountain mate treks for the service oriented trekkers who are looking for comfortable service within the best service providing just below than the recognized branded hotels and tea houses in the trail, Where trekkers can enjoy there trip without worrying there personal managements.

Half Board Package cost
This cost is designed by the mountain mate treks for the budget ,solo travelers and students. Just to overcome the hustle of organizing transportation, permits, flights , accomadation etc. for assisting our LApi-Saipal Himal Trek within the Nepal goverment's laws, social values and norms, national parks's rules and regulation. which helps trekkers avoid risks in the trail, understanding the goverment rules and regulation, supporting wildlife and vegetation and stress free  trip.

 Includes And Excludes In Service 

Price List 

For the group join in full board please check in Fix Departure 

Also, Mountain Mate Treks  is recognized as best agency for organizing flexible route, itineraries, and cost  by  counsulting with the trekkers individually from Alternative Low budget trip to Luxurious Premium Packages.
So, fill free to  Contact Us  for  customize Trip, for further information and inquries.   (How To Pay)   (Booking FAQS).

 Best season for  Api-Saipal Himal Trek 
It's been practise that  Api-Saipal Himal Trek is possible to organize in all over the here by figuring out the possible provablity and the  professional preparation within some fluctuation in flight delays.Besides that the best times to trek to  Api-Saipal Himal Trek are during the spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) seasons. These periods offer favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and excellent visibility, enhancing your trekking experience.

• Spring Season (March–May)
  • Weather: Mild temperatures with clear skies.
  • Landscape: Rhododendrons and other wildflowers are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season, so trails and teahouses can be busy.
  • Highlights: Ideal for those who appreciate the beauty of nature and don't mind the busier trails..
     
• Autumn Season (September–November)
  • Weather: Post-monsoon weather is typically clear and stable, with fantastic visibility of the mountains.
  • Landscape: The monsoon rains clear the atmosphere, offering some of the best mountain views of the year.
  • Crowds: This is the most popular time for trekking, leading to busier trails and teahouses.
  • Cultural Experience: Coincides with Nepal’s major festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, offering a culturally rich experience..
     
• Winter Season (December–February)
  • Weather: Extremely cold temperatures, with the possibility of heavy snowfall.
  • Landscape: Clear skies provide stunning views of the snow-capped peaks.
  • Considerations: Not recommended for inexperienced trekkers due to harsh weather conditions and potential trail blockages..
     
• Monsoon Season (June–August)
  • Weather: Frequent heavy rainfall, leading to slippery trails and increased risk of landslides.
  • Visibility: Rain clouds can obscure scenery, reducing visibility.
  • Considerations: Not recommended for trekking due to unpredictable and potentially dangerous weather conditions..

 The spring and autumn seasons are ideal for planning your trek to Api-Saipal Himal Trek  These periods not only offer the best weather conditions but also provide opportunities to experience Nepal's rich cultural heritage.

 Essential Gear for  Api-Saipal Himal Trek 
Trekking to Api-Saipal Himal Trek requires careful gear selection due to the high altitude, cold weather, and variable terrain. Here’s a comprehensive list of essential gear for a safe and comfortable journey:

• Clothing - Base Layers:
  • Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (2–3 sets)
     
• Clothing - Insulation Layers:
  • Fleece or down jacket (1)
  • Insulated pants (optional but useful in colder months)
     
• Clothing - Outer Layers:
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Waterproof pants
     
• Clothing - Trekking Clothes:
  • Lightweight trekking pants (2 pairs)
  • Long-sleeve and short-sleeve moisture-wicking shirts (3–4)
  • Warm hat, sun hat, and buff or neck gaiter
  • Gloves: inner liner gloves and insulated outer gloves
  • Underwear and sports bras (quick-dry)
     
•  Footwear
  • Trekking boots (broken-in, waterproof)
  • Camp shoes/sandals (for resting at tea houses)
  • Wool or synthetic trekking socks (4–5 pairs)
  • Gaiters (optional, for snow or mud)

•  Gear and Equipment
  • Trekking backpack (30–40L for day use)
  • Duffel bag (carried by porter, if using one)
  • Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C or lower)
  • Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth and hygiene)
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3 liters capacity)
  • Water purification method (tablets, filter, or UV sterilizer)
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)
  • Dry bags or zip-locks (for waterproofing clothes/electronics)

•  Health and Hygiene
  • Personal first aid kit (include altitude sickness meds like Diamox)
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, small towel, etc.)
  • Toilet paper and sanitary supplies (tea houses often don't provide)
     
•  Documents and Essentials
  • Passport and multiple passport-size photos
  • TIMS card and Everest National Park permit
  • Travel insurance (with high-altitude trekking coverage)
  • Cash (Nepali rupees – no ATMs en route)

For more details check  Best Trekking Tips In Nepal

 Altitude Sickness in Api-Saipal Himal Trek 
Many people consider trekking to Api-Saipal Himal Trek to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it also takes them into high-altitude area where they run the risk of developing Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), also known as Altitude Sickness.
Understanding altitude sickness is essential for your success and safety, regardless of your goal  MM (mountain mate) prepare with the well trained  Local Guides of the region, proper precautin on safety measures with essential medication and safety tools.

For more details check  Altitude Information.

Have an amazing and safe trek to Api & Saipal Himal — it's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

SHORT ITINERARY

• Day 01 :  Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (152m/499ft), Flying Distance: 366km, Duration- 1 hour.

• Day 02 : Flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot (2,910m/9,547ft), Flying Distance: 208km, Duration- 50 minutes, and trek to Dharapuri (2,310m/7,579ft), Walking Duration: 4 hours.

• Day 03 : Trek from Dharapuri to Kermi (2,670m/8,760ft), Walking Duration: 6 hours.

• Day 04 : Trek from Kermi to Yalbang (3,020m/9,908ft), Walking Duration: 5 to 6 hours. 

• Day 05 : Trek from Yalbang to Chala (3,690m/12,106ft), Walking Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

• Day 06 : Trek from Chala to Karang Khola/ Labuk Depsa (4,000m/13,123ft), Walking Duration: 6 hours.

• Day 07 : Trek from Karang Khola to Base Camp (4,250m/13,944ft), Walking Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

• Day 08 : Rest Day at Base Camp.

• Day 09 : Trek from Base Camp to Karang Khola (4,000m/13,123ft), Walking Duration: 6 hours.

• Day 10 : Trek from Karang Khola to Yalbang/ Salle Khola (3,020m/9,908ft), Walking Duration: 7 hours. 

• Day 11 : Trek from Yalbang to Dharapuri (2,310m/7,579ft), Walking Duration: 7 to 8 hours.

• Day 12 : Trek from Dharapuri to Simikot (2,910m/9,547ft), Walking Duration: 4 hours.

• Day 13 : Fly back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj (152m/499ft), Flying Duration: 1 hrs 45 minutes flight.

DETAIL ITINERARY

• Day 01 : Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m) - 1 hrs flight. Our trekking guide will receive you at your hotel for our domestic flight. We will be flying to Nepalgunj in south-west Nepal. Nepalgunj is considered as the gateway to the far west and is famous for adventure treks to Dolpa and Jumla region. Overnight at the hotel inclusive breakfast.
   
• Day 02 : Flight to Simikot (45 minutes flight) and trek to Dharapuri (2310m) - 4 hrs walk. After breakfast early in the morning, we will take the 50 min flight to Simikot on a tiny airplane. Upon arriving at Simikot airport, we will officially start our trek by heading to Dharapuri. We will go through pine forests walking on a rough and rocky trail, passing Gwalekhor, Syada, and crossing a suspension bridge over the Karnali River before reaching the Dharapuri. We will stay overnight at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 03 : Trek to Kermi (2670m) - 6 hrs walk. We continue our trek moving towards our next destination, Kermi. Following the trail along the banks of Humla Karnali River, we will come across beautiful waterfalls and visit the famous Buddhist monasteries: Lakiyo Gompa; and Lhundrup Choeling Gompa. After a visit to these monasteries, we will come across a hot spring and stop to take a dip before we reach Kermi. Overnight at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 04 : Trek to Yalbang (3020m) - 5 hrs walk. After breakfast, we leave Kermi and move trek to our next destination Yalbang. En route, we can enjoy the dramatic scene of the high Himalayan landscapes. We will be walking along with the buckwheat and paddy fields, then through a pine forest. First, we cross Okharthala and cross a bridge over the Salli River and continue west towards Yalbang. After reaching Yalbang, we can visit the Namkh Kyung Dzong monastery which houses statues of Guru Rinpoche and Lord Buddha. Overnight at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 05 : Trek to Chala (3690m) - 6 hrs walk.After breakfast, we set-off for Chala heading north. En route, we can enjoy the beautiful landscapes and see the wonderful peaks in Sumjum and Saipal Himal ranges.We can also find a few teahouses along the trail. We arrive Chala after a short descent from Syakup Langa. Overnight at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 06 : Trek to Karang Khola/ Labuk Depsa (4000m) - 6 hrs walk.After breakfast, we head for Karang Khola; our next destination. We will follow the trail along the Kalungba River, seeing the beautiful Karang Valley. As we continue ahead, we also see the Saipal ranges and Karang Taal along our way. We will also get to catch the glimpses of North Saipal Glacier as well. The final part of our trail is through a lush forest before we arrive at the settlement of Karang Khola. Overnight at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 07 : Trek to Base Camp (4250m).We continue our trek moving towards the Saipal Base Camp following a trail that gets steep and icy. So we ought to be cautious and follow the guidelines of our guide. Upon reaching the base camp, we can enjoy the picturesque views of Api (7132m), Saipal (7031m), Nandadevi (7817m), and surrounding peaks like Chuli (6730m) which also offers a mesmerizing display. The rest of the scenery from the Base Camp also includes Saipal Glacier, Nunekhara Glacier, and Humla Danda. Overnight at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 08 : Rest Day. We will spend another day at the Base Camp exploring around the Base Camp. To get more amazing views of the mountain ranges, we can hike up to the nearby vantage points with the help of our guide. We need to be careful and follow our guide as the terrain here is snow and ice-covered most of the time that can get tricky at times.
  Overnight stay at the Base Camp at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 09 : Trek back to Karang Khola (4000m). After breakfast, we trace our way back the trail descending down to the banks of Karang Khola. Enjoying the alternative view of the Karang Region, our trek continues along with lush pasture land. We can also choose to take a short visit to Karang Tal before we further continue our trek to the settlement fo Karang Khola. Overnight at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 10 : Trek back to Yalbang/ Salle Khola (3020m).The trail today is easy as we descend to Yalbang. We will trek along the isolated trails that offer remarkable scenery of surrounding landscapes. En route, we will walk along the Puiya River before concluding the trek for the day. Once we reach Yalbang, we can explore the village inhabited by Thakuri and Bhotia community. Overnight at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 11 : Trek back to Dharapuri (2310m). We continue our journey, heading back to Dharapuri. The trail gently descends to vegetation and settlement areas inhabited by indigenous people. Once refreshed, we can go explore the lifestyle and unique culture of Jhakri, Thakuri, and Bhotia community. Overnight at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 12 : Trek back to Simikot (2910m). Today is the last day of our trek. We retrace our way back to Simikot after our breakfast. Upon reaching Simikot, we can explore many unique stupas, monasteries, and many other places in this town.
  Herein, the cultures and practices are unique and one-of-a-kinds. Overnight at a tented camp on full board meals.
   
• Day 13 : Fly back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj (1400m) - 1 hrs 45 minutes flight.It was a wonderful time in the mountains! We will take an early morning flight to Nepalgunj. We will further take another flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu and celebrate our final dinner together with the crew. Overnight at a hotel inclusive dinner and breafast.